Itinerary
Embark on an incredible 12-day trekking tour through Northern Vietnam, spanning from Hanoi to the remote areas of Bac Ha, Lung Phin, Ta Cu Ty, Nam Chien, Thu Ta, Ban Luoc, and Ho Thau. This adventure travel journey immerses you in the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Ha Giang and Hoang Su Phi districts, nestled beneath the majestic Tay Con Linh Mountain ranges. Discover the lives of 13 ethnic minority groups, including the Tay, Nung, Hmong, and Zao, whose fertile rice fields create spectacular terraced rice paddies that are now recognized as national heritage.
As one of the premier community-based tourism providers in Vietnam, Snail Adventure Tours offers an authentic experience combining cultural immersion, outdoor trekking activities, and sustainable tourism. Our carefully crafted trekking routes take you through remote villages, untouched valleys, and scenic highlands, showcasing the natural beauty and rich traditions of the area. From Lung Phin to San Sa Ho, each day provides a unique opportunity to explore Vietnam's ethnic villages, observe traditional lifestyles, and enjoy panoramic views of Hoang Su Phi's terraced fields, mountain trails, and remote hamlets.
This trekking adventure is suitable for those with good physical fitness and previous trekking experience, as the trails can be challenging. The best time to undertake this journey is from May to September, when the landscape is most vibrant with rice and corn farming. However, the trek is available year-round, and our guides ensure your safety and comfort at all times.
Trekking tours like this one not only provide an adrenaline-packed adventure but also contribute to the local economy, helping to improve the livelihoods of the local communities and preserve their cultural heritage. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, our tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the ethnic diversity and natural wonders of North Vietnam, creating memories that will last a lifetime. From cycling tours to trekking routes, Snail Adventure Tours ensures you’ll have a remarkable and meaningful travel experience in the heart of Northern Vietnam's mountains.
This trek offers an extraordinary way to connect with the people and cultures of Bac Ha, Hoang Su Phi, and the wider Ha Giang province, offering unparalleled insights into Vietnam’s ethnic minorities and their sustainable farming practices. With comfortable home-stays, authentic meals, and a chance to experience life in one of the most remote regions of Vietnam, Snail Adventure Tours is the perfect gateway for your next Vietnam trekking adventure.
Day 1: Hanoi – Arrival
Welcome to Vietnam! Your adventure begins as you arrive at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, the bustling capital city of Vietnam. A representative from Snail Adventure Tours will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of Hanoi. This city is a blend of ancient charm and modern dynamism, boasting colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and picturesque lakes. After checking in, take some time to relax and acclimate. Later, enjoy a cyclo ride through the lively streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, a maze of narrow alleys and colonial-style buildings where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. To cap off your first day, a special welcome dinner at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant awaits you, offering a glimpse into the local cuisine. Afterward, return to your hotel to rest, preparing for the exciting days ahead.
Summary:
Activities: transferring and meeting our group
Accommodation: Flower Garden Hotel ****
Meals :D
Transfer distance: 35 K
Day 2: Hanoi – Lao Cai – Bac Ha
After a hearty breakfast, leave the city behind and set out on a scenic 5-hour drive to Lao Cai, a northern province of Vietnam. The journey will take you through stunning landscapes and lush countryside, offering panoramic views of the hills and valleys. Upon arrival in Lao Cai, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, continue on a 1-hour drive to Bac Ha, a picturesque town surrounded by rolling hills and lush green valleys. After checking in at your hotel, take a leisurely walk around the town and explore the vibrant hill tribe culture, getting a first-hand look at the ethnic minorities who inhabit the region. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Summary:
Activities: Transfering and warming up trekking
Accommodations:Ngan Nga Hotel
Meals:B/L/D
Trekking distance: Warming up trekking
Day 3: Bac Ha – Lung Phin – Ta Cu Ty
Today marks the first full day of trekking. After breakfast at your hotel, begin your journey with a short drive to the trekking start point. The adventure takes you to Lung Phin Commune, where the trekking trail begins. The first part of the trek leads through Ta Chai Village of the Phu La ethnic group, passing through narrow valleys and beautiful hills. This will be followed by a 3-hour trek with several photo stops along the way. After a break for lunch, continue trekking towards Lu Suoi Tung Village of the Flower Hmong. Here, you’ll spend 2 hours walking through the village, visiting a local school, and meeting Hmong families. The trek ends with an 8-km road transfer to Ta Cu Ty Commune, where you'll check in at a home-stay. The area offers stunning views of Ban Gia Valley and its picturesque rice terraces.
