Private Tour Highlights
- Take a cycling tour of Bangkok along the narrow alleys and elevated concrete cycle lanes
- Enjoy a traditional Khantoke dinner, along with traditional dances and entertainment
- Climb the 309 steps or take a tram up to Wat Phrathat on Doi Suthep Mountain
- Visit the famous Golden Triangle to observe border life and learn about local trade
- Enjoy a full day of trekking through the beautiful forested mountains
- Travel by tuk tuk to the Angkor Wat Temple, whose towers are stylized on the Cambodian flag
- Explore the dry and water caves of the But Cave Complex
- Relax on a cruise around Halong Bay, and enjoy a guided kayak tour in the Vung Ha area
- Meet and interact with the hospitable residents of Cat Cat Village
Tour Overview
An active trip that begins with a cultural immersion in the cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Then the trekking begins in rustic Chiang Rai before checking out the Angkor Wat, Siem Reap and Hanoi. The activity resumes in Halong Bay where you’ll cruise around the imposing cliffs and have the opportunity to try your hand at some fishing. End your tour with a scenic trek through the H’mong hill country of Sapa.
Chiang Rai is often referred to as the gateway to the Golden Triangle, the point at which the borders of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand meet along the Mekong River. Once home to the famed Emerald Buddha that now resides in Bangkok, Wat Pra Keow remains the city’s most esteemed Buddhist temple. The city itself is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains that are home to many villages of varying ethnic minorities, called the “hill tribe” groups. An excursion to one of these villages introduces visitors to their still basic lifestyles.
This trip offers the same classic experiences of cruising the limestone cliffs and overnighting onboard a traditional sailing junk, but with the adventure of exploring Cat Ba Island. Halong Bay’s largest island and home to the Cat Ba National Park, an overnight here will allow you to trek through its lush tropical forests, wander through its famous caves and explore on your own.
Primarily Vietnamese in character, Sapa comes alive during the weekend market when the local ethnic H’mong and Dao people trek in from nearby villages to sell their wares. Surrounded by the vista of Vietnam’s highest peak, Fansipan (3142 metres), the region holds countless trails and walks for all levels of enthusiasts and provides an introduction into the lives of the isolated communities of the north.
Inclusions
Regional and domestic airfare from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai to Siem Reap and Siem Reap to Hanoi, Hotel accommodation including continental or buffet breakfast, Private transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling, Private guided tours in English including all entrance fees, Meals where specified (food only), Bottled water and cool towels provided for transfers and sightseeing, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos government tax and service charge, Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included in the quote
Siem Reap Optional Excursions;
Institute for Khmer Traditional Textiles Tour
Travel to the 'Wisdom from the Forest' project, 35 kilometers north of Siem Reap. Here, the Institute for Khmer Traditional Textiles (IKTT) focuses on the restoration of the natural environment to produce materials for making traditional textiles. IKTT also cultivates a vegetable garden to feed the 30-40 families working on its 22 hectares of land. Here you will see all the trees that are needed to produce the natural dyes for silk, as well as the Mulberry trees that are vital in the production of silk. You can see silk worms munching on the Mulberry leaves and forming the all-important cocoons. As you wander around the site, you will discover the entire silk process from boiling the cocoons, to pulling out the silk thread, dying the silk and finally weaving it into beautiful designs. At the end of the tour, you can browse through the workshop to see a variety of silk products.
Siem Reap School Tour
Today your guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to a local village school. During your visit, you will have time to interact with students, teach a short English lesson and learn how the education system in Cambodia works. Due to a lack of resources and minimum government funding for schools in Cambodia, there is a shortage of teaching material and school facilities. Donations of books, study materials and sports equipment are welcomed.
