Overview

Embark on a thrilling 5-day journey to conquer Fansipan, Southeast Asia’s roof, and wander through Mu Cang Chai’s iconic rice terraces. This unforgettable trek blends breathtaking landscapes, ethnic culture, and rewarding challenges. Experience the essence of North Vietnam through hiking, discovery, and heartfelt encounters with local communities.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Hanoi – Nghia Lo – Tu Le (L,D)

Start your adventure at 7:30 am as our guide picks you up from your hotel. On the way, we’ll pass through Nghia Lo, a charming town that’s home to the Thai ethnic people, known for their rich culture and traditions. By early afternoon (around 2-3 pm), we’ll reach Tu Le town, where you can stretch your legs with a leisurely walk through stunning rice fields, bubbling springs, and peaceful villages. Along the way, you’ll discover the unique lifestyle, houses, and culture of the Thai and H’Mong communities.

Depending on your energy and timing, we’ll either take a longer route (10 km in about 3.5 hours) through Nam Co and Nam Pang to Bung Som village or opt for a shorter 6-7 km trek (around 2 hours). The path takes you along rice fields, narrow muddy trails, and streams, offering a chance to connect with nature—and even join the local kids for a refreshing swim in the stream if you’d like! The hike is mostly flat, making it easy but still engaging with its diverse scenery and activities.

Spend the night in a traditional wooden stilt house with a welcoming Thai family. For those who prefer more privacy, we can arrange a comfortable room at a nearby hotel.

Summary

• Hiking difficulty: Easy (1/5) ~5-10 km in 2-3.5 hours
• Driving distance: 250 km – approximately 5 hours

Day 2: Tu Le – Mu Cang Chai – Hiking Around Villages

8:00 am: After breakfast, we set off for Mu Cang Chai, taking the breathtaking Khau Pha Pass—one of Vietnam’s four most famous mountain passes. This winding road offers countless stops for photos, showcasing panoramic views of Lim Mong and Lim Thai villages and even the paragliding point at the summit.

When we arrive in Mu Cang Chai, the adventure begins with a 3-hour hike from La Pan Tan village to Raspberry Hill. Known for its iconic round rice terraces that curve beautifully along the mountainside, La Pan Tan is a masterpiece crafted by the H’mong people over centuries. After soaking in the views, we’ll head back to the main road for a simple yet satisfying lunch. For a deeper cultural experience, you can choose to visit a H’mong family, join them in their kitchen, and enjoy a traditional meal together.

Post-lunch, the journey continues with a hike from Che Cu Nha to Kim Noi village, covering about 9-10 km in 3-3.5 hours. This trail takes us up a mountain, through remote H’mong villages, and past a hidden waterfall. Along the way, you’ll not only admire the beauty of the rice terraces but also learn how locals plant and harvest rice or work on their farms. We can stop at houses or schools to explore local culture and daily life if you’re interested.

The day ends at a welcoming homestay in Mu Cang Chai, where a warm dinner and the hospitality of the Thai people await.

Option: If you’d like a more relaxed afternoon, we can hike to Sang Nhu village for a stunning sunset view. Famous for its horse-shaped rice terraces, this trail offers a magical setting when the weather and rice fields are at their best. However, it’s a steeper route, so it depends on your energy and preference.

For your overnight stay, you can choose between a Thai stilt house in Mu Cang Chai’s center or the Hello Mu Cang Chai homestay in La Pan Tan village to experience life with a H’mong family.

Summary

• Hiking level: Moderate (3/5) ~15-17 km in 5-6 hours
• Driving distance: 50 km

Day 3: Mu Cang Chai – Sapa (160km drive and 2-hour hike)

After breakfast, the morning starts with a 2-2.5 hour hike to either Sang Nhu or Lao Chai village, depending on the season. These spots are famous for their breathtaking rice terraces, a magnet for photographers worldwide. The trail takes you through serene pine forests and hidden paths, offering moments of peace and connection with nature.

