ITINERARY FOR THE WEEKEND OF MAY 17 - MAY 18, 2025

Pre-Summer Adventure: Discover Thanh Hóa’s Natural Wonders

Get ready for a pre-summer adventure in Thanh Hóa, where overcast skies and warm temperatures set the stage for exploring Vietnam’s natural wonders. Discover the hidden gems of Pu Luong and Ninh Binh, with activities that promise both relaxation and cultural immersion.

Discovering the Hidden Gems of Pu Luong

Nestled in the heart of Vietnam, Pu Luong Nature Reserve is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness. As you embark on this pre-summer adventure, you’ll find yourself surrounded by limestone peaks that pierce the clouds and dramatic rice terraces that have been cultivated by ethnic villages for centuries. The Pu Luong and Ninh Binh Adventure offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, with activities starting as early as 6:45 AM.

Begin your journey with a trek through the lush landscapes of Pu Luong, where you’ll cross a hanging bridge over the Cham River and pass through Ba village. Here, you’ll witness the ingenious agricultural system of the Thai ethnic minority, featuring impressive bamboo waterwheels. As you continue your trek, you’ll be captivated by the tranquility of the surroundings, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

“Pu Luong offers a quiet beautiful landscape to relax and explore. Various ethnic cultures live here in the countryside and manage their rice fields and livestock, renew their roofs with banana leaves and their fences with bamboo and wood. It is interesting to observe the people in their everyday life and to walk through small valleys along countless rice and vegetable fields.” - Reviewed on 2019-10-06

Embracing the Serenity of Ninh Binh

As you bid farewell to Pu Luong, your adventure continues to Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land.” This region is renowned for its striking limestone karsts, vast rice paddies, and world heritage sites. The Ninh Binh 3 Day Escape is a must-do for those seeking to immerse themselves in Vietnam’s hidden nature and cultural treasures.

Upon arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to relax by the pool or on the terrace, soaking in the serene atmosphere. The following day, embark on a cycling tour to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, where you’ll travel back in time to the 10th century. This remarkable site offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history, with stunning historical landscapes and unique architectural values.

“Wonderful experience - Our 3-day trip to Ninh Binh and Pu Luong was a wonderful experience. The peaceful rivers, towering limestone mountains, and golden rice fields were breathtaking. Our guide, Brian, was kind and knowledgeable, always making sure we felt comfortable.” - Reviewed on 2025-03-27

A Tranquil Boat Ride Through Trang An

No trip to Ninh Binh would be complete without a visit to the UNESCO site of Trang An. Known for its breathtaking landscape of karst peaks covered in jungle, this area offers a serene boat tour that takes you through caves and past ancient temples. The Trang An Boat Tour is a world apart, providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature and history.

As you glide through the tranquil waters, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of the natural world, with the sounds of wildlife and the gentle lapping of the water against the boat. This peaceful experience is the perfect way to end your pre-summer adventure, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

“A very relaxing experience - The tour was very well organised and adjusted to our special requirements. It felt authentic and the lodges we stayed at were very nice. Our guide Hung was flexible, knew the best times to visit the places to avoid crowds and had a good sense of humour which made it even better. Highly recommended!” - Reviewed on 2025-01-21

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