Transport - SUV & driver. 

Distance - Around 02 hours driving. 

Accommodation - Local motel/homestay

Meals - Local breakfast, Lunch & dinner. 

Plan:

This morning - Follow the rice paper trail on the banks of the Red River

Step back in time at Tho Ha village, a traditional Red River community renowned for its ancient architecture and rice paper products. In charming backstreets, we'll explore busy workshops, and photograph bamboo frames stacked with drying rice paper. Along the way, we'll produce a stunning pictorial narrative of this unforgettable and authentically Vietnamese village.

After lunch, we’ll journey to the Long Cốc Tea Fields, with a scenic drive that reveals the tranquil beauty of Vietnam’s lush countryside. Arriving in the afternoon, you’ll be immersed in the golden hour as the sun casts a warm glow across the rolling tea hills. Capture striking images of local farmers as they harvest tea leaves—set against a sweeping landscape that perfectly blends human effort with nature’s elegance.

In the evening, we’ll check in at a cozy local homestay where a traditional Vietnamese dinner awaits. Afterward, visit a nearby family-run tea workshop to observe and photograph the intricate process of drying tea leaves—a peaceful and authentic end to a richly visual day.

Transport - SUV & driver. 

Distance - Around 04 hours driving. 

Accommodation - Muong Village Ninh Binh - Bungalow. 

Meals - Local breakfast, Lunch & dinner. 

Plan:

Start the day early to witness one of the most breathtaking highlights of the tour: sunrise over the misty tea hills. As soft morning light begins to touch the landscape, the scene transforms into something truly dreamlike. From the tranquil blue hour to the first golden rays cresting the peaks, you’ll have the chance to capture the magical interplay of mist and sunlight weaving through the valleys—an unforgettable moment for any photographer in search of nature’s perfect shot.

Afterward, return to the homestay for a hearty breakfast. Then we will begin our journey to Ninh Binh. Arriving in Ninh Binh around lunch time.

After lunch, we’ll head out to explore two fascinating traditional craft villages. Our first stop is Ninh Van stone carving village, where we’ll photograph skilled artisans chiseling impressive statues and headstones by hand. The stone, sourced from Ninh Binh’s limestone karsts, has been shaped here for nearly a century. Then it’s on to Gia Thuy ceramic village, where we’ll document the traditional process of pottery-making using locally sourced clay. The scenes here are rich in texture and atmosphere—ideal for capturing compelling documentary-style images.

Going back to the Ecolodge for dinner and rest for the night.

Transfer: Private car & driver. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Accommodation:  New Dong Chau Resort - Deluxe Room.

Plan:

We’ll begin the day with a tranquil boat trip through the valley and limestone caves of Tam Coc. Along the way, we’ll take short walks up to several scenic vantage points, perfect for capturing stunning landscape shots. We’ll also have the opportunity to photograph Tam Coc’s unique boat operators, who continue the centuries-old tradition of rowing with their feet.

Next, we’ll head to Hang Mua. It’s a challenging climb—about 500 steps—but the panoramic view from the top is one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes. We’ll take it slow, with plenty of breaks, ensuring we arrive ready to shoot some truly breathtaking scenes.

After lunch and a coffee break, we will leave Ninh Binh for Co Chat Silk Village, where we’ll explore local workshops and homes. This rural village is known for its traditional silk weaving, offering rich textures and quiet scenes perfect for documentary-style photography.

Next, we’ll travel to the coastal village of Hai Ly Commune, known for its deep Catholic roots and vibrant fishing lifestyle. We’ll explore the village and visit one of the largest churches in the region before arriving at the ruins of the old Hai Ly Church, a dramatic, century-old structure partially claimed by the sea due to coastal erosion and rising tides. This hauntingly beautiful site is a favorite among photographers for its atmospheric quality and historical significance. Surrounding the church, you’ll find local fishermen tending to their nets and boats in preparation for the evening catch — a perfect opportunity for candid portraits and storytelling

imagery.

We’ll end the day with a sunset seafood dinner by the beach, taking in the golden hour light before continuing on to our coastal accommodation in Dong Chau for the night.

Transport - Private car & driver.
Distance - Around 03 hours driving.
Accommodation - Hanoi Golden Silk Hotel.
Meals - Local, Lunch & Dinner with VIF team.

Plan:
The day begins with an early start and hotel checkout as we make our way to the stunning Infinity Beach to capture breathtaking sunrise landscapes. Our journey winds through serene mangrove forests, arriving at the perfect spot to photograph the endless horizon stretched across the shallow tide.

While there, we’ll also document local clam fisherfolk as they begin their day’s work — offering a powerful glimpse into the rhythms of life along Vietnam’s northern coast. After sunrise, we head to the nearby fishing town of Diem Dien for a light local breakfast (noodle soup) before continuing our exploration.

Next, we’ll explore the local fishing village, where the morning culminates in the midday wholesale market on the docks. As boats arrive with seasonal catches — from fish and shrimp to jellyfish — the market comes alive with motion, color, and texture. This is an ideal moment to make personal connections with the authentic characters who work the port and fishing boats, capturing candid moments and environmental portraits. This immersive experience offers countless opportunities to document the charm, chaos, and beauty of life in a traditional fishing community.

