4-Day Vietnam's Northern Hidden Gems (Da Bac, Mai Chau, Pu Luong)

Day 1: HANOI – INCENSE VILLAGE – DA BAC

1. Hanoi
   5h
   Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable adventure. Be ready for the best "hidden gems'' in Northern Vietnam with our local expert!
   
   We ensure to show the best of what all destinations can offer, ensuring that you'll have a fantastic time with detailed insights into Vietnam's history, culture & people.
   
   7:30 AM – Your adventure begins! Our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and head to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, a century-old craft village. Wander through vibrant alleys filled with bundles of incense sticks and witness artisans dyeing and shaping them by hand.
   
   Continue the journey to Da Bac, a hidden mountain retreat in Hoa Binh province. Enjoy a scenic drive past rolling hills and tranquil countryside.
2. Hoa Binh Province
   14h
   Afternoon: Arrive at Sung Village, Da Bac commune, Hoa Binh Province, home to the Dzao Tien ethnic group. Visit a local Dao family & watch an artisan demonstrate traditional beeswax printing and indigo dyeing, an ancient craft passed down for generations.
   
   Evening: Savor a Dzao-style dinner and unwind in a cozy homestay.

Day 2: DA BAC – MAI CHAU

1. Hoa Binh Province
   5h
   Wake up to the soothing sounds of village life - roosters crowing, ducks paddling, and farmers tending their fields.
   
   After breakfast, embark on a 3-hour scenic drive to Mai Chau, a valley embraced by emerald rice fields and ethnic Thai villages.
2. Mai Chau
   16h
   Afternoon: Check into a traditional Thai stilt house homestay and enjoy a home-cooked lunch. Then, explore the valley on a bike ride or leisurely walk, passing stilt houses, rice paddies, and friendly locals.
   
   Experience the warm hospitality of a Thai family, learning about their daily lives and customs.
   
   Evening: Delight in a Thai-style dinner and relax under the starlit sky.

Day 3: MAI CHAU – PU LUONG

1. Pu Luong Nature Reserve
   5h · Admission ticket included
   After breakfast, travel to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a paradise of lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages.
   
   Morning: Arrive at Eo Ken Village, where a scenic 2-hour trek takes you through breathtaking landscapes—rolling rice fields, limestone formations, and tropical forests. Visit a local family and gain insight into their traditional way of life.
2. Don Village
   16h · Admission ticket included
   Afternoon: Enjoy a local lunch and check in at your homestay in Don Village. Later, embark on a gentle valley walk, weaving through rice paddies, fishponds, and charming Thai villages. Engage with locals and immerse yourself in the region’s peaceful rhythm.
   
   Evening: Savor a delicious dinner and experience a night in the heart of Pu Luong’s natural beauty.

Day 4: PU LUONG – HANOI

1. Chieng Chau
   6h
   Morning: Visit Chieng Lau, a picturesque area dotted with bamboo water wheels—a traditional irrigation system still in use today. Enjoy a leisurely walk and interact with local farmers.
   
   Midday: Depart for Hanoi, stopping by Cam Luong Sacred Fish Stream, home to a unique species of fish surrounded by fascinating folklore.
2. Hanoi
   3h
   Late Afternoon: Depart for Hanoi – Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive back to the city.
   
   5:30 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi and return to your hotel, concluding your unforgettable journey through the heart of Vietnam’s rural beauty & culture.
   
   Thank you for choosing us & see you soon in next adventure!

Pickup details

- Be ready at your hotel lobby 10 minutes before departure.
- Free pick-up/drop-off in Hanoi Old Quarter.
- Airport pick-up available 24/7.
- Pick-up/drop-off outside Hanoi center available with a small surcharge based on your address.
- On weekends, some roads may be closed to vehicles, we may drop you off at the nearest point in the Old Quarter.
- For the convenience, please provide us your WhatsApp/Email to easily contact & confirm the pick-up time & location.
- Feel free to reach out anytime - We’re here 24/7 to support you with care & dedication!

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Share your WhatsApp/Email for easy contact. We’re here 24/7 for any questions or support!
• Children must be accompanied by at least an adult
• We’ll update the weather forecast & let you know in advance so you can prepare accordingly.
• It's a daily tour. In case if it has to be cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• Please wear comfortable shoes & clothing suitable for trekking & outdoor activities.
• You're advised to bring small backpack, hat, sunglasses, mosquito spray and cash