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Vietnam Travel Guide
North Vietnam Tours
Explore the mountains, rice terraces, and ethnic cultures of northern Vietnam with our authentic North Vietnam tours. All tours are private, customizable, and organized by a local team based in Vietnam — ensuring real experiences and expert guidance.
Package tours including North Vietnam
Explore Vietnam with multi-day itineraries that include the highlights of the north — from Ha Giang and Sapa to Ninh Binh and Halong Bay.
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- 24/7 WhatsApp support
- Completely customizable
- Local & authentic experiences
- Stress-free, door-to-door travel
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Most Popular Destinations for North Vietnam Tours
Browse our Northern Vietnam tours by destination — from Sapa and Ha Giang to Ninh Binh and Halong Bay. Each location offers unique routes and local experiences you can explore through our authentic tours.
Hanoi (12 Trips)
Sapa (17 Trips)
Halong Bay (19 Trips)
Ninh Binh (15 Trips)
Ha Giang (10 Trips)
Mai Chau (7 Trips)
Pu Luong Nature Reserve (12 Trips)
Cao Bang (7 Trips)
Ba Be Lake (8 Trips)
Mu Cang Chai (5 Trips)
Son La (3 Trips)
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Our Favorite North Vietnam Tours
A selection of Northern Vietnam tours we love most — featuring authentic routes through mountains, rice terraces, and ethnic villages that show the real character of the north.
Most Popular
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Northern Highlights
Epic Adventure
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Northern Highlights
Can’t Find the Perfect North Vietnam Tour?
Tell us what kind of experience you’re looking for — a private North Vietnam tour, a local guide for Ha Giang, or a car and driver for your own route. Our local experts will help you plan the trip that fits you best.
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Why Local Vietnam is the Trusted Local Expert for Vietnam Tours
Local Vietnam is based in Vietnam and has spent more than a decade exploring every region — from the mountains of Ha Giang and the rice fields of Ninh Binh to the beaches of Phu Quoc and the Mekong Delta.
Our tours are designed and operated by people who live here, travel constantly, and work directly with local guides and communities to ensure every experience feels personal and authentic.
Each itinerary blends Vietnam’s highlights with genuine local encounters — the kind of moments you won’t find on standard tours. Whether you’re exploring the old streets of Hoi An, cruising through Halong Bay, or staying with a family in the countryside, we show you the country as it truly is.
What Travelers Say About Our North Vietnam Tours
Our travelers consistently praise the authentic experiences, well-organized routes, and friendly local guides on our North Vietnam tours. Whether it’s the Ha Giang Loop, Sapa, or Halong Bay, the feedback speaks for itself — real stories from travelers who explored the north with us.
Everything you need to know about North Vietnam
Still exploring when to go, where to visit, or how to travel around northern Vietnam? Our North Vietnam travel guide covers the best time to visit, top destinations, routes, and local tips to help you plan your trip with confidence.
Most Popular Activities for Vietnam Tours
1. Driving the Ha Giang Loop
Ride through dramatic mountain passes and ethnic villages on Vietnam’s most iconic route. Whether by motorbike, Easy Rider, or private jeep, this adventure is the highlight of many Northern Vietnam tours.
2. Trekking through Sapa’s Rice Fields
Hike across terraced hillsides and stay with local Hmong or Dao families. Guided treks around Sapa combine authentic culture with unforgettable scenery.
3. Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Join a street-food walk or cyclo tour through the maze of Hanoi’s historic streets — a lively introduction to life in northern Vietnam.
4. Cruising through Halong Bay
Sail between towering limestone islands on a traditional junk boat. Overnight cruises are a classic part of North Vietnam tours, mixing relaxation, kayaking, and sunset views.
5. Going Off the Beaten Path in Cao Bang
Travel to remote valleys, waterfalls, and border villages few visitors reach. Perfect for travelers seeking untouched landscapes and local life.
6. Trekking and Village Stays in Pu Luong
Walk through rice terraces, bamboo forests, and rural villages. Pu Luong Nature Reserve offers a quiet, authentic alternative to Sapa.
7. Boat and Bicycle Tours in Ninh Binh
Paddle between limestone cliffs and ancient temples, then cycle through small villages — a relaxing way to explore Vietnam’s “inland Halong Bay.”
8. Photography and Harvest Tours in Mu Cang Chai
Capture golden rice terraces and meet Thai and Hmong farmers during the harvest season — one of the most scenic experiences in North Vietnam.
9. Kayaking and Homestays at Ba Be Lake
Combine gentle adventure with local culture. Kayak or boat across the lake, visit caves, and stay overnight with Tay families in wooden stilt houses.
10. Cycling and Cultural Tours in Mai Chau
Ride through peaceful valleys and traditional villages surrounded by rice fields. A perfect short escape from Hanoi and a favorite of Northern Vietnam tours.
What You Need to Know for Planning Central Vietnam Tours
Best Time to Do a North Vietnam Tour
North Vietnam has distinct seasons that can completely change your travel experience. The dry months from October to April are ideal for clear skies and comfortable temperatures, especially for mountain routes like Ha Giang and Sapa. Summer (May to September) brings lush rice fields and vibrant scenery but also higher humidity and short rains. To find the best period for your trip, see our detailed guide on the best time to visit Northern Vietnam
Choosing the Right North Vietnam Tour
The right tour depends on your interests and available time. Shorter tours focus on Hanoi, Ninh Binh, or Halong Bay, while longer journeys include mountain regions like Ha Giang, Sapa, or Cao Bang. All tours can be customized — whether you prefer trekking, scenic drives, or cultural encounters — to match your comfort level and travel pace.
Travel Safety in North Vietnam
Mountain weather and winding roads are part of the adventure but also require caution. Joining an organized tour means traveling with experienced drivers and guides who know local conditions well. From Ha Giang’s mountain passes to Halong’s cruise routes, professional planning ensures a safe and smooth journey through one of Vietnam’s most scenic regions.
Respecting Local Culture & Communities
Many North Vietnam tours visit ethnic minority regions where local traditions remain strong. It’s important to show respect — ask before taking photos, dress modestly, and greet people with a smile or small gesture. By choosing tours that work with local families and guides, you help support communities directly while experiencing their way of life authentically.
North Vietnam Tours vs Independent Travel
While it’s possible to travel independently, the logistics in northern Vietnam can be challenging. Long distances, mountain roads, and language barriers often make guided tours more rewarding. A local guide not only ensures safety and convenience but also opens doors to cultural experiences that are hard to access on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Vietnam tours
What are the best day tours from Hanoi?
Some of the best day tours from Hanoi include Ninh Binh (for boat rides and limestone scenery), the Perfume Pagoda (a spiritual and scenic journey), and Ba Vi National Park or Duong Lam Ancient Village for countryside experiences. For travelers short on time, a one-day Halong Bay cruise is also possible, though it involves a long drive.
How many days do you need for a North Vietnam tour?
Five to ten days is ideal to experience the diversity of northern Vietnam. With less than a week, you can focus on highlights like Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay. For a deeper experience that includes Sapa or the Ha Giang Loop, plan at least eight to ten days.
What is better for a tour — Sapa or Ha Giang?
Both are scenic and rich in ethnic culture, but they offer different experiences. Sapa is more developed, easier to reach, and better for short trekking tours. Ha Giang is wilder, less touristic, and ideal for travelers seeking authentic mountain scenery and minority villages. Many of our travelers visit both — Sapa for trekking and Ha Giang for the landscapes.
When is the best time to do a North Vietnam tour?
The best time for North Vietnam tours is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and drier. These months are great for mountain travel and outdoor activities. From May to September, the scenery becomes greener and more dramatic, though rain showers are more common.
Are Ha Giang Loop tours safe for travelers?
Yes, when done with experienced drivers or local Easy Riders, Ha Giang Loop tours are safe. The roads are winding but well-maintained, and safety mainly depends on weather conditions and driving experience. Travelers without motorbike experience should always choose a local driver or a private car tour.
What makes North Vietnam different from other regions?
North Vietnam is known for its mountains, ethnic diversity, and dramatic landscapes. Unlike the flatter Mekong Delta or the historical cities in central Vietnam, the north combines nature, culture, and adventure. It’s also where Vietnam’s traditional culture feels most visible, from rural villages to local markets.
Can I customize my North Vietnam tour itinerary?
Yes. All our North Vietnam tours are private and fully customizable. You can adjust the pace, add or skip destinations, and include specific experiences — from trekking and photography to homestays or private car travel.
Why book a North Vietnam tour with Local Vietnam?
We’re based in Vietnam and personally design every tour. Our team has spent years exploring the north and works directly with local guides and communities. This means authentic routes, responsible tourism, and personal service from people who live here — not outsourced packages.
How does booking a North Vietnam tour with Local Vietnam work?
You can send us your travel dates, interests, and any special requests through our website form. We’ll suggest an itinerary, adjust it based on your feedback, and confirm when you’re satisfied. Payments are handled securely online, and you’ll have a local contact throughout your trip.
Is it possible to combine North Vietnam and Central Vietnam in one trip?
Yes. Many travelers combine both regions in a two- to three-week itinerary. You can fly from Hanoi to Hue or Da Nang in about 1.5 hours, making it easy to connect northern mountain adventures with central Vietnam’s beaches and cultural sites.
I have special requests for my North Vietnam tour — can you arrange that?
Absolutely. Whether it’s adding a local guide who speaks your language, visiting specific villages, or planning around dietary needs, we handle custom requests daily. Just let us know in advance so we can plan everything smoothly.
What is the best time to take a Halong Bay cruise?
October to April is the best time for a Halong Bay cruise, with clear skies and calm seas. May to September can be hot with occasional rain or storms, but the landscape is lush and the bays less crowded. Cruises operate year-round with safety adjustments when needed.
When is the best time to see the rice terraces in northern Vietnam?
The most beautiful time is from late August to early October, when the rice fields turn golden before harvest. For green terraces, visit from May to July. These months are ideal for photography and trekking in Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, or Ha Giang.
Is Ninh Binh better to explore on a tour or independently?
A tour is recommended if you want to make the most of your time. Local guides provide context about temples, caves, and rural life that you might miss on your own. Independent travelers can explore by bicycle, but organized tours make transport and entrance coordination much easier.
Is a Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi enough, or should I stay overnight?
A day trip covers the main highlights such as a boat ride in Trang An or Tam Coc and a visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda. Staying overnight, however, lets you see more — like Mua Cave viewpoint or Van Long Nature Reserve — and enjoy the peaceful countryside atmosphere.
Can I combine Ha Giang, Sapa, and Halong Bay in one North Vietnam tour?
Yes, but you’ll need at least 10 to 12 days to do it comfortably. The route usually goes from Hanoi to Sapa, then Ha Giang, and ends with a relaxing cruise in Halong Bay. It’s a diverse itinerary that combines mountains, culture, and the coast — ideal for travelers who want to see the best of northern Vietnam.