After a late lunch, we’ll journey deeper into Thai Binh province, arriving at a small village known for producing a rare and distinctive black incense. Here, we’ll document the traditional incense making process, exploring both the craft and the quiet rhythm of village life.

As the day winds down, we’ll continue back to Hanoi capital.

Transport - Private car & driver.

Accommodation: Hanoi Golden Silk Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch with local foods.

Plan:

Morning Exploration with the Red River Crafts - Discover the Living Craft Traditions of Northern Vietnam

Step into the world of Vietnam’s traditional artisans in Hung Yen province. Just a short drive from Hanoi, you’ll explore two remarkable craft villages where cultural heritage and artistry are alive and thriving.

Begin at Ban Yen Soy Sauce Village, where local workers produce soy sauce using time-honored methods. The vibrant scenes of conical-hatted artisans, soy sauce jars, and drying racks create endless possibilities for dynamic compositions and drone photography.

Next, we visit a bronze casting community nearby, where skilled craftspeople transform molten metal into statues and intricate ornaments. Inside the workshops, you’ll capture the action, heat, and artistry of this ancient craft—moments that make for dramatic and unforgettable images.

Afternoon discover in Red Incense Village - 

Your photographic journey begins just outside of Hanoi in one of Vietnam’s most vibrant craft villages, renowned for its production of traditional red incense. The vivid colors and textures of the incense sticks make for captivating imagery, from preparation to drying. You’ll have exclusive access behind the scenes, engaging with local artisans and capturing the essence of their daily work in authentic, intimate settings. 

After a morning immersed in creative energy, enjoy a relaxing lunch featuring delicious local Vietnamese cuisine—a perfect pause to refuel and review your morning shots.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch - No Dinner.

Accommodation:  Hanoi Golden Silk Hotel - 01 Luxury Double Room.

Plan:

The day offers flexibility to suit your interests and schedule with:
- Morning full for relaxing and chilling.
- Afternoon with Photo Review Session: You’ll have the opportunity to join group or one-on-one photo review sessions, where you can receive personalized feedback and guidance on your images. These sessions are tailored to your experience level and creative goals, providing a valuable chance to reflect, learn, and elevate your photography.

- In the evening, we head out on a dynamic low-light photography tour, designed to sharpen your night shooting skills while immersing you in Hanoi’s vibrant street culture. We’ll dive into the heart of the city at its century-old night market, a bustling hub of energy and color. From the glow of neon lights reflecting off metal stalls to the flurry of activity among traders, couriers, and shoppers, this setting is a treasure trove of photographic opportunities.

 Meals: Breakfast and Lunch - No Dinner.

Accommodation:  Hanoi Golden Silk Hotel - 01 Luxury Double Room.

Plan:

05 AM to 01 PM - Capture the best of Hanoi in a single action-packed day - Includes train street, Reunification Park, the Thieves Market. Experience and document authentic daily life in Vietnam's capital, its places, people, sights and sounds, creating a rich visual narrative to remember.

Free afternoon and evening, this is the time for self exploration as well as last chance for shopping done.

Depending on your flight time - Complimentary airport drop off will be arranged. 

For those who would like to add an extension relaxing part of end trip - As a perfect way to conclude your photography journey, we invite you to join an optional 2-day, 1-night Ha Long Bay cruise extension. This relaxing add-on offers a chance to unwind and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay—a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. It’s an ideal setting not only for quiet reflection but also for capturing some of the most stunning landscape photography in Vietnam. Please check the 02 days extension in the following. 

Transport - Private car & driver
Cruise - The Au Co Cruise - Executive Double Cabin with Balcony

Meals - All onboard as cruise itinerary

Plan:
Day 1, the cruise sets sail at 12:00 PM, heading into the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay. Our first destination is Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island, where you’ll have the chance to cycle or trek through peaceful countryside and lush valleys. Later in the day, enjoy a swim in the bay’s crystal-clear waters, followed by Happy Hour on board as the sun sets over the limestone peaks. Before dinner, take part in a Vietnamese rice wine tasting session, adding a cultural highlight to your evening. You’ll spend the night on board in a comfortable private cabin, with all meals provided.

Transport - Private car & driver

Accommodation - Hanoi Golden Silk Hotel - 01 Luxury Double Room

Meals: Brunch & Dinner

Plan:

Day 2 begins with an early morning Tai Chi session on the sundeck, a serene way to start the day surrounded by the natural beauty of the bay. After breakfast, we visit Trinh Nu Beach and Cave, where you can explore the dramatic cave system and enjoy an optional kayaking session in the surrounding area—perfect for capturing

the quiet majesty of the seascape. 

The cruise concludes with a 10:00 AM disembarkation, marking the end of your peaceful Ha Long Bay retreat. This cruise extension offers the perfect finale to your Vietnam photography tour—whether you’re looking to expand your portfolio or simply relax in one of the country’s most iconic landscapes.