Trekking the Trails of Vietnam & Thailand 14 days

Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of Northern Thailand, your local guide will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. As you settle into this tranquil city nestled among mountains and temples, take in the slower pace and gentle charm that define Chiang Mai.

In the evening, experience an unforgettable Khantoke Dinner - a traditional Northern Thai feast served on low trays while you sit on floor cushions. Savor authentic Lanna cuisine while enjoying vibrant performances of local music and classical dance. It’s the perfect introduction to the region’s rich heritage and warm hospitality.

Morning

In the morning, depart from your hotel in Chiang Mai and begin your scenic journey north toward Pai, a charming town nestled in the mountains. As you head north, your first stop will be at Mae Malai Market, a bustling roadside market where locals gather to sell fresh produce, regional snacks, and exotic fruits. It’s a great opportunity to stretch your legs and get a feel for the rhythm of rural Thai life.

Continue onward to the Pong Deuid Hot Springs, located within a pristine forest reserve. Unlike more commercialized hot springs, Pong Deuid retains a quiet, natural charm. The steaming mineral-rich waters bubble up from the earth, forming gentle streams and shallow natural pools where you can soak your feet or relax in the warm waters surrounded by towering trees and birdsong - a peaceful retreat into nature.

The journey continues with a visit to the Pai Memorial Bridge, an iron structure that spans the Pai River. Originally built during World War II by the Japanese Army, the bridge stands today as a historical relic and a quiet symbol of the area’s past.

Afternoon

Around midday, stop for a delicious local lunch at a countryside restaurant before arriving in Pai, a laid-back mountain town known for its serene atmosphere and eclectic mix of cultures. Here, hill tribe communities such as the Karen, Lisu, and Lahu live alongside lowland Thais, each group contributing to Pai’s unique and harmonious cultural fabric.

If weather conditions are favorable, travel to the Pai Canyon (Kong Lan). This dramatic natural formation features narrow red ridges and deep gorges framed by green valleys, offering spectacular panoramic views, especially during sunset.

Enjoy dinner on your own and soak in the warm and welcoming vibe of this unique mountain town. You can take time to explore Pai’s walking street market, which comes alive with handmade crafts, vibrant food stalls, and live acoustic music. 

After breakfast, depart from Pai and begin your journey to the remote highlands of Ban Jabo, home to the Black Lahu people. Nestled along a mountain ridge, this village offers a rare glimpse into traditional life, where locals still wear ethnic garments and play bamboo instruments passed down through generations.

Continue onward to Tham Lod Cave, a vast limestone system explored by bamboo raft. As you float through its dark chambers, discover ancient stalactites, winding passageways, and mysterious wooden coffins believed to date back thousands of years.

Lunch will be enjoyed along the way before continuing the journey to Mae Hong Son, a peaceful town nestled by the scenic Jong Kham Lake. Here, visit three notable temples: Wat Chong Kham, the oldest, built in 1827 with a seated Burmese-style Buddha.

Wat Chong Klang, known for its striking chedi visible from across the lake, and the hilltop Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, offering panoramic views of the valley below. This temple is especially beautiful at sunset, when mist blankets the surrounding mountains.

Morning

Morning, begin your scenic journey with a long-tail boat cruise along the peaceful Pai River. As the boat glides past lush riverbanks and bamboo groves, you'll catch a glimpse of the quiet life of riverside communities - farmers tending to their crops, children playing by the water, and wooden houses perched on stilts.

Your first stop is at a Long-Neck Karen village, where women proudly wear traditional brass rings around their necks, a custom that reflects both beauty and cultural identity passed down for generations.

After exploring the village and learning about their unique lifestyle, enjoy a flavorful Thai lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon

The afternoon continues with a visit to Su Tong Pae Bridge, the longest bamboo footbridge in Thailand. Built by monks and local villagers, the bridge stretches gracefully across rice fields, symbolizing spiritual connection and community effort.

From there, the road leads you to Baan Rak Thai, a Chinese Yunnanese village nestled near the Thai-Myanmar border. Surrounded by emerald tea plantations and anchored by a serene lake, this remote village offers a rare blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Next, head to the picturesque Shan village of Baan Ruam Thai, better known as Pang Oung. Enveloped by pine forests and cool mountain air year-round, the village is home to a vast reservoir nicknamed “the Switzerland of Thailand” for its alpine charm, morning mists, and vibrant seasonal flowers.

