Active Adventure in Vietnam and Laos
Trip highlights
- Cruise in luxury down the Mekong river
- Cycle through verdant rice fields at Mai Chau
- Experience an alms giving ceremony in Luang Prabang
- Get a glimpse into local life on a visit to a Hmong village
- Immerse yourself in Hanoi, Vietnam's dynamic capital
- See each region's most beautiful natural landscapes
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Sunset on the Mekong River
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Rice fields in Mai Chau
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An alms giving ceremony in Luang Prabang
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Tat Kuang Si waterfalls near Luang Prabang
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The landscapes of Tam Coc, in Vietnam's Ninh Binh province
Our bespoke trips include
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
- Days 1–2 Hanoi
- Days 2–3 Ninh Binh and Tam Coc
- Days 3–5 The Northern Highlands
- Days 5–8 Luang Prabang
- Days 8–11 Oudomxay Province
- Days 1–2 Hanoi
- Days 2–3 Ninh Binh and Tam Coc
- Days 3–5 The Northern Highlands
- Days 5–8 Luang Prabang
- Days 8–11 Oudomxay Province
Itinerary in detail
Start your trip in Hanoi
Your adventure starts with a night in Hanoi, Vietnam’s dynamic capital city. Spend your day relaxing and exploring Hanoi. You’ll have our top recommendations for sightseeing and restaurants, so you can get the best out of this fascinating city before you move on to Ninh Binh in the morning.
Where you could stay
Hanoi
Overview
Just moments from the Opera House in the French Quarter of Hanoi, Hotel Metropole Hanoi boasts the most prestigious address in the city and ideally located for visitors to explore the charming architecture and bustling streets.
The hotel has 364 rooms and 22 suites and offers the finest heritage accommodation with all the contemporary comforts and impeccable service expected in a hotel of this stature. The bars and restaurants, especially Le Beaulieu, within the hotel are celebrated with Hanoi and guests have a choice of French, Vietnamese or International cuisine. After a busy day exploring Hanoi, the tranquil pool and Le Spa du Metropole are very welcoming.
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Discover Ninh Binh
Placed in the North of Vietnam, the province of Ninh Binh is an ancient royal capital and the home of the historic Tran dynasty. Its serene landscapes are lush with green rice fields and winding rivers.
Where you could stay
Ninh Binh and Tam Coc
Overview
Set on the doorstep of the stunning karst scenery and pristine waterways of Ninh Binh and Tam Coc, the charming boutique resort of Tam Coc Garden presents a blissful environment in which to reside during a visit to one of the most scenic locations in Vietnam. Found on the outskirts of Ninh Binh, nestled amongst rice fields, the resort showcases a passionate focus on eco-tourism and cultural tourism, promising an enlightening and rewarding stay.
Offering a choice of 16 rooms that are spread across eight independent bungalows, they are set in the serene gardens of Tam Coc, enjoying natural aromas and verdant views filled with local flora. Each room has its own private terrace, offering vistas of limestone karsts or sprawling rice fields, while the interiors are spacious and tastefully decorated, utilising features such as stone, wood, traditional tiles, bamboo and ceramics to create a natural and authentic character to each room. That sense of authenticity spreads throughout the resort, with the construction designed to resemble a traditional Tonkinese village, with its typical stone houses and tiled roofs.
Tam Coc Garden benefits from an inviting on-site restaurant, enjoying a unique space and a menu with a focus on local flavours and ingredients. In fact, many of the ingredients are sourced from the resort’s very own organic garden, under the care of dedicated gardeners who work together with the chef to ensure an abundance of colourful spices and tasty vegetables. For an extra dose of relaxation amid this calming setting, the resort’s zen space includes a refreshing swimming pool with an adjoining bar, while a range of herbal foot bath remedies are on offer to those needing to soothe aching feet after a day exploring the surrounding natural landscapes.
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Ninh Binh's natural beauty
Explore Tam Coc
Van Long Nature Reserve
Explore the landscapes of Tam Coc
Undoubtedly Ninh Binh’s greatest allure is the small village of Tam Coc. Meaning the ‘three caves’, it is often referred to as ‘Halong Bay on land’ for its dramatic limestone formations that rise out of rice paddies. The Ngo Dong River flows through three natural caves, Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba, which are home to stalagmites and stalactites, wild vegetation and often, monkeys.
Hoa Lu and Van Long Nature Reserve
Located in Ninh Binh Province, Hoa Lu was the ancient capital of Vietnam. While the ancient citadel has largely disappeared, the temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties still stand surrounded by rice paddies. After lunch at a local restaurant in Ninh Binh, continue to the 3,500 hectare Van Long Nature Reserve, the largest wetland natural reserve in the Red River Delta. Enjoy a boat trip taking past local villages dotted among the limestone karsts and caves, perhaps encountering rare langur and birds on the way.
