Day 1: Hanoi - Tam Coc River (L, D)
 At 08: 00am depart to Ninh Binh, enjoying the rural scenery along the road. Visit Hoa Lu old citadel, the capital city of Vietnam before 1010 AD and discover an important piece of the country's early history in the 'Ancient Capital". Have lunch at restaurant before take the rowing boat along the tiny canal among the rice fields to visit Tam Coc (Three Grottoes). Stay over night at hotel in Ninh Binh town.
Day 2: Hanoi - Mai Chau - Hang Kia Village (B, L, D)
After breakfast at hotel we heading west to Hoa Binh Province where we stop for refreshments. From our stop we climb towards the Mai Chau valley, about another two hours away, stopping on the way to take in the spectacular scenery. Following lunch in Mai Chau town we drive to the White Thai village of Sa Linh from where we commence a 3-hour trek to the village of Hang Kia. Our hosts for this evening will be the H’mong minority people. Whilst enjoying their hospitality, we will discover a little more about their lives and culture. Tonight’s accommodation could probably be a little more rustic than you would be used to.
Day 3: Hang Kia - Van Village (B, L, D)
This morning we have a 7-hour trek to Van Village, home of the White Thai people. The trek will take you through some unforgettable scenery and provide us with an opportunity to closely observe rural life in Vietnam. A picnic lunch will be provided along the way. Arriving in Van village by mid to late afternoon there will be time to take a stroll down to the nearby stream. Our hosts for this evening will treat us to a fine meal and stories of life in Van village. They will also share their home brewed rice wine and toast our good health and happiness.
Day 4: Van Village - So Village (B, L, D)
 After breakfast we spend the morning strolling around the surrounding villages and meeting villagers along the way. After a morning's exploring we return to Van village for lunch. With lunch finished there will time for a short siesta or stroll down to the river before embarking on a 3 hour walk to the village of Xo (pronounced Soh). This evening following dinner, we will have the opportunity for more cultural interaction, before retiring for our second night in a stilt house.
Day 5: Mai Chau - Hanoi (B, L)
Departing the village at around 08: 00. We retrace our steps back to the boat for a cruise back to meet with our waiting vehicle and the trip back to Hanoi. We will arrive back in Hanoi by approximately 13: 00.
End of services. Our staff will give you the warmest goodbye and hope to see you again. |
