Northern Vietnam Loop: 7-Day Trek, Karsts & Lan Ha Bay Cruise
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 days
Fitness Level
Good baseline fitness for multi-day trekking and full-day activities; able to hike 10–15 km and tolerate uneven, sometimes steep terrain.
Overview
From ridge-line rice terraces to karst-ringed waterways and an overnight junk on Lan Ha Bay, this private 7-day loop from Hanoi stitches hiking, homestays and boat life into a single northern-Vietnam experience. Expect 5–15 km trekking days, village dinners, cave visits and a marine cruise.
Northern Vietnam Loop: 7-Day Trek, Karsts & Lan Ha Bay Cruise
Select participants and date
The tour begins before Hanoi wakes: a minivan eases out of the city and the neon blurs into morning rice paddies, the air turning cooler as the road climbs toward Pu Luong. By midmorning, you are walking on a narrow dirt trail that threads between emerald terraces; a river below dares you to stop and listen. The White Thai houses — long, timber stilt homes — appear like punctuation marks in the valley, and hosts invite you in for warm rice wine and a simple dinner.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring both hiking boots and sandals
Trails include steep, rocky climbs and wet boat beaches — sturdy, treaded boots plus lightweight sandals for the junk are a smart combo.
Carry cash for villages
Many homestays and small village stalls accept only VND cash — withdraw in Hanoi before you leave.
Insect protection is non-negotiable
Dawn and dusk on the island and in the forest are mosquito prime time—use DEET or picaridin and wear long sleeves after dark.
Protect electronics on boat days
Use a small dry bag for phones and cameras during the Lan Ha Bay cruise and kayak excursions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Cat Ba langur (rare)
- various gibbons and abundant native butterflies
History
This loop crosses regions with deep human history — Cuc Phuong contains prehistoric caves with evidence of human habitation dating back over 7,000 years.
Conservation
Projects by FFI and local reserves focus on community-based ecotourism and species protection; travelers are asked to minimize waste and respect wildlife.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Hanoi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
Grip and ankle support for wet trails, river crossings and ridge sections.
Lightweight rain jacket
Tropical storms can arrive quickly — a breathable shell keeps you dry and comfortable.
Dry bag (10–20L)
Keeps electronics and spare layers safe during boat transfers and kayaking.
summer specific
Headlamp with spare batteries
Useful in homestays and for early starts or cave exploration.