Summary:
Activities: Transferring and Trekking
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals: B/L/D
Trekking Distance: 15- 18 Km/ 5- 7 hours
Day 4: Ta Cu Ty – Nam Dan – Nam Chien
After a filling breakfast with your hosts, begin your trek with two route options:
Option 1 (Hard Trek): A challenging 3-hour trek will take you through Ban Gia Valley to Song Lam Village of the Nung ethnic group, followed by a 2.5-hour trek uphill through thick bamboo forests and rainforests to Nam Dan Mountain. Upon reaching Nam Chien, visit an ancient rock-field with mysterious scripts carved by past civilizations.
Option 2 (Medium Trek): This route follows a 3-hour trek through Ban Gia Valley to Sin Chai Village before reaching Nam Dan Village. Enjoy a more relaxed trek with a visit to Nam Chien, where you’ll encounter local culture and ancient rock inscriptions. At the end of the trek, both groups will return to Nam Chien Village for a night’s stay at a local home-stay.
Summary:
Activities: Trekking from Homestay - Homestay
Accommodation:Ecohomestay
Meals: B/L/D
Trekking Distance:15 – 20 Km/ 5- 7 Hours
Day 5: Nam Chien – Che La – Coc Dong
Following an early breakfast with your host, you’ll begin trekking on a narrow path downhill towards the Nam Chien Stream, crossing via a suspension bridge. The trek continues uphill to Che La Village, where you'll have a chance to visit the Nung ethnic group and enjoy lunch. Afterward, you'll continue through White H'mong villages, where locals may invite you into their homes for tea. This trek ends in Coc Dong Village, home to the Red H'mong. After a day of exploring, enjoy a peaceful evening in a H'mong family home-stay.
Summary:
Activities: Trekking from Homestay - Homestay
Accommodation: Ecohomstay
Meals: B/L/D
Trekking Distance:14- 18 Km/ 4- 6 hours
Day 6: Coc Dong – Thu Ta
Today’s trek takes you to the western side of the Kiou Leou Ti Mountain Range, where you'll trek through rainforests and pass isolated H'mong and Zao villages. After a picnic lunch, continue trekking down to Thu Ta Commune, home to the White H'mong. The landscape here is dominated by terraced rice paddies, and you’ll be greeted by local farmers as you pass through. The day ends with a stay at a local eco-homestay, where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the valley.
Summary:
Activities: Trekking from Homestay - Homestay
Accommodation: Ecohomstay
Meals: B/L/D
Trekking Distance: 18 -20 Km/ 5- 7 hours
Day 7: Thu Ta – Nam Don – San Sa Ho
After breakfast, continue your journey to Nang Don Commune, where the terrain becomes more rugged. You'll trek for 2 hours through the mountainous landscape before arriving at San Sa Ho, a commune in the Hoang Su Phi National Heritage area. The trek passes through wild forests and terraced fields, offering spectacular views of the valley. You’ll be welcomed by the local Nung ethnic group and enjoy a night at a home-stay.
Summary:
Activities: Trekking From Homestay - Homestay
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals: B/L/D
Trekking Distance: 17- 20 Km/ 5 – 7 hours
Day 8: San Sa Ho – Ban Luoc – Ho Xan – Ho Thau
Today’s trek takes you through San Sa Ho Valley, where you’ll walk for 2 hours through Nung and Blue H'mong villages, before continuing uphill to a Black Zao village. After lunch, follow the trail to Ban Luoc Valley, a part of Hoang Su Phi's National Heritage, known for its impressive terraced fields. The day ends in Ho Xan Village, home to the Red Zao, where you’ll stay in a home-stay and experience the rich culture of this ethnic group.
