Self-Guided
Northern Vietnam Self-Guided Walking
Wander through ancient forests and rice paddies
7 Days, 6 Nights
Activity Level:
B&R Activity Levels
Best Time To Go
March – May, October – November
Priced per person from
$5,700 USD
Prices May Vary For Groups Larger Than Two
Carbon Neutral Trip
Northern Vietnam serves up misty peaks, rice paddies, and ancient temples—hold the crowds, add a dash of extra charm. Cook like a local in Hanoi, boat into secret caves in Ninh Binh, and wander through biodiverse wonderlands in Cuc Phuong. This one's self-guided, so stroll at your own pace, snack often, and let Vietnam work its quiet magic.
Stroll through villages and get a glimpse into local life, where our friends will open their doors to offer a firsthand experience of their traditional way of living.
Vietnam's cuisine is world-renowned. You’ll have the chance to uncover its secrets in cooking classes led by local chefs in Hanoi and Avana Retreat.
Enjoy three nights embraced by the lush countryside at Avana Retreat, a magnificent sanctuary nestled in the mountains and verdant jungle.
Preview the itinerary
No two trips are ever the same, but this will give you a taste of what your journey will be like.
Day 1
Your first hike in Hanoi brings you to Long Bien Bridge and down the vast green space along the riverbanks. Continue to a nearby cooking school and create your own lunch using local ingredients, then spend the afternoon lounging at the spa or head to the museum. This evening, wander into town for dinner.
Activity:
Walk to the Long Bien Bridge with a guide
Day 2
Leave the crowded streets of Hanoi and emerge into a green expanse of rice fields, surrounded by massive columns of karst limestone. Walk along streams and sleepy villages, stopping for lunch along the way. You’ll eventually reach the ancient capital of Dai Viet before heading to your next hotel for the afternoon.
Activity:
Guided tour of Dai Viet capital
Day 3
Set out this morning to climb scenic vantage points or gaze at the views among the rice patties. After lunch, hop into row boats and float your way into the caves beneath the monoliths for a different perspective of the area’s natural beauty. Spot the rare flora and fauna, then afterwards, catch a ride back to the hotel.
Activity:
Countryside walk to Ninh Binh
Day 4
Venture into the wilderness in Cuc Phuong National Park—one of the world’s most biodiverse areas. Visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre to meet its residents and witness the conservation efforts being taken to reintroduce the animals in the wild. Then, head out on a walk through the mountains, eventually reaching the Doi Kho Muong Cave.
Activity:
Guided visit of the Endangered Primate Rescue Center in Cuc Phuong Park
Day 5
Leave modern life behind and embark on a serene hike into the mountains. Wander through communes and witness traditional ways of life as you weave along dirt roads and beside paddy rice fields. After the walk, head back to Avana Retreat and take advantage of their afternoon activities.
Activity:
Mai Chau walk
Day 6
Choose one of several activities today to spend your last day however you’d like. Spend the morning foraging at local farms for ingredients to cook an authentic lunch with the hotel chef, or head out on a valley walk.
Activity:
Walk near Avana Retreat
Day 7
Enjoy your final views of the surrounding landscape as you get ready for your 4-hour drive back to Noi Bai International Airport for onward travels.
* Itineraries are subject to change. Please confirm exact Trip Start and Trip End locations upon booking.
Featured stays
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Location: Hanoi, Vietnam
Tam Coc Garden
Location: Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Avana Retreat
Location: Mai Chau, Vietnam
What's included
Accommodation & dining
All accommodation as indicated on the itinerary.
All breakfasts, lunches and dinners as indicated on the itinerary.
Active essentials
Use of two lightweight, telescoping walking sticks and a backpack.
A reusable water bottle.
Detailed GPS routes available via RideWithGPS.
Guided services
All special events and private tours.
Services of B&R guide as indicated on the itinerary.
24/7 concierge assistance.
Transportation & logistics
Transportation from pick up to drop off.
Baggage transportation.
Van support where trails permit.
What's Not Included: International flights, travel protection, gratuity for your guides, hotel services and drivers.
This trip is carbon neutral. Learn more about our Sustainability commitment.
Experience Designer
Good to know
Money
We recommend bringing USD cash with you for smaller purchases outside of your trip (e.g. shopping). Please ensure all bills are in perfect condition or they may not be accepted.
Getting there/home
There are several ways to travel to Vietnam from the United States, including direct flights from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City.
Why choose a Self-Guided trip?
Total Freedom, Tailored to You
With a self-guided trip, you are the master of your own adventure. Every route, hotel, and dining experience is meticulously planned by our expert team, leaving you free to explore at your own pace. Follow our guidance or take that unmarked path that catches your eye—it's your call.
Set Your Own Pace
Whether you're an early bird who loves watching the sunrise or a traveller who prefers leisurely mornings, self-guided trips let you design each day to your rhythm. No strict schedules or group timetables—just the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, as you like it.
Support Behind the Scenes
Though you're on your own, you're never truly alone. Our local experts are just a call away, ready to offer support if needed. From roadside assistance to restaurant recommendations, we're there to ensure your journey is seamless and stress-free.
A Private Escape
Craving a solo adventure or a getaway with your closest companions? A self-guided trip offers the privacy to create lasting memories with your travel partner(s), free from distractions. The world is yours to explore, with no group to keep up with or slow you down.