Two nights in Mai Chau
Located in Hoa Binh Province, Mai Chau offers splendid vistas of mountains and valleys surrounded by lush landscapes and authentic stilt houses. Enjoy walks or bike rides to local hamlets along the valley and in the surrounding mountains, learning about people’s daily lives. There’ll be chances to sample home cooked food, visit local markets, or simply explore the village on foot.
Where you could stay
The Northern Highlands
Overview
Perched on a hilltop in the heart of Mai Chau Valley, this traditionally designed ecolodge is wrapped in a panorama of emerald mountains and verdant rice paddies, promising an authentic nature experience.
Built from natural materials in the local stilt house style with thatched roofs and bamboo interiors, the nineteen bungalows feature scenic vistas, while some boast hammocks to laze on and a private shower terrace.
When you’re not out exploring this secluded northern pocket of Vietnam, head to the two-storey restaurant for hearty local food and the massage centre for indulgent treatments, both of which enjoy lovely rice field views.
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Highlights
- Choose from a collection of 36 bungalows, suites and private pool villas
- Indulge in a variety of holistic treatments at the spa
- Set out on exciting adventures to discover the region of Mai Chau
- Savour gourmet meals crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients at the hotel's two restaurants
- Experience dining by a waterfall
- Enjoy a gorgeous three-layer infinity pool with incredible views of the valley
Overview
Avana Retreat is located deep in a tropical rainforest, steeped in indigenous heritage and fascinating culture. The design, construction, decor and location of this retreat create an inseparable connection between nature and people.
There are 36 timeless mountain bungalows, some with private pools and all with lush views and surrounded by green gardens. Each bungalow has been meticulously designed to ensure privacy and comfort. Traditional design has been used throughout using rattan ceilings, earth walls and thatched roofs. The tranquil orchid spa features eight different treatment rooms, offering guests a complete selection of body treatments and facials targeted to individual needs.
There are two restaurants at Avana Retreat. Green Chilli restaurant is a large area with open walls and ratan ceilings. Spacious dining tables and chairs offer a sense of tranquillity while dining with the sounds of nature all around. Hearty breakfasts of freshly made breads, pastries, jams and in-season local fruits are available followed by lunch and dinner options, all created using the very best ingredients. Local flavours, spices and dishes are served with a modern twist and some international flair.
The Cloud Pool bar is located next to the stunning three-level infinity pool and serves delectable lunches and small plates to satisfy afternoon cravings. At sunset, enjoy magical views from the outdoor terrace as you sip inspired cocktail concoctions.
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The impact of your stay:
- Avana Retreat spans 10 hectares of reforested land and features sustainable local building methods, including earth walls, woven rattan ceilings and palm leaf roofs, minimising its environmental impact. These ancient techniques were taught to Avana by craftsmen from three minority groups in Mai Chau.
- 90% of Avana’s employees are from ethnic groups who previously relied on rice farming for income. Your stay supports hospitality training programmes that help them succeed.
- As a guest, you help to contribute to Avana’s ambitious reforestation programme, with over 10,000 trees planted. This initiative has significantly boosted local biodiversity, increasing the presence of hummingbirds, squirrels and reptiles.
The best of Mai Chau
Village visit
Cycling tour
Hmong village visit
Visit the Hmong village of Xa Linh and set out on a walk through picturesque mountain scenery. This excursion offers a unique insight into daily life in this region, including rice planting, herding buffaloes and building traditional houses.
Cycle through Mai Chau
Explore Mai Chau’s beautiful landscapes by bike, cycling past impossibly green rice paddies and local villages, where you can discover local traditions and soak up the scenery.
Spend three nights in Luang Prabang
In this charming city, spend your time relaxing and soaking up the culture. Visit temples, trek through virgin rainforest to beautiful waterfalls and give alms to the monks. We can arrange a unique time in Luang Prabang that caters to your personal interests, including a tour of the city’s most striking architecture, and a boat trip along the Mekong river.
Where you could stay
Luang Prabang
Overview
One of the most exquisite places in this ancient city, Satri House was originally built as a residence of Prince Souphanouvong. It has since been beautifully renovated and is a relaxed and peaceful sanctuary in which to unwind.
The 31 recently refurbished rooms and suites are furnished with crafted wood furniture, oversized balconies and spacious bathrooms with rain showers, spread across a complex of colonial style buildings.
Rejuvenate in the in-house spa, which offers a range of treatments, or relax in the peaceful tranquility of the gardens beside one of the two outdoor pools before enjoying traditional Laos dining in the Satri House Restaurant.
