Explore the Ultimate 10-Day Cao Bang - Ba Be Trekking Tour:An Unforgettable Adventure in Northern Vietnam

Embark on an unforgettable 10-day hiking tour in Far North Vietnam, trekking through the remote and breathtaking landscapes of Cao Bang and Ba Be National Park. This adventure takes you off the beaten path, immersing you in the unspoiled beauty of Northern Vietnam’s karst mountains, lush valleys, and ethnic minority villages.

Begin your journey from Hanoi to Ta Lung, where the adventure starts along scenic trails near the Chinese border. Hike through the hidden gems of Ha Lang, Khuoi Ky, and Quay Son, where you’ll witness traditional Tay and Nung villages, stunning limestone formations, and the emerald-green waters of the Quay Son River.  Traverse through Po Tau, Than Giap, and Ban Bung, exploring untouched nature, terraced rice fields, and dense forests that showcase the wild heart of Cao Bang trekking routes.

As you continue towards Pia Thap and Nam Tra, experience authentic local culture and breathtaking highland landscapes before reaching the serene beauty of Ba Be National Park, home to Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lake. This Vietnam off-the-beaten-path trek offers adventure seekers a perfect blend of scenic trails, cultural immersion, and eco-tourism experiences. Whether you’re hiking past Ban Gioc Waterfall, crossing lush jungle paths, or staying in cozy homestays, this multi-day trek in Northern Vietnam is ideal for nature lovers and explorers. Join us for a Cao Bang to Ba Be hiking itinerary that promises stunning vistas, rich cultural encounters, and an adventure unlike any other!

Day 1: Hanoi – Lang Son – That Khe – Ta Lung – Vinh Quy – Grass Meadow (12 km)

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we leave behind the bustling capital and embark on an exciting journey into Northeast Vietnam, kicking off our 10-day hiking tour in Far North Vietnam. Our scenic 5-hour drive from Hanoi to Cao Bang takes us through spectacular landscapes, passing lush rice fields, terraced valleys, palm forests, and traditional hill tribe villages. Along the 280 km route, admire the unique stilt houses of the Tay and Nung ethnic minorities, nestled against the dramatic limestone karsts of Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark.  Upon arrival in Dong Khe, we enjoy a delicious local lunch before transferring to the starting point of our Cao Bang trekking adventure. Led by an experienced local guide, we set off on a 12 km trek through diverse terrain, navigating dirt trails, single tracks, and narrow concrete roads that wind through remote villages and scenic streams. As we ascend, the landscape opens into a breathtaking grass meadow with panoramic views of Cao Bang’s rugged mountains—a perfect introduction to the untouched beauty of Northern Vietnam trekking routes. After soaking in the stunning scenery, we descend into a traditional Tay ethnic village, where we experience an authentic homestay, enjoying warm hospitality, a home-cooked meal, and insight into the local culture. This immersive day marks the start of an unforgettable Vietnam off-the-beaten-path hike, setting the tone for the thrilling days ahead on our Cao Bang to Ba Be trekking itinerary.

Day 2: Vinh Quy – Ha Lang – Khuoi Ky Stone Village (20 km)

Rise early to embrace the serene beauty of Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, a breathtaking region known for its limestone karsts, lush valleys, and rich ethnic culture. After a hearty breakfast, we take a short 10 km transfer to our trekking point, where our Cao Bang hiking adventure continues. Today's journey immerses us in the untouched beauty of Northeast Vietnam, trekking through verdant rice paddies, tranquil streams, and traditional Tay and Nung villages—offering a glimpse into the authentic rural life of Northern Vietnam.  Midday, we pause for a scenic picnic lunch in a remote village, enjoying the peaceful surroundings before tackling the rugged limestone mountains and dense canopied forests. This section of the Cao Bang to Ba Be trekking itinerary presents a thrilling challenge, rewarding us with panoramic views of Vietnam’s karst landscapes and hidden trails untouched by mass tourism. As the sun begins to set, we descend into the picturesque Khuoi Ky Ancient Stone Village, an extraordinary settlement where centuries-old stone houses reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Tay ethnic group. Here, we settle into a traditional Tay homestay, experiencing warm hospitality, authentic local cuisine, and a glimpse into the daily life of ethnic minorities in Northern Vietnam. This off-the-beaten-path trek in Vietnam offers an unforgettable cultural and natural immersion, setting the stage for the adventures ahead.

