Hoa Binh
1 day
AH-HB01
5/10
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WHY THIS TOUR?

This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a short but memorable outdoor escape from Hanoi. In just one day, it combines the most attractive highlights of the route: paddleboarding through the poetic beauty of Ngoi Hoa Bay, enjoying a boat lunch with Muong local flavors, and depending on the season, either trekking to Dragon Eye Lake for swimming and SUP or continuing to explore the wider scenery of Hoa Binh Lake. Umove’s current English listing also presents this route as a 1-day SUP/trek experience in Hoa Binh, highlighting Ngoi Hoa Bay, Dragon Eye Lake, and lunch with local Muong specialties. 

Highlights

  • Exploring Dragon Eye Lake & Ngoi Hoa Bay in its pristine beauty
  • Providing SUP or kayak, accompanying equipment, and life jackets
  • Having lunch with delicious Muong local specialties

 

SUMMARY

  • Start / Finish Point: Hanoi

  • Duration: 1 day

  • Destination: Hoa Binh

  • Group Size : 2 - 20 pax

  • Best Season: Year-round

  • Difficulty level: 5/10

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

ITINERARY
Hanoi – Ngoi Hoa Wharf – Lu Wharf - Mo Hem Village - Ngoi Hoa Bay - Hanoi

07:30 Meet your guide at your hotel in Hanoi and depart for Hoa Binh. Along the way, stop for a short refreshment break before continuing to Hoa Binh Lake.

09:30 Arrive at Ngoi Hoa Wharf and board a boat for a scenic cruise across Hoa Binh Lake to Lu Wharf. Upon arrival, begin a leisurely hike to Mo Hem Village, a peaceful Thai ethnic minority settlement nestled among limestone mountains and forested hills.

Along the trail, stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Hoa Binh Lake, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and the emerald waters below.

11:30 Arrive at Mo Hem Village. Take time to wander through the village, learn about the traditions and daily life of the local Thai people, and experience the relaxed atmosphere of this remote community.

Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local house, featuring authentic Thai minority dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

13:30 After lunch, receive your paddleboard and safety equipment before setting off on a relaxing SUP journey from Mo Hem Village to Ngoi Hoa Bay.

Paddle through one of the most scenic sections of Hoa Binh Lake, surrounded by limestone mountains, quiet bays, and crystal-clear water. There will be opportunities to swim and simply enjoy the peaceful beauty of the lake along the way.

15:00 Arrive back at Ngoi Hoa Wharf and board your vehicle for the return journey to Hanoi.

18:30 Arrive in Hanoi. End of the tour.

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

* Meals included: Lunch 

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

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Inclusion:

  • Round-trip vehicle: Hanoi – Ngoi Hoa Wharf – Hanoi
  • Support boat
  • English speaking tour guide
  • Inflatble SUP 
  • Lunch at village homestay
  • Drinking water 
  • 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

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Equipment provided by VAH:

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

What to bring: 

  • Hiking shoes
  • Water shoes or sandals 
  • 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:

  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer
TOUR EQUIPMENT
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. SUP Paddling Notes

  • Distance: Approximately 5–6 km
  • Route: Paddle across the tranquil waters of Ngoi Hoa Bay, a hidden gem of Hoa Binh Lake renowned for its emerald water, dramatic limestone mountains, and secluded coves. The route follows a peaceful shoreline dotted with floating fish farms and forested hills before reaching remote landing points accessible only by water. Throughout the journey, you'll enjoy panoramic views and countless opportunities to swim, relax, and experience the untouched beauty of northern Vietnam.
  • Suitability: This route is suitable for most fitness levels and is an excellent choice for beginners as well as paddlers with some previous experience. Active families are welcome, and participants aged 10 and above can comfortably enjoy the journey.
  • Safety Notes: A certified life jacket and SUP safety leash must be worn throughout the paddling session. Stay alert for floating fish cages, small motorboats, submerged rocks, and changing weather conditions. Keep a safe distance from other watercraft and always follow your guide's instructions. A dry bag is recommended for personal belongings, while water shoes are useful for shoreline landings and swimming stops.

2. Food & Water

  • Meal: Savor a traditional lunch showcasing the distinctive flavors of the Thai ethnic minority people. Prepared with fresh local ingredients, the meal offers an authentic cultural experience while providing the energy needed for the afternoon's adventure.
  • 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.