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Handpicked experiences in Luang Prabang
River cruise
Kayaking trip
Alms ceremony
Waterfall trek
City tour
Alms ceremony
Waterfall trek
City tour
City tour
Meander the Mekong and visit the Pak Ou caves
Meander along the mighty Mekong to the Pak Ou caves. Explore these shrines carved into the cliff face before returning by road to Luang Prabang, stopping en route at local villages Ban Xanhg Hai, to try a unique rice whisky called Lao-Lao, as well as Ban Phanom, famous for its traditional hand woven textiles. Continue to Ban Xang Khong and Ban Xienglek, known for their hand-made Jute Sar paper.
Kayaking at Pick Noi
Head to Pick Noi where your guide will give you a short safety briefing and introduction to kayaking before heading off down the river. As you continue, you’ll reach a small section of light but fun rapids before arriving at the tomb of the 19th-century French explorer Henri Mouhot, who was the first European to discover Luang Prabang.
Early morning alms giving
Wake before dawn to join in offering alms to hundreds of saffron-robed monks. This early morning ritual dates back generations in Laos and is an awe-inspiring sight. The monks walk through the streets of Luang Prabang accepting offerings of food from local residents and businesses. Rising early also gives you the chance to wander through the fresh market on the way back to the hotel for breakfast.
Kuang Si Falls and village tour
The Tat Khouang Si waterfalls feature a 90 metre main cascade surrounded by a series of pools and smaller falls. At low water, they are an unbelievable turquoise, perfect for a cooling swim. On your way there, you’ll pass the Free the Bears project – home to rescued Asiatic Black (Moon) Bears and one Malayan Sun Bear, who are often searching for food hidden in their enriched environment enclosures.
Luang Prabang city tour
Explore the UNESCO-protected city centre and appreciate its unspoiled Laotian-colonial fusion architecture, taking in notable Buddhist temples. Visit the Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong, with its traditional roofs sweeping low to the ground, the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun, Wat Sene, the city’s oldest temple, and the shrines of Wat Aham and Wat Mai.
Scenic transfer to Muang La
Leave Luang Prabang and journey into mountainous and remote northern Laos, where the verdant and rugged scenery makes this an unforgettable experience. Your afternoon arrival in Muang La gives the opportunity to visit Pra Xack Kham Temple with its sacred Buddha image. The 400-year-old statue is said to have supernatural powers, and is widely worshipped among local Buddhists.
Three nights in the Oudomxay Province
The lush, mountainous province of Oudomxay shares its northern border with China and presents a corner of South East Asia as yet untouched by mass tourism. The region is home to over 500 villages where traditional life still prevails and the tribes each have their own language and customs.
Where you could stay
Oudomxay Province
Highlights
- Set in an area of protected rainforest beside the Nam Kat river
- A wide range of nature-based excursions, such as jungle hikes and nature trails
- Adventure activities including ziplining and waterfall abseiling
- Rooms come with forest and river views, and authentic Lao décor
- Traditional Lao cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients
- Natural and traditional treatments available in the spa
Overview
Set deep within the sanctuary of protected rainforest beside the Nam Kat river, Nam Kat Yorla Pa is a haven of peace among the trees. Each of the quiet cottages, villas and suites has floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony or terrace so that you can enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings from the comfort of your room. Relax to the rhythms of the rainforest with yoga on the outdoor deck, or feel the benefit of natural treatments in the jungle spa.
The resort’s chefs skilfully blend both culture and nature to create a menu that embodies the traditions and flavours of Lao cooking, made with locally-sourced ingredients. The gentle rush of the river creates the perfect natural ambience to each meal, from fresh breakfasts enjoyed on the terrace, to picnic lunches and moonlit dinners. Private cooking classes are on offer, allowing you to fall in love with the flavours even more.
The native fauna and flora are at your fingertips, waiting to be discovered on gentle nature trails. Keen eyes might glimpse a flash of colour from one of the many butterfly colonies which make the forest their home. For the more adventurous, a canopy walk to Nam Kat waterfall, followed by ziplining, waterfall abseiling, or mountain biking, is a thrilling way to explore your natural surroundings from a different perspective.
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Handpicked excursions in Oudomxay Province
Waterfall tour
Cycling tour
Khamu and Hmong village trek
Journey by 4×4 along a picturesque route to Ban Houai Chang, the entry point to the national park at Phouhipi. Continue to the Khamu-Hmong village of Ban Houa Nam Bak, ideally located to reach the waterfall at Nam Pung. Only accessible on foot, the 1.5 hour trek to these falls goes through some incredible rock formations from which you’ll have breathtaking views of the mountainous countryside.
Cycling tour in Oudomxay
Cycle along the banks of the River Nam Pak, passing beautiful scenery and villages where workers harvest vegetables on the riverbank. You’ll reach the village of Tad Muan after around 11 kilometres, where you can learn how traditional houses are built and how the villagers hunt before cycling back to the resort.
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
