Overview

Day 1: Hanoi to Ba Be Lake (L/D)

We’ll set off bright and early from Hanoi, around 7:30–8:00 AM, and head towards the stunning Ba Be Lake. After a scenic drive, we’ll arrive around 1:30 PM, just in time to kick off our adventure with a peaceful boat ride. Picture this: three tranquil lakes, surrounded by lush greenery, forming Ba Be (Pe Lam, Pe Lu, and Pe Leng). Sitting at 145 meters above sea level and stretching 8 kilometers, the lake has a fascinating system of caves and underground streams—perfect for anyone who loves the wonders of nature.

Our boat ride then takes us along the Nang River to Puong Cave. As we glide toward its grand 30-meter entrance, you’ll see the white limestone walls towering over us. The cave extends for about 300 meters, and inside, you’ll find colorful stalactites and stalagmites in all shapes and sizes—truly a sight to remember.

Our next stop is Dau Dang Waterfall, tucked away at the upper reaches of the river. This three-tiered waterfall flows through towering karst formations, surrounded by big boulders and dense green forest. Though it’s narrow, the powerful rush of water creates a misty wonder, making it feel like something out of a dream.

After soaking in the sights, we’ll set out on a gentle walk along the riverbank, passing through charming Tay villages along the way. As we arrive in Pac Ngoi village, home to the Tay ethnic community, we’ll settle into a cozy homestay for the night, enjoying the warm hospitality and a delicious home-cooked meal.

Day 2: Ba Be Lake – Hua Ma Cave – Pia Thap Village (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we’ll take a short drive over to Hua Ma Cave, located in the peaceful southern part of Ba Be National Park. Hua Ma is like stepping into another world, filled with stunning rock formations that make exploring this cave truly unforgettable.

Once we finish at Hua Ma, we’ll head to the picturesque village of Pia Thap. Along the way, we’ll take a quick stop at Ma Phuc Pass. This pass is a real gem, stretching for 3.5 km and reaching about 700 meters above sea level, winding its way between two striking limestone mountains. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Cao Bang Global Geopark, Ma Phuc Pass is known for being one of the most scenic routes in the country. As we travel, we’ll also get the chance to pass through a few villages inhabited by the Tay, Nung, and Dao ethnic communities—each with their own unique traditions and ways of life.

Arriving at Pia Thap, we’ll be surrounded by limestone forests, famous for their peaceful beauty and traditional incense-making craft. From the village, we’ll set off on a hike that leads us through more ethnic villages, green hills, and farmlands that change with the seasons. Tonight, a local Tay family will host us in their home, where we’ll experience their warmth, delicious food, and a bit of their daily life.

Day 3: Pia Thap – Ngoc Con & Phong Nam Valley – Ban Gioc Waterfall (B/L/D)

Leaving Pia Thap behind, we’ll head northwest to the beautiful valleys of Ngoc Con and Phong Nam, which are some of the most picturesque spots in Cao Bang. When we arrive, it’s like stepping into a hidden paradise—rolling mountains covered in limestone forests, vast rice fields, and gentle streams winding through the landscape. Our hike through the valley takes us past towering limestone cliffs and fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. Along the way, we’ll meet friendly locals from the Tay and Nung ethnic communities, giving us a glimpse into their unique culture and everyday life.

Next up is the famous Ban Gioc Waterfall, an absolute natural marvel. The waterfall is fed by the Quay Son River, which flows down from China, meandering through the rice fields of Dam Thuy commune before arriving at the sprawling alluvial plains of Ban Gioc village. Picture this: cascading water tumbling down tiers, with ancient Tay stilt houses standing in the distance against a backdrop of lush rice fields. It’s truly breathtaking.

Ban Gioc Waterfall also marks the border between Vietnam and China, adding a unique touch to this beautiful landscape. The Quay Son River splits into several streams that come together to form the mighty falls. We’ll take our time to explore the area, enjoying the peaceful surroundings, and you might even choose to hop on a bamboo raft to float along the clear, cool waters.

After we’ve soaked in the beauty of the falls, we’ll go on a hike through more remote Tay villages and along trails through the rice fields, following paths that locals have walked for generations. As evening falls, we’ll arrive at our homestay—a warm, welcoming home nestled in the lush greenery with the gentle sounds of the Quay Son River nearby.

Day 4: Ban Gioc Waterfall – Nui Thung Mountain – Hanoi (B/L)

This morning, we’ll take a peaceful walk through a beautiful frontier village nestled right on the Vietnam-China border, soaking in the calm and unique atmosphere of this special setting. Afterward, we’re off to explore Nui Thung Mountain, known as “Angel Eye Mountain” because of the massive hole at its center that looks like a giant eye peeking out from the heart of the peak.

From here, we’ll begin our journey back to Hanoi, traveling through Lang Son province, an area known for its long stretch of border with China. We’ll arrive back in Hanoi around 6 PM.

Physical Activities: This trip requires a moderate level of fitness, especially depending on the weather.

– Day 1: 3-5 km hike

– Day 2: 7- 9 km hike

– Day 3: 8-12 km hike

– Day 4: 2-5 km hike

Climate: From July to September, the weather is hot and humid, while October to June brings cooler, more pleasant conditions.

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.