Following the hike, we’ll hit the road to Sapa. This journey is nothing short of spectacular, as the route between Mu Cang Chai and Sapa is one of Vietnam’s most stunning mountain drives. Along the way, we’ll pass through Tan Uyen district, home to majestic green tea hills. Here, you’ll visit a tea plantation to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a tasting session with locally harvested green tea. Discover how to recognize the perfect tea leaves and buds and even understand their quality grading.

The drive continues over O Quy Ho Pass, one of Vietnam’s legendary mountain passes. From here, you’ll catch incredible views of mountain Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. The fresh mountain air and jaw-dropping landscapes make this part of the trip unforgettable.

We’ll arrive in Sapa by afternoon, where you can check into your hotel, enjoy a hearty dinner, and relax. Recharge for the exciting and challenging Fansipan trek awaiting you the next day!

Summary

• Hiking level: Easy (1/5) ~5-7 km in 2-2.5 hours
• Driving distance: 160 km

Day 4: Sapa – Tram Ton Pass – Base Camp 2800m (B, L, D)

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and leave your luggage safely at the reception storage.

8:00 – 8:30 am: Your guide, driver, and local coordinator will pick you up from the hotel for a short drive to Tram Ton Pass, the starting point of today’s hike. From here, the adventure begins! The initial trail offers a refreshing journey through lush forests and alongside babbling rivers flowing down the mountainside.

Around 12:00 pm: Take a break at the first camp and recharge with a hearty lunch.

With renewed energy, it’s time to tackle the next stretch—a more challenging but thrilling climb. The trail opens up with steep, rocky sections where you’ll use both hands and legs to navigate. You’ll climb ladders, scramble over cliffs, and wind through dense jungle paths. The reward? Stunning views at every peak, where the natural beauty of the forest and glimpses of wildlife create unforgettable moments.

4:00 – 5:00 pm: By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at the campsite at 2800m. This is your time to relax, soak in the crisp mountain air, and enjoy a delicious, well-earned dinner prepared just for you. Rest up—tomorrow brings even greater challenges and rewards!

Summary

• Trekking time: ~6 hours
• Altitude gain: From 1,900m to 2,800m

Day 5: Base Camp – The Top of Fansipan – Cable Car – Sapa – Train to Hanoi

If you want to catch the sunrise, you’ll need to wake up early—around 3:30-4:00 am—and begin your trek to the summit. The trail will be pitch dark, so don’t forget your flashlight to guide you through the early morning shadows. The ladders and steps will make the ascent a little easier, but it’s still a challenge. If luck is on your side and the sky is clear, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views from the top of Fansipan. This early hour is also a great time to enjoy the peace and quiet before the cable car tourists arrive, giving you a moment to rest and soak in the incredible surroundings.

After reaching the top, it’s time to descend, and the cable car is the best option to ease your tired legs. After a long, tough climb, the cable car ride feels like a well-deserved treat. As you float above the rugged cliffs, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Sa Pa, its terraced fields, and the surrounding mountains—the beauty of it all will take your breath away.

Back in Sapa town, you’ll have some time to freshen up and relax at your hotel. By 5:00 pm, our shuttle will take you to Lao Cai train station. You’ll have some free time for dinner at a nearby restaurant while you wait for your train. The train departs at 8:30 pm, and you’ll be on your way back to Hanoi.

You’ll arrive in Hanoi at 5:30 am the next morning, marking the end of your incredible 5-day Fansipan and Mu Cang Chai trekking adventure.

Summary

• Hiking time: ~3 hours
• Altitude: 2800m to 3140m

Price Includes

• All transportation mentioned in program: private car from your hotel to Mu Cang Chai- Sapa and train come back to Hanoi
• English speaking guide & Porter ( 3 guests/porter) for Fansipan trip
• Meal as in itinerary
• Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
• Entrance fees and sightseeing fees
• Water: 1 little/day/person
• Successful Certificate & Medal

Price Excludes

• Personal expenses, tips and gratuities
• Personal items: Clothes, rain-gear, foot wears
• Beverage: Extra drinks
• International Travel Insurance