Northern Vietnam’s Hidden Trails – Trekking the Path from Sapa to Ha Giang
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12 people
Group tour
Difficulty: normal
Distance:
Embark on an unforgettable trekking adventure through Northern Vietnam’s most stunning and remote landscapes, from the breathtaking rice terraces of Sapa to the majestic peaks and hidden valleys of Ha Giang. This journey is designed for those seeking both adventure and immersion in the unique cultures of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities.
Starting in Sapa, you’ll trek through terraced fields, visit remote H'mong and Dzao villages, and experience the vibrant mountain culture. As you continue northwards to Mù Cang Chải and Bắc Hà, you’ll explore winding paths that take you deeper into Vietnam’s highlands, where the landscapes are at their most dramatic.
The journey then takes you to the Hoàng Su Phì and Hà Giang regions, famous for their steep mountain ridges, lush forests, and ethnic villages that have remained untouched by modern life. You’ll trek through winding mountain roads, visit the iconic Quan Ba Twin Mountains, and reach Mèo Vạc, a remote district surrounded by towering karst formations and the famous Ma Pi Leng Pass.
This trek offers a perfect blend of rugged nature, rich culture, and authentic experiences, making it ideal for trekkers and adventure lovers eager to uncover the hidden gems of Northern Vietnam.
Northern Vietnam's Hidden Trails Trekking Tour Schedule – From Sapa to Ha Giang
Depart Hanoi’s Old Quarter for a 2-hour drive to Duong Lam, a UNESCO-listed ancient village. Explore 100-400-year-old houses, temples, and gardens dedicated to two kings who repelled a Chinese invasion 1,200 years ago. After a 2-4 hour visit, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Continue your journey through rural landscapes, passing rice paddies and karst formations, before reaching Nghia Lo. Stay overnight in a traditional White Thai homestay.- 2-4 hour flat walk.
Start early with a peaceful bicycle ride through paddy fields, observing villagers at work with their animals. Enjoy breakfast with a view of the fields before heading over the Khau Pha Mountain Pass, passing spectacular rice terraces in Tu Le. After lunch, visit Nam Co Village to see the Flower H'mong people in their colorful attire and, if the timing is right, explore a local market. Continue to La Pan Tan and Mam Soi for a 3km trek with stunning views of rice fields before heading to Kim Noi village for an overnight stay at Mrs. Chon’s Thai homestay.
- 5-7 km trek.
After breakfast, a local guide will take you on the longest trek of the tour, from Kim Noi Village to Hang Dang De, then on to Che Cu Nha. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning rice terraces before continuing to La Pan Tan. Afterward, you'll be picked up and driven back for a second night at Mrs. Chon’s homestay.
- 15-17 km trek.
After breakfast, drive from Mu Cang Chai through Tan Uyen to Sapa, crossing the scenic Sin Ho Pass. Enjoy lunch and explore Sapa before trekking to Giang Ta Chai Village for dinner and an overnight stay in a Dao ethnic house.
- 4-6 km trek.
Start with a 3km trek to Suoi Ho Village, home to the H’mong community, offering stunning views of rice terraces. Continue to Ma Tra Village for photos, then trek to Ta Phin to meet Black Hmong and Red Dao minorities, known for their herbal medicine expertise. Optionally, enjoy a Red Dao herbal bath. Dinner and overnight in a Ta Phin homestay.
- 12-15 km trek.
After breakfast, drive from Sapa through Lao Cai, following the river along the China border to Muong Khuong. Enjoy scenic views of black limestone outcrops and pine forests. After lunch in Muong Khuong, travel south through mountain villages to La Pan Tan, where you’ll stay in a rustic homestay with stunning views.
After breakfast, drive from La Pan Tan to Coc Ly, passing the scenic Chay River. If it's Tuesday, you may visit the Coc Ly market. Enjoy a relaxing boat trip on the Chay River to Coc Dao, then drive to Bac Ha. After lunch, visit the Hoang A Tuong Palace, a blend of baroque and oriental architecture built in 1920 with French assistance. Dinner and overnight in a Bac Ha homestay.
On Sunday, visit the Bac Ha and Coc Pai markets (or Can Cau market on Saturday). After lunch in Coc Pai, travel to the Ban May rice fields and meet the La Chi people. Overnight in a homestay.
Trek from Dong Loi to Suoi Thau, passing through terraced rice fields and La Chi villages. Stop for a picnic in Thang Loi Village and visit ancient tombs, including that of Hoang Van Thung. After a 20km trek, return to the homestay for dinner and rest.
After breakfast, drive down a steep winding road through terraced rice fields, stopping for photos and enjoying the morning light. Continue through Hoang Su Phi, crossing Tan Su Phin and Cong Troi passes, offering stunning views. Stay overnight in a Tay stilt house.
Trek off the beaten track to Lung Vai (6-8 hours), meeting Man and Dao ethnic communities. Enjoy a picnic lunch and continue to Khuoi My, passing farmers at work. Visit Ban Tha Village before being driven to Nam Dam for dinner and an overnight stay at a Dao house.
- Includes 15-17 km trek.
In the morning, we head to Dong Van via Cong Troi Pass and Yen Minh, stopping at the King’s Palace in Sa Phin, built in the early 20th century. The area is known for its corn plantations. After lunch in the vibrant Dong Van market, we continue through the stunning Ma Pi Leng Pass to Meo Vac, known for its breathtaking views. We will overnight in a H’mong home.
Today, we drive along a scenic route to Bac Me and then on to Ha Giang, passing through palm plantations where Tay people live in traditional stilt houses with palm leaf roofs. This area is less touristy, offering a glimpse into the unspoiled rural lifestyle. In Ha Giang, you'll stay in a riverside bungalow.
We head back to Hanoi, passing through stunning scenery, from mountains to tea plantations and rice paddies. After a lunch stop, we’ll reach Hanoi by early afternoon, giving you some time to explore the city or relax after your adventure.
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