Sapa Train and Trekking

At the start of this Vietnam trekking module you will be collected from your hotel in Hanoi at approximately 8.00pm and taken to the train station. After you have stocked up on a few nibbles, you'll depart from Hanoi aboard the overnight train to Lao Cai in the north. This interesting town is the official border crossing between Vietnam and China. During the trip, you'll sleep in a carriage with 4-couchettes, rocked gently by the motion of the train. At around 7.30am the following morning, you'll arrive in Lao Cai. From here, you'll be collected by a driver and taken to Sapa (approx. 1.5hrs). Sapa was previously a French summer resort, as its elevation (1650 metres) ensures mild, fresh temperatures. This made it an ideal escape from the hot, sticky Hanoi summers.

After settling in and freshening up, you'll set out on a 10-15km hike in the surrounds of Sapa, stopping at several hill tribes along the way. Different tribes all wear distinctly different colours, costumes and headgear. They each have their own history, customs and language. You'll be warmly received in all of the villages and often invited to drink tea in the huts. For years, these villages were completely isolated from the rest of the world but as a result of the growing tourist trade, things are beginning to change. The more easily accessible villages have now become accustomed to seeing tourists in their midst, but western visitors are still relatively few. Tonight, you'll stay with local family for an authentic adventure. You'll be provided with a mattress, blanket and mosquito net- but don't expect too much more. This Vietnam trekking module really is travelling at its most rustic. Please note that it is advisable to bring your own pillow case and sleeping bag liner.

The next day you'll continue your Vietnam trekking experience to the villages of Giang Ta Chai and Red Dzao. As you're not travelling in a group during this module, it will be just you and the guide on the hikes. This means that you are free to set your own pace, taking it as fast or slow as you like. The locals that you'll meet along the hike will be very friendly, though perhaps a little shy. We can highly recommend bringing along some crayons, colouring books or cuddly toys to hand out as treats for the children. They will beam with happiness at these small gifts.

In the afternoon you'll have another adventure: travelling back to Sapa by Vietnamese moped, the mountain wind blowing through your hair. You'll spend another night in the comfortable hotel in Sapa, bursting with local charm.

Today on your Vietnam trekking module, you'll hike to Y linh Ho, a Black H’mong village. The Black H’mong is a striking tribe, whose people wear mainly black clothing. The dye that they use often runs, staining their hands slightly black. This village sees less tourists than the larger Cat Cat village with the people here still living in much the same way as their forefathers. 

At around 4pm, you'll be taken to Lao Cai to board the sleeper train back to Hanoi.

You'll arrive on Day Five at about 6am in the morning. This is where your Vietnam trekking module ends.

Taxis and tuk-tuks will not be in short supply, so you can easily organise transport from the train station back to your hotel. It might be a little too early to check in at some hotels, so you can leave your luggage at reception and enjoy breakfast overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. You can usually get into your room from around mid-morning. However, if you wish your room to be ready as soon as you arrive, we can book a day room for you at an additional cost. Just advise your travel specialist, and we'll make the arrangements.

We would recommend a laid back Halong Bay Cruise to follow your visit to Sapa, or perhaps a few Hanoi tours to see some of the surrounding areas. Alternatively, you could begin to head slowly south, with a Hoi An travel experience by getting local tailors to whip up a suit for you.