Take your time to stroll around the lake, breathe in the fresh highland air, and soak up the tranquil atmosphere before returning to Mae Hong Son for an overnight stay.

Depart Mae Hong Son and head south toward Mae Chaem, entering the breathtaking landscape of Doi Inthanon National Park (home to Thailand’s highest peak at 2,565 meters). Enjoy a walk along one of its peaceful nature trails, surrounded by cool mountain air and panoramic views.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Royal Twin Pagodas: Napamaytanidol and Phra Mahathat Napaphon Bhumisiri. These impressive structures, built in honor of the late King Rama IX and Queen Sirikit’s 60th birthdays, are perched on a scenic hillside and surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens bursting with colorful blooms. The setting offers not only architectural elegance but also one of the most photogenic viewpoints in northern Thailand.

Next, stop by a local hill tribe market where ethnic communities such as the Hmong or Karen sell homegrown produce, freshly cut flowers, herbal remedies, and handmade goods. It’s a great opportunity to support local livelihoods and gain insight into highland life.

Before making your way back to Chiang Mai, pay a visit to Vachiratharn Waterfall, one of the most spectacular cascades in the country. Water plunges over a cliff into the forest below, creating a refreshing mist and a perfect photo stop. Return to Chiang Mai in the evening, ending a day rich in nature, culture, and unforgettable scenery.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the peaceful charm of Chiang Mai as you transfer to the airport for your international flight to Hanoi, the cultural and political heart of Vietnam.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, your local guide will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in the historic Old Quarter or city center. The rest of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring Hanoi’s tree-lined boulevards, lakeside cafés, and timeless atmosphere.

Get ready for a dynamic half-day adventure as you hop on a motorbike to explore Hanoi like a true local. This city tour starts with a hotel pick-up in the Old Quarter. Before hitting the road, enjoy a short safety briefing over a traditional Vietnamese egg coffee - a signature Hanoi experience.

Your ride begins with a stop at the iconic Long Bien Bridge, a 100-year-old structure built during French colonial times that still stands strong as a symbol of resilience. From there, cruise past Hoan Kiem Lake and admire the European charm of Hanoi Opera House and the neo-Gothic façade of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, both highlights of the city’s French Quarter.

Venturing beyond the Old Quarter, you’ll pass significant landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoa Lo Prison, both representing important chapters of Vietnam’s rich history.

Note:

• The Mausoleum is closed for interior visits on Mondays, Fridays, and during its annual maintenance period from June to August).
• We will pass by the attraction without entering or visiting inside.

After enjoying a flavorful Vietnamese lunch at a local eatery, your motorbike guide will drive you back to your hotel, marking the end of your cultural city tour.

Morning

Leave the city behind as you journey from Hanoi to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, a serene region of terraced rice fields, bamboo forests, and authentic ethnic culture. The scenic drive takes approximately 4–5 hours, offering glimpses of rural Vietnam along winding mountain roads.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, take part in a special Thai cooking class held in a charming ancient stilt house. Guided by locals, you’ll learn how to prepare traditional dishes, using fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques passed down through generations.

Morning

Begin your day early with a pickup between 07:00 and 08:30 from your accommodation in Don Village, tailored to your tour type:

• Trekking Tour: Pickup on foot at 07:00
• Biking Tour: Pickup by bike at 07:30
• Adventure Tour: Pickup by car/van at 08:30

At 09:00, immerse yourself in local heritage at an ancient stilt house, where you’ll participate in hands-on cultural experiences: pounding, husking, and milling rice, weaving fabric, and distilling traditional rice wine - a rare glimpse into daily Thai ethnic life.

Around 10:00, take a gentle walk to the bamboo raft area. (Optional: add a rustic ox-cart ride across the fields to the suspension bridge, with extra cost)

Embark on a peaceful bamboo rafting journey, drifting along the calm stream, soaking in the fresh mountain air and lush scenery of Pu Luong.

