8-Day Vietnam Itinerary: Hanoi, Sapa, Mai Chau, Tam Coc & Halong Bay

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day Vietnam tour with Sapa & Halong Bay, a journey that reveals the most miraculous scenery and authentic culture of Northern Vietnam. This Vietnam 8-day itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. 
Starting from Hanoi, you'll dive into the local charm with a vibrant Hanoi street food tour, then set off on an incredible Hanoi to Sapa tour through the misty mountains of Vietnam’s far north.
In Sapa, you'll explore the heart of the highlands with an immersive Sapa trekking tour. Guided hikes lead you across bamboo bridges and lush valleys, where you'll meet ethnic minority villages in Sapa, including the Black H’mong and Red Dzao. 
These tribes, living traditional lifestyles, still wear colorful garments and uphold ancient customs. This Vietnam cultural & adventure tour takes you far beyond the tourist paths for an authentic, up-close experience of Sapa’s terraced rice fields and breathtaking mountain views.
Continue your Vietnam Northern Loop tour with a scenic drive to Mai Chau, a tranquil valley known for its peaceful pace and friendly Thai hill tribe communities. During your Mai Chau Valley tour, cycling and hiking are the best ways to soak in the panoramic landscapes and observe daily life. Enjoy a memorable homestay in Mai Chau Vietnam to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. The journey through Phu Luong Nature Reserve and on to Trang An—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—offers unrivaled natural beauty and is a highlight for nature lovers and photographers alike.
In Ninh Binh, you'll experience the best of the region with a Tam Coc & Trang An boat ride, drifting through mystical karst landscapes, hidden caves, and ancient temples. For those who enjoy active exploration, don’t miss the Ninh Binh Tam Coc bike tour, one of the best ways to discover this captivating region.
Your adventure concludes with a stunning Ha Long Bay cruise from Hanoi, a must-see on any Vietnam itinerary: Hanoi, Sapa, Mai Chau, Halong. This Ha Long Bay overnight cruise allows you to explore iconic caves like Sung Sot and Thien Cung, swim in emerald waters, and enjoy seafood feasts on board. Recognized globally as a natural wonder, Ha Long Bay's limestone karsts and cave systems are also archaeological treasures, home to prehistoric cultures such as Soi Nhu and Ha Long.
Whether you're looking for an affordable Vietnam 8-day tour package, a luxury Vietnam tour through Sapa, Mai Chau, and Halong Bay, or a private Vietnam tour tailored with expert guides, this journey offers something for every traveler. It’s also perfect for those seeking a family-friendly Vietnam 8-day tour, an active Vietnam adventure tour: hiking & cruising, or a stunning Vietnam photography tour focused on iconic landscapes like Sapa's rice terraces and Trang An's river caves. Let us guide you through the best time for Sapa trekking & Halong Bay cruise, and craft the best Vietnam tour in 8 days—a journey filled with history, culture, nature, and adventure.

Trip in Detail:

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival – Explore the Heart of Vietnam’s Capital

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, your friendly Snail Adventure Tour guide and driver will warmly greet you and transfer you to your hotel, ideally located in the vibrant Hanoi Old Quarter. Known for its unique blend of ancient charm and dynamic modernity, Hanoi boasts some of the most impressive colonial architecture in Asia, making it a must-visit destination for history and culture lovers.
After checking in and settling into your accommodation, enjoy some leisure time to relax. Later, meet with your guide for a detailed itinerary briefing of the exciting days ahead.
In the afternoon, embark on a cyclo ride through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, where you'll experience the blend of ancient traditions and the fast-paced rhythm of modern Hanoi life. This is the perfect way to soak in the city’s captivating architecture, street life, and vibrant atmosphere. To end your first day in Hanoi, enjoy a special welcome dinner at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant, where you’ll indulge in a variety of authentic dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Overnight Stay: Champton Hotel, a perfect base to explore Hanoi’s fascinating blend of past and present.
Summary:
Activity: Pick up and transfer
Accommodations: Champton Hotel
Meals:D
Trave distance: 40Km

Day 2: Hanoi to Lao Cai & Sapa – Scenic Journey to Vietnam’s Mountainous Paradise (400 km)

