Guided Northern Vietnam to Laos Multi-Adventure Tour

Our adventure begins with a transfer from Hanoi to the peaceful Mai Chau Valley, where time seems to slow amid a landscape of emerald rice fields and towering limestone hills. Here, in villages of the ethnic Thai people, life unfolds in harmony with nature and tradition.

After settling into our cozy lodge, we set out on an easy afternoon hike to stretch our legs and take in the scenery. The path winds through rice paddies and bamboo forests, past wooden stilt houses and smiling locals at work in the fields. It’s a gentle and heartwarming start to our journey through the quiet countryside of northern Vietnam.

After a filling breakfast, we mount our bikes for a 25 km loop through the scenic beauty of Mai Chau. Our route winds along peaceful country lanes, with terraced rice fields stretching out on either side and striking limestone cliffs rising in the distance. We pedal through quiet villages where life moves at a gentle pace, catching glimpses of water buffalo in the fields, farmers at work, and children waving warmly from their stilted homes.

The ride offers plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and connect with local life along the way. By afternoon, we return to our lodge and enjoy the rest of the day at our own pace, soaking in the calm and charm of the valley.

Today offers a perfect mix of adventure and cultural discovery. We start the morning with a guided hike through the Mai Chau Valley, following paths that wind through terraced rice fields, sparkling streams, and peaceful villages. The vibrant green landscape comes alive with glimpses of farmers working as their ancestors have for generations. Along the way, our guide shares fascinating stories and insights into local customs, helping us feel connected to the rhythms of rural life.

After returning to our lodge to relax and recharge, we dive into a hands-on cooking session in the afternoon. Under the guidance of skilled local chefs, we work with fresh herbs and vegetables to craft traditional northern Vietnamese dishes. The class ends with a shared meal, where we savor our creations and celebrate the flavors we’ve helped bring to life. The evening is ours to unwind, enjoying the calm and beauty of the valley as the day draws to a close.

This morning, we leave the serene Mai Chau Valley behind and travel to Ninh Binh, a landscape of striking limestone karsts rising from vibrant rice fields, often called “Ha Long Bay on land.” After checking in and freshening up at our hotel, we begin our afternoon adventure with a climb to Hang Mua Cave. Together, we tackle 500 stone steps, each one bringing us closer to a sweeping view of winding rivers, patchwork paddies, and jagged peaks stretching into the distance—a breathtaking welcome to this remarkable region.

Next, we set out to explore the enchanting Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Boarding our boat, we glide along calm emerald waterways, passing through caves and hidden valleys flanked by towering cliffs. The only sounds are the gentle splash of our oars and the calls of birds echoing across the limestone walls.

After the boat ride, take a short countryside hike, offering another perspective of this unique landscape.

This morning, we set off on a 30 km cycling adventure through Ninh Binh’s peaceful countryside, pedaling past emerald rice paddies, quiet villages, and dramatic karst cliffs that define the region’s iconic landscape. Along the way, we stop to explore Hoa Lu Ancient City, Vietnam’s first capital from the 10th century. Together, we wander through historic temples dedicated to former emperors and uncover stories from the nation’s early dynasties.

The relaxed pace of our ride gives us plenty of time to connect with daily life in the countryside—watching farmers at work in the fields, stopping for tea with locals, and soaking in the rhythm of rural Vietnam. By afternoon, we return to our hotel to unwind and enjoy some free time, reflecting on a morning filled with history, culture, and stunning scenery.

We start the morning at a relaxed pace, taking some time to unwind before our journey continues. Later, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Luang Prabang, Laos. Once we arrive, we check into our hotel and take a moment to soak in the sweeping views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

In the late afternoon, we hop on our bikes for a gentle 12 km ride around the city, winding through streets lined with gilded temples, elegant French colonial villas, and vibrant local markets. As evening sets in, we stroll through the lively night market, sampling a variety of authentic Laotian dishes on a guided food tour. The day ends with the sights, flavors, and atmosphere of Luang Prabang leaving us fully immersed in the city’s unique culture and charm.

We begin the day with a short drive through Luang Prabang’s picturesque countryside to Mandolao Elephant Camp, where we meet these gentle giants in an ethical, sustainable environment. Together, we learn about the elephants’ cultural importance and ongoing conservation efforts, observing them roam freely and interact naturally. It’s an inspiring and moving experience that connects us to Laos’ remarkable wildlife heritage. We pause for lunch at the camp, recharging for the afternoon ahead.

Later, we hop on our bikes for a scenic ride back toward the city. Along the route, we stop by the Henry Mahout Statue before veering into the countryside to explore Ban Pik Noy village. Cycling through Xiengkhong and XienLeck villages, we witness artisans at work, from parchment making to traditional weaving, gaining insight into local crafts and daily life.

By evening, we return to our hotel to relax. Whether taking a refreshing dip in the pool or enjoying a quiet drink while watching the sunset over the hills, we reflect on a day filled with adventure, culture, and unforgettable connections.

On our final day in Luang Prabang, we immerse ourselves in the city’s vibrant flavors and creative traditions. We begin the morning at the local market, selecting fresh ingredients before heading to an open kitchen for a hands-on cooking class. Together, we prepare a variety of authentic Laotian dishes and later enjoy the meal we’ve crafted, savoring every bite.

In the afternoon, we visit Ock Pop Tok, a living craft center, for a 2-hour ethnic craft workshop. Here, we learn about the textile traditions, motifs, and folktales of the Tai Lue, Tai Daeng, and Akha communities participating in the Village Weavers Project. Guided by skilled artisans, we create bracelets, keychains, and dreamcatchers as special keepsakes to take home that tell the story of Laos’ rich craft heritage.

We end the day with dinner at Khaiphaen Restaurant, an NGO initiative that supports marginalized youth through vocational training. As we enjoy the delicious food, we celebrate the perfect finale to our journey, filled with culture, creativity, and the warm spirit of Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, we enjoy a leisurely morning at our own pace, depending on our flight schedule. Take a final stroll through Luang Prabang’s charming streets, visit a nearby temple, or simply relax at the resort one last time, soaking in the peaceful surroundings. When it’s time to depart, we leave with unforgettable memories of stunning landscapes, authentic cultural encounters, and days filled with adventure, discovery, and relaxation