Overview

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on Ta Xua Mountain, one of the top 10 highest peaks in Vietnam, standing tall at over 2,865 meters above sea level. Located in the stunning Tram Tau commune in Yen Bai province, this trek offers an exciting journey through steep slopes, dense jungle, and breathtaking mountain views.

Along the way, you’ll encounter the Dinosaur Backbone, a dramatic, narrow ridge, and the mystical Turtle Head rock formation emerging from the cliffs. The trek is moderate, but the spectacular views from the summit, including the sea of clouds and enchanted moss forests, will make every step worthwhile. This 3-day, 3-night trek is a perfect mix of challenge and natural beauty.

Itinerary Details

Night 01: Hanoi – Tram Tau (No meals)

18:00-19:00: We’ll pick you up from Hanoi and head towards Tram Tau, about 250 km away (roughly 5.5 hours by car). If you’re arriving at the airport, just let us know the time and we’ll adjust to pick you up there.  

~23:30: We’ll arrive in Tram Tau, where you’ll check-in at your homestay or resort, depending on your choice.

Day 1: Tram Tau – Cong Village (1,300m) – Dinosaur Backbone Mountain – Campsite (2,550m) (B,L,D)

7:30 am: After breakfast, we’ll transfer you by car and motorbike to Ta Xua village (Ban Cong commune). We’ll go until the end of the concrete road, then hop on motorbikes to reach the starting point of the trek at 1,300m, through some rough, muddy roads.  

8:30 am: We’ll arrive at our porter’s house to gather supplies and get ready for the trek. The trail starts off a bit challenging with steep, muddy slopes, but it gets easier as we go along.

After about 3.5 km, you’ll spot the Turtle Head Rock. For those of you with great stamina, we’ll tackle the most exciting part of the trek today—the Dinosaur Backbone Mountain. This section is tough but absolutely worth it. You’ll climb up and down steep rocks, hold onto cables, and navigate narrow paths with deep cliffs and strong winds, all while taking in the stunning view that resembles a dinosaur’s spine.

We’ll reach Campsite 2 at 2,550m around 4-5 pm. After a challenging day, our porter will prepare a meal, and you’ll have some time to relax and soak in the peaceful jungle atmosphere.  

Summary: 

– Trekking time: ~6 hours, ~7 km  

– The terrain is steep, slippery, and challenging, with no streams.  

– Tonight, we’ll camp in a hut or tent under the stars.

Day 2: Magic Moss Forest & Ta Xua Peak (B,L,D)

6:00 a.m: Rise and shine! After breakfast, we’ll gear up for another exciting day of trekking. Today, we’ll venture through the magical Moss Forest, where ancient trees are draped in thick moss and shrouded in mist all year round. It’s a place straight out of a fairytale, perfect for taking photos, videos, or simply soaking in the peaceful vibe. The path through the forest is a bit easier today, with less steep terrain.

~10:00-11:00 am: We’ll reach the Ta Xua Peak at 2,865 meters. Take a moment to catch your breath, enjoy the panoramic views, and have a picnic lunch while you relax. Afterward, we’ll begin our descent, retracing our steps over the Dinosaur Backbone Mountain (yes, we get to do it all over again!).  

Around 4:00 pm: We’ll arrive back at Campsite 1 at 2,400 meters. If the weather is clear, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable view of the sea of clouds, along with a spectacular sunset.

By 5:30-6:00 pm: We’ll prepare for a night of camping. The porter will cook a delicious meal, and you’ll get a chance to learn some basic camping skills—like starting a fire and cooking with wood. It’s a unique experience, with no electricity, no phones, and no internet. Just the stars, good food, great company, and the sounds of nature. This is the moment to forget about the modern world and truly connect with the wilderness.

Summary: 

– Trekking time: ~7 hours  

– Sleeping: in a hut with sleeping bags (or a tent, if there are too many tourists)

Day 3: Descend Tram Tau – Relax at the Hot Spring & Return to Hanoi (B,L)

5:00 am: Wake up early if you want to catch the sunrise over the mountains—it’s absolutely worth it. There’s nothing like watching the first light of day hit the peaks.

~12:00 pm: After our trek down, we’ll arrive back in Tram Tau commune and head to a cozy homestay for a well-deserved lunch. Then, it’s time to unwind at a hot spring resort to relax and recharge. Soak in the warmth and let the hot springs melt away all the tiredness from the journey.  

Trekking time: ~3-4 hours, depending on the weather.

~2:00 pm: After the relaxation, our car will pick you up for the drive back to Hanoi. 

~8:00 pm: Arrive in Hanoi, where we’ll drop you off right at your hotel. We’ll say our goodbyes, but don’t worry, this isn’t the end—we’ll see you again soon!

Packing List for the Trek

Here’s a quick guide on what to bring along for our adventure:

– Clothes for Trekking: Bring 2-3 pairs of lightweight, quick-dry pants and 3-4 long-sleeved shirts to wear while trekking.

– Clothes for Camp: 2 pairs of shorts and a few T-shirts to relax in at the campsite, plus a swimsuit for the hot spring.

– Footwear: A good pair of trekking boots/shoes is essential for the tough terrain, and a pair of flip-flops or sandals to wear around the campsite.

– Socks: 3-4 pairs of calf-length, comfortable woven socks.

– Extra Clothes: A fresh set of clothes for the end of the trip.

– Personal Items: Don’t forget mosquito repellent, sunglasses, a hat, camera, toiletries, and some snacks or energy bars for extra fuel along the way.

– Optional Gear: If you have a trekking stick, bring it along! Otherwise, our porters can provide a wooden one.

– Essentials: Bring a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries for evening use.

For colder months (November to March), remember to pack some extra layers for warmth in the evenings.

Price Includes

Price Excludes