Amazing countryside private tour
Our experience made possible by our guide, Louis, was nothing short of exceptional. Louis messaged us the evening prior to our tour to confirm pick up details. Once on board our comfy limousine style bus, he greeted us kindly, introduced himself and gave our whole tour a run down of our activities for the day.
This included a bathroom and food break in the morning, pagoda, hiking up to relics on top of limestone formations, a delicious lunch, scooter ride through countryside and ride fields and finally a private boat ride down the valley.
Everything was unbelievable. We set off earlier in the day to beat the head (although it didn’t feel like much difference when climbing the mountain in the heat). The hike was challenging in the heat however Louis gave us all confidence to take our time and climb at our own pace. Or, if you could not complete the climb he kindly told us we could wait at the bottom. However all our group of 6 made it up the mountain.
The lunch was authentic and wholesome. Served by the river in a nice restaurant. We didn’t realise but there is a pool at the restaurant where you can cool off. Especially helpful after the mountain hike, so bring spare clothes. (You can rent a towel for 20K Dong).
We did the Vespa/jeep tour next. Unfortunately we did not get to drive the Vespa ourselves, as there had been to many accidents with tourists crashing. This was little disappointing at first. However, it was soon forgotten as being on the back of the Vespa allowed us to truely capture the iconic scenery surrounding us, it was beautiful.
The private boat ride through the valley and under the cave systems was stunning. As the sailors are all part time workers tips or buying their products is mandatory so bring cash. They don’t require much but for the work they do a gratitude is well deserved for them.
The whole tour lasted about 11hrs with transit to and from Hanoi. I would highly recommend booking this tour especially if you get Louis as your guide. His knowledge, mannerisms and kindness made the trip well worth it. I would highly recommend it was such an amazing experience.