Cooking Class and Visit to Local Home
Khmer cuisine is one of the major national identities that reflect the ways of life, thought and mind of the Cambodian people which are hidden in the taste of consumption of meat dishes and sweet food. Start the day enjoying tea and coffee with the Chef before heading to the Siem Reap morning market (Old Market). The Chef will guide you through the market and introduce you to the Cambodian fruits, vegetables, fish, multi-color spices and herbs that are used in traditional Khmer cooking. After picking up fresh ingredients at the market, you’ll head to the restaurant where refreshing drinks and cold towels are waiting for you. Next, head to the kitchen and begin cooking! You will create a full, three courses Khmer menu, all under professional guidance by skilled Cambodian Chefs. Finally, enjoy the fruits of your labor! Afterward, transfer to a local home to learn more about Cambodian daily life.
Notes:
* Due to the low water levels at Tonle Sap Lake between March and June, an alternate excursion will be provided for Day 13.
* Additional supplements may apply between 19 December – 8 January.
* Additional supplements may apply during the weeks immediately preceding and following the Lunar (Chinese) New Year. The dates vary each year, but fall sometime between January 21st and February 20th:
2016 – Monday, February 8th
2017 – Saturday, January 28th
2018 – Friday, February 16th
* Additional supplements may apply for mandatory Christmas and New Year’s Eve dinners.
Package Price: From £$ 16106
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
Flight to Bankok
Overnight international flight to Bangkok.
Overnight international flight to Bangkok.
Arrive in Bangkok
Upon arrival and airport reception, transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Upon arrival and airport reception, transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Wat Pho and The Klongs of Thonburi
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After breakfast, drive to Wat Pho in time to experience the monks' morning chanting ritual. One of the oldest temples in Bangkok, Wat Pho is home to the famous 45m Reclining Buddha. It is also the original school of traditional Thai massage. From here, take a tuk-tuk ride through Pak Klong Taland Flower Market to the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace is the most important and spectacular royal palace in Thailand. The mysterious Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddha image in Thailand, is now housed here.
Continue with a walk to the pier for a long-tailed boat ride along the "klongs" (canals) of Thonburi and stop at Wat Arun, once the grand royal temple to King Rama II. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, cross the river again, and drive to Chinatown for a first-hand look at old Bangkok. Walk along the shops on Yaworat Road and have a cup of Chinese tea with the locals at a very old teashop. Proceed with a visit to the bustling Talad Kao Market, where a variety of food, fresh and dry fruits, and Chinese herbs are available. Return to the hotel afterwards.
Note: Wat Arun Temple will be under renovation until further notice. Guests are still able to visit the temple and walk around it, but the constructions are ongoing and climbing the stupa is prohibited. Ladies should wear a short-sleeved top with pants or a knee-length skirt, and gentlemen should wear pants and a short-sleeved shirt for religious reasons. No sandals or flip-flops are allowed.
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Cycling Tour of Bangkok
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On today's cycling tour, avoid the main streets of Bangkok and use the maze of narrow alleys, small pathways and elevated concrete cycle lanes that make Bangkok so different from other Asian capitals. Start with a visit to a local market and see the huge range of fresh produce available. A little further on, stop at the ruins of fortifications built during the Colonial Era that stopped Western countries from occupying Thailand. Then continue to the "Golden Temple". Cycle over concrete pathways through a scenic park and past orchid farms. Enjoy lunch and head to the pier where a long-tailed boat awaits to take guests on a spectacular canal trip through the southernmost district of Bangkok. Visit a small factory which produces incense sticks and stop at a typical Thai/Chinese flower farm. Head back to the hotel after the tour. ...read less
Bangkok – Chiang Mai, Khantoke Dinner
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Transfer to the airport for the flight to Chiang Mai. Reception at airport and transfer to the hotel. Take some time to settle in before enjoying a Khantoke dinner. The first Khantoke dinner was held in 1953, when local politician Kraisi Nimanhemin invited honored guests to sit with him and enjoy this special dinner. Dinner is served in small bowls ("Khan") and guests are seated on cushions at a low table ("Thoke"). Northern Thai cuisine is served and during dinner, entertainment is provided by beautiful dancers who perform the Forn Leb, known as the finger dance; Forn Thien, known as the candle dance; Ramwong, referred to as the circle dance; and the Ram Dab, known as the sword dance. After dinner, there will be an option to see an additional hill tribe show from various members of Yao, Lahu, Meo, Lisu, and Karen tribes. ...read less
Exploring Chang Mai
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Start this morning with a visit to a food and flower market and then continue to Wat Suan Dok, where the ashes of former kings of Chiang Mai and the Royal Family are kept. From there, proceed with a visit to Wat Phrathat on Doi Suthep Mountain, which was founded in 1383 AD. In 1935, a road was built to the top, but today people climb the 309 steps from the car park to the top or take a tram for a small surcharge. From the top, enjoy a superb panoramic view of the city. After exploring, return to the car park for the transfer back to Chiang Mai, and take a 20-minute rickshaw ride through the quiet streets of the old town.
Enjoy lunch (not included), and then visit the historic, laid-back town of Lamphun, an important site for arts in Thailand. Continue to Wieng Kum Kam, an ancient city that was built by King Mengrai in the 14th century and rediscovered by archaeologists in 1984. The ancient capital was frequently flooded and eventually abandoned and forgotten. Explore the royal temple of Wat Kanthom (Wat Changkam), the shrine of King Mengrai, and Wat Hao Nong, a temple which is still home to the remains of the old-style temple entrance. Then head to Wat Pu Pia and Wat E-Kang, which were also recently discovered during archaeological excavations. Finally, visit Wat Chedee Liam, an important landmark in the architectural heritage of Chiang Mai.
Note: Ladies should wear a short-sleeved shirt with pants or a knee-length skirt and gentlemen should wear pants and a short-sleeved shirt for religious reasons. Sandals and flip flops are not allowed.
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Boat Ride to Chiang Rai
This morning, drive through the Chiang Dao district. Then take a 4 hour ride on a long tailed boat to Chiang Rai. Pass bamboo huts and jungle areas on the way, and visit a Karen hill tribe village built along the banks of the Maekok River. Upon arrival at the boat landing in the afternoon, proceed to the hotel. Lunch at a local restaurant is included.
This morning, drive through the Chiang Dao district. Then take a 4 hour ride on a long tailed boat to Chiang Rai. Pass bamboo huts and jungle areas on the way, and visit a Karen hill tribe village built along the banks of the Maekok River. Upon arrival at the boat landing in the afternoon, proceed to the hotel. Lunch at a local restaurant is included.
Golden Triangle and Chiang Rai City Tour
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Visit the infamous Golden Triangle, renowned for centuries as the center of the opium trade. From a hilltop viewpoint, marvel at the splendor of the mighty Mekong joining with the Ruak to form the actual "Triangle" with Laos, Burma (Myanmar) and Thailand. Continue to Mae Sai, the northernmost point of Thailand and the perfect spot to observe border life and local trade. Mae Sai is one of the very few official land crossings between Thailand and Burma and is therefore an important trade hub. Many Burmese come over daily from Thakhilek to work or do business and hurry back before the sun sets. Burmese lacquer ware, gems, jade and other goods from Laos and Burma are sold in shops along the main street.
Return to Chiang Rai for a city tour. Founded in 1262AD, this city boasts a fascinating architectural history with a mix of Thai and Burmese styles. Begin the tour at the ancient temple of Wat Phra Kaew, original home of the Emerald Buddha which is now housed in Bangkok. Then continue to Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong to observe its large gold stupa and Wat Rong Khun, which is different from any other temple in Thailand. In contrast to the ancient temples, this temple was built in 1997 and was designed using white glass. Return to the hotel after the tour.
Note: Wat Rong Khun is under construction, so guests can view the outside only. Ladies should wear a short-sleeved top with pants or a knee-length skirt and gentlemen should wear pants and a short-sleeved shirt for religious reasons. Sandals and flip flops are not allowed.
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Lanjia Lodge and Nature Trek
Transfer to the Lanjia Lodge in the early afternoon, and enjoy herbal juice upon arrival. After a brief rest, start a 3-4 hour trek along a nature trail through evergreen mountains. En route, visit a waterfall and a Hmong village. Then return to the lodge by a local truck. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner and watch traditional Hmong and Lahu performances. Overnight at Lanjia Lodge.
