The oldest national park in Vietnam, Cuc Phuong is home to over 330 species of birds and an abundance of flora and fauna. Take a guided trek through the dense forests, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre or stay in one of the park's bungalows overnight.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An Grottoes consists of a series of caves and grottoes surrounded by karst mountains and picturesque waterways. Take a tranquil boat tour through the caves, enjoy the scenery and spot the local wildlife.
A traditional Vietnamese village nestled in the Hoa Binh province, Mai Chau offers an insight into rural life in Vietnam. Cycle through the lush paddy fields, meet the friendly villagers and stay in a traditional stilt house overnight.
A geological wonderland, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is home to the world's largest cave, Son Doong, as well as over 300 other caves and grottoes. Take a boat tour through the stunning Phong Nha Cave, or explore the immense Paradise Cave.
Located in Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba Island is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches, lush forests and limestone mountains. Explore the island's scenic hiking trails, go kayaking or take a boat tour of the surrounding islands.
If you have more time, consider exploring Ninh Binh province, where you can visit the stunning Tam Coc rice fields. For those with less time, you can skip Cat Ba Island and return to Hanoi on Day 4, or skip Mai Chau and travel directly to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park on Day 3.