Embark on an unforgettable 9 day Northern Vietnam adventure tour that takes you deep into the heart of Vietnam's most stunning and remote landscapes. This Mu Cang Chai to Sapa trekking tour is a perfect Vietnam mountain trekking tour for those seeking a true Northern Vietnam off-the-beaten-path tour experience. Journey through breathtaking rice terraces with our Hoang Su Phi rice terrace tour, and immerse yourself in a rich Vietnam cultural trekking experience as you follow a curated Hanoi to Sapa adventure itinerary. Explore iconic destinations in our Sapa Bac Ha Hoang Su Phi tour, while discovering authentic traditions on an ethnic minority villages tour Vietnam. From the vibrant capital to the hills, this scenic Vietnam road trip from Hanoi reveals the country’s soul.

Enjoy a captivating Mu Cang Chai rice terraces tour, stay with locals on a Sapa trekking with local homestay, and explore vibrant traditions with our Bac Ha ethnic market tour. The journey from Nghia Lo to Mu Cang Chai road trip sets the stage for an authentic Vietnam cultural tour like no other. Perfect for adventure travel Northern Vietnam lovers, this remote Vietnam trekking experience includes hidden gems like the Nam Ai Nam Hong local village tour and a unique Vietnam hill tribe tour. Whether you're planning a 9 day Vietnam trekking itinerary or searching for true immersion, this tour has it all.

Designed for Northern Vietnam adventure travel enthusiasts, this route also includes hiking tours in Mu Cang Chai, and options for a thrilling Vietnam motorbike or jeep tour Mu Cang Chai. It ranks among the best rice field tours in Vietnam, and lets you explore Hoang Su Phi by foot. This Vietnam highland tour from Hanoi delivers a rich local culture tour Northern Vietnam experience, combining spectacular nature with deep-rooted traditions — truly the ultimate Vietnam nature and culture trip.

Day 1: Hanoi – Nghia Lo | Start Your 9-Day Trekking Tour Vietnam

Kick off your best 9-day trek from Hanoi to Hoang Su Phi with a delicious breakfast in Hanoi before departing for Vietnam’s breathtaking northwest. Settle into your comfortable transfer and journey through Northern Vietnam’s off-the-beaten-path trekking routes, soaking in scenic mountain vistas along the way. After roughly three hours, stop in Van Chan for a local lunch, then continue to Nghia Lo—a serene gateway to Mu Cang Chai and Sapa trekking adventures.

Upon arrival, check into your homestay, hotel, or resort and unwind amidst rolling rice terraces and ethnic Thai villages. If time allows, embark on a cultural cycling tour through ethnic minority villages, where you’ll witness daily life amid emerald paddies and misty peaks—an ideal warm-up for your Vietnam rice terraces trekking tour. Savor a traditional dinner and rest overnight in Nghia Lo, preparing for tomorrow’s Mu Cang Chai trekking tour and beyond.

Day 2: Nghia Lo – Tu Le – Mu Cang Chai | Rice Terraces & Ethnic Village Trek

Begin your Mu Cang Chai trekking tour with breakfast before departing for Tu Le, a hidden gem nestled below the legendary Khau Pha Pass - one of Vietnam's most spectacular mountain routes. This morning's soft trek through rice valleys offers your first immersive experience of Vietnam's rice terraces trekking tour, winding through emerald paddies and visiting traditional ethnic minority villages in Sapa & Bac Ha region.  After a local lunch, conquer the breathtaking Khau Pha Pass, stopping to photograph its world-famous terraced fields - a highlight of any 9-day trekking tour Vietnam. Arrive in Mu Cang Chai by late afternoon and check into your authentic homestay, perfectly positioned for tomorrow's deeper exploration of this UNESCO-recognized landscape. Cap off your day with a gentle walk through a Thai ethnic village, where you'll witness traditional stilt houses and local craftsmanship - an unforgettable cultural encounter on this off-the-beaten-path trekking in Northern Vietnam. Rest up for tomorrow's full-day Mu Cang Chai rice terraces trek, where even more stunning vistas await.

Day 3: Mu Cang Chai Trek | UNESCO Rice Terraces & H’mong Culture

Immerse yourself in the crown jewel of your 9-day trekking tour Vietnam with a full-day hike through Mu Cang Chai’s legendary rice terraces—a UNESCO-recognized landscape and highlight of any Northern Vietnam trekking adventure. Your journey begins in Che Cu Nha commune, winding 13 km through emerald staircases of paddies to La Pan Tan commune, where some of Vietnam’s most spectacular terraced fields unfold across the mountains.  This authentic hill tribe trekking experience takes you deep into H’mong villages, where you’ll witness traditional farming techniques passed down for generations.  Pause to capture breathtaking nature photography of the intricate terraces—best visited during harvest season (September–October) for golden vistas. As one of the best trekking tours in Northern Vietnam, this route combines physical challenge with cultural immersion.  After your trek, your private vehicle returns you to Mu Cang Chai, where you can rest at your homestay and reflect on the day’s adventures. Tomorrow’s journey continues toward Sapa and Bac Ha, but tonight, savor the tranquility of Vietnam’s rural highlands.

Day 4: Mu Cang Chai to Sapa – Scenic Drive, Tea Plantations, and Cultural Trekking Experience

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before departing Mu Cang Chai for the mountain town of Sapa, a top destination in Northern Vietnam renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant ethnic cultures. En route, stop at the Than Thuoc Tea Plantation for panoramic views of lush green tea hills, perfect for memorable travel photography. Continue your journey via the majestic O Quy Ho Pass, one of the most breathtaking mountain passes in Vietnam, and pause at the Silver Waterfall for more awe-inspiring scenery and photo opportunities.

