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, 2-night trek is a perfect mix of challenge and natural beauty.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Hanoi – Tram Tau – Cong Village (1,300m) – Campsite 1 (2,400m) (-L,D)

Morning (5:30 am): Our adventure starts bright and early! We’ll pick you up from Hanoi and drive you to Tram Tau (for small groups of two, we’ll arrange public transport to Nghia Lo or Yen Bai). 

~11:00 am: We’ll arrive in Tram Tau** and transfer by car or motorbike to Ta Xua village in Ban Cong commune. We’ll drive up as far as the concrete road takes us, then it’s time for a motorbike ride to the start of the trek (1300m). A quick picnic lunch will get us fueled up before we head off.

The trek starts with a steep, muddy slope, but don’t worry, it gets easier as we go. After about 3.5 km, you’ll be rewarded with the stunning Turtle Head Rock!

By 4:00-5:00 pm, we’ll reach Campsite 1 at 2,400m. Our porter will prepare a warm meal while you relax and soak in the jungle atmosphere. This is your chance to learn a few camping skills like starting a fire and cooking with wood. 

As the evening settles in, you’ll experience the beauty of a night in the mountains—no electricity, no phones, just the stars and the sounds of nature. Eat, chat, gaze at the night sky, and truly disconnect from the world for a while.

Summary:

– Trekking time: ~3-4.5 hours, covering 5.5 km  

– Terrain: Deep, steep, slippery slope, no streams  

– Overnight: Camping at Campsite 1 (2,400m)

Day 2: Campsite 1 – Dinosaur Backbone Mountain – Magic Forest – Ta Xua Peak (2865m) – Campsite 2 (2550m) (B,L,D)

5:00 am: Rise and shine! After a quick breakfast, we’ll get ready for the second day of trekking. If the weather’s clear, you’ll get to enjoy a beautiful sunrise around 6:00 am. before we hit the trail.

The highlight of today’s trek is the Dinosaur Backbone Mountain—it’s a tough one, but also the most exciting part of the whole trip! You’ll be climbing up and down steep rocks, gripping the cables, and carefully making your way along narrow paths with deep cliffs and strong winds. It’s exhilarating, and it definitely feels like you’re walking along the back of a dinosaur!

After that, we’ll enter the magic forest, a place straight out of a fairy tale. The ancient trees are draped in moss, and the fog that lingers all year round gives it an otherworldly vibe. You’ll want to stop and take it all in—snap photos, record videos, or just enjoy the peace of nature. The trail here is much easier and less steep, so it’s a nice break after the challenging rocks.

By noon (~12:00 pm): We’ll reach the top of Ta Xua Peak (2,865m). Time for a picnic lunch and a well-deserved rest! After that, we’ll start descending, taking in more breathtaking views on our way down.

We should be back at Campsite 2 (2,550m) by around 4:00 pm The day’s trek will feel so rewarding, especially if you’re lucky enough to see the cloud ocean below and the surrounding mountains as the sun sets.

Summary:

– Trekking time: ~6-6.5 hours  

– Average time: 4 hrs to the top, 1 hr back to Hut 2, 1.5 hrs to cross Dinosaur Backbone  

– Note: If the weather’s good, your energy’s up, and time permits, you can tackle the Dinosaur Mountain again today and return to Campsite 1 (1.5-2 hrs).

Day 3: Return to Tram Tau – Head Back to Hanoi

7:00 am: After a hearty breakfast, we’ll begin our descent. On a good weather day, it’ll take around 4-5 hours to make our way down the mountain. Once we’re back, we’ll stop at a cozy homestay for lunch before heading to the hot spring for a well-earned soak and relaxation.

If the weather’s rainy, expect the descent to take about 6 hours. We’ll take our time, with a light picnic lunch along the way to keep us fueled.

1:00-2:00 pm: We’ll reach Tram Tau village. Here, you’ll have time to unwind and relax at the hot spring resort to recharge your batteries.

Around 2:00 pm: We’ll hop in the car for our journey back to Hanoi.

By 8:00 pm: We’ll arrive in Hanoi, and we’ll drop you off in front of your hotel. A fond farewell and we’ll say, “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.

Tour Includes

Tour Excludes