At Mekong Mosaic, we specialize in tailor-made journeys across Vietnam and Indochina. Every trip is designed exclusively for you, ensuring complete privacy and flexibility. Private Experience – Travel only with your family or friends, without being grouped with other tourists. From Arrival to Departure – A dedicated guide and driver accompany you throughout your journey. Your Trip, Your Way – Visits and activities can be adapted to your pace, preferences, and interests. Personalized Services – From dietary preferences to special celebrations (honeymoon, birthday, anniversary), we create unique touches tailored to you.

Our pricing is personalized and depends on: Number of Travellers – The more people in your group, the lower the cost per person. Hotel Category – A 5-star hotel can cost significantly more than a 2- or 3-star option. Activities Chosen – Two similar itineraries may differ in price depending on included excursions. Travel Period – High season (October–April) is generally more expensive than low season (May–September). Booking Date – Early booking often secures better rates and availability.

Accommodation is a key factor in your trip’s cost, often accounting for up to three-quarters of the total. We offer a wide selection of 2- to 5-star hotels, always negotiated at preferential rates. For a truly authentic experience, you may opt for a “Night at a local’s home”—simple yet welcoming, and highly recommended for at least one night.

Our guides are the cornerstone of your experience. Each one is: Professional, knowledgeable, and fluent in French or English. Licensed by the National Tourism Administration. Passionate locals eager to share the cultural richness of their region.

Step 1. Customize Your Journey Choose an existing itinerary or request a tailor-made program. A travel expert will contact you within 24 hours with a personalized proposal. Step 2. Confirm Your Booking Validate the final quote with your advisor. Secure your trip with a deposit of 25–30% (depending on services). Receive confirmation within 7 days once reservations are completed. Note: During peak season (November–March), early booking is strongly recommended to guarantee hotel availability.

At Mekong Mosaic, we believe peace of mind is part of a truly seamless travel experience. Our flexible modification and cancellation policy ensures that, should your plans change, we’ll handle every detail with fairness and transparency. Modification Requests You may request to modify your booking up to 14 days before departure, subject to availability. Any additional costs resulting from changes (e.g., hotel or airline adjustments) are payable by the traveller. Cancellation PolicyShould you need to cancel your trip, the following fees apply based on the number of days before departure: 30+ days: 10% of total trip price 15–30 days: 20% 8–14 days: 30% 4–7 days: 40% Less than 72 hours: 50% Refunds, if applicable, will be processed within 14 business days, minus bank or transaction fees.

Comfort & Culture: The Northern Vietnam Experience

Q: Transportation

1. Private VehiclesAll transfers are in modern, air-conditioned vehicles with experienced drivers. Cars for 2 passengers Minibuses for 4–14 passengers Buses for 15–20 passengers Bottled water and refreshing towels are provided. Fuel, tolls, and driver expenses are included. 2. Domestic FlightsFlights within Vietnam are operated by Vietnam Airlines, using a modern Airbus and Boeing fleet. 3. Rail JourneysSome itineraries include train travel (e.g., Hanoi–Hue, Hanoi–Lao Cai) in air-conditioned cabins with comfortable berths. A slower pace than flying, but a memorable cultural experience.

Q: International Flights

International flights to/from Vietnam are not included. We recommend booking from your departure country, as prices are usually more competitive. Many airlines operate to Vietnam, with direct flights from Paris, Toronto, and other major hubs.

Overview

Discover the essence of Northern Vietnam with Mekong Mosaic—from the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the misty mountains of Sapa, the iconic beauty of Halong Bay, and the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh.

This journey blends authentic cultural encounters with refined comfort, offering meaningful moments with local artisans and families, scenic treks through ethnic villages, and unforgettable stays in handpicked luxury stays. A seamless and enriching experience designed for travellers seeking both depth and relaxation.

Highlights

Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, hidden gems, and cultural landmarks
Meet local artisans and enjoy authentic village experiences
Trek through Sapa’s rice terraces and ethnic minority villages
Cruise overnight in Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Stay at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Topas Ecolodge & Tam Coc Garden Resort
Relax in Ninh Binh, “Halong Bay on land,” with boat rides and countryside views

Jump to

Trip Essentials

Detailed Itinerary

Included/Excluded

Good To Know

Itinerary List

Day 01: Hanoi – Arrival
Day 02: Hanoi – Heritage & Artisan Discovery
Day 03: Hanoi – Cultural Immersion – Overnight Train to Lao Cai
Day 04: Lao Cai – Sapa – Mountain Trekking
Day 05: Sapa – Ban Ho Valley Exploration
Day 06: Sapa – Muong Hoa Valley – Overnight Train to Hanoi
Day 07: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay Luxury Cruise
Day 08: Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh
Day 09: Ninh Binh – Tam Coc & Rural Heritage
Day 10: Ninh Binh – At Leisure
Day 11: Ninh Binh – Hanoi / Departure

