Sapa is a former French hill station situated in the sweeping valleys near the Chinese border. With an elevation of 1,600 meters, the cool climate inspired the French to a summer retreat here. Today, Sapa still attracts visitors with its stunning scenery, comfortable climate, colorful markets and a variety of ethnic hill tribes living in nearby villages.

Activities:

Trekking and cultural experience

Day 1: Hanoi - Overnight to Lao Cai
Our trip starts with an overnight train journey from Vietnam's capital city to the border town of Lao Cai. The accommodation for tonight will be on soft sleeper berths on the Tulico train.

Day 2: Lao Cai -Sapa - Cat Cat Vilage - Sapa (B,D)
Today we start with a walk to the H'Mong village of Cat Cat. Later we drive out to the settlements of Ta Van and Cau May. As we walk to the villages nestled in the valley below Sapa we meet some of the local ethnic minority people on their way to and from Sapa. These people include the Red Zao, Hmong and Tay. Tonight we spend a second night in our hotel at Sapa town.

Day 3: Sapa  Sightseeing (B,L)
Today we walk to Ham Rong Mountain for a panoramic view of Sapa. From here we drive out of town and commence an hour-long walk to Ta Phin. Ta Phin is home to the distinctive Dao (pronounced Zao) community. From here we return to Sapa for lunch and a free afternoon.

Day 4: Sapa - Back Ha Market (B,L)
For trips in this area on Sundays we have an extension to Bac Ha, home to the Flower Hmong minority people. (On all other days we visit the market at Can Cau on Saturday, Coc Ly on Tuesday). A visit to the Sunday market is a must. The colourful Flower Hmong converge here to trade and exchange goods. This afternoon we transfer back to Lao Cai for the train journey to Hanoi.

Day 5: Arrival Hanoi

All transportation and transfers by private car/ Jeep

2 night in hotel in Sapa as indicated above
English speaking guide
Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B= Breakfast; L=Lunch; D= Dinner)
Admission fees and permits where applicable

Return ticket  (Soft sleeper, AC train)

Taxes & servicharge
 

Tour price excludes:
 

Airfares & airport taxes
Pre/post trip arrangement
Visa and visa arrangement
Travel insurance

Other personal expenses