08:00 AM | Departure from Hanoi: Your private guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. Begin the 2-hour scenic drive south to Ninh Binh province.
10:30 AM | Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Arrive at the site of Vietnam’s capital during the 10th and 11th centuries. Visit the historic temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh, admiring the intricate traditional architecture and learning about the foundations of the Vietnamese state.
12:30 PM | Authentic Local Lunch: Enjoy a gourmet lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties such as mountain goat meat and crispy rice.
02:00 PM | Tam Coc Boating (The "Ha Long Bay on Land"): Board a traditional hand-rowed sampan for a 1.5-hour journey along the Ngo Dong River. You will glide through three natural limestone grottoes (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba) while surrounded by towering karst formations and vibrant rice paddies.
04:00 PM | Countryside Cycling: Embark on a leisurely bicycle tour through the rustic villages of Tam Coc. Cycle along winding paths, passing by lotus ponds and limestone cliffs, offering an intimate glimpse into the daily life of local farmers.
06:00 PM | Evening at Leisure: Check into your luxury bungalow or hotel in Ninh Binh. The evening is yours to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the countryside. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
07:00 AM | Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay: After breakfast and check-out, depart for Ha Long Bay via the coastal highway. This transit connects the inland wonders to the maritime splendor of the Gulf of Tonkin.
11:30 AM | Embarkation at Tuan Chau Harbor: Arrive at the harbor and board a premium day cruise vessel. Receive a warm welcome from the crew and a briefing on the afternoon’s safety and itinerary.
12:30 PM | Gourmet Seafood Lunch: Savor a multi-course seafood lunch served on board as the cruise navigates through the thousands of limestone islets. Pass by iconic landmarks such as Stone Dog Islet and Fighting Cock Islet.
02:00 PM | Exploration & Activities:
+ Cave Visit: Explore Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), one of the largest and most magnificent caverns in the bay.
+ Kayaking/Rowing: Opt for a kayaking excursion or a bamboo boat ride at Luon Cave to get closer to the water.
+ Titov Island: Hike to the summit for a 360-degree panoramic view of Ha Long Bay or enjoy a refreshing swim at the crescent-shaped beach.
04:30 PM | Sunset Party & Return: Return to the cruise for a sunset tea break as the boat heads back to the harbor.
06:00 PM | Transfer to Hanoi: Disembark and board the shuttle or private car for the return trip to the capital.
08:30 PM | Arrival in Hanoi: Arrive back at your hotel, marking the conclusion of your 2-day expedition.
