Overview

 

Embark on a 7-day adventure through Ha Giang’s rugged mountain passes, vibrant ethnic villages, and misty valleys before unwinding at the serene Ba Be Lake. From the dramatic landscapes of Dong Van to the tranquil waters of Ba Be, this trip offers unforgettable sights and authentic cultural experiences in Vietnam’s northern frontier.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Hanoi – Ha Giang (L,D)

7:15 – 7:30: Our journey kicks off bright and early, leaving Hanoi as we make our way to the breathtaking region of Ha Giang. Known for its dramatic karst mountains, deep valleys, and stunning terraced rice fields, Ha Giang offers not only awe-inspiring landscapes but also a rich tapestry of cultures. It’s home to diverse ethnic groups like the Hmong, Dao, Tay, and Nung, each with unique customs and traditions that add to the charm of the region.

Upon arriving in Ha Giang, we’ll take a leisurely hike through tranquil ethnic villages, where you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of rice terraces and the peaceful rhythm of rural life. Dinner tonight is a real treat—enjoy a home-cooked meal prepared by our warm and welcoming host.

For the night, you’ll stay in a traditional wooden stilt house in Thon Tha village, where the cozy atmosphere will make you feel right at home. It’s the perfect start to our adventure in northern Vietnam!

Overnight in Thon Tha Village.

Day 2: Ha Giang – Quan Ba – Dong Van (B,L,D)

After breakfast, we hit the road towards Quan Ba, a stunning spot known for its Heaven Gate. As we wind through narrow mountain paths, we’ll be surrounded by towering peaks and lush green landscapes that make the journey feel like a dream. Along the way, you’ll meet local villagers who warmly greet us, and we’ll take a hike through small hillocks, farmland, and stunning vistas—typical of the Dao and Tay communities that call this area home.

During our hike, we’ll pause to meet the locals and get a firsthand look at their traditional weaving practices—an intricate art passed down through generations. After soaking in the views and experiences, we’ll head down the mountain to Dong Van, a charming town surrounded by striking rock formations.

Here, we’ll enjoy a delicious meal before settling down with a local family for the night, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the region. It’s a day full of scenic beauty, culture, and new connections.

Overnight in Dong Van town.

Day 3: Dong Van – Meo Vac (B, L, D)

Today’s hike takes us through the stunning, off-the-beaten-path countryside of Dong Van, where we’ll pass through several remote villages. Along the way, the views are nothing short of spectacular—lush green rice paddies stretch across picturesque valleys, making every step feel like a scene from a postcard.

In the afternoon, we reach the famous Ma Pi Leng Pass, often considered the most breathtaking pass in Vietnam. Here, we’ll trek along towering mountains, passing through colorful H’mong villages that seem to be carved into the landscape. The local H’mong and Hoa people will greet us with their warm smiles and vibrant clothing, welcoming us into their world.

After the trek, we’ll continue our scenic drive through rugged cliffs, eventually arriving in Meo Vac, a beautiful town nestled among towering peaks. It’s a peaceful haven where H’mong and Hoa farming families live amidst jaw-dropping scenery. As the sun sets, we’ll make our way into the town for a restful night in a local hotel.

Overnight in Meo Vac.

Day 4: Meo Vac – Bao Lac (B, L, D)

We kick off the day with an early, refreshing hike through peaceful villages, making our way up into the rolling mountains and lush, terraced rice fields. Our destination is Bao Lac, a charming town tucked away in the rugged mountains of northeastern Vietnam. This region is home to the Black Lo Lo people, a vibrant ethnic group with a rich culture.

As we explore, you’ll be captivated by the sight of Black Lo Lo women dressed in their traditional attire: black dresses with oversized sleeves made of colorful bands of fabric, and long skirts that are fitted at the waist and knee. They wear indigo turbans adorned with colorful fringes and intricate embroidery, creating a striking contrast against the natural surroundings.

We’ll take a walk through the Black Lo Lo villages, learning about their way of life and the unique tradition of making corn wine. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the locals. Afterward, we’ll head to Bao Lac town, where we may visit the local market to experience its lively atmosphere before heading to our hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Overnight in Bao Lac.

Day 5: Bao Lac – Ba Be Lake (B, L, D)

Today we set off early to explore the breathtaking Ba Be Lake, one of Vietnam’s largest and most beautiful natural lakes. Nestled in the heart of stunning valleys, the lake is surrounded by towering rock formations, lush greenery, and hidden caves that make it a truly magical place. The area is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

As we venture through the park, we’ll pass through villages that are home to different ethnic groups. While the majority of the communities are Tay people, you’ll also encounter Green H’mong and Red Dao hill tribes, especially in the higher slopes, each with their own unique culture and way of life.

Upon arriving at Ba Be Lake, we’ll settle into a cozy, traditional wooden stilt-house, where we’ll spend the night surrounded by nature’s serenity. It’s the perfect place to reflect on the incredible journey and rest up for the adventures ahead.

Overnight at Ba Be Lake.

Day 6: Ba Be Lake (B, L, D)

Today, we kick things off with a morning trek through the Ba Be National Park, heading down into a stunning valley where the Tay minority people call home. The valley is surrounded by dramatic rock formations, making it feel like something straight out of a storybook. As we make our way through, we’ll get a real sense of the daily lives of the locals, who live in harmony with this breathtaking landscape.

In the afternoon, we’ll head up through rolling hills, passing vibrant H’mong and Red Dao villages tucked away in the mountains. The scenery here is absolutely jaw-dropping—vast stretches of farmland, rugged mountains, and dense jungle, all blending together in a way that feels untouched by time.

After a day of exploration, we’ll return to a local family for the night, enjoying the warmth of their hospitality in this beautiful, remote setting. It’s a perfect way to wind down and soak in the peace of this incredible part of Vietnam.

Day 7: Ba Be Lake – Hanoi (B, L)

Our final day begins with a serene boat ride across Ba Be Lake, the largest natural lake in Vietnam. As we glide through the water, we’ll stop to take in some easy hikes along the way, visiting stunning waterfalls that feed the lake and spotting unique flora and fauna. It’s a peaceful and immersive experience, surrounded by nature’s untouched beauty.

By early afternoon, we’ll be back on land, enjoying a delicious lunch with panoramic views of the lake—an unforgettable setting to reflect on the adventure. Afterward, we’ll hit the road for our journey back to Hanoi, where we’ll arrive around 6 p.m., bringing our amazing 7-day adventure to a close. What a trip it’s been!

Physical activities:
  

•  A 4-6 km hike on Day 1
• A 8-10 km hike on Day 2
    
• A 8-10 km hike on Day 3
•  A 6-8 km hike on Day 4
    
• A 2-4 km hike on Day 5
• A 10-15 km hike on Day 6
• A 1-2 hour boat ride on Day 7

Transport:
  

• Air-conditioned vehicle – PRIVATE CAR 7 SEATS
• Boat

Tour Guide:

Our experienced, friendly and professional tour guide speaks good English. He is knowledgeable about local cultures, history and the environment.

Accommodation:

• Homestay (4 nights)
• Hotel (2 nights)