Transfer to the Lanjia Lodge in the early afternoon, and enjoy herbal juice upon arrival. After a brief rest, start a 3-4 hour trek along a nature trail through evergreen mountains. En route, visit a waterfall and a Hmong village. Then return to the lodge by a local truck. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner and watch traditional Hmong and Lahu performances. Overnight at Lanjia Lodge.
Full Day Trek
After breakfast, start a full day trek on the trail crossing forested mountains. Learn from an experienced local guide about jungle food and enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest. Continue trekking downhill until reaching a Thai village by the Kong River. Then take a short transfer by local truck back to the lodge. Dinner and overnight at Lanjia Lodge.
After breakfast, start a full day trek on the trail crossing forested mountains. Learn from an experienced local guide about jungle food and enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest. Continue trekking downhill until reaching a Thai village by the Kong River. Then take a short transfer by local truck back to the lodge. Dinner and overnight at Lanjia Lodge.
Day of Learning and Return to Chiang Rai
After breakfast, watch a presentation about the Hmong and Lahu tribes, the Golden Triangle area, and the giant cat fish (locally known as Pla Buek) - the world's largest freshwater fish found in the Mekong River. Learn about activities that affect the Mekong River and the people whose lives depend on the river. Return to Chiang Rai and transfer to the airport for the connecting flight to Siem Reap. Reception at airport and transfer to the hotel.
After breakfast, watch a presentation about the Hmong and Lahu tribes, the Golden Triangle area, and the giant cat fish (locally known as Pla Buek) - the world's largest freshwater fish found in the Mekong River. Learn about activities that affect the Mekong River and the people whose lives depend on the river. Return to Chiang Rai and transfer to the airport for the connecting flight to Siem Reap. Reception at airport and transfer to the hotel.
Angkor Thom City
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Rise early to make the most of this exciting day. The guide will take travelers to visit the monumental magnificence of Angkor Thom – the last capital of the great Khmer Empire. Visit the sprawling Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King and the enchanting Bayon. This 12th century masterpiece lies at the very center of Angkor Thom City and is an archaeological wonder of symmetry and grandeur. The exterior gallery walls have extensive bas-reliefs, but the main features are the towers, each with 3 or 4 gently smiling faces, over 200 in total. Continue to visit Preah Khan. This extensive monastic complex, which covers over 130 acres, was built by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII as a monastery and teaching complex. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a nice local restaurant.
Then transfer by Tuk Tuk to Angkor Wat with the private guide. It is unlike all the other Khmer temples in that it faces west, and is inspired by 12th Century Hinduism. Its symmetrical towers are stylized on the modern Cambodian flag. Intricate bas-reliefs surround Angkor Wat on four sides, each telling a story, but the most celebrated of these is the Churning of the Sea Milk, located on the east wing. The guide will explain the fascinating mystical tale behind it. At the end of the day, enjoy an hour long Kher massage.
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Temples and Tonle Sap
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In the morning, visit Banteay Srei (The Women's Citadel) a tiny, enchanting temple which is one of the jewels in this remarkable city. Built of red sandstone in the 10th century and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, this is the most Indian of all the temples in Angkor and in the words of H.W. Ponder, "a fairy palace in the heart of an immense and mysterious forest."
Continue to Banteay Samre, another Hindu temple, before visiting Ta Prohm, a temple that has been left largely in its natural state since its re-discovery by the French. Surrounded by jungle, it remains a labyrinth of stone hallways that have become overgrown with roots and limbs of massive banyan trees, which envelope the stone like tentacles. Continue to Pre Rup Temple. Built in 961, the boldness of the architectural design is superb and gives the temple fine balance, scale and proportion. The temple is close in style to the East Mabon, although it was built several years later. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Afterward transfer to the famous Tonle Sap, the largest fresh water lake in Southeast Asia. Then, take a memorable boat cruise to a nearby floating village for a glimpse of the everyday life of the local people who dwell in floating shacks. For most of the year the lake is fairly small, approximately only one meter deep with an area of 2,700 square km. However, during the monsoon season, the water is pushed up from the Mekong River into the lake, resulting in an increased area of 16,000 square km and a depth of up to nine meters, ultimately flooding nearby fields and forests. The floodplain provides a perfect breeding ground for fish. The livelihood of most of the local community depends largely on fishing and Tonle Sap accounts for 75 percent of Cambodia's annual inland fish catch.
