2-Day Halong Bay and Binh Lieu Tour: UNESCO Heritage & Highland Trekking Adventure
Experience the best of northern Vietnam with this immersive 2-Day Halong Bay and Binh Lieu Tour. Combining the world-renowned beauty of Halong Bay’s UNESCO World Heritage landscapes with the rugged charm of Binh Lieu’s highlands, this journey offers a unique balance of natural wonders and cultural discovery. On day one, explore the majestic limestone karsts of Halong Bay, known for its stunning islands and tranquil waters. Here, you’ll enjoy cruising, kayaking, and exploring remarkable caves, with sights of iconic formations like the Fighting Cocks Island and visits to awe-inspiring caves such as Thien Cung.
After a day on the bay, venture further north to Binh Lieu, a lesser-known yet spectacular region in Quang Ninh Province. Often called the “miniature Sapa,” Binh Lieu is famous for its terraced rice fields, rolling hills, and deep cultural heritage. On day two, immerse yourself in the daily life of the local Tay, Dao, and San Chi ethnic communities while trekking through lush fields, scenic villages, and aromatic forests of anise and cinnamon. This blend of luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion makes for an unforgettable 2-day experience, perfect for those looking to explore Vietnam’s lesser-trodden paths.
You may opt another Binh Lieu trek with one day from Halong if you cannot spend two days.
Highlights of 2-Day Halong Bay and Binh Lieu Tour
- Cruising Halong Bay’s Stunning Seascape
- Sail through iconic limestone karsts and islets
- Visit Thien Cung Cave with impressive rock formations
- Enjoy a seafood lunch, kayaking, or bamboo boat rides
- Admiring the Scenic Beauty and Culture of Binh Lieu
- Explore the serene highlands and rice terraces
- Discover the charm of traditional villages and customs
- Trekking Through Rice Terraces and Aromatic Hills
- Walk among golden rice terraces and village homes
- Pass through hills filled with anise and cinnamon trees
- Meeting Ethnic Communities in Binh Lieu
- Encounter locals tending buffalo and harvesting rice
- Visit traditional homes along scenic trekking routes
- Overnight Stay in Ethnic Community Houses
- Experience local hospitality in traditional stilt houses
- Immerse in the culture with an authentic homestay experience
Best time to enjoy 2-Day Halong Bay and Binh Lieu Tour
The best time for this 2-day Halong Bay and Binh Lieu tour is from September to April, with two optimal windows to fully enjoy the region’s beauty.
- September to November: This period marks the golden season in Binh Lieu, as the rice terraces turn a rich gold color during the harvest. The mild temperatures and dry weather are perfect for trekking, and the scenic beauty is at its peak. The autumn weather in Halong Bay is also calm, making it ideal for cruising and kayaking in serene, clear waters.
- March to April: Spring brings a lush green landscape to Binh Lieu, as new rice crops begin to grow, creating vibrant views of terraced fields. This season offers cool, pleasant weather, which is excellent for trekking and outdoor exploration. Halong Bay in spring is equally stunning, with fewer crowds, gentle breezes, and clear skies perfect for sightseeing, especially around the bay’s quieter spots.
Photoes of the 2-Day Halong Bay and Binh Lieu Tour
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You may like an amazing experience with overnight cruises on Halong Bay.
| By Day | Transfer | Destinations | Activities | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Halong, Quang Ninh | Discover Halong Bay by boat and kayak | Lunch, Dinner | |
| Day 2 | Binh Lieu, Quang Ninh | Trekking through rice terraces, small villages, hills filled with anise and cinnamon trees, connecting to the local, understand highland life | Breakfast, Lunch |
Halong, Quang Ninh
Discover Halong Bay by boat and kayak
Day 1: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Binh Lieu | (L/D)
- 8:00am-8:30am: Begin with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
- Morning Drive: Settle into modern, comfortable transport as we journey along the National Expressway, passing through the scenic Red River Delta. Along the way, enjoy views of lush rice fields, water buffalo, and glimpses into daily Vietnamese farm life. During the months of February to June, you’ll see farmers transplanting rice seedlings.
- 12:00: Arrive at Halong City’s Tourist Wharf, and board for an unforgettable Halong Bay journey.
- 12:30am: Savor a delicious seafood lunch on board (vegetarian options available) while cruising through Halong Bay’s emerald waters, taking in the famous limestone formations like Stone Dogs Island, Duck Island, Finger Island, Incense Burner Island, and the iconic Fighting Cocks Island—Halong Bay’s symbol.
- Thien Cung Cave Exploration: Explore the awe-inspiring Thien Cung Cave, known as Heavenly Palace Grotto, with its impressive chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites representing the Four Holy Animals (Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, and Phoenix) and a mystical heaven gate.
- Kayaking or Bamboo Boat Ride: Enjoy 45 minutes of kayaking or a bamboo boat ride, winding through hidden coves and water tunnels that immerse you in the bay’s natural serenity.
- 4:00pm: Return to the Halong tourist wharf, where you’ll board your vehicle for the drive to Binh Lieu, often called the “miniature Sapa.”
