Hoa Binh
2 days / 1 night
AH-HB02
6/10
$138 USD
GET B2B QUOTATION
WHY THIS TOUR?

This tour is the perfect choice for travelers seeking a short yet rewarding adventure in Hoa Binh. Combining paddling, trekking, local culture, and stunning lake and mountain scenery, it offers an immersive experience in one of Northern Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes. Discover the hidden beauty of Dragon Eye Lake, paddle through the tranquil waters of Ngoi Hoa Bay toward Ba Khan, and spend the night at a traditional Muong homestay in Ngoi Hoa Village. On the second day, continue with a scenic trek to Hoa Tien Cave and a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the vast expanse of Hoa Binh Lake. Blending outdoor adventure with authentic cultural encounters, this journey showcases the very best of Hoa Binh’s natural beauty and local heritage in just two unforgettable days.

Highlights

  • Discover the hidden gem of Dragon Eye Lake
  • Paddle across the emerald waters of Ngoi Hoa Bay
  • Stay with a local Muong family and experience traditional village life
  • Trek through the spectacular valleys and limestone mountains of Ngoi Hoa
SUMMARY

  • Start / Finish Point: Hanoi

  • Duration: 2 days / 1 night

  • Destination: Hoa Binh

  • Group Size : 2 - 15 pax

  • Best Season: Year-round

  • Difficulty level: 6/10

  • Activities: Hiking / Trekking, Paddle Boarding (SUP)

ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi – Ngoi Hoa Wharf – Ngoi Hoa Bay – Dragon Eye Lake - Ngoi Hoa Village

07:30 Meet your guide and depart Hanoi for Hoa Binh. Along the way, stop for a short refreshment break near Hoa Binh City before continuing to Ngoi Hoa Bay.

10:00 Arrive at Ngoi Hoa Port. After a safety briefing and introduction to basic SUP paddling techniques, begin your adventure across the tranquil waters of Hoa Binh Lake. Paddle through the stunning scenery of Ngoi Hoa Bay toward the trail leading to Dragon Eye Lake. Upon arrival, enjoy a short 20-minute walk through the forest to reach this hidden lake, tucked away among limestone mountains. Depending on seasonal water levels, the landscape changes dramatically throughout the year. During the dry season, submerged tree trunks emerge from the water, creating a mysterious and photogenic setting unlike anywhere else in Hoa Binh.

Take time to swim, relax, and capture memorable photos before returning to the lakeshore.

12:30 Walk back to the shoreline and board the support boat for lunch while enjoying the spectacular scenery of Hoa Binh Lake.

14:00 Continue paddling toward Ba Khan through one of the most beautiful sections of the lake. The afternoon destination is a scenic peninsula offering panoramic views across the water and surrounding mountains.

Enjoy a relaxed sunset session with fresh fruit and cold drinks while taking in the peaceful atmosphere and golden light over the lake.

18:00 Transfer by boat to Ngoi Hoa Village. Check in to a traditional Muong stilt-house homestay. While simple in style, the accommodation is clean, comfortable, and equipped with all essential facilities.

19:00 Enjoy dinner featuring local Muong specialties. After dinner, gather around the campfire for a relaxing evening with music, conversation, and drinks before settling in for the night.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 2hrs/ Paddle boarding & swimming 4 hrs/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Lunch , Dinner

Day 2: Ngoi Hoa – Hanoi

07:30 Wake up to the peaceful atmosphere of Ngoi Hoa Village and enjoy breakfast with coffee or tea at the homestay.

08:30 Begin a scenic trek through the lush valleys and limestone landscapes surrounding Ngoi Hoa. The trail leads to Hoa Tien Cave, a fascinating cave system hidden among the mountains, before continuing to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Dragon Eye Lake and a vast section of Hoa Binh Lake. From the viewpoint, take in panoramic views of the emerald waters, forested hills, and dramatic limestone formations that make this region one of Northern Vietnam’s most beautiful hidden gems.

11:30 Return to the homestay by local motorbike taxi. Freshen up and enjoy a well-deserved lunch before departing.

14:00 Transfer by boat to Ngoi Hoa Wharf, then board your vehicle for the return journey to Hanoi.

16:30 Arrive in Hanoi. Tour concludes.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 2hrs/ Hiking 2 hrs/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

​

Inclusion:

  • Round-trip vehicle: Hanoi – Ngoi Hoa – Hanoi
  • Inflatble SUP and equipment
  • English speaking tour guide
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • 01 night at village homestay
  • Drinking water & snack provided daily during the tour
  • Entrance fees & tickets
  • Domestic travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Additional food and beverages not stated in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Tips
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

​

Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Inflatble SUP
  • Life jacket
  • Dry bag
  • First-aid kit. 

What to bring: 

  • Water shoes or sandals 
  • Hiking shoes
  • Lightweight, quick-dry clothing or rash guard for paddling
  • Lightweight rain jacket
  • Electronics: Mobile phone, camera, power bank, ...
  • Personal medications
  • Reusable water bottle
  • ID or Passport

Also recommended:

  • Toiletries
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer
TOUR EQUIPMENT
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. SUP Paddling Notes

  • Safety Notes: Participants are required to wear a properly fitted life jacket and safety leash at all times while paddling. The waters of Hoa Binh Lake are generally calm; however, changing weather conditions, boat traffic, and open-water crossings may create unexpected challenges. For your safety, please remain within sight of the group and follow all instructions from the guide throughout the trip. When paddling, maintain a safe distance from other boards and be aware of boats, floating debris, fish cages, and other obstacles that may be encountered on the lake. Swimming is only permitted in designated areas and under the guide’s supervision.
  • Suitability: This adventure is suitable for most people with a basic level of fitness and no previous paddling experience is required. Comprehensive instruction and safety briefings are provided before the activity begins. Families are welcome, and children aged 8 years and above may participate when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Participants should be comfortable spending several hours outdoors and engaging in light trekking and paddling activities.

2. Food & Water

  • Meals: All meals showcase authentic, hearty local cuisine designed to replenish your energy after active outdoor sessions. 
  • Water & Energy: Clean, safe drinking water and energy-boosting snacks (such as fresh fruits or local treats) are supplied daily during the tour. 

3. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). You can refill it throughout the day from our large water jugs.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

4. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical Fitness: Practice running or kayaking/SUP 1–2 weeks in advance. Each week, run 2 sessions, 3–5 km per session. Or paddle SUP/kayak 2–3 sessions per week, approximately 5 km per session.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.