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at your hotel, depart from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi as we begin our scenic journey to the northernmost region of Vietnam. Today, you’ll travel through stunning landscapes and picturesque villages on the way to the remote mountainous province of Sapa.
The journey takes approximately 5 hours, with multiple stops along the way to stretch your legs and sample Vietnam’s famous pho noodles, a delicious and energizing local delicacy. Continue your scenic drive to Lao Cai City, where you’ll have a delicious lunch before the final leg of the journey. After lunch, enjoy a 1-hour drive from Lao Cai to Sapa Town, passing through lush hills and charming villages. Upon reaching the hilltop town of Sapa, check into your hotel and take a moment to refresh and relax.
In the afternoon, embark on a 2-hour walk to Ham Rong Mountain, where you can take in panoramic views of Sapa Town nestled among towering peaks and lush valleys. This peaceful trek will help you acclimate to the altitude while providing stunning photo opportunities. Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, featuring authentic Sapa cuisine.
Overnight Stay: Sapa Charm Hotel, a cozy retreat offering a comfortable base for your mountain adventure.
Activities:
 Morning transfer from Hanoi Lao Cai- Sapa.
 Pay visit village on the way. Visit Sau Chua Village in Sapa ( or Ham Rong Mountain View)
 Lunch & dinner includes
Accommodation; Sapa Charm Hotel

Day 3: Sapa Trekking Tour – Explore Local Hill Tribes and Breathtaking Scenery

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, we begin an exciting trekking tour through the heart of Sapa’s vibrant landscape. Starting from the hotel, we’ll journey through the town before venturing off the beaten path toward Cat Cat Village, home to the Black H’mong people. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with local hill tribe communities, learning about their unique culture and ancient customs. The trek offers plenty of opportunities for cultural exchange and photography as you pass through stunning rice terraces and traditional villages.
As we continue, enjoy awe-inspiring views of the picturesque rice paddy fields and lush mountain landscapes. We’ll trek down into the village, taking a detour to immerse ourselves in untouched nature, surrounded by dramatic limestone formations.  Around midday, we arrive at Y Linh Ho village, where we’ll enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the region.
Following lunch, our trek continues downhill towards the Muong Hoa Valley, where you’ll walk through vast rice paddies and visit small, traditional hamlets. Here, you’ll gain deeper insight into the daily lives of the local hill tribes, particularly the Lao Chai villagers, who maintain their rich cultural heritage. As we trek through more villages, you’ll be captivated by the stunning vistas of rice terraced fields, eventually arriving at Ta Van Village, home to the Dzay ethnic group. Known as one of the most beautiful villages in the region, Ta Van offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in local traditions while admiring the surrounding natural beauty.

Activities:  18 -25 km Trekking on single track and dirt part, rice paddy path
Meals is included ( Breakfast, Lunch and dinner)
Lunch in Hmong or Zay Hill tribe family
Accommodation; Ta Van Eco Homestay

Day 4: Ta Van – Giang Ta Chai – Su Pan – Sapa – Lao Cai

After bidding farewell to the welcoming families of Ta Van, we continue our trekking tour to Giang Ta Chai Village, home to the Red Dao people. This picturesque village is famous for its stunning waterfall and the traditional customs of the Red Dao community. The women of this tribe are easily recognizable by their vibrant red embroidered clothing, and their unique headscarves. Some women even follow an intriguing Red Dao legend by shaving off their eyebrows, a symbol of beauty in their culture.
Our trek continues along narrow paths that wind through the lush rice fields, offering spectacular views of the surrounding valley. We’ll cross the Muong Hoa River via a suspension bridge, making our way towards Su Pan Village. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to interact with local villagers and learn about their everyday lives. After arriving in Su Pan, we meet our transport for the journey back to Sapa, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, you have free time to explore Sapa Town, visit the Sapa Market, and pick up souvenirs or local handicrafts. You may also want to take a leisurely stroll through the town to appreciate the beautiful scenery and vibrant street life. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there’s the option to take a cable car to the summit of Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a truly unforgettable experience.
In the evening, we’ll board a private air-conditioned cabin on the Orient Express Train for a comfortable overnight journey back to Hanoi. The train offers soft berths, ensuring a restful and relaxing trip.Overnight: Orient Express Train – Private cabin with air conditioning and soft berths.
Activities:
Trekking 8km from Ta Van – Giang Ta Chai – Supan 
Taking Cable car in Fansipan Summit ( Returned Tickets)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Night train back to Hanoi

