Northern Vietnam in 5 Days: Hanoi, Mai Chau & Halong Bay 4-Night Itinerary
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 days (4 nights)
Fitness Level
Moderate — walkers should be comfortable with 2–4 hour village treks, stairs and short boat transfers
Overview
From Hanoi's frenetic streets to the slow rice-valley life of Mai Chau and an overnight junk in Halong Bay, this five-day loop stitches contrast into one compact Northern Vietnam experience. Expect village homestays, cave stairs, kayaking and an intimate cruise among limestone islands.
Northern Vietnam in 5 Days: Hanoi, Mai Chau & Halong Bay 4-Night Itinerary
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You step out into Hanoi before dawn and the city is already moving: street vendors arranging steaming bowls of pho, motorbikes threading through rows of colonial-era facades. The tour begins with that pulse — a private transfer from Noi Bai, a ribbon of highway that loosens into rice-flat plains and then climbs into the limestone ribs that define Mai Chau.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Pack layers and a light rain shell
Northern Vietnam's mornings can be cool and damp while afternoons warm quickly; a waterproof shell and mid-layer are useful on both land and deck.
Comfortable, grippy shoes
Village trails, stone stairs to Hang Chieu and slippery boat decks demand closed-toe shoes with good traction.
Carry local cash
Small shops, homestay extras and local vendors in Mai Chau often accept only cash — bring small denominations of Vietnamese dong.
Stay hydrated and use insect repellent
Long transfers and outdoor activities make water and bug protection essential, especially at dawn and dusk.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Waterbirds and egrets in the Red River Delta
- Small reef fish and occasional jellyfish while kayaking in Halong
History
Hanoi's Old Quarter traces its layout to medieval guild streets while the Thai people of Mai Chau have preserved upland agricultural traditions for centuries.
Conservation
Halong Bay is UNESCO-listed and managing visitor numbers and waste is a priority; choose operators that follow waste disposal and no-anchor policies.
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Adventure Hotspots in Hanoi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light rain jacket
Keeps you dry during sudden tropical showers and windy boat decks.
spring specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction on stone steps, dirt trails and slippery boat surfaces.
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Protects against mosquitoes in villages and sun exposure during daytime cruises.
summer specific
Small daypack with water bottle
Carries snacks, water, camera and essentials for treks and shore excursions.