DESCRIPTION
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Northeast Vietnam, where nature and history harmoniously blend. Visit the Pac Bo Historical Site, where President Ho Chi Minh began his revolutionary path. Marvel at the breathtaking Ban Gioc Waterfall, explore the mysterious Nguom Ngao Cave, and enjoy the cultural charm of Phuc Sen blacksmithing village. Cruise through the serene Ba Be Lake, discovering hidden legends and local Tay ethnic life along the way. This 3-day adventure promises majestic landscapes, authentic culture, and memorable experiences in Vietnam’s highlands.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
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Blend of nature, history, and culture: Visit the Pac Bo Historical Site, linked to President Ho Chi Minh, while admiring the stunning Northeast landscapes.
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Marvel at Ban Gioc Waterfall: One of the most magnificent border waterfalls in the world, offering a rare and breathtaking view.
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Explore Ba Be Lake: The largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, recognized by UNESCO for its ecological value and scenic beauty.
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Authentic cultural experiences: Enjoy traditional Tay ethnic performances such as Then singing and bamboo dancing; visit Phuc Sen village to witness age-old blacksmithing techniques.
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Off-the-beaten-path journey: Discover unspoiled, peaceful destinations far less crowded than other popular Northern Vietnam routes.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi – Cao Bang – Pac Bo
Morning:
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Pick up at your hotel in Hanoi and depart for Cao Bang.
- Along the way, stop for a short break where you can enjoy breakfast at your own expense.
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On the road, admire the majestic scenery of the Northeast mountains with famous passes such as Gian Pass and Gio Pass.
- Lunch at a local restaurant on Gio Pass. Continue the journey to Cao Bang, passing a series of winding mountain passes including Khau Khang, Cao Bac, and Tai Ho Sin.
Afternoon:
- Arrive in Pac Bo Historical Site – the place where President Ho Chi Minh lived and worked from 1941 to 1945 after returning to Vietnam. Visit his simple living space and learn about his revolutionary life here.
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Take photos at the poetic Lenin Stream, Karl Marx Mountain, explore Coc Bo Cave, and the symbolic Kilometer Zero milestone of the Ho Chi Minh Trail.
Evening:
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Transfer to Cao Bang City, check in at the hotel. Dinner at a local restaurant.
- Free time to explore Cao Bang City at night. Overnight in Cao Bang.

Lenin Stream
Day 2: Cao Bang – Ban Gioc Waterfall – Nguom Ngao Cave – Ba Be
Morning:
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Breakfast at the hotel, then check out.
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Depart for Trung Khanh, passing through the beautiful Ma Phuc Pass. Visit Nguom Ngao Cave, one of the most stunning caves in Northern Vietnam, with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites.
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Continue to Ban Gioc Waterfall – the fourth largest natural border waterfall in the world, located right on the Vietnam–China border. The waterfall cascades down in three tiers, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.
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Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
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Depart for Ba Be National Park (Bac Kan).
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Stop at Phuc Sen Village, famous for traditional blacksmithing.
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Pass through Gio Pass again, arrive in Ba Be.
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Check in homestay/hotel.
Evening:
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Dinner at local restaurant.
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Optional: cultural exchange with Tay ethnic group (Then singing, bamboo dancing – upon request).
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Overnight in Ba Be.
![]() Stalactites in Nguom Ngao cave |
![]() Ban Gioc Waterfall |
Day 3: Ba Be Lake – Hanoi
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel. Relax and enjoy the morning mist over Ba Be Lake.
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Take a boat trip on Ba Be Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, surrounded by limestone mountains and primary forests. Discover the local Tay ethnic life along the lake and visit:
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Fairy Pond (Ao Tien): A small hidden pond surrounded by limestone cliffs, linked with local legends.
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An Ma Temple: Built on a small island to worship the generals of the Mac Dynasty.
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Widow Island (Ba Goa Islet): A small iconic islet tied to the legend of Ba Be’s formation.
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- Return to the boat dock and have lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
- Depart for Hanoi. On the way back, stop for short breaks and buy local specialties as souvenirs.
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Arrive in Hanoi in the late afternoon. End of tour.
![]() Fairy Pond |
![]() Widow Island |
TOUR COST
Please contact us for the best offer!
TRAVEL TIPS
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Bring comfortable walking shoes, light jackets, and insect repellent.
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Cash is recommended as ATMs may be limited in remote areas.
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Respect local customs when visiting ethnic villages.
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Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes of Ban Gioc and Ba Be Lake.