Day 1: Hanoi Arrival

Our representative will greet you at the Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi and take you to your hotel so you can check in. Vietnam's capital, Ha Noi, dates back a millennium. Despite its rapid growth and transformation, the city manages to hold onto its old world charm and numerous remarkable specimens of French colonial architecture. A pleasant green escape from the bustle of this rapidly expanding modern metropolis is offered by the numerous lakes, parks, and lovely trees, which also contribute to the tranquil mood that makes for pleasant strolls. If you have time, you should take a typical cyclo ride around the busy and well-known Old Quarter, where the streets are called by the particular items they used to sell, for example, Drum Street, Silk Street, and Paper Street. Overnight in Hanoi.
Include: Hotel in Ha Noi, Transportation, Meal: Welcome Dinner, Tour guide, Entrance fees
 
Day 2: Hanoi City tour
Following breakfast at your hotel, start your Hanoi sightseeing trip with the Ho Chi Minh Complex, which houses the Presidential Palace, the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, and the tastefully simple yet exquisite house perched on stilts where he spent a large portion of his life. Included in the complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, which has its roots in the city's founding. Continue to the Vietnam History Museum, which has an outstanding collection of relics from all eras of Vietnamese history, and the historic Temple of Literature, which was founded as the country's first Confucius Institute in 1076. The next destination is the top-notch Museum of Ethnology, which highlights Vietnam's 54 ethnic minority groups, some of which you will encounter on your forthcoming trip to the country's north. Before seeing a show of Hanoi's well-known water puppets, you will also have the opportunity to explore the storied Hoan Kiem Lake and the bustling Dong Xuan Market, which is the biggest in the city. Enjoy a free evening to wander around the city and eat at one of the hundreds of restaurants offering international cuisine. Spend the night in Hanoi.
Include: Hotel in Ha Noi, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, Tour guide, Entrance fees
 
Day 3: Hanoi - Dien Bien Phu
A great way to start the day if you're an early riser is to take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake at sunrise, when hundreds of locals (and some visitors from abroad) congregate to exercise in the morning. Following breakfast, you will have free time to explore the area or go shopping until you are driven to the airport and take a quick flight across the northern Vietnamese mountains to Dien Bien Phu, the location of the pivotal 1954 battle that helped Vietnam win its independence from France. You can take a stroll around the town and observe how the area is changing when you check into your hotel. The Dien Bien Phu Museum, which is devoted to the historical events that took place here, is the tour's principal destination. You will also go to the former battleground, where luxuriant flora has grown around numerous military artifacts that have survived, such as antiquated French tanks and artillery pieces. After dinner at the hotel, spend the evening on your own. In Dien Bien Phu for the night.
Include: Hotel in Dien Bien Phu, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, Tour guide, Entrance fees, Flight tickets Hanoi - Dien Bien Phu
 
Day 4: Dien Bien Phu – Muong Lay
After breakfast at the hotel, depart Dien Bien Phu and go to Lai Chau via the main road that serves as a commercial route through northeastern Vietnamese villages. The roads start to get worse as you leave Dien Bien Phu, but the breathtaking scenery and fascinating hill towns along the way make for an amazing trip with plenty of photo possibilities. We arrive in Lai Chau after a half-day of travel, which will serve as your base of operations for visiting the local area. A boat ride on the powerful Da River that winds through breathtaking mountain scenery is a highlight. Lai Chau's slow tempo of living is ideal for getting a close-up look at the way of life there. Enjoy some free time to go around the town in the evening and prepare for the upcoming trekking days.
Overnight in Muong Lay
Include: Hotel in Muong Lay, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Tour guide, Entrance fees
 
Day 5: Muong Lay- Ta Co Pinh
For those seeking exceptional trekking and genuine adventure, the stunning isolated mountain region of Lai Chau is the perfect choice. We will start a full day of walking on the nearby pathways after a quick drive in the morning following breakfast at the hotel. We will go via a number of hill villages that are home to the Hmong and Dao ethnic groups, two of the most vibrant ethnic minorities in Vietnam who first migrated in this region.
Stay overnight in Ta Co Ping village.
Include: Home stay, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Tour guide, Entrance fees
 
Day 6: Ta Co Pinh - Nam Pe
As we continue our hike deeper into this hilly area, you will now be completely off the beaten path. We'll stroll through many settlements, all of which are likely to draw attention from the few outside visitors to this region of the nation. The sights and geography make the seven-hour trip worthwhile, despite some difficult sections. We reach Nam Pe Ping village at the end of our trekking day, where you will be hosted by a native Thai ethnic family. There are no contemporary western-style amenities and very basic dormitory-style lodging options available in Nam Pe Ping.
In Nam Pe village, spend the night.
Include: Home stay, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Tour guide, Entrance fees
 
Day 7: Nam Pe - Pa Ha
We start our tour today by leaving Nam Pe village and traveling to the little town of Nam Trang along the locals' way. After that, we'll hop on a native boat and head downstream to Pa Ha village, which is our evening's destination. You will have free time once you arrive in Pa Ha to explore this rarely visited community and discover a little bit more about their way of life and culture.
In Pa Ha village, spend the night.
Include: Home stay, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Tour guide, Entrance fees
 
Day 8: Pa Ha - Pu Sam Cap
We'll start our ascent of Pu Sam Cap Mountain early in the morning. Even though the trekking might be challenging at times, especially when climbing high hills, the untamed, lush alpine beauty combined with the vibrant, welcoming locals make for an amazing experience. After walking for the whole day, you will reach the isolated Hmong community of Pu Sam Cap. The history and culture of the Hmong hill tribe are fascinating and have been preserved for a very long time. In the evening, you will have free time to tour the village and discover more about their way of life and culture.
Overnight in Pu Sam Cap.
Include: Home stay, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Tour guide, Entrance fees
 
Day 9: Pu Sam Cap - Dong Pao
Despite the extremely poor living conditions, the beauty in the northern part of Vietnam is unparalleled. We continue exploring this breathtaking area after breakfast, making our next stop at Dong Pao village. The journey will be easier because it will be downhill. We will see locals going about their everyday lives, logging, herding buffalo, and tilling their crops. The Lao, Lu, Hmong, and Dao ethnic groups occupy this region; they have preserved their age-old cultural customs as well as their unusual, exotic attire.
Overnight in Dong Pao village.
Include: Home stay, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Tour guide, Entrance fees

Day 10: Dong Pao - Ban Bo
From Dong Pao, your journey continues as you go along the local trail, passing through rural communities home to several ethnic minorities and rolling hills. Trekking in this area is primarily enjoyable when taking in the unspoiled mountain scenery and discovering the locals' cultures. Additionally, it's a fantastic chance for photographers. We spend the night as guests of some of the villagers after arriving at Ban Bo village in the late afternoon. Although there are relatively few amenities, the experience provides a unique perspective on life in a totally different culture.
Overnight in Ban Bo village.
Include: Home stay, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Tour guide, Entrance fees
 
Day 11: Ban Bo - Than Thuoc - Sapa
On this final day of the trekking trip, we bid farewell to Ban Bo and continue walking for several hours until reaching the small village of Than Thuoc. From there, we meet up with our vehicle and head to the well-known town of Sa Pa. Founded in the early 20th century as a hill retreat for French administrators seeking relief from the summer heat of the lowland plains, Sapa is situated at a height of 1500 meters above sea level. Beautiful market hill town frequented by numerous vibrant ethnic minority groups, it has architectural remnants of its French colonial past. You will have free time after settling into your hotel to explore the town, take in the atmosphere, shop in the many markets, and sample some of the unique local food.
Overnight in Sa Pa.
Include: Hotel in