North Vietnam & Angkor Wat

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel at 8:00 am to start your day of exploring the highlights of Hanoi. You will begin by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Uncle Ho's house on stilts to learn about the life and legacy of Vietnam's beloved leader. Next, you will visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique temple built on a single stone pillar, and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university.
After the lunch break, you will head to the Museum of Ethnology to gain insight into the diverse cultures and traditions of Vietnam's many ethnic groups. Next, you will take a cyclo ride through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter to soak up the atmosphere and experience local life.
Your last stop of the day will be at Hoan Kiem Lake with Ngoc Son Temple, where you can learn about the legend of the lake and its significance to the people of Hanoi. To wrap up the day, you will attend a traditional water puppet show, a unique and entertaining art form that has been a part of Vietnam's cultural heritage for centuries.

8:00 AM: Get ready for an exciting day as we depart from your hotel in Hanoi and head to the charming province of Ninh Binh.

After 2 hour drive, we arrive in Ninh Binh and prepare for an enchanting experience at Tam Coc. Hop aboard a traditional sampan boat and let the local rowers guide you through the mesmerizing landscape. As you navigate the gentle waterways, you will pass through three tunnel-like caves, immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Noontime: Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine and replenishing your energy for the rest of the day's adventures.

In the afternoon, Get ready for a delightful bicycling adventure along scenic back roads. Pedal your way through the countryside, immersing yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings. Along the way, we'll make a stop at the captivating Thai Vi Temple, where you can learn about its historical and cultural significance.

Continue your cycling journey to Bich Dong Pagoda, a hidden gem nestled amidst picturesque landscapes. Explore the ancient pagoda and marvel at its intricate architecture, while enjoying the serene ambiance of the surroundings.

About 4:30, bid farewell to Ninh Binh and begin your drive back to Hanoi for the night.

After your breakfast at the hotel, embark on a comfortable drive to the breathtaking hills of Sapa. As you journey through the northern countryside, you'll be treated to picturesque views of lush mountains that rise and fall like waves. The final approach to Sapa offers a spectacular sight of rice terraces cascading down the mountain slopes, providing the main source of livelihood for ethnic villages across the region.
Upon arrival, check into your charming accommodation, which boasts bungalows with stunning views of the countryside.
In the afternoon, embark on a cultural expedition by hiking through the scenic Muong Hoa Valley. Accompanied by your guide, traverse the countryside on trails that wind between the golden rice terraces to reach hill tribe villages. Get a deeper insight into the culture and traditions of the Hmong people by visiting one of their families, an experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for rural Vietnam.

Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Sapa as you trek to a Black Hmong village located on the side of the Muong Hoa Valley. Follow small paths and back roads to admire the majestic scenery of the Hoang Lien Son range, where the roof of Indochina is located, Mount Fansipan. After your trek, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Sapa town before having an hour to walk around the town square to shop for souvenirs or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
The afternoon drive takes you back to Hanoi. Sit back and relax as you reflect on the breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences of Sapa.

On this day of the journey, you will embark on a magical adventure to one of the world's most famous natural wonders: Halong Bay. It’s just 2 and half hours away. Around noontime, you will begin your journey to explore the breathtaking scenery of this UNESCO-listed natural heritage site, which also happens to be one of the 7 wonders of the world.
As you cruise on a luxurious yacht, you will marvel at the sight of hundreds of limestone towers emerging from the pristine blue waters of the bay. You will have the chance to participate in various exciting activities, such as kayaking, swimming, visiting limestone caves, and even squid fishing. Your meals will be served on the boat, and your comfortable cabin will provide the perfect setting for your night out on the bay. This will be a truly unforgettable experience that will conclude your Vietnam Highlights journey on a high note.

An overnight cruise in Halong Bay is a unique and unforgettable experience. Be sure to catch both the sunrise and sunset, watching as the sun ascends over the Gulf of Tonkin and sets behind the picturesque islands and limestone outcrops. The blue hour, the time between dusk and darkness, is also a breathtaking sight and is believed by locals to be the most beautiful time to view the bay. Don't miss out on the sunset the day before and wake up early enough to catch the morning views from the deck.
After an early lunch, the cruise will end around 11 a.m. and you will then be driven to Noi Bai airport for the evening flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the Cambodian team and transferred to your hotel for the night.

This morning, we explore Angkor Thom, the ancient city filled with majestic ruins and impressive structures. First stop is the iconic Bayon Temple, known for its mesmerizing stone faces and intricate carvings. Within the Royal Palace enclosure, we discover Phimeanakas Temple, steeped in historical significance. Next is the remarkable Baphuon Temple, an imposing pyramid-shaped monument. We then visit the Terrace of the Elephants, adorned with sculptures of mythical creatures. The Terrace of the Leper King reveals enigmatic carvings. In the afternoon, we continue to Angkor Wat, the crown jewel of the park, with its grand galleries, libraries, and ponds. Its low-reliefs narrate ancient epics and daily life. As the sun sets, the temple glows in an ethereal beauty, leaving us in awe of Cambodia's rich heritage.

In the morning, embark on a captivating journey to explore several temples, including the Royal City of Preah Khan, an ancient Buddhist temple complex. Visit Neak Pean, a unique island temple surrounded by water, and then proceed to the serene Ta Som temple, embraced by nature. Admire the impressive East Mebon temple, situated on a raised platform, and the stunning Preah Rup temple, renowned for its sunrise and sunset views.

In the afternoon, visit Thommanon temple, an elegant and well-preserved sandstone structure. Explore Ta Keo, an imposing temple mountain with intricate carvings, and the iconic Ta Prohm, known as the "Tomb Raider" temple for its enchanting overgrown trees. Discover the peaceful Banteay Kdei temple with its unique architecture, and witness the beauty of Srah Srang, a tranquil royal bathing place. Lastly, explore Prasat Kravan, a group of five ancient Hindu temples featuring impressive brick carvings. Optionally, you can visit Les Chantiers Ecole, a vocational training site for traditional Khmer art and craftsmanship.

If your departing flight allows, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local markets and boutiques, where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts to commemorate your time in the destination.

When the time comes, transportation will be provided to the airport for your individual onward flight, marking the end of our services.

Depart with fond memories of your journey and the desire to return for more captivating adventures in the future.