Vietnam Trekking Itinerary
There is so much you can do here in Vietnam. This 3-day itinerary explores Sapa, a northwest market town which is colorful and charming. It provides the perfect oasis in the midst of a strenuous mountain trek or rice-paddy tour. It would be a great add-on to your visit and here are just a few examples of what else you can do and see in this country.
Why not cruise an azure ocean decorated by surreal-looking limestone islands in Halong Bay, and wind through the majestic inland karst mountains of Cao Bang? Or explore the bewitching backwaters of the Mekong Delta? Finally, no visit would be complete without experiencing the energy of big-city life in Vietnam’s capital Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (previously known as Saigon).
Our resident adventure Travel Advisor helped plan this particular sample itinerary. It depends on how much time you can spend and what interests you have for this destination. Our consultation includes time with your Travel Advisor to figure out where to go and what activities you want to do in Vietnam. We excel at crafting a custom itinerary designed just for you! Contact us to get started today.
Day 1: Sapa to Lao Chai
We will leave Sapa in the morning and trek down to Cat Cat village, taking in the picturesque waterfall at the bottom of the hill. After a slight retrace of steps (but not all the way back up!) we will take a turn towards Y Linh Ho and begin a 2km walk through rice terraces.
Y Linh Ho is home to the Hmong minority, and their hereditary rice terraces are around 100 years old. This is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in true Hmong culture!
From Y Linh Ho we will make our way to Lao Chai, an established Hmong minority village which has been inhabited for centuries. See the products of this minority at its best, with established rice terraces, homes and a vibrant community.
You will be welcomed warmly by Mai and her family who run the first ever homestay owned and run by Hmong minority in the Sapa region. Sapa O'Chau supported Mai in setting up this homestay and we hope it’s the first of many!
Overnight in Sapa. 14km hiking total. Lunch | Dinner
Day 2: Lao Chai to Ban Ho Village
When you awake, open the window and have a look outside. Weather permitting, you will be treated to amazing views across the rice terraces in the valley.
After breakfast you will make your way to Ta Van where you will visit the Giay minority people. This tribe traditionally fished for a living and as a result established themselves close to rivers. They have mastered the art of fishing with bamboo sticks, and cook the fish inside bamboo. Nowadays however you are more likely to see the Giay working in fields planting or harvesting rice.
We will continue our walk through an impressive bamboo forest to Giang Ta Chai, and then on to the village of Su Pan where you will be able to rest your legs and take in the stunning mountain scenery as we stop for a picnic lunch.
Feeling revitalized we will hike the final 6km to Ban Ho village where we will spend the night at a Tay people’s homestay. Their houses are particularly special as they are built on stilts overlooking rice terraces. Dinner will be cooked on an open fire, and some local specialty rice wine will be on offer to help you wind down!
Overnight in Ban Ho. 16km hiking total. Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 3: Ban Ho Village to Sapa
You will know when it’s time to wake up when you hear the patter of feet on bamboo as the household comes alive.
After a filling breakfast in the homestay we will walk 3km to Nam Toong village, home to the Red Dao minority. Providing the weather is nice you will be able to cool off with a swim in the river. If the weather’s not so nice, you still can if you’re feeling brave!
Lunch will be provided back at the Ban Ho homestay, after which we will drive back to Sapa, arriving at around 3pm with a great sense of achievement!
Overnight in Sapa. 8km hiking total. Breakfast | Lunch
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Included: Meals as indicated above, tour guide, transport, homestay fee, village and entrance fees.
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