How Our Trips Work

Mekong Mosaic specializes exclusively in private, tailor-made journeys for small groups of two or more. Each package includes all on-site services from the moment you arrive until your departure.
The itinerary presented is a suggested outline for inspiration. Depending on your preferences and budget, it can be fully customized and adjusted in terms of duration, content, and travel period.
We offer a wide range of trip styles and experiences. If this program doesn’t fully match your expectations, we invite you to explore additional options available through our advisors.
For any quote requests, simply contact our travel experts. They will work closely with you to ensure your tailor-made itinerary reflects your vision of the perfect journey. Expect a personalized response within 24 hours—guaranteed.

Day 01 :

Hanoi Arrival

Upon arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Mekong Mosaic guide and transferred to the city centre.

Unwind with a one-hour body massage using natural oils at a local institute.

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring Hanoi specialties at Madame Hien, set in a charming French colonial villa.

Overnight: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi - a historic landmark once home to governors of Indochina.

Note: Activities can be adjusted depending on your arrival time.

Day 02 :

Hanoi City Tour

Breakfast at the hotel.

Begin with a walking and cyclo tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, passing historic landmarks before exploring the vibrant Old Quarter. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.

Continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university and a symbol of the country’s rich heritage.

In the afternoon, travel to Ha Thai village to meet artisan Mr. Men and discover the art of lacquerware.

End your day with an optional performance of the “My Village” show, a contemporary Vietnamese circus blending acrobatics and poetry.

Overnight: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.

Day 03 :

Hanoi – Lao Cai

Start early, around 4 AM, with a vintage Vespa ride to a bustling flower market, followed by a light exercise session in a local park.

Enjoy a traditional pho breakfast and taste Hanoi’s signature egg coffee.

Visit Phu Tay Ho Temple, dedicated to Saint Mother Lieu Hanh, one of Vietnam’s Four Immortals. Set beside West Lake, Hanoi’s largest lake, the temple is both a sacred pilgrimage site and a serene escape from the city’s bustle. Continue to Van Nien Pagoda, one of Hanoi’s oldest temples, before exploring the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (closed on Mondays). With over 15,000 artifacts and authentic stilt houses, the museum offers a fascinating overview of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups and their diverse traditions.

In the evening, transfer to the station for your overnight journey aboard the Victoria Express Train to Lao Cai.

Overnight: on board to Lao Cai

Day 04 :

Lao Cai – Sapa

Arrive early in Lao Cai and transfer to Sapa through scenic mountain roads.

After breakfast and time to refresh, begin your first trek through the surrounding valleys. Walk through Ma Tra village (home to the Black H’mong) and continue towards Ta Phin village, where the Red Dao community lives.

Along the way, you will pass terraced rice fields, quiet trails, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Your guide will share insights into the traditions, clothing, and daily life of these ethnic minority groups.

At the end of your walk, meet your driver and transfer to your mountain retreat.

Overnight: Topas Ecolodge, known for its spectacular panoramic views.

Day 05 :

Sapa

After breakfast, transfer to Thanh Phu to begin your exploration of the Ban Ho Valley.

Walk through peaceful landscapes towards Ban Ho village, inhabited by the Tay ethnic group, known for their traditional stilt houses and close connection to nature.

Observe daily life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Enjoy a warm lunch with a local family, offering a genuine moment of cultural exchange.

If the weather permits, relax by a nearby waterfall before returning to your lodge.

The remainder of the day is free to enjoy the tranquillity of your surroundings.

Overnight: Topas Ecolodge

Day 06 :

Muong Hoa Valley – Hanoi

After breakfast, enjoy some free time before departing from Topas Ecolodge.

Return to Sapa, stopping along the way to explore the stunning Muong Hoa Valley, home to some of Vietnam’s most impressive rice terraces.

Visit Lao Chai (Black H’mong) and Ta Van (Giay people) villages, where you will witness everyday rural life amidst extraordinary natural beauty.

Transfer to Lao Cai station for your overnight train back to Hanoi aboard the Victoria Express Train.

Overnight: On board to Hanoi

Day 07 :

Hanoi – Ha Long Bay

Arrive in Hanoi early morning and enjoy access to a courtesy room to freshen up.

After breakfast, depart for Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and dramatic limestone formations.

Board your luxury cruise and begin your journey through this iconic seascape. Enjoy a seafood lunch as the boat glides past thousands of karst islets.

In the afternoon, visit a cave once used by fishermen, then return to the boat to relax and watch the sunset over the bay.