Day 5: Early Morning Return to Hanoi – Scenic Transfer to Mai Chau

After arriving in Hanoi early in the morning aboard the Orient Express Train, our guide will greet you at the station and escort you to your hotel for a hearty breakfast. Once you’ve refreshed, we leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and embark on a scenic car transfer to Mai Chau, passing through the picturesque landscapes of Hoa Binh province.
Mai Chau is a tranquil town surrounded by stunning rice terraces and lush green valleys. After a 3-hour drive, we’ll arrive at a traditional eco-village, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch with a local Thai family, experiencing the warm hospitality of the region. In the afternoon, we begin our exploration of this idyllic valley by bicycle, riding through rustic villages and expansive rice paddies. Along the way, you’ll be captivated by the dreamlike scenery and the peaceful rhythm of rural life. Stop to interact with the local Thai people, visit their homes, and sample freshly brewed green tea.
After an active day, return to your eco-homestay or ecolodge to freshen up and relax. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner hosted by the local family, and soak in the cultural atmosphere with a lively music performance by the villagers.Overnight Stay: Mai Chau Lodge, where you can unwind in a comfortable and cozy environment, fully immersed in the natural beauty of Mai Chau.
Activities: 
Three hours transfer from Hanoi – Mai Chau.
Cycling in Village
Enjoy  alive music performance in Poomcon village
Meals : Breskfast, Lunch & dinner includes
Stay overnight in

Day 6: Mai Chau – Pu Luong Nature Reserve – Trang An – Tam Coc (Three Grottoes)

After bidding farewell to Mai Chau, we board our bus for an exciting journey to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. This stunning destination, renowned for its limestone landscapes and rich biodiversity, stretches from the northwest of Mai Chau to Cuc Phuong National Park in the southeast. The area is blessed with lush forests, dramatic limestone panoramas, and awe-inspiring rice terraces, offering a serene and untouched environment that’s perfect for nature lovers.
As we travel, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Pu Luong mountains and the rural beauty that surrounds you. We’ll stop along the way for a delicious lunch, enjoying local cuisine before continuing our journey to Trang An. Arriving at Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we’ll embark on a scenic three-hour boat trip through the Trang An grottoes. Here, you’ll be captivated by picturesque limestone mountains, lush greenery, and peaceful rivers. As you glide through the water, visit holy temples nestled among the caves, learning about the rich history and traditional Vietnamese religion.
Following the boat trip, we’ll head to Tam Coc, known as the "Three Grottoes," a stunning landscape often referred to as "Halong Bay on land." We’ll take a two-hour boat trip along the Ngo Dong River, passing through towering limestone formations and tranquil rice paddies. The serene setting provides a perfect opportunity to admire the majestic beauty of the surrounding nature.
After a day full of exploration and scenic views, enjoy a hearty dinner at your resort before relaxing in the peaceful atmosphere of Tam Coc Hidden Charm Resort.
Overnight Stay: Tam Coc Hidden Charm Resort, where you can unwind in a beautiful and tranquil setting, surrounded by natural beauty.
Activities:
Taking transfer from Mai Chau – Pu Luong Nature reserver – Ninh Binh
Taking three hours Boat trip in  Trang An Or Tam Coc ( optional activities)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hidden Charm Hotel   : Deluxe Double Room:  

Day 7: Tam Coc – Halong Bay – A Journey Through Stunning Scenery

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, we depart for Halong Bay, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Our scenic 3.5-hour bus ride will take you through the stunning landscapes of the Red River Delta, offering incredible views of traditional rural life, lush fields, and serene rivers. We will stop along the way for refreshments and photo opportunities.
Upon arrival at Halong Bay, you will board your luxury boat and check in to begin your exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Halong Bay is home to nearly 2,000 islands, each with unique shapes and breathtaking scenery. As you cruise through the bay, you’ll marvel at the towering limestone pillars and emerald-green waters that have made this destination famous worldwide.
During your boat journey, you will also have the opportunity to explore one of the area’s most incredible caves, where you’ll learn about the geological history and tectonic processes that shaped these extraordinary formations over millions of years.  Lunch and dinner will be served on board, allowing you to savor fresh, local seafood while enjoying the panoramic views of the bay.
Overnight Stay: Spend the night on board the Glory Cruise, a luxurious vessel offering a comfortable and memorable experience as you rest under the stars in the heart of Halong Bay.
Activities:
Taking 4 hours transfer from Tam Coc to Tuan Chau Whalf)
Visiting Halong bay, Taking Bamboo boat or Do kayaking in Cai Vieng Village)
(  Lunch and Dinner include)
Stay overnight on Cruise: 

