This 6 day trip includes 3 days of trekking through many unique and remote villages. Three nights are spent with local tribes, in comfortable homestays, getting acquainted with traditional mountain village life. The genuine hospitality of these people will ensure a truly unforgettable experience. This trip is perfect for anyone who wants to get off the beaten track.

Day 1: Hanoi
Depart Hanoi in the evening on the overnight train to Lao Cai on the Vietnamese - Chinese border.

Day 2: Lao Cai - Sapa
Upon arrival at Lao Cai we drive 35km to the former hill station of Sapa. In the afternoon we embark on a walk into the nearby Cat Cat valley, meeting some Hmong villages along the way. Later we drive to the Red Dao village of Ta Phin nestled in a picturesque valley. Overnight in Sapa town.(B,L)

Day 3: Sapa - Lao Chai - Ta van - Thanh Phu (Trekking distance: 20 km)
This morning we drive 7km to Lao Chai, walking downhill to visit Lao Chai, the village of the Back H’Mong people. We then continue to walk 2 hours to visit the Zay minority at Ta Van where the jeep will transfer us a further 12km along. Enjoy the picturesque scenery along the way and diverse ethnic minorities. We then continue trekking downhill to Thanh Phu the most beautiful valley where we will spend the night in a stilt house of the Tay people. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Thanh Phu - Xa Pho - Nam Toong - Nam Ken - Ban Ho. (Trekking distance: 20 km)
After breakfast we trek to the village of the Xa Pho tribe, the smallest ethnic group in Sapa who have very little contact with modern Vietnam. We continue to trek up to Namtoong, to visit the Nam Ken Village of Red Zao where we stay overnight.

Day 5: Ban ho-Su pan-Sapa (Trekking distance: 5 km)
Enjoy a morning exploring the village or go swimming at the Lavie Waterfall. We have a small uphill walk to our waiting vehicle before transferring to Lao Cai Train station for the overnight train to Hanoi. (B,L)

Day 6: Sapa - Hanoi
Upon arrival at Hanoi station you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Trip price: please enquire for availability and cost

Tour includes:
·    All accommodation at standard guest house
·    Meals as mentioned (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner)
·    English speaking guide on land tour
·    Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air-conditioned vehicle
·    Sightseeing fees and permits during guided time

Joining instructions
You will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi. Pick up time will be given on confirmation of your booking.

Transport
Air-conditioned vehicle and overnight train (tourist 1st class)

What to take
You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage while trekking, therefore it is in your own interest to pack as lightly as possible. We suggest you keep your luggage weight down to a maximum of 10 kg with a reasonable daypack for the day treks. Comfortable walking boots are essential for the walks especially during the wettest months of the year.

Fitness Requirements
There are no specific fitness requirements for this trip, although please note that the Vietnamese climate is probably hotter and more humid than you would otherwise be used to.