Upon arrival in Sapa, enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic trekking tour to Ta Phin Valley, where you'll explore traditional villages of the Red Dao and H’mong ethnic minorities. Discover their unique customs, colorful traditional clothing, and centuries-old handicrafts. Check in to your Sapa hotel and relax for an overnight stay in this picturesque highland retreat.

Day 5: Sapa to Bac Ha – Trekking Through Rice Terraces & Hill Tribe Markets

Begin your day with an exhilarating trek down to the stunning Muong Hoa Valley, a picturesque landscape home to the Black H'mong hill tribe. As you journey through this scenic valley, marvel at the iconic rice terraces, a UNESCO recognized agricultural masterpiece. Visit the charming Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai villages, where you’ll immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the Black H'mong people.

After a fulfilling lunch in Ta Van village, continue your journey with a scenic drive to Bac Ha, a hidden gem in Northern Vietnam. Famous for its vibrant hill tribe markets, Bac Ha offers a colorful and authentic cultural experience where you can shop for traditional crafts, textiles, and fresh local produce. Arrive in Bac Ha and check in to your hotel for an overnight stay in this charming town surrounded by hills and local culture.

Day 6: Bac Ha to Hoang Su Phi to Ban Luoc – Hill Tribe Markets, Terraced Fields, and Authentic Homestay

If your visit falls on a Tuesday, Saturday, or Sunday, don’t miss the chance to explore the lively Bac Ha hill tribe markets, where you’ll find local Flower H'mong and other ethnic minorities trading everything from livestock to colorful textiles. The market is a vibrant cultural hub offering a unique opportunity to witness the rich traditions of Northern Vietnam’s hill tribes.  After immersing yourself in the market’s hustle and bustle, head to Coc Pai town for a delicious lunch. Then, continue your journey to Hoang Su Phi, renowned for its breathtaking terraced fields that stretch across the hillsides. Enjoy a scenic trek through the terraced fields, soaking in the spectacular views as you approach Ban Luoc village, home to the Tay ethnic people. Wrap up your day with a cozy homestay experience in Ban Luoc, where you’ll have the chance to connect with locals and enjoy authentic, home-cooked meals in a traditional setting. Rest for the night and immerse yourself in the peaceful rural atmosphere.

Day 7: Ban Luoc to Nam Son to Nam Ai – Scenic Trekking, Terraced Fields, and Traditional Black Yao Homestay

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before setting out on a scenic trek through the terraced fields of Ban Luoc, a region renowned for its stunning landscapes, especially during the yellow rice season. The vibrant golden hues of the rice terraces make this area a photographer’s paradise, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

After approximately 2.5 hours of trekking, continue your adventure to Nam Son Commune, where you'll embark on another uphill trek to reach the charming Nam Ai village. This village, nestled amidst lush greenery and dramatic mountain backdrops, offers a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of Northern Vietnam's hill tribes. In the evening, enjoy a warm and welcoming homestay with a Black Yao family. Experience traditional customs, savor authentic Yao cuisine, and immerse yourself in the daily life of this ethnic minority group. Spend the night in a cozy traditional home, surrounded by the serene beauty of the mountains.

Day 8: Nam Ai to Nam Hong – Trekking to Red Yao Village and Scenic Picnic Lunch

Today, embark on a memorable trek to Nam Hong village, home to the Red Yao people. This journey is mostly downhill, taking you through scenic dirt paths that wind through lush terraced fields and traditional villages, offering stunning views of the Vietnamese countryside at every step.  Along the way, enjoy a delightful picnic lunch hosted by a local family, where you’ll have the opportunity to taste authentic regional dishes and interact with the welcoming villagers. This break will provide a deeper connection to the area’s rich culture and hospitality.

Arrive in Nam Hong village by late afternoon, where you’ll unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In the evening, relax and savor a home-cooked dinner at your homestay with a local family, experiencing the warm hospitality and traditional cuisine of the Red Yao community.

Day 9: Thong Nguyen to Viet Quang to Hanoi – Scenic Drive Back and Tour Conclusion

After a hearty breakfast, pack up and begin your journey towards Thong Nguyen, with a scenic stop at Viet Quang along the way. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes as you make your way back to Hanoi, taking in the rolling hills, traditional villages, and vibrant countryside that have defined your Northern Vietnam adventure. After a long, picturesque drive, you’ll arrive in Hanoi by evening, marking the end of your unforgettable tour filled with breathtaking scenery, ethnic cultural experiences, and memorable treks. Reflect on your incredible journey through the mountains, terraced fields, and remote villages of Northern Vietnam, as you prepare for your next adventure or return home.

Important Notes

Accommodation:
Please note that hotel and homestay accommodations are subject to change based on availability. In the event of any changes, we will ensure that you are placed in equivalent or higher-quality lodging to maintain your comfort throughout the tour.

Meals & Dietary Requirements:

If you have any specific dietary requirements—such as vegetarian, vegan, or food allergies—please inform us in advance. This allows us to notify our local partners, restaurants, and guides so they can provide appropriate meals that meet your needs.

For food lovers and culinary explorers, Snail Adventure Tours can also be your local food guide! We offer opportunities to savor delicious traditional dishes, sample authentic hill tribe cuisine, and experience Vietnam’s most tempting local foods, from fresh market bites to world-famous specialties.

What’s Included in Your 09 Day Trekking tour Vietnam: Mu Cang Chai -Sapa -Hoang Su Phi

What’s Not Included