Overview

Embark on a mesmerizing 6-day, 5-night journey through Vietnam’s northern treasures with the Ha Giang – Cao Bang Adventure. From the rustic charm of Thon Tha Village to the breathtaking Dong Van Karst Plateau, every moment promises awe. Cruise along the emerald waters of Nho Que River, marvel at the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass, and step into the cultural richness of Lo Lo ethnic hamlets. Discover the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, the serenity of Nguom Ngao Cave, and the craft heritage of Phuc Sen. This tour is your ticket to untamed beauty, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable memories in Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Hanoi – Ha Giang – Thon Tha Village (305km)

Your adventure kicks off at 7:30 AM as your guide and driver pick you up from your hotel lobby. After a scenic journey through stunning landscapes, you’ll reach Ha Giang around 1:30 PM. Settle into your cozy homestay and take some time to explore the charming Thon Tha Village. Stroll through the peaceful hamlet, meet friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. Feeling adventurous? Trek to the Ha Thanh Waterfall and soak in its tranquil beauty. End your day with a restful night in a lovely bungalow, surrounded by nature’s embrace.

Day 2: Thon Tha – Quan Ba – Lung Cu – Dong Van (180km)

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before diving back into your adventure. Your first stop is the stunning Quan Ba Twin Mountains and Heaven’s Gate, where the sweeping views will take your breath away. From there, step into history at the H’Mong King Palace, an architectural gem blending European and Chinese influences, built during the French colonial era. Next, journey to the iconic Lung Cu Flag Tower, a proud symbol at Vietnam’s northernmost point. Standing here, you’ll feel the significance of this borderland while soaking in panoramic views of the rugged terrain. End your exciting day with a cozy stay in a Dong Van hotel, ready for tomorrow’s wonders.

Day 3: Dong Van – Ma Pi Leng – Nho Que Boat Trip – Bao Lac Town (100km)

Your day begins with breakfast before heading to the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass, where jaw-dropping views await at every turn. After soaking in the majestic scenery, enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a local family—a heartwarming taste of the region’s hospitality. The adventure continues with a trek along the stunning Skypath road, leading you to a Flower H’mong village and the peak of Ma Pi Leng Mountain. The rugged landscapes and the resilience of the local communities are sure to leave a lasting impression.

In the afternoon, weather permitting, we’ll transfer to Meo Vac for a serene boat trip along the emerald waters of the Nho Que River—a truly unique experience. If conditions aren’t favorable, we’ll explore a nearby White H’mong village instead, offering another perspective on the region’s rich culture. End your day with a visit to a Lo Lo village before settling into your hotel in Bao Lac town, ready to reflect on another unforgettable chapter of your journey.

Day 4: Bao Lac – Khuoi Khon – Phuc Sen – Phia Thap – Nguom Ngao Cave

Rise and shine! At 7:45 AM, we hit the road for a full day of adventure en route to Cao Bang. First, we’ll stop at a Lo Lo hamlet, where you’ll have the chance to connect with the warm locals and dive into their unique ethnic culture. Next, we journey to Phuc Sen Village, famous for its ancient blacksmithing traditions that date back to the 10th century—craftsmanship that once supported historic battles.

From there, we’ll visit Phia Thap Village, home to the Nung people, where the fragrant art of incense-making comes to life. This centuries-old tradition is not just a craft but a beautiful thread in Vietnam’s cultural tapestry.

The adventure continues with a visit to the awe-inspiring Nguom Ngao Cave. Formed over 300 million years ago, this natural wonder offers a breathtaking display of stalactites and stalagmites, surrounded by a magical landscape.

Wrap up your day with a stay in Khuoi Ky, a charming village where every corner tells a story—stone houses, fences, and even mills showcase the ingenuity of this community. Spend the night immersed in this serene, culturally rich setting.

Day 5: Nguom Ngao – Ban Gioc Waterfall – Holy Eye Mountain – Cao Bang City

After breakfast, get ready to experience the majestic beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of the largest and most stunning waterfalls in the world. Stretching over 300 meters and nestled in the breathtaking Trung Khanh District, this natural wonder marks the border between Vietnam and China. A boat trip here offers an up-close view of the cascading waters and surrounding lush landscapes.

Nearby, we’ll visit Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda, the first of its kind in Cao Bang Province. Perched against the serene Phia Nham Mountain, this pagoda is a peaceful retreat just 500 meters from the falls.

Before heading to Cao Bang City, we’ll stop at the fascinating Holy Eye Mountain, or “Phja Piót” as the Tay people call it. Its unique hole, carved naturally through the mountain, creates a mesmerizing scene and is steeped in local lore.

Finally, we’ll arrive in Cao Bang City, where you can unwind and enjoy a restful night in the heart of this charming northern town.

Day 6: Cao Bang – Hanoi

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, we’ll embark on the return journey to Hanoi. Along the way, we’ll take a short walking break to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery, giving you a chance to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past week.

We’ll arrive back in Hanoi around 5:30 PM, where you’ll be dropped off at your preferred hotel, marking the end of our unforgettable adventure.

Note

Itinerary subject to change or cancellation due to weather conditions.

Included

• Ground transport
• English-speaking guide
• Accommodation
• Activities & meals mentioned above

Excluded

• Airfares
• visa fees
• travel insurance
• gratuities
• personal expenses & all other services not clearly mentioned 
• above

Important Information Regarding Your Trip

The price of this journey with “Vietnam Less Touristy Tour” is tailored to your specific preferences and circumstances. It will fluctuate based on factors such as:

Your Choice of Services: Accommodation type, selected activities, and other personalized options.

Travel Season: Pricing can vary during peak seasons like Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet).

Booking Timeframe: Early booking often secures better rates.

Group Size: The final cost is dependent on the number of travelers in your party.

“Vietnam Less Touristy Tour” specializes in crafting exclusive, tailor-made private tours for groups of two or more. While we can accommodate solo travelers, please note that the cost will be significantly higher. Our packages are comprehensive, typically encompassing all on-the-ground services from the moment you arrive until your departure.

This itinerary is highly flexible. We can adjust the duration, activities, and departure date to perfectly align with your desires and budget.

At “Vietnam Less Touristy Tour,” we meticulously calculate our prices to ensure you receive the best possible value for your money.

A Word to the Wise: Booking in advance often unlocks more favorable pricing, especially for flights. We strongly encourage you to plan ahead!

Please Note: This estimated price does not include international airfare.

This itinerary serves as a starting point, a suggestion of what’s possible. We encourage you to personalize it to your heart’s content. Our team is dedicated to working closely with you to design a trip that exceeds your expectations and fits within your budget.