Day 8: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Departure

Wake up early to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and pristine nature of Halong Bay as the morning mist lifts. Start your day with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sun deck, where you can experience the serenity of the bay while stretching and relaxing for 30 minutes.
Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast on board as you continue your exploration of the bay. Next, embark on a visit to one of Halong Bay’s most stunning caves, where you’ll spend 45 minutes marveling at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years. As you wander through the cave, your guide will share fascinating stories about the geological history and the legends behind the unique rock formations.
Once you’ve explored the cave, return to the boat to check out and settle any bills while the boat heads back to the port. Upon arrival, our driver will meet you and transfer you back to Hanoi. Along the way, we’ll make a stop for refreshments. Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport in time for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Vietnam holiday. We sincerely thank you for choosing us to be part of this lifetime journey, and we wish you safe travels and many more incredible adventures ahead.
ctivites:
Visiting grottoes
Taking Transfer Airport at 16h:00 ( 4pm) to catch international Flights)

Important Notes:

Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance, including emergency medical evacuation coverage, for your trip to Vietnam to ensure peace of mind throughout your journey.
Tour Cost Validity: The quoted tour cost will remain valid for 45 days from the date of the offer. After this period, the price and conditions may be adjusted.
Airline Ticket Pricing: Please note that the cost of air tickets is subject to change without prior notice by the airlines. We recommend booking as soon as possible to secure the best rates.
Peak Season Reservations: Reservations made during peak travel periods (including Christmas, New Year, Vietnamese Lunar New Year, and National Holidays) may be subject to additional supplementary charges.
Hotel Check-in/Check-out: Hotel rooms are available from 14:00 PM on the arrival day until 10:00 AM on the departure date. Should you require early check-in or late check-out, additional charges may apply.
Booking Confirmation: Please note that the services and tours mentioned above are proposed for your information only. We will not proceed with any reservations until we receive your confirmation to do so. If any of the proposed services are unavailable at the time of booking, we will strive to find alternative options or similar services to ensure there are no changes to your program.
Hotel Availability: Hotels are subject to change based on availability. If a change occurs, we will select an equivalent accommodation of similar quality.
Meal Preferences: If you have any specific dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, food allergies), please inform us in advance. We will notify our restaurant partners and tour guides to ensure your needs are met.

Tour Includes:

English-speaking guide (other languages available upon request)
Accommodations based on double/twin occupancy
Meals as detailed in the itinerary (7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners)
Air-conditioned transfer and transportation throughout the tour
Sightseeing permits and entry fees
Sightseeing excursions as outlined in the itinerary
One-way train ticket from Lao Cai to Hanoi: Private cabin for two people
First aid kit for emergencies
Cold water box and small fresh towels for your comfort
Mineral water for drinking during the tour

Trip Excludes:

International airfare to and from Vietnam
Travel insurance (including coverage for emergency medical evacuation)
Items of personal nature (e.g., souvenirs, personal purchases)
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks during meals
Mineral water beyond what is supplied by the tour
Optional excursions not specified in the itinerary
Additional transport costs arising from emergency situations
Personal expenses such as telephone charges and laundry bills
Visa fees (if applicable)
Departure tax (if applicable)
Tips for the tour guide and team

Creating Unique Touring Experiences

Each of the touring itineraries featured on this website has been carefully curated to provide an unforgettable travel experience. However, we understand that every traveler is unique, and your journey should reflect your personal interests and preferences. Whether you're looking for cultural immersion, adventure, or luxury travel, we are here to design a custom Vietnam tour tailored specifically to your needs. Contact us today to share your ideas and let us craft a Vietnam tour that perfectly matches your style and expectations. Let’s make your travel dreams a reality!