sapa adventure

Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi/Overnight train to Lao Cai

Staying in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, there is so much to explore just outside the door. Tour the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum complex before giving in to the temptation of the many street stalls selling local snacks and souvenirs. Wander around the parks and lakes that help make Hanoi one of the greenest cities in Asia or sit and spot the turtles in Hoan Kiem Lake. Board a sleeper train through dramatic mountainous terrain to Sapa, the homeland of Vietnam's many minorities.

Days 2-3 Sapa

There's time to trek to Cat Cat village, home to the H'mong hilltribe. Meet Blue and Black H'mong tribespeople and perhaps pick up local handicrafts at the colourful village market. Ta Phin village can be reached by xe om (motorbike taxi) and offers a wonderful insight into the lives of the Dao people. The women here are particularly striking, with their jewel-studded scarlet turbans and shaved eyebrows.

Day 4 Sapa/Overnight train to Hanoi

Stretch those legs on a long, scenic trek along buffalo paths. Stop in at friendly hilltribe villages, enjoy a picnic lunch and spend a memorable night in the home of a Zay family in Ta Van village. Zay tribespeople are adept at rice cultivation and are responsible for tending to the manicured terraces that stretch as far as the eye can see. Hike through more stunning rural countryside before returning to Sapa by private vehicle. There's time for a warming cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee in one of the many local cafes before boarding a sleeper train back to the capital.

Day 5 Hanoi

The adventure comes full circle in Hanoi. Perhaps stay a little longer to further soak up the vibrant atmosphere.