- 6:00pm-6:30pm: Arrive in Binh Lieu and check into your homestay, offering panoramic mountain and rice terrace views. Relax and soak up the local culture in this peaceful setting.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay on an unforgettable boat and kayak adventure. Begin your journey cruising through emerald-green waters dotted with stunning limestone islands, each with unique shapes and legends. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch aboard while taking in iconic sights like Fighting Cocks Island and Thien Cung Cave. Later, switch to a kayak for an up-close exploration of hidden lagoons, peaceful water tunnels, and secluded beaches. Paddle at your own pace, gliding through the crystal-clear waters and uncovering Halong Bay’s quiet, natural splendor—a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure amid one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.
Binh Lieu, Quang Ninh
Trekking through rice terraces, small villages, hills filled with anise and cinnamon trees, connecting to the local, understand highland life
Day 2: Binh Lieu Exploration and Trekking – Hanoi | (B/L)
- 8:00am: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your homestay, preparing for a day of exploration.
- 9:00am: Embark on a half-day trek through Binh Lieu’s scenic rice terraces and traditional villages. Immerse yourself in the lives of the Dzao Thanh Phán ethnic communities, meeting friendly locals who will share insights into their culture and traditions. Then, continue your trek by visiting Song Mooc Waterfall – a serene natural setting perfect for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear pool. End your trek along a trail through aromatic anise and cinnamon forests, surrounded by terraced fields and hillside villages, a peaceful escape in lush green surroundings.
- 12:00am: Enjoy a traditional lunch in a local village, sampling authentic regional dishes made with fresh ingredients.
- 1:00pm: Depart from Binh Lieu and start your journey back to Hanoi, taking with your memories of this unforgettable cultural and natural adventure.
- 5:00pm: Arrive in Hanoi, concluding your 2-day journey through Halong Bay and Binh Lieu’s highlands.
Trekking through terraced rice fields of Song Mooc village
Trekking through terraced rice fields of Song Mooc village, Binh Lieu, offers a journey through breathtaking natural beauty. This lesser-known region of northern Vietnam is dotted with emerald-green terraces that cascade down hillsides, carefully cultivated by the Dao people over generations. Walking along the narrow pathways that wind through these fields, you’ll cross small creeks and pass by traditional Dao homes, built from traditional materials, blending harmoniously with the landscape. The quiet trickle of water through the fields, coupled with the sights and sounds of rural life, creates a peaceful atmosphere, letting visitors connect deeply with Binh Lieu’s agricultural heritage
Trekking through hills filled with Illicium anisatum and cinnamon trees of Dao people
Another trail through Binh Lieu leads into aromatic hills filled with Illicium anisatum (star anise) and cinnamon trees, which flourish in the region’s mild, misty climate. As you trek through these spice-rich forests, the air becomes infused with the warm scent of cinnamon and the slightly sweet aroma of star anise, used widely in Vietnamese cuisine and traditional medicine. Local farmers carefully harvest these valuable spices, which are a mainstay of the area's economy. The towering trees, sunlight filtering through their branches, and the rich scents create a magical landscape, offering a truly sensory experience of Binh Lieu’s natural bounty
Connecting with the local people
Binh Lieu’s charm extends beyond its scenery; the region is home to a vibrant mix of ethnic minorities, including the Dao, Tay, and San Chi. Each group adds its unique cultural identity to Binh Lieu, with traditional crafts, music, and attire. The Dao people, known for their bold red clothing and intricate silver jewelry, welcome visitors into their villages, where traditional lifestyles persist. The Tay and San Chi, with distinct dialects and beautiful woven garments, often share their customs, from folk songs to unique culinary traditions. Engaging with these communities offers a rare chance to learn firsthand about Binh Lieu’s rich cultural diversity and traditions
No relevant information is available
Inclusions
- 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
- Air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers (round-transfer Hanoi-Halong-Binh Lieu) and sightseeing as the itinerary.
- Boat to discover Halong Bay – World Heritage Site
- 1-night stay in a traditional Dao homestay
- Entrance Fees: All entry fees for attractions listed in the itinerary.
- Guided Tour: Experienced English-speaking guide throughout the tour.
- Local ethnic minority guide: on trekking
- Travel permit: applied for overnight accommodation in border areas.
- Bottled Water: Complimentary bottled water during transfers and sightseeing.
Exclusions
- Transport to Hanoi & from Hanoi: Flights or any transportation to Hanoi before the tour starts and transport from Hanoi after the tour ends.
- Kayak or bamboo boat services on caves
- Personal Expenses: Any personal items such as souvenirs, snacks, and additional drinks.
- Travel Insurance: Travelers are encouraged to purchase their own travel insurance and send us for filing
- Tips and Gratuities: For guides, drivers, and other service staff.
- Meals Not Mentioned
- Optional Activities: Any additional activities or entrance fees not specified in the itinerary.
Complimentaties
- Bottled Water: Complimentary bottled water during transfers and sightseeing.