Day 3: Khuoi Ky – Nguom Ngao – Na Ay – Quay Son River (20 km)

Wake up to the tranquil beauty of Khuoi Ky Ancient Stone Village, nestled in the heart of Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark. After a traditional Tay ethnic breakfast, we set off on a 5 km trek to the awe-inspiring Nguom Ngao Cave, a spectacular 300-million-year-old limestone cavern known for its magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. This hidden gem in Northern Vietnam’s karst landscape offers a mesmerizing underground adventure.  Leaving the cave behind, our Cao Bang Trekking adventure continues with an exhilarating mountain ascent, rewarding us with breathtaking panoramic views of Ban Gioc Waterfall—the world’s fourth-largest cross-border waterfall. This iconic natural wonder of Northeast Vietnam, surrounded by lush forests and ancient Buddhist pagodas, is a must-see highlight of our off-the-beaten-path trek.

After soaking in the beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfall, we descend towards the Quay Son River, where emerald waters wind through a dreamlike landscape of rice terraces, bamboo groves, and traditional Tay and Nung villages. Trekking along the riverbank, we immerse ourselves in the rural charm of Cao Bang, encountering friendly locals and capturing postcard-perfect scenery. As the sun sets, we arrive at a scenic homestay along the Quay Son River, where we enjoy an authentic ethnic minority experience, savoring home-cooked Vietnamese cuisine and unwinding in a peaceful riverside setting. This multi-day trekking experience in Northern Vietnam combines adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an unforgettable part of our Cao Bang to Ba Be hiking itinerary.

Day 4: Quay Son – Po Tau (20 km)

Wake up to a breathtaking sunrise over Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural wonders. After a hearty Tay ethnic breakfast at our riverside homestay, we continue our Cao Bang hiking adventure, following the emerald waters of the Quay Son River—a route lined with towering limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and traditional hill tribe villages. This off-the-beaten-path trek in Northern Vietnam immerses you in the region’s unspoiled beauty, offering endless photo opportunities along the way.

At midday, we pause for a scenic riverside lunch, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Northeast Vietnam’s rural landscapes. In the afternoon, our journey continues through hidden ethnic villages, bamboo forests, and rolling valleys, where you’ll experience the authentic daily life of the Tay and Nung minorities.  As the sun dips below the mountains, we arrive in Po Tau Village, a charming and secluded community surrounded by Cao Bang’s untouched landscapes. Here, we settle into a traditional homestay, where we enjoy a home-cooked meal and gain insight into the unique cultural traditions of the region. This immersive multi-day trekking experience in Vietnam offers the perfect combination of adventure, nature, and cultural discovery, making it a highlight of the Cao Bang to Ba Be trekking itinerary.

Day 5: Po Tau – Than Giap (18 km)

Begin your day with a nourishing Tay-style breakfast in the remote Po Tau Village, surrounded by the untouched beauty of Cao Bang’s limestone landscapes. As we set off on today’s leg of our Cao Bang to Ba Be trekking itinerary, we traverse rocky trails and rolling hills, revealing breathtaking panoramic valley views of Northeast Vietnam’s karst mountains and lush rice terraces. This off-the-beaten-path hiking route offers a perfect mix of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion.  As we descend through vibrant rice paddies and remote ethnic villages, we take a break for a traditional home-cooked lunch in a local Tay or Nung village, where we experience the warm hospitality of Northern Vietnam’s ethnic minorities.  In the afternoon, our trek continues along a winding single-track trail, weaving between towering mountains, tranquil streams, and thick jungle forests. This scenic yet challenging route showcases the hidden gems of Cao Bang trekking trails, making it a rewarding experience for adventure seekers.  By late afternoon, we arrive at Than Giap Village, where we settle into a cozy ethnic homestay, enjoying a refreshing drink and a well-earned rest. This immersive multi-day trekking experience in Vietnam is the perfect way to connect with local culture, stunning landscapes, and authentic rural life, making it an unforgettable stop on our 10-day hiking adventure in Far North Vietnam.

Day 6: Than Giap – Ban Bung (18 km)

Wake up to the peaceful sounds of Than Giap Village, where a hearty Tay-style breakfast fuels the next leg of our Cao Bang to Ba Be trekking adventure. We begin the day by crossing the Bac Vong River, stepping deeper into the untouched landscapes of Northern Vietnam. As we trek through traditional tribal villages, we encounter the rich culture and daily life of the Tay and Nung ethnic minorities, passing bamboo forests, terraced rice fields, and limestone karsts that define the beauty of Cao Bang’s trekking routes.  The journey continues with a scenic ascent through hilly terrain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Northeast Vietnam’s rugged landscapes. This section of the trek showcases the off-the-beaten-path beauty of Vietnam, with winding trails, misty valleys, and peaceful rural settings creating a truly immersive experience. By late afternoon, we reach Ban Bung Village, a charming Tay ethnic settlement surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains. Here, we settle into a traditional homestay, where we enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner, experiencing the warm hospitality of Northern Vietnam’s hill tribes. This multi-day hiking experience blends adventure, culture, and nature, making it an unforgettable part of our 10-day trekking tour in Far North Vietnam.