Note: Depending on the time of year, the Tonle Sap boat ride might be unavailable. In that event, choose to do the Institute for Khmer Traditional Textiles Tour, Siem Reap School Tour, or Cooking Class and Visit to Local Home. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant for more information.
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Siem Reap – Hanoi
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Hanoi. Reception at airport and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Hanoi. Reception at airport and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Hanoi City Tour
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Enjoy a private tour of the Hanoi city highlights. Marvel at the tree lined streets on the way to the Opera House and pass by Hoan Kiem Lake en route to one of the city's fascinating museums of choice; the Vietnam Military History Museum, The Museum of History or the Fine Arts Museum. Continue to the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, for a quick escape from the busy streets. Afterwards, enjoy a private guided walking tour of the Ancient Quarter, also known as the 36 Streets District, to find a nice mix of ancient homes, temples and small shops. Then, enjoy a water puppet show. ...read less
Hanoi – Ninh Binh
Leave Hanoi for Ninh Binh. Start the exploration with a leisurely bike ride (about 5km) through paddy fields to visit Dong Tam Village. Chat with the locals and take part in lunch preparation. Enjoy lunch with the family and then take a sampan ride through the But Cave Complex. Explore the dry caves as wells as the water caves. End the trip at Thung Nham Dock and drive from there to Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Leave Hanoi for Ninh Binh. Start the exploration with a leisurely bike ride (about 5km) through paddy fields to visit Dong Tam Village. Chat with the locals and take part in lunch preparation. Enjoy lunch with the family and then take a sampan ride through the But Cave Complex. Explore the dry caves as wells as the water caves. End the trip at Thung Nham Dock and drive from there to Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Cuc Phuong National Park
Depart for the Cuc Phuong National Park. On arrival, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. If time permits, take an optional visit to the Cave of Prehistoric Man before having lunch at a local restaurant at the headquarters of the park. After lunch, drive to Bong Station and take a walk through the forest to see the diverse flora and fauna highlighted by a backdrop of perennial trees. The 7km trail passes through giant trees to a 1000 year old tree. Afterwards, drive back to Ninh Binh for the evening.
Depart for the Cuc Phuong National Park. On arrival, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. If time permits, take an optional visit to the Cave of Prehistoric Man before having lunch at a local restaurant at the headquarters of the park. After lunch, drive to Bong Station and take a walk through the forest to see the diverse flora and fauna highlighted by a backdrop of perennial trees. The 7km trail passes through giant trees to a 1000 year old tree. Afterwards, drive back to Ninh Binh for the evening.
Ninh Binh – Hanoi
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After breakfast, drive back to Hanoi. Then, take an excursion the surrounding countryside with the private guide. Rich in Buddhism, the north of Vietnam is home to the country's most colorful and revered pagodas and temples. The Thay Pagoda (Master's Pagoda) is located 40 kilometers (25 miles) southwest of Hanoi. While a temple is a place to worship the dead, a pagoda is a place to worship the Lord Buddha. Thay Pagoda is widely known for its finely carved lacquer and gold statues of Buddha in his past and present form, as well as the colorful Buddhist ceremonies performed here during auspicious dates of the Lunar calendar. After the visit, continue to Tay Phuong Pagoda, which is situated at the top of a small hillock. Built in 1794, the pagoda is famous for its vast display of finely carved wooden statues of former monks from the 18th Century. Return to Hanoi and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Lunch is included today. ...read less
Hanoi – Halong Bay Cruise
Depart Hanoi in the morning for an approximately 3.5 hour drive that winds through the beautiful countryside to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, board the boat to begin the cruise. Enjoy lunch while cruising towards Vung Vieng in Bai Tu Long. Upon arrival in Vung Vieng, visit the floating village by traditional rowing boat. Enjoy a tea ceremony with traditional Vietnamese tea and then eat dinner while the boat is anchored for the night. Enjoy a drink or join the crew and try squid fishing. Overnight on boat.
