This mini adventure includes 2 nights on the sleeper train, 1 night in a hotel and 1 night in a hilltribe homestay. For those wanting a little extra comfort, you can upgrade your sleeper train and hotel…however – one thing is for sure – the homestay is not to be missed! This provides a unique glimpse into local hilltribe life and the local hospitality is very memorable.  Enjoy the fresh air, lush green landscapes, fresh rivers and the delicious home cooking of the traditional homestays.

 

Day 1: Hanoi - Sapa
Let the journey begin! Tonight we will board the night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai Station, near the border of China.

Day 2: Sapa
Our adventure starts with the drive from Lao Cai Station to the mountain town of Sapa. This journey will take 1 hour, but the drive is worthwhile, as the scenery on our northward journey into the highlands is both dramatic and breathtaking. Arriving in Sapa around 8AM we freshen up with a good breakfast. After lunch, we will walk to the nearby Cat Cat valley, visiting H’mong villages. Then drive to the colorful Red Dao village of Ta Phin nestled in a picturesque valley.  Overnight in Sapa town. (B)

Day 3: Sapa
Begin trekking through the spectacular scenery visiting several Dao and Tay villages before arriving at the Red Dao village of Sin Chai where we will be their guests for tonight in traditional bamboo huts. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Sapa
Walk to My Son village belonging to the Xafo people. From here we proceed to another Red Dao village for lunch before descending to Ban Ho village for a swim in the nearby La Vie waterfall. Drive to Lao Cai for our overnight train back to Hanoi. (B,L)

Day 5: Hanoi
Upon arrival at Hanoi Station (around 5am) 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.

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.

 

"Khan is fantastic and a real professional. He was on top of everything. There was a problem with my luggage and hotel and he was on top of everything. I feel very fortunate to have had Khan as my guide, I wanted to enjoy the Vietnamese culture and he did so many special things - eating at local food stills, adjusting the tours to do what I wanted to do. He was always there to help, smiling and cheerful. He helped make my time in Hanoi-Sapa exactly the experience I wanted it to be. Hong Ngoc is a very nice hotel. I love eating all the local Vietnamese food at the place that Khan took me to. His restaurant recommendation were also good. All transportation was clean and comfortable. Mr Minh made planning my trip very easy. Travelling alone, I feel Buffalo did a great job of suggesting ideas and incorporating my ideas, which is important. Thank you for a wonderful time in Hanoi. I know the rest of my trip will be just as enjoyable. I again want you to know that Khan really made my time here fantastic. He is a real asset to your company."

 

Goani Nelson, USA