Dinner and overnight on board in a private cabin.

Overnight: Ha Long Bay (Luxury Cruise)

Day 08 :

Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh

Start your day with a peaceful morning cruise, including a visit to Vung Vieng floating village by small rowboat.

Continue sailing through the quieter Bai Tu Long Bay before disembarking.

Transfer to Ninh Binh, a region often referred to as “Halong Bay on land” for its dramatic limestone scenery.

Check in and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Overnight: Tam Coc Garden Resort.

Day 09 :

Ninh Binh

Breakfast at the hotel.

Begin with a sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc, passing through caves and rice paddies surrounded by limestone peaks.

Continue to Hang Mua and climb its 486 stone steps for a spectacular panoramic view over the countryside.

In the afternoon, visit Phat Diem Cathedral, a unique architectural complex blending Vietnamese and European influences.

Stop at Yen Lam village to discover traditional straw mat weaving, a craft passed down through generations.

Return to your hotel for leisure time.

Overnight: Tam Coc Garden Resort.

Day 10 :

Ninh Binh

Breakfast at the hotel.

Enjoy a full day at leisure to relax or explore at your own pace—cycle through the countryside, visit nearby villages, or simply unwind in the peaceful setting of your resort.

Overnight: Tam Coc Garden Resort.

Day 11 :

Ninh Binh – Hanoi Depature

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to Hanoi Airport (approx. 3 hours) for your departure flight.

End of your journey with Mekong Mosaic.

Expand all

Tailor-Made Travel

At Mekong Mosaic, we specialize in tailor-made journeys across Vietnam and Indochina. Every trip is designed exclusively for you, ensuring complete privacy and flexibility.

Private Experience – Travel only with your family or friends, without being grouped with other tourists.
From Arrival to Departure – A dedicated guide and driver accompany you throughout your journey.
Your Trip, Your Way – Visits and activities can be adapted to your pace, preferences, and interests.
Personalized Services – From dietary preferences to special celebrations (honeymoon, birthday, anniversary), we create unique touches tailored to you.

Pricing

Our pricing is personalized and depends on:

Number of Travellers – The more people in your group, the lower the cost per person.
Hotel Category – A 5-star hotel can cost significantly more than a 2- or 3-star option.
Activities Chosen – Two similar itineraries may differ in price depending on included excursions.
Travel Period – High season (October–April) is generally more expensive than low season (May–September).
Booking Date – Early booking often secures better rates and availability.

Accommodation

Accommodation is a key factor in your trip’s cost, often accounting for up to three-quarters of the total.

We offer a wide selection of 2- to 5-star hotels, always negotiated at preferential rates.
For a truly authentic experience, you may opt for a “Night at a local’s home”—simple yet welcoming, and highly recommended for at least one night.

Guides

Our guides are the cornerstone of your experience. Each one is:

Professional, knowledgeable, and fluent in French or English.
Licensed by the National Tourism Administration.
Passionate locals eager to share the cultural richness of their region.

Transportation

1. Private Vehicles
All transfers are in modern, air-conditioned vehicles with experienced drivers.

Cars for 2 passengers
Minibuses for 4–14 passengers
Buses for 15–20 passengers

Bottled water and refreshing towels are provided. Fuel, tolls, and driver expenses are included.

2. Domestic Flights
Flights within Vietnam are operated by Vietnam Airlines, using a modern Airbus and Boeing fleet.

3. Rail Journeys
Some itineraries include train travel (e.g., Hanoi–Hue, Hanoi–Lao Cai) in air-conditioned cabins with comfortable berths. A slower pace than flying, but a memorable cultural experience.

International Flights

International flights to/from Vietnam are not included. We recommend booking from your departure country, as prices are usually more competitive. Many airlines operate to Vietnam, with direct flights from Paris, Toronto, and other major hubs.

Reservation Process

Step 1. Customize Your Journey

Choose an existing itinerary or request a tailor-made program.
A travel expert will contact you within 24 hours with a personalized proposal.

Step 2. Confirm Your Booking

Validate the final quote with your advisor.
Secure your trip with a deposit of 25–30% (depending on services).
Receive confirmation within 7 days once reservations are completed.

Note: During peak season (November–March), early booking is strongly recommended to guarantee hotel availability.

Free Cancellation

At Mekong Mosaic, we believe peace of mind is part of a truly seamless travel experience. Our flexible modification and cancellation policy ensures that, should your plans change, we’ll handle every detail with fairness and transparency.

Modification Requests

You may request to modify your booking up to 14 days before departure, subject to availability.
Any additional costs resulting from changes (e.g., hotel or airline adjustments) are payable by the traveller.

Cancellation Policy
Should you need to cancel your trip, the following fees apply based on the number of days before departure: