Sapa and Northwest Vietnam Hiking Tour

Welcome to Northern Vietnam, where history, culture, and adventure unfold seamlessly. Begin in Hanoi with visits to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, and the lively Hoan Kiem Lake before enjoying a traditional water puppet show and boarding an overnight train to the northern highlands.

In Sapa, scenic hikes lead you through terraced rice fields, bamboo forests, and mountain valleys, where encounters with the H’Mong, Red Dao, Tay, and Giay communities reveal vibrant traditions, crafts, and warm hospitality. Highlights include the stunning Muong Hoa Valley, charming villages such as Sin Chai, Lao Chai, and Ta Van, and the hidden gem of Nam Cang, known for its herbal practices and silver workshops.

The journey continues with colorful hill-tribe markets—from the intimate Can Cau to the bustling Bac Ha—where ethnic groups in vivid attire trade livestock, textiles, and handmade crafts.

Authentic homestays, local cuisine, and a tranquil boat ride along the Chay River add depth to the experience. With expert guides, smooth logistics, and thoughtfully curated cultural encounters, this journey offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion, leaving you with lasting memories of Vietnam’s northern highlands.

Tour Type

Guided

Lodging

casual hotels

Start

Hanoi

Finish

Hanoi

Level

moderate to challenging

Avg. Daily Distance

9 km / 5 mi

Hiking Days

6

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 14

Fly-In

Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)

Fly-Out

Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)

Highlights

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Sapa's misty mountains

Sapa is famous for its stunning terraced rice fields that cascade down the mountains, creating a breathtaking landscape, especially during the harvest season.

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Experience the culture of the H'mong tribals

Northwestern Vietnam is home to ethnic minority communities such as the H’mong and Dao, who maintain traditional customs, colorful clothing, and handicrafts.

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Enjoy a cruise on the Halong Bay

The tour concludes with a night spent on a cruise boat sailing through the magical Halong Bay.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.

Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.

DayPlacecasual InnsMealsDistanceActivity
DAY 1HanoiSilk Path Boutique (4-star)
DAY 2Overnight train to Lao CaiVicsapa TrainB L Dwalking
DAY 3Sa PaSapa Garden B&B (3-star)B L D 8 km / 5 mihiking
DAY 4Ta VanB L D 12 km / 7 mihiking
DAY 5Ban HoB L D15 km / 9 mihiking
DAY 6Lao CaiMuong Thanh Grand (4-star)B L D 8 km / 5 mihiking
DAY 7Bac HaChez PaB L D5 km / 3 mihiking
DAY 8HanoiB L4 km / 2 mihiking
DAY 9HalongLa Pandora CruiseB L D
DAY 10DepartureB L

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Hanoi

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital filled with charm and tradition. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and take the day at leisure to relax, soak in the atmosphere, and gently adjust to the local climate before your journey begins.

Meals:
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Day 2: Overnight train to Lao Cai

Begin your day with an exploration of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed on Mondays and Fridays) and the humble stilt house where “Uncle Ho” once lived, followed by the ancient One Pillar Pagoda, delicately perched above a lotus pond. Continue to the Temple of Literature, a beautifully preserved masterpiece of Vietnamese architecture dedicated to scholars and philosophers. After lunch, discover Vietnam’s diverse heritage at the Museum of Ethnology, where you’ll gain deeper insight into the country’s cultural tapestry through engaging displays of traditional attire, household items, and artifacts from many ethnic groups. Later in the afternoon, return to the Hoan Kiem (Sword) Lake area for a final stroll through the heart of Hanoi. Your day concludes with a traditional water puppet show, a unique art form rooted in folklore, and a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. In the evening, transfer to the train station and board the overnight train to Lao Cai, the gateway to the northern highlands.

Meals: B L D
Accommodation: Vicsapa Train
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Day 3: Sa Pa

Arriving early in Lao Cai, transfer to the charming mountain town of Sapa. After freshening up and enjoying breakfast, drive to the O Quy Ho Pass to begin a scenic hike toward Sin Chai village, home to the H’Mong ethnic group. This untouched village offers a glimpse into authentic highland life, with peaceful surroundings and breathtaking views of Hoang Lien Son National Park. As you walk along terraced rice fields, you may spot locals tending their crops and cultivating flowers, providing a rich cultural experience. Continue the hike toward Cat Cat village before returning to Sapa for a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll around Sapa town, where highlights include the Stone Church and the bustling local market.

Meals: B L D
Hiking Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
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Day 4: Ta Van

Set out on a full-day hike through the breathtaking Muong Hoa Valley, covering around 12 km of scenic trails. Begin at Lao Chai village, home to the Black H’Mong people, where you’ll learn about their traditional clothing, handicrafts, and way of life. The valley offers some of the most stunning views of golden rice terraces in Vietnam, perfect for capturing memorable photographs. Continue the journey to Ta Van village, where the Giay ethnic community resides in charming wooden houses surrounded by lush paddy fields. The rich culture and hospitality of this small ethnic group make the experience truly special. Enjoy a home-cooked dinner and spend the night with a local family, immersing yourself in the warmth of authentic village life.

Meals: B L D
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7 mi
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Day 5: Ban Ho

After breakfast with your host family, bid farewell to Ta Van and begin a full day of trekking through the valleys and forests. Pass through the scenic terraced rice fields and lush bamboo groves on the way to Giang Ta Chai, home to the Red Dzao people. Along the trail, enjoy the natural beauty of the Silver Waterfall and cross the traditional Rattan Bridge, adding both charm and adventure to the hike. Continue onward to Ban Ho village, where the Tay ethnic community lives in stilt houses by the river. En route, you’ll also have the chance to encounter Black H’Mong and Red Dzao communities in Supan village, each offering unique cultural insights. The day ends with a warm dinner and overnight stay at a local homestay in Ban Ho, surrounded by serene landscapes.

Meals: B L D
Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9 mi
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Day 6: Lao Cai

After a hearty breakfast in Ban Ho, embark on a short drive to Thanh Phu village, where today’s scenic adventure begins. Trek through untouched forest trails and hidden valleys as you make your way to Nam Cang, a remote village rarely visited by mass tourism. This secluded haven offers a deeper connection to nature and a chance to experience the traditions of the Red Dao people. The women here are easily recognized by their vibrant, intricately embroidered costumes and are highly skilled in herbal medicine, traditional baths, and fine embroidery. During your visit, explore the village’s traditional silver workshops, where artisans still craft jewelry by hand using techniques passed down through generations. After a traditional lunch in Nam Cang, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before a car transfer takes you to Lao Cai for your overnight stay.

Meals: B L D
Hiking Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
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Day 7: Bac Ha

Start your day with a quick photo stop at the China border milestone before heading to the vibrant Can Cau Market, held every Saturday morning from 6:00 am to midday. Nestled in a valley just 7 km from China, this colorful market is a cultural showcase where Flower H’mong, Phu La, Black Dao, Tay, and Nung communities gather in traditional attire to trade local goods and handmade crafts. Spend the morning exploring the lively stalls, capturing the stunning scenery, and immersing yourself in the local highland culture. After lunch, take a short hike through corn-growing valleys to Pho village and visit the historic castle of the former Hmong King. Return to your homestay in Bac Ha to relax, enjoy the serene surroundings, and savor a warm dinner with your group.

Meals: B L D
Hiking Distance: 5 km / 3 mi
Accommodation: Chez Pa
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Day 8: Hanoi

Begin your morning with a short walk to the famous Bac Ha Sunday Hill-Tribe Market. Nestled deep in the mountains, Bac Ha is quiet during the week but bursts into life on Sundays as locals from surrounding villages gather in colorful traditional attire. Explore the lively market, where Flower H’mong and other ethnic groups trade everything from livestock to handmade crafts, textiles, and local wine. Sample distinctive local cuisine, including homemade wines made from rice, cassava, corn, and seasonal fruits such as plums, apples, and peaches.

After the market, take a short drive and walk to Trung Do Village, home to the Tay ethnic community, and visit a traditional stilt house to learn about their customs and daily life. Board a scenic 40-minute boat cruise along the Chay River, soaking in the picturesque landscapes along the riverbanks. After disembarking, enjoy a local lunch before beginning the 4-hour drive back to Hanoi.

Meals: B L
Hiking Distance: 4 km / 2 mi
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Day 9: Halong

You’ll be picked up at 8:30 AM and transferred to Halong, arriving after about 3 hours, then check in to your overnight cruise and enjoy a welcome drink while meeting the captain and crew.

At 1:00 PM, savor a Vietnamese seafood lunch while sailing past the scenic Con Vit islets. In the afternoon, cruise through Lan Ha Bay’s limestone karsts and visit Ong Cam Area for kayaking or swimming in the clear waters. Return to the boat at 5:30 PM for a cooking demonstration on spring rolls and a sunset party with local wine and fruit.

Dinner is served at 7:00 PM, followed by optional evening activities like fishing, movies, drinks, or games before overnighting on board.

Meals: B L D
Accommodation: La Pandora Cruise

Day 10: Departure

Enjoy the sunrise and stunning scenery of Halong Bay, followed by a light breakfast on board. Cruise toward the center of the Bay and explore Dark & Bright Cave and nearby islets by local rowing boats. Return to the boat to relax before checking out, then enjoy lunch on board. At noon, disembark at Tuan Chau Marina and take a shuttle transfer back to Hanoi.

Meals: B L

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Dates and Prices

Single Supplement

From US $295



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Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

trip leader

Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

shuttle

A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.

Luggage Transfer

Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.

meals

Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.

refreshments

Refreshments and mineral water during activity.

entrance

Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.

Exclusions

Airport pickup

We recommend to book direclty from airport.

Airport drop

We recommend to book direclty your last hotel.

Beverages

Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.

Gratuity

Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.

Arrival & Departure Details

Arrival Details:

Arrive at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) and make your own way to the hotel. You have several convenient options:

Taxi – Readily available at the airport; a trip to the Old Quarter takes about 40–50 minutes and costs around 350,000–400,000 VND (USD 14–16). Use official airport taxi counters to avoid scams.

Grab (ride-hailing app) – A reliable and often cheaper alternative to taxis; rides to the city center average 250,000–300,000 VND (USD 10–12).

**Shuttle Bus **– Airport shuttle buses (such as Vietnam Airlines or Jetstar services) run to central Hanoi for 40,000–60,000 VND (USD 2–3), with a travel time of about 1 hour.

Departure Details:

On your final day, please arrange your own transfer back to Noi Bai International Airport. The same options apply: taxis and Grab provide the fastest and most direct service, while shuttle buses offer an affordable choice for solo travelers. Allow at least 3-4 hours before your flight to account for traffic and check-in.

Weather

October, November, February, and March are the best months for hiking in Northern Vietnam, with cool, dry weather and clear skies that make trekking through terraced rice fields, limestone peaks, and serene lakes. April, May, and September are warm, with occasional showers that turn the hills lush and green, carrying the soft scent of blossoms and fresh rain.

December and January can be cold in the mountains of northern Vietnam given the high altitude. Expect temperatures of around 15-20°C (59-68°F) during the day and occasional frost during the night.

July and August are off-season due to heavy rains.

January

Mixed

February

Good

March

Best

April

Best

May

Best

June

Mixed

July

Offseason

August

Offseason

September

Best

October

Best

November

Best

December

Mixed

Best

Good

Mixed

Offseason

What to Pack

Packing wisely ensures comfort and safety on your hiking adventure. This list covers essential hiking gear, clothing, and travel items to help you handle varied terrain and weather conditions.

Recommended Hiking Clothes & Gear

  • Lightweight hiking shoes or boots with good traction.
  • Moisture-wicking base layers and breathable hiking shirts.
  • Quick-dry hiking pants or shorts.
  • Light fleece or down jacket for cooler temperatures.
  • Waterproof and windproof shell jacket.
  • Sun hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Hiking poles (optional but recommended on uneven terrain).
  • Small daypack with hydration system or water bottles.
  • Headlamp or small flashlight.
  • Light gloves and beanie for early mornings or high altitudes.

Clothing

  • Layered clothing for temperature changes throughout the day.
  • Full-sleeved tops for sun and insect protection.
  • Comfortable evening wear for lodges or inns.
  • Compact rain jacket for unpredictable weather.
  • Extra socks (preferably synthetic or wool).

Other Necessities

  • Basic first-aid kit with personal medication.
  • Sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder.
  • Snacks like trail mix, nuts, or energy bars.
  • Plug adaptor and power bank for charging devices.

Pro Tips

  • Pack light — you’ll appreciate it on uphill climbs.
  • Break in your shoes before the trip to avoid blisters.
  • Keep rain gear easily accessible in your daypack.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one daypack. Mark your luggage clearly with your name, address, and phone number.

Visa Information

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Insurance

Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.

We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.

Can I use my credit card insurance?

Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.

Is proof of travel insurance required?

Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.

Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?

We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.

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