Red River Delta & Bai Tu Long Bay (4 days )

Journey through the Red River Delta and Bai Tu Long Bay; the ideal trip for those who want to experience the timeless rural life of the delta in Ninh Binh Province and enjoy the sheer beauty of the bay – an area geographically close to Ha Long Bay. This trip provides a fantastic mix of villages, food, islands and the warm hospitality of a family homestay.

Day 1 Hanoi / Ninh Binh
We depart Hanoi and head off southwards to Ninh Binh Province (about 100 km). Ninh Binh is located in the marshy Red River delta. On arrival at a village in Ninh Binh, we settle in with a local family. Here, we pick vegetables from the villagers own plots and they give lessons in cooking traditional dishes. We then enjoy glorious food with them. During the afternoon, we walk around some villages, learn about rice cultivation and its extensive crops. Those with historical interests won't miss an opportunity to visit a solitary ancient pagoda that juts out alone from verdant rice fields. We end our day in Tam Coc, known as Inland Halong Bay, where we stay overnight in a relaxing and comfortable hotel. (Lunch and Dinner are included).

Day 2 Red River Delta
Cycling is the ideal way to explore the miles and miles of vivid green rice fields stretched along the shores of the Red river's tributaries and enjoy the intimacy of the countryside. We navigate along the riverfront, down tiny lanes, through rural villages and beyond. Here, water buffalos lumber and graze on the grass, local people tend their crops and kids greet us warmly. Arriving at Ninh Thang area, set amongst a network of charming waterways. We combine a short sampan ride along a scenic canal with a delightful walk around a unique area, known for its twisted magnificent rock formations caused by earth movement some hundred million years ago. The night is spent back in Tam Coc. (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner are included).

Day 3 Tam Coc / Bai Tu Long Bay
Departing Ninh Binh we journey to Ha Long City. We follow its fertile road through flatlands of the delta flanked by endless green carpets of rice paddies. We then head north to Ha Long City. Shortly after lunch, we embark on a boat trip amongst some of the spectacular limestone peaks – time to relax and appreciate the sublime beauty of the bay. On Van Don Island we enjoy a short bicycle ride and settle in with a local family to experience their way of life. (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner are included).

Day 4 Bai Tu Long Bay / Hanoi
Van Don is located in Bai Tu Long Bay. The island’s main assets comprise gorgeous beaches and lush jungle vegetation interspersed with patches of cultivated land. Local farmers plant seasonal crops on their own plots and make a living from fishing offshore and gathering ocean creatures! We cycle across the island and board our boat to explore some of the bay’s truly awesome scenery – vertical and unusual rocks and islets emerge from the sea. Weather permitting, there will be an opportunity to swim in the clear waters. Eventually, the boat arrives in Cai Rong Island, one of largest islands in Bai Tu Long Bay. From there, we drive to Ha Long City for lunch. This is followed by a drive back to Hanoi, arriving at approximately 5 pm. (Breakfast and Lunch are included).

The facts….

Physical activities: Easy cycling with a 4-6 km bicycle ride on Day 1, a 10-14 km bicycle ride on Day 2 and a 5-8 km bicycle ride on Day 3, a 12-15 km bicycle ride on Day 4.

From July to September, the climate is usually humid and hot. From October to June brings cooler and more pleasant weather.

Transport: Large wooden boat, bicycle, comfortable air-conditioned car.

Tour guide(s): Friendly tour guide(s), all of whom speak excellent English and French. They are knowledgeable about local culture, history and environment.

Accommodation: Hotels (2 nights), homestay (1 night). A clean and comfortable homestay with mosquito nets provided.

Meals: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners. We choose local ingredients, typical of the way people eat in the area, at local restaurants, homes or markets. (We cater for Vegetarians).

Trip cost: US$375 per person for a group of 2 to 3 people.                 
                US$295per person for a group of 4 to 7 people.

The cost of the trip includes accommodation, transportation, tour guide, all meals, entrance fees and permits where applicable.

The cost of the trip does not include travel insurance, drinks (soft drinks, alcohol, bottled water) and personal expenses.

What to take: Pack essentials for 4 days away from Hanoi, including light comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, comfortable walking shoes. Take a small day pack for cycling and walking. It is imperative to bring your passport on this trip. We also recommend packing: swimming suit, first-aid kit, personal articles, camera, insect repellent, sun cream, raincoat and sun hat...