Vietnam 13-Day Adventure
Wild World Tours | Maria Jacob
Location: Hanoi, Vietnam
Pricing: Starting at $2,270 per person (payment plans are available)
Your journey begins in Hanoi, where the energy of the Old Quarter greets you with winding alleys, street vendors, and colonial architecture. From there, venture beyond the city into the Vietnamese countryside, where lush valleys, terraced rice fields, and remote village life reveal a side of Vietnam few travelers see.
You’ll explore dramatic mountain regions, trek through ethnic minority villages, and perhaps even discover hidden caves deep in the heart of Phong Nha–Kẻ Bàng National Park. You’ll experience both the rhythm of local life and the grandeur of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.
This retreat is for anyone with a spirit of adventure. No prior travel experience is required, just curiosity and heart.
Let them know Solstice Travel sent you! 🤍
About Wild World Tours
Wild World Tours creates small-group adventures for curious travelers who want to go beyond the ordinary. Led by Maria Jacob, each journey blends cultural immersion, nature, and connection, bringing together unique itineraries, authentic experiences, and meaningful encounters with the world. With a focus on adventure that’s approachable and community-minded, Wild World Tours invites you to see the world in a way that’s both inspiring and unforgettable.
Full Itinerary
Day 1 – March 1: Welcome to Vietnam
Your journey begins in Hanoi! After arriving, you’ll transfer to our upscale hostel in the lively Old Quarter—filled with bustling cafés, vibrant street food, and historic charm. Take the evening to relax, grab a bite, or even treat yourself to a massage. Tomorrow, the adventure truly begins.
Day 2 – March 2: Party Cruise on Ha Long Bay
Set sail on a boutique catamaran and cruise the emerald waters of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay. Enjoy the day soaking in the scenery, connecting with your group, and celebrating with music and drinks. Tonight, dine in a breathtaking candlelit cave with a buffet and DJ before spending the night on Cat Ba Island.
Day 3 – March 3: Private Paradise Island
Wake up on Cat Ba Island and explore the town before heading to a private island escape. Spend the day kayaking, hiking, swimming, or relaxing by the pool and bar. Tonight, enjoy the peace and magic of staying overnight on this secluded island surrounded by limestone cliffs and lagoons.
Day 4 – March 4: Quintessential Vietnam in Ninh Binh
Journey inland to Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land.” Towering limestone cliffs rise from lush rice paddies and rivers. Stay at Banana Tree Hostel in lakeside bungalows, perfect for a peaceful evening swim, drinks by the fire, or simply stargazing.
Day 5 – March 5: Rice Fields & Photo Ops
Discover Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, and cruise by traditional boat through the dramatic landscape of Trang An. Climb to a panoramic viewpoint for sweeping views of rice fields and buffalo-lined trails. Return to Hanoi for a lively evening of cafés, rooftop bars, and the iconic Train Street experience.
Day 6 – March 6: Gems & Kayaks on Thac Ba Lake
Travel to a rare local gemstone mine tucked away in the hills outside Hanoi. Learn how sapphires and other gems are formed, then kayak and swim in beautiful Thac Ba Lake. Tonight, stay in a tranquil guesthouse surrounded by nature.
Day 7 – March 7: Hands-On Gemstone Experience
Polish your own gem, hear stories of Vietnam’s gem trade, and visit a secret village for lunch. You’ll even select a special stone to take home—and can opt to design a custom piece with a local jeweler. In the afternoon, return to Hanoi for one final night before heading north.
Day 8 – March 8: Begin the Ha Giang Loop
Travel north to Ha Giang, one of Vietnam’s most remote and scenic provinces. Ride with your local Easy Rider driver on the back of a motorcycle along the legendary Ha Giang Loop. Take in the epic mountain views before settling into a warm family homestay with dinner, karaoke, and local moonshine.
Day 9 – March 9: Highway to Heaven
Ride deeper into the mountains, stopping at waterfalls, markets, and scenic overlooks. Take in the stunning landscape from high passes and winding roads. End the day at a new homestay with a bonfire, stargazing, and authentic mountain hospitality.
Day 10 – March 10: Cao Bang Serenity & Angel Eye Mountain
Explore the Cao Bang Loop, a less-traveled but breathtaking region near the Chinese border. Visit Angel Eye Mountain, wind through 14 dramatic hairpin turns, and connect with welcoming local communities. This remote area offers some of the most striking scenery in Vietnam.
Day 11 – March 11: Ban Gioc Waterfall & Farewell to the Riders
Spend your final day on the loop at the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, cruising by boat to its base. Explore Nguom Ngao Cave and admire the panoramic Vinh Quy hills. Say goodbye to your Easy Riders before returning to Hanoi for a restful evening.
Day 12 – March 12: Cooking Class & Farewell Dinner
Take it easy with a slow morning before joining a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class—learning to make pho, bun cha, or spring rolls. Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs, enjoying yoga, or indulging in one last massage. End the evening with a farewell dinner and a toast to unforgettable memories.
Day 13 – March 13: Goodbye, Vietnam
Transfer to the airport for your return flight, carrying home handcrafted souvenirs, gemstones, new friendships, and memories to last a lifetime.
Inclusions
All ground transfers within Vietnam (arrival, departures, inter-city, local transport)
Overnight accommodations during the full 13 days (hostels, guesthouses, island stays, homestays, private/reserved lodging based on the itinerary)
Meals as per itinerary (some breakfasts, lunches, dinners included where listed on the retreat’s website)
Tour activities and experiences (e.g. Ha Long Bay cruise, kayaking, hikes, gemstone mine visit, homestay visits, motorcycle rides with “Easy Riders,” cooking class, cave dinners)
Local guides or excursion leaders for the organized experiences
Use of equipment required for included activities (e.g. kayaks, hiking gear, boats)
Access to the retreat’s support & coordination (logistics planning, on-site assistance)
Exclusions
International airfare to/from Hanoi
Vietnam visa (required)
Travel insurance (required)
Meals and drinks not specified as “included”
Optional activities not part of the core itinerary
Personal expenses (snacks, souvenirs, tips, laundry, etc.)
Any costs arising from delays, changes in itinerary due to weather or unforeseen circumstances
Single supplement or upgrades (if traveler requests private rooms or special accommodation beyond the standard)