Summary:
Activities: Treeking from Homestay - Homestay
Accommodation: Ecohomestay
Meals: B/L/D
Trekking Distance: 17 – 20 Km/ 5 – 8 hours:
Day 9: Ho Thau – Nam Son – Nam Dich
On this easier day, you’ll walk mostly downhill through Ho Thau Valley, visiting villages of the Nung and Red Zao communities. After a peaceful walk along the Nam Dich River, enjoy a picnic lunch by the water, followed by a brief uphill trek before arriving at Nam Dich Junction for your home-stay. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the river and unwind before your next adventure.
Summary:
Activities: Trekking Frm Homestay - Homestay
Accommodation: Ecohomestay in Nam Dich Village of the Red Zao People.
Meals: B/l/D
Trekking Distance: 15- 18 Km/ 5 – 7 Hours
Day 10: Nam Dich – Tan Xa Phin
Today’s trek takes you through lush forests and bamboo plantations to Le Hong Phong Village of the Tay ethnic group. After a break in a local Tay stilt house, continue trekking to Tan Xa Phin Village of the Black Zao people. Enjoy the stunning views of Phin Ho Valley and witness the impressive terraced rice fields along the way. The day ends at a home-stay in Tan Xa Phin, where you'll relax and reflect on the day's experiences.
Summary:
Activities: Trekking
Accommodation: Ecohomestay in Black Dao
Meals: B/L/D
Trekking Distance: 16 – 19 Km/ 5- 7 Hours
Day 11: Tan Xa Phin – Nam Ty – Thong Nguyen
On the penultimate day, trek through the Nam Ty Valley, passing through H'mong and Zao villages. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Nam Ty Stream before continuing through tea farms and rice paddies. The final stretch of your trek offers panoramic views of the Nam Ty Valley. After arriving at Panhou Ecolodge, relax and unwind as the trek concludes.
Summary:
Activities: Trekking From Homestay - Thong Nguyen Retreat
Accommodation: Pan Hou Retreat
Meals: B/L/D
Trekking Distance:17- 20 Km/5- 7 Hours
Day 12: Thong Nguyen – Tan Quang – Hanoi
After breakfast, depart Panhou Ecolodge and make your way back to Hanoi, stopping for a visit to a tea farm along the way. After a lunch break in Yen Son, Tuyen Quang, continue your journey and arrive in Hanoi by evening. The tour concludes with a farewell dinner before you check into your hotel for the night.
Summary:
Activities:Market visiting Transferring
Accommodation:Flower Garden Hotel****
Meals: B/l/D
Transfer distance: 280 km
Note: Hotels are subject to change due to availability. In that case we will choose equivalent accommodation
Meals: if you have any specific food requirements ( vegetarian, vegan, food allergies) please inform us in advance so that we can provide notice to our restaurant, tour guide, our partners so that they can server you better. If you are a food lover, Snail Adventure tours can be your culinary guide and provide you opportunity to savor tempting local food and world famous cusine.
What’s included
English speaking Trekking guide ( other languages upon requests)
Accommodations are based on double/ twin occupancy
Private Eco homestay village based on size of group
Meals details in itineraries ( 11 breakfast, 11 lunches, 12 dinners)
Van or bus transfer And supported and carry luggage to homestay each day.
Sightseeing excursions as outlined itineraries
First aid kit
Cold water box, small fresh towel.
Mineral water for drinking
Support crew to supply picnic lunches and water on trekking day, prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner in trekking.
Local trekking guide
What is not included
International airfare
Travel insurance
Items of personal nature
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks in meals
Mineral water beyon Itinerary
Policy
Policy updating.
Terms & Conditions
Terms & Conditions Updating.