Depart Hanoi in the morning for an approximately 3.5 hour drive that winds through the beautiful countryside to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, board the boat to begin the cruise. Enjoy lunch while cruising towards Vung Vieng in Bai Tu Long. Upon arrival in Vung Vieng, visit the floating village by traditional rowing boat. Enjoy a tea ceremony with traditional Vietnamese tea and then eat dinner while the boat is anchored for the night. Enjoy a drink or join the crew and try squid fishing. Overnight on boat.
Halong Bay Cruise – Cat Ba Island
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Earlier risers may start the day with a Tai Chi class on the sundeck or enjoy the breathtaking views of the bay as the boat starts cruising. Breakfast will be served on board while the boat cruises in Bai Tu Long Bay. Take a guided kayaking tour in the Vung Ha area before the boat cruises towards Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. Enjoy lunch en route.
Upon arrival at Cat Ba Island, take a guided biking or walking excursion in Cat Ba National Park and visit an organic farm. Then return to the boat for a cooking demonstration and a barbecue buffet dinner. The remainder of the evening is at leisure. Overnight on boat.
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Halong Bay Cruise – Hanoie – Lao Cai
Take early morning Tai Chi lessons on board before visiting Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave. Afterwards, enjoy a farewell brunch and check out. Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi. This evening, transfer in a private vehicle to the Hanoi railway station for the overnight train to Lao Cai, which normally departs at 9:15pm.
Take early morning Tai Chi lessons on board before visiting Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave. Afterwards, enjoy a farewell brunch and check out. Disembark and transfer back to Hanoi. This evening, transfer in a private vehicle to the Hanoi railway station for the overnight train to Lao Cai, which normally departs at 9:15pm.
Lao Cai
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Upon arrival at the Lao Cai Station in the early morning, be met and transferred to the hotel for breakfast. Afterwards, enjoy a privately guided walk through Sapa's colorful market and stroll down into the valley to visit the small community of Cat Cat. The H'mong that have settled here are a shy and private people, but are welcoming to visitors. A short trail leads off to a waterfall nestled in the ravine below.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel with the private guide and transport. En route stop at Ham Rong Mountain. There will be a chance to climb up the San May (Cloud Yard) to enjoy the panorama of the town of Sapa and to visit the beautiful orchid gardens. Additionally, Ham Rong Mountain has numerous caves and stones in extraordinary shapes to explore.
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Sapa
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Enjoy a full day privately guided walk with packed lunch to Dao, Giay and H'mong settlements in the Lao Chai and Ta Van Ray districts. The walk is moderate to intermediate and descends into a scenic valley of cascading water crossed by suspension bridges. Lao Chai is a village of the Black H'mong ethnic group. Located 7 km (4 miles) from Sapa, it is quite approachable for travelers coming from Sapa who do not have much time. Once in the village, be welcomed at any of the houses of the hospitable residents. Interact with them and learn about their culture and customs. Next, visit the Giay people of the Ta Van Village to further experience the local people.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and take the van about 10km (6 miles) to Ban Ho. Take time to enjoy the picturesque scenery along the way, a mountainous area of stunning natural beauty and diverse ethnic minorities. Trek down the hill to enjoy the fantastic open views in Ban Ho, the beautiful valley where the Tay people reside. Return to Sapa in late afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure.
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Sapa – Hanoi
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Today visit the Ta Phin Village with the private guide and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. While hiking 15 km (9 miles) to Ta Phin, see local people working in the terraced paddy fields or traveling back and forth between the market and their homes. After a long day of walking on the windy roads and hills around Sapa, relax and unwind with a traditional Red Dao herbal bath at Ta Phin. In the evening, transfer back to the Lao Cai railway station for an overnight train back to Hanoi.
Note: If not wishing to trek this far, the route and length of the trek can be adjusted to suit traveler’s wishes and level of fitness. An alternative 2 km (1.2 mile) trek is available. Please ask a Yampu travel consultant for more details.
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Hanoi – Home
Arrive in Hanoi early in the morning (between 4:20am and 6:55am), and transfer to the airport for the flight home or the Yampu Tours add-on choice.
Arrive in Hanoi early in the morning (between 4:20am and 6:55am), and transfer to the airport for the flight home or the Yampu Tours add-on choice.
Bangkok Thailand
Chiang Mai Thailand
Chiang Rai Thailand
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Hanoi, Vietnam
Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam
Ha Long Natural heritage
Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam
Places You'll See
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Bangkok
Dubbed the “World’s Best City” by Travel + Leisure, Bangkok is home to a plethora of attractions, and activities. Enjoy a variety of shopping and dining experiences, or the city’s bustling night life. Or immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture by visiting the Grand Palace, any of the several Buddhist temples, or the Bangkok National Museum.
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Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, meaning “New City”, is overflowing with sites to see and activities to partake in. Visit the Chiang Mai Zoo, the oldest Zoo in Northern Thailand, or spend time shopping and haggling in the city’s night bazaar. For those feeling more ambitious, climb the 300 plus stairs up the slopes of Doi Suthep, to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep Buddhist temple. There is also a cable car offered.
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Chiang Rai
Established during the reign of King Mangrai, Chiang Rai is a beautifully historic city in northern Thailand. Visit the many temples, churches and museums, such as the Baan dam Museum, or the Presbyterian Chiang Rai First Church. Take a hike in Lion Hill, a natural cavern and site of a Buddha Cave. Or watch local performers, and buy merchandise at the night bazaar.
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Siem Reap
Showcasing colonial Chinese-style architecture, Siem Reap is a cultural and historical gold mine. There are several Buddhist temples scattered throughout the city, including the Wat Preah Prom Rath showcasing its 500-year history. Take a ceramic class at the Angkor Pottery Center, or catch a traditional performance at the Aspara Theater.
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Hanoi
Meaning “embraced by the river”, Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam. Visit the many temples and parks of this beautiful city, such as the Temple of Literature or Hoan Kiem Lake Park. Visit the Army Museum and hear retellings of many battles fought throughout the country’s history. Take the little ones to the Ha Noi circus for some family fun.
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Halong Bay
Halong Bay is known as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. With roughly 1,600 limestone islands, each covered in thick vegetation, it has extreme aesthetic value. Home to a small fishing community of people living on floating houses. Enjoy “junk boat” tours, or a rent a kayak and explore.
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Sapa
The charming little town of Sapa is surrounded by gorgeous mountains and rice terraces. It is also known for its rich cultural diversity. The beautiful church in the center of town, and other colonial buildings are examples of the French missionary influences. Visit the Sapa Culture Museum to learn the history of the town, as well as the traditions of the ethnic groups located there.
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Testimonials
Pritam D.
Traveled October, 2012
We had a nice visit to Vietnam and Cambodia.
We had a nice visit to Vietnam and Cambodia. We enjoyed it a lot and will recommend to other people.
Traveled To
Rosalie W.
Traveled November, 2014
Though our time was short, our agent was able to include all our requested stops
A friend & I just completed a 10 day tour of Southeast Asia (Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand) that was compiled by Yampu Tours. Though our time was short, our agent was able to include all our requested stops while adding some very interesting side tours, all within our budget. Everything and everyone we encountered were great: guides, hotels, flights, train, food, tours, and service.
Traveled To
Nick and Stephanie C.
Traveled April, 2015
The guides were amazing and truly your biggest asset
We had a great Trip 🙂 Thailand is a beautiful country and so are it’s people. We will go back in the future and wish that it was closer. The guides were amazing and truly your biggest asset
Traveled To