Vietnam: Hike, Bike & Kayak 11 Days

After a hearty breakfast, depart from the bustling city in a private minibus for a scenic drive of approximately 5 hours to the charming village of Khau Pha. This community-based tourism project aims to empower and uplift the ethnic minorities of Vietnam by bringing about positive impacts in their lives. Nestled below the awe-inspiring Khau Phạ Pass, this region boasts an array of natural wonders that exemplify the best of Northern Vietnam. The verdant terraced rice paddies, pristine streams, and towering hills are sure to leave you mesmerized. Upon arrival and a delicious lunch, take a leisurely stroll around the village and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage of Khau Pha. Learn about the traditional Thai fabric and cloth-making process firsthand and take in the breathtaking scenery. As the evening sets in, indulge in a delectable traditional dinner and retreat to your cozy, nature-friendly stilt house, redesigned by local families to retain their cultural roots - an incredibly unique way to spend the night! Accommodation: Khau Pha Homestay

Rise and shine, it's time to explore the stunning natural scenery of Sapa! After an early breakfast, board a private vehicle (approximately 5 hours) to the picturesque town of Sapa, the starting point for today's hike. Enjoy a scenic ride with stops for lunch and photo opportunities, before arriving at Lao Chai. There, you will meet your local guide and set off on a trek through the breathtaking landscapes of Vườn Quốc gia Hoàng Liên State Park. Traverse through rural Vietnam and take in panoramic views as you hike from Lao Chai to Ta Van. Along the way, marvel at terraced farms filled with ripe corn and rice, cross bubbling streams, and wander through charming villages. You'll reach Ta Van in the evening, where a warm welcome and a delicious dinner await you at a local homestay. The trek is approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) in length, but the stunning vistas make it all worthwhile. Accommodation: Homestay

This morning, lace up your hiking boots and head to Su Pan, where you'll embark on another breathtaking trek. Take in the stunning scenery as you hike through lush forests, past terraced rice fields, and alongside winding streams. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to interact with the local hill tribe communities and learn about their customs and way of life. After your hike, hop on a bus back to Sapa, where you can rest and recharge before returning to Hanoi in the afternoon. Once back in the city, treat yourself to a bird's-eye view of Hanoi from a rooftop bar and savor a refreshing iced coffee. Accommodation: Hotel

Discover Vietnam's vibrant capital city on foot with a guided walking tour. Visit Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and Museum to pay respect to the country's beloved revolutionary leader, then continue on to the Temple of Literature, the oldest temple in the city dating back to the 11th century. Explore the temple's beautiful gardens and intricate architecture, and learn about the history of Confucianism in Vietnam. Afterwards, hop on a bike and join a warm-up cycling trip around the scenic West Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia. Pedal along peaceful paths and admire the serene landscape as you cycle past ancient pagodas, lush gardens, and charming villages. Accommodation: Hotel

Escape the hustle and bustle of Hanoi and embark on a thrilling cycling journey to the picturesque Mai Chau valley. Depart by vehicle and then hop on your bike to cycle approximately 60km (37mi) to the valley. Along the way, marvel at stunning panoramic views of Mai Chau and its surrounding mountains, and stop to help local farmers plant rice seeds in the fields. Upon arrival in the valley, head to the village of Pom Coong and enjoy a delicious traditional lunch with your hosts. Learn about the culture and customs of the region's ethnic minority groups, and gain insight into their daily lives. After lunch, cycle to nearby villages and immerse yourself in the local way of life. You can choose to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery or help your host family prepare dinner. In the evening, return to your homestay and unwind with a cold drink while watching the sun set over the peaceful mountains. Accommodation: Homestay

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a cycling adventure from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh, a picturesque region renowned for its emerald valleys, karst peaks and protected areas. Today's scenic route will take you through charming villages and stunning countryside, covering a distance of approximately 70 kilometers. Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, take a comfortable bus ride from Ninh Binh to Hai Phong, then hop on a ferry to Cat Ba Island, located in the southeastern corner of Halong Bay. The island is surrounded by Lan Ha Bay, an area famous for its numerous white-sand beaches and towering limestone formations. After a journey of about 5 hours, check in to your tranquil hilltop accommodation and spend the rest of the day at leisure. You may choose to relax in a hammock, or perhaps opt for a hike or a beach visit to keep active. Accommodation: Lodge

Experience the enchanting scenery of Lan Ha Bay on a full-day boat excursion, exploring the serene waters and karst cliffs by kayak. Marvel at the tree-covered islands and enjoy a sumptuous lunch on board. The Cat Ba Archipelago is an extension of Halong Bay's UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting similarly mesmerizing vistas of turquoise waters and traditional junk boats. Don't forget to snap some photos to capture these unforgettable moments. Spend another night on Cat Ba Island, with the evening free to explore the local eateries and bars. Accommodation: Lodge

Bid farewell to Cat Ba Island and travel back to Hanoi (approximately five hours). Arrive in the late afternoon and consider heading to the local markets for some last-minute souvenir shopping or to explore one of the city's numerous museums or historical sites. Both the Fine Arts Museum and Hoa Lo 'Hanoi Hilton' Prison are excellent options. In the evening, gather with your group for a farewell dinner and celebrate the end of this active adventure. Accommodation: Hotel

Your active adventure concludes today with no scheduled activities, but there's still plenty to see if you'd like to continue exploring Hanoi or beyond, including an Urban Adventure discovering Hanoi's street food by night.