Next, venture into a hidden, untouched cave, stretching over 20km in total length and filled with surreal stalactites and stalagmites. This off-the-beaten-path wonder is a rare treat for nature lovers.

At 11:30, cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Cham Stream and take part in a unique survival cooking session. Learn how to cook with ancient methods using local tools and ingredients, then enjoy your hand-prepared meal right on a floating bamboo raft - a soulful, nature-immersed lunch experience.

Afternoon

At 13:15, continue to one of Pu Luong’s highlights - the Giant Waterwheel, a brilliant example of local ingenuity in water irrigation.

From 13:30 to 14:30, visit Lan Ngoai Weaving Village, a hub of traditional Thai brocade weaving. You’ll:

• Witness every stage of handmade fabric production: spinning, dyeing, weaving
• Meet skilled artisans preserving age-old techniques
• Try weaving your own piece with expert guidance
• Browse beautifully crafted brocade textiles and shop for authentic souvenirs

Finally, at 15:00, return to your stay by car or van, carrying memories of a truly enriching day in the heart of Vietnam’s highland culture.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the peaceful mountains of Pu Luong as you travel in comfort aboard a luxury Limousine bus to Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land.”

Enjoy the relaxing drive through scenic countryside landscapes, with limestone karsts, rice paddies, and rural villages unfolding outside your window. Upon arrival in Ninh Binh, you’ll check into your resort and have the rest of the day free to unwind or explore the surroundings at your leisure.

Morning

Our next destination is Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, once the political and spiritual center of Vietnam under the Dinh and Early Le dynasties. Tucked away among towering limestone mountains, the peaceful site features ancient temples and stone-carved relics that echo the nations heroic past.

We continue to the well-preserved King Dinh Temple, a 17th-century sanctuary showcasing intricate woodwork and classic Vietnamese architecture.

Afternoon

After lunch at a local restaurant arranged in the tour, the journey continues to the poetic landscape of Tam Coc. Board a traditional sampan rowed by local villagers, gliding gently along the Ngo Dong River.

The route takes you through lush rice fields and beneath dramatic karst cliffs. Along the way, explore the mystical cave system of Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba, where shimmering stalactites hang like natural chandeliers.

After that, enjoy a leisurely bicycle ride through Ninh Binh’s countryside, soaking in the quiet charm of rural villages and breathtaking nature all around.

Morning

You'll cruise through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its towering limestone karsts and hidden caves.

After a comfortable transfer from Ninh Binh, you’ll board a well-appointed cruise ship and be welcomed with a refreshing drink and safety briefing. As the boat sets sail, enjoy a delicious lunch while passing by impressive rock formations and peaceful fishing villages.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, explore Sung Sot Cave, famous for its dramatic stalactites and cavernous chambers. Step inside to discover soaring chambers, shimmering stalactites, and natural rock formations that resemble mythical creatures. The cave’s dramatic scale and beauty make it a must-see highlight of your adventure.

Later, relax on deck or join a hands-on cooking demonstration before enjoying a freshly prepared dinner as the sun sets over the bay. The evening is yours - whether it’s night squid fishing, socializing at the bar, or simply enjoying the quiet from your cabin.

NOTE: The route may differ based on your selected cruise.

Morning

Wake early to greet the tranquil beauty of Halong Bay at sunrise, when soft golden light bathes the limestone peaks - an unforgettable sight best viewed from the cruise deck. Enjoy a light breakfast of pastries, fruit, tea, and coffee in the dining room.

Afterward, awaken your body with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, flowing gently with the breeze and the rhythm of the bay.

The cruise continues toward the stunning Titop Island, a crescent-shaped gem known for its pristine beach and panoramic views. Spend time hiking up to a hilltop observation point where a 360-degree vista of Halong Bay unfolds before you, perfect for breathtaking photos. Afterward, cool off with a refreshing swim or simply relax on the soft sands.

Return to the boat to enjoy a hearty brunch as you glide back through the majestic seascape. This is a perfect time to pack, relax on the deck, and savor your final moments aboard.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, disembark at the port. You’ll be transferred back to Hanoi, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.

Today marks the final day of your journey. Depending on your flight time, you may enjoy some relaxing moments in Hanoi before being transferred to the airport for your flight home, bringing your trip to a close.