The rugged mountains of the northern ‘alps’ are inhabited by ethnic groups seemingly a world away from the fast pace of urban life.
At an elevation of 1,650 metres, this former French hill station is now a centre for those seeking adventure and exploration among the country’s highest mountains. Primarily Vietnamese in character, Sapa comes alive during the weekend market when local ethnic Hmong and Dao people trek in from nearby villages to sell their produce. Surrounded by the vista of the highest peak of Vietnam, Mount Fansipan, the region holds countless trails and walks and an insight into the lives of the isolated communities of the north.
The mountains of the North are characterised by the terraced paddy fields which cascade down the slopes, one of Vietnam’s enduring images. Sapa can be used as a base for deeper exploration or as a destination in its own right. There are several hotels in town and a few more lodges outside. Please talk to our consultants about what might suit you.
Sapa is accessible by overnight train from Hanoi. The town itself is busy and touristy though it is not too difficult to get outside where local walks and treks will take you into gorgeous mountain scenery, past quiet hill tribe villages.
The nearby Bac Ha market town is much less visited in comparison, though is just as colourful, with its bustling Sunday market and lush countryside. It isn’t as developed for tourism as Sapa is, which makes it an ideal stop for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-track experience in the mountains. We suggest speaking to our Vietnam experts to determine which destination is best for you.
Vietnam
Vietnam’s long narrow geography lends itself to a fairly obvious and well-trodden travel route. This holiday weaves away from that and offers second-time visitors or those who like something different, the chance to discover Vietnam in a new way.
Hidden street tours
Discover “Saigon” and Hanoi with insiders tours of the backstreets and traditional markets of the less-explored districts.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Kayak, cycle and trek around incredible Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to the world’s largest caves.
Vintage Vespa experience
Zip along the famous Hoi An to Hue coastline riding pillion on a vintage Vespa bike.
Laos
Travel overland through Vietnam and Laos, from Hanoi’s street food and Ninh Binh’s peaks to jungle safaris and Luang Prabang’s golden temples.
Street food tours
Discover Hanoi’s lively street food culture while sipping a cold local beer at a roadside stall
Wildlife experiences
Track animals on a night safari in Laos’s jungle
Beautiful scenery
Trek past cascading waterfalls and hill-tribe villages
Vietnam
If you can spare a little extra time, then there is no better way to explore Vietnam than by train. Follow the route of the ‘Reunification Express’ from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City via paddy fields, mountains and ancient ports.
As well as taking in the scenery whilst on board, you’ll have plenty of time to see the sites with our unique guided tours in each place you visit.
Scenic journeys
Watch the lush and varied scenery unfold from your vantage point on the train
Halong
Set sail on picturesque Halong Bay aboard a traditional junk boat cruise
City highlights
Explore the sights of Hanoi and Saigon, the highlights and some hidden gems
Vietnam
Many trips to Vietnam whizz from north to south, ticking off the main sites along the way, but there is much to see in the north alone. The scenery is lush, varied and breathtaking, and there are plenty of wonderful places to stay. You’ll pick up the pace by exploring the surrounding landscapes before returning back to base to relax by a lovely swimming pool or choose from rejuvenating wellness experiences.
Of course, no trip to Vietnam would be complete without a bit of hustle and bustle, so there is time to enjoy the capital, Hanoi, at the end of the trip, with its vibrant history, culture, and epic food.
Authentic experiences
Experiencing typical day-to-day life. From farmers harvesting rice and hill-tribe weavers in the countryside to flower sellers selling their wares from their bicycles
La Hay Bay
Discovering the far reaches of Halong Bay (La Hay Bay) where few tourists go
Fantastic hotels
Taking in the fresh air, relaxing by the pool, and enjoying great hospitality at a range of lovely accommodation
Vietnam
Veer off the tourist trail towards the Chinese border on a journey that unveils Vietnam’s hidden gems: the enchanting Ba Be Lake, Ban Gioc waterfall, and Tuyet Tinh Coc Valley. Immerse in diverse cultures, witness awe-inspiring landscapes and explore geological wonders. From mist-covered lakes to cascading falls, each day promises a new marvel.
From the northern frontiers, you’ll head to Halong Bay. Rather than the standard 1-night option, we’ve suggested a two-night cruise here on a spectacular boat (which you might like time to enjoy) which will take you beyond the main route to hidden corners of Cat Ba Island and the equally magnificent (but less visited) scenery of Lan Ha Bay.
This extraordinary journey finishes with a stay near the sacred Yen Tu Mountain in a converted monastery. An unusual end to an extraordinary itinerary.
Ba Be National Park
Hike the forests of Ba Be National Park and cruise across the lake on a motorboat.
Ban Gioc waterfall
Visit the spectacular Ban Gioc waterfall, which divides Vietnam and China.
Halong Bay
Enjoy a two-night cruise on a beautiful cruise from Halong Bay to Lan Ha Ba with a stop on Cat Ba Island.
Vietnam
This holiday is ideal for second-time visitors to Vietnam or adventurous families who want to discover the country beyond the typical tourist trail. Vietnam has epic scenery, but many visitors miss much of it; on this holiday, you’ll explore by raft, river, train and bike, taking in the mountainous North, the limestone caves of Phong Nha and the central coast. The suggested itinerary entirely skips the major cities, although we can include them in your bespoke holiday proposal.
Hoi An
Discover ancient traditions or hit the beach on the coast near Hoi An
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Cycle past dramatic limestone mountains and explore caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Paddle past terraced paddy fields as you raft along the river in Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Vietnam
This holiday weaves on and off Vietnam’s well-trodden tourist trail. You’ll get an insider’s view of the main cities and visit some of the country’s most beautiful rural locations. The accommodation ranges from an eco-resort in the mountains to a beach hotel and a lovely homestay.
The itinerary is for all ages, but it’s a good option for families looking for an active and immersive holiday at Easter. Spring is a good time to visit both Phu Luong in the North, Hoi An on the Central Coast and the Mekong Delta in the South.
Ninh Binh
Cycle through paddy fields and explore the caves and limestone mountains of Ninh Binh province
Mekong Delta
Explore the tropical tributaries of the Mekong Delta and spend the night in a homestay.
Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Paddle past idyllic steeped paddy fields as you raft along the Cham River in Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
Vietnam
Vietnam has an extensive network of domestic flights, so it’s tempting to fly around all over the place and pack loads in. But travelling a little more slowly by train can be hugely rewarding and fun! This holiday includes an overnight journey and two-day trains as you traverse the country from Hanoi to the Central Coast. You’ll stay in some great spots along the way including a luxury beach resort in an idyllic location.
This trip suggestion works particularly well for families travelling in Spring and Summer since this is the best time to visit Phong Nha Caves and the Central Coast. It avoids the southern part of the country, where the weather is less favourable in the summer months.
Street food tour
Slurp noodles in the hustle and bustle of the capital Hanoi
Coastal beauty
Enjoy a breathtakingly beautiful beach resort on a remote peninsula in Phu Yen province
Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park
Adventure in the limestone karst landscape of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park
Vietnam
Fresh, exotic and exciting: Vietnamese food, influenced by myriad culinary traditions, is one of the world’s best cuisines. It also provides an excellent historical narrative.
Experience the best of this country without missing a beat.
Sample the sublime local street-food of Hanoi and Saigon, shop for fresh ingredients and learn to cook in Hoi An. Once you’ve learnt to crack the street-food codes, you might be brave enough to explore alone!
Street food tour
Pull up a stool with the locals and sample popular street food snacks in Hanoi
Lunch in Hue
Drift down the Perfume River in Hue and enjoy a hosted lunch in a traditional Garden House
Cooking class
Visit a local market to buy the freshest ingredients before trying your hand at cooking some classic Vietnamese dishes
Vietnam
In the northern part of Vietnam, go further than the famous Halong Bay and explore the beautiful World Heritage Sites of Trang An Ecosystem and Phong Nga National Park. Discover Vietnamese food, culture and history in Hanoi before veering off into the countryside by train to Trang An (in the Ninh Binh area) and Phong Nga – Ke Bang National Park.
Phong Nga is home to the world’s largest cave and limestone region. Choose between an overnight camping expedition exploring several caves or day treks, kayaks or cycle tours.
Spend the last few days of the holiday at the beach near Hoi An, where you’ll have time to combine pure relaxation with a taster of the beautiful local town (outside of peak hours).
Street food tour
Pull up a stool with the locals and sample popular street food snacks in Hanoi
Phong Nga - Ke Bang National Park
Explore underground rivers and the remarkable geology of Phong Nga – Ka Bang National Park
Scenic train journeys
Weave through the countryside aboard the Reunification Express
Vietnam
Experience the highlights of Vietnam in a unique way combined with luxury and boutique accommodation. Your expert private guides and drivers will bring the captivating country to life, and there will be plenty of time to relax.
Food experience
Savour authentic street food on a guided tour through Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter.
Vietage Train
Ride the scenic Vietage train, with some seriously smooth travel washed down with breathtaking coastal views.
Zannier Bai San Ho
Discover pristine beaches at Zannier Bai San Ho, with watersports and local village to explore
Vietnam
A journey through Vietnam immersing yourself in the rich culture, enjoying breathtaking landscapes, and staying in some of the most luxurious hotels in Asia. What’s not to like?
The itinerary is designed to show you a side of Vietnam that others may miss without compromising on quality. Your cruise takes you further than Halong Long to explore Lan Ha Bay, which is a longer and steadier routing but oh, so much more fun and peaceful. Local guides are on hand to take you deep into the market to enjoy Hanoi’s vibrant street food. And much more.
The hotels are of unbelievable quality. Have a look for yourself, and we can, of course, adapt them to suit your own preferences—there are plenty of fantastic options.
Lan Ha Bay
Cruise the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay on a traditional junk boat as the sun sets behind limestone peaks.
Amanoi
Unwind at Amanoi, nestled within a national park, with yoga, watersports, and panoramic sunrise treks.
Hue
Explore Hue’s historic treasures, from imperial tombs to the tranquil Perfume River.