Day 7: Ban Bung – Quang Uyen – Pia Thap (14 km)

Start your day with a traditional Tay-style breakfast in Ban Bung Village, preparing for another incredible day of trekking through Northern Vietnam’s untouched landscapes. A short transfer brings us to Quang Uyen, where we embark on a breathtaking hike through limestone mountains, scenic rice terraces, and vast maize fields—a perfect showcase of the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark’s natural beauty.   As we journey deeper into this off-the-beaten-path trekking route, we arrive in Phia Thap Village, a charming Tay ethnic community renowned for its centuries-old incense-making tradition. Here, we gain insight into the Tay people’s customs, culture, and craftsmanship, experiencing firsthand their rich heritage and way of life in Northeast Vietnam. As evening falls, we settle into a cozy Tay homestay, where we enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner while watching a spectacular sunset over the limestone peaks from the balcony. This peaceful, immersive experience perfectly blends adventure, cultural exploration, and scenic beauty, making it another highlight of our Cao Bang to Ba Be trekking itinerary.

Day 8: Phia Thap – Lan Duoi – Lung Ri – Nam Tra (18 km)

After a homemade Tay-style breakfast in Phia Thap Village, we set off on an exciting day of trekking through Northern Vietnam’s rugged landscapes. Our first stop is Lan Duoi Village, renowned for its traditional bamboo basket weaving. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to try your hand at this time-honored craft, immersing yourself in the local culture of Northeast Vietnam’s ethnic communities.  Continuing on our Cao Bang to Ba Be trekking adventure, we journey to Lung Ri Village, where we are treated to a delicious home-cooked meal, made with fresh, local ingredients. Our path takes us through scenic meadows and dramatic limestone pinnacles, offering stunning views of the karst mountains that define the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark.  As we trek towards Pac Rang, a traditional blacksmith village, we observe the skilled craftsmanship of the local blacksmiths. We then proceed to Phi Hai Village, where a support vehicle awaits to take us to our next stop, an eco-farmstay. This serene and sustainable accommodation offers the perfect opportunity to unwind after an immersive day of cultural and natural exploration. This off-the-beaten-path trek in Vietnam blends adventure, local culture, and eco-tourism, making it an unforgettable part of our Cao Bang to Ba Be hiking itinerary.

Day 9: Na Ma – Pac Po – Cao Bang – Ba Be (18 km)

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Na Ma before transferring to the Pac Po Historical Monument, one of Northeast Vietnam's most significant historical sites. In 1941, Ho Chi Minh returned to Vietnam here, marking a pivotal moment in the country's history. Take time to learn about the historic significance of Pac Po and explore the scenic surroundings, including the famous Khuoi Nhi waterfall and peaceful riverside paths.  After soaking in the history, we journey back to Cao Bang and continue our hiking adventure in Far North Vietnam. Our trek takes us through lush rice paddies, traditional villages, and picturesque limestone landscapes as we make our way toward Ba Be Lake, Vietnam’s largest freshwater lake and a key highlight of Ba Be National Park. This day of exploration combines history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a perfect blend of historical insights and scenic views along the way. By evening, we arrive at Ba Be Lake, where we can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings as we settle in for the night, ready for another day of adventure in Vietnam’s untouched northern landscapes.

Day 10: Ba Be Lake Exploration – Hanoi

On the final day of our 10-day hiking adventure in Far North Vietnam, we embark on a scenic boat trip on Ba Be Lake, the largest natural lake in Vietnam. As we cruise through the crystal-clear waters of Ba Be National Park, we explore Puong Cave, a stunning limestone cave known for its towering rock formations and bat colonies. We also visit the Dau Dang Waterfall, a breathtaking cascade surrounded by lush jungle and dramatic karst cliffs, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility.

After a relaxing lunch by the Nang River, we continue our exploration with a short trek to Pac Ngoi Village, a picturesque Tay ethnic village nestled at the edge of Ba Be Lake. Here, we experience the local culture and traditional way of life before boarding our vehicle for the journey back to Hanoi, where our unforgettable trekking adventure in Northern Vietnam’s untouched landscapes comes to a close.  This day of exploring Ba Be Lake, trekking through ethnic villages, and enjoying Vietnam’s natural beauty is the perfect end to our immersive Cao Bang to Ba Be trekking itinerary, combining adventure, culture, and scenic wonder.

What’s Not Included:

Essential Gear for Trekking Days: