Active Adventure in Vietnam & Laos
This itinerary introduces you to the beauty of Vietnam and Laos and shows you the authentic side of life here. Meeting the welcoming locals and learning about their lives is one of the highlights for me, especially when visiting the local schools and markets.
Day 1
Arrival Hanoi
Upon arrival in Hanoi you’ll be escorted to your hotel. The rest of your day will be spent at your leisure, armed with our list of recommended attractions and restaurants to help you have a great start to your trip.
Day 2
Hanoi
Start your day at Hoan Kiem Lake. Visit the Ngoc Son Temple and watch how the locals begin their day.
Later, explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter with your private guide, and finish with evening drinks a local Bia Hoi.
In the evening you’ll be escorted to Hanoi Railway Station for your overnight train to Lao Cai.
Day 3
Lao Cai To Sapa
Arrive in Sapa early in the morning and meet your guide.
Enjoy a scenic one-hour drive up to the picturesque hill station of Sapa.
In the afternoon, explore the town of Sapa and hike along a trail through beautiful gardens and lush pine forests. Visit the village of Ma Tra, a local school, and the church of Ta Phin, as you go.
Day 4
Nam Cang Village Tour
Go off the beaten track to Hoang Lien National Park to trek through local villages, rice terraces and countryside. You’ll have the chance to meet the local villagers and swim in the river.
Day 5
Bam Khoang And Ta Giang Phin Village Tour
Explore Bam Khoang And Ta Giang Phin Village.
Head north of Sapa, stopping at a village to learn about local life before reaching Ta Giang Phinh village, home of the Black H’mong ethic group.
Day 6
Bac Ha Market Visit
Today you’ll be driven from Lao Cai to Bac Ha for a visit to the local market.
In the afternoon you’ll cruise to Bao Nhai, experiencing the picturesque scenes on the river banks.
You’ll then catch the overnight train to Hanoi.
Day 7
Hanoi - Laos
Upon arrival in Hanoi this morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Luang Prabang.
Day 8
Morning Alms and Cycling in Luang Prabang
Have an early morning start (5.30am) and partake in the morning ritual of ‘Tak Bat’ or giving alms to the monks. Visit the local fresh market, before returning to your hotel for breakfast.
After breakfast, you will begin a half-day exploration by bicycle. Visiting the Royal Palace Museum and the beautiful historical Huan Chuan Heritage House, taking in its historical and architectural charms.
You will continue to visit the country’s most historic and enchanting temple, Wat Xiengthong and Wat Khili. Discover the excellent ‘Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre’, displaying the rich and diverse ethnic and cultural blend of Laos.
Day 9
Ban Xieng Mouark – Kuang Si Waterfalls – Luang Prabang
Visit the Kuang Si Waterfalls where you can go trekking, swimming and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Before leaving, visit the nearby bear sanctuary - the home of 23 Asiatic Bears who were rescued from poachers.
Day 10
Luang Prabang – Half Day Biking Food & Fun Tour
Embark on a walking tour around the morning market, sample local delicacies and stop for coffee.
Afterwards, bike ride around Ban Mano, visit a local restaurant, and see how a local rice noodle factory and bakery work.
Enjoy a game of “Petanque” or “Boulle” before you leave.
Day 11
Luang Prabang – Half Day City Tour & Private Sunset Cruise
Explore Luang Prabang’s highlights, including temples, museums and historical relics.
After breakfast, you will depart town and transfer(1 hour) north to the village of Ban Hatya where you'll meet a Kayak guide for the day for an adventure on the waters.
Day 12
Departure
Today you’ll head to the airport for your onward journey.
- Explore the Old Quarter of Hanoi
- Go trekking in Sapa in northern Vietnam
- Hike through waterfalls and jungle tracks in Luang Prabang
- Embark on a walking and biking food tour
- Swim in the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfalls
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AUTHENTICTravel your way with Lightfoot. We’ll take you into the heart of each destination and introduce you to the people and places that reveal the true essence of a country. With our trusted local connections, we create vacations that immerse you in culture, history, and everyday life. Far from the crowds, always deeply authentic.
EXPERT Travel with confidence, guided by experts. Our team boasts decades of first-hand knowledge and we are passionate about creating meaningful experiences for our guests. We specialise in unveiling the world’s most extraordinary and lesser-known destinations.
PERSONAL Your journey is as unique as you are. We take the time to understand what inspires and excites you, creating 100% tailormade itineraries that reflect your personality, interests, and vacation aspirations. Our bespoke vacations are designed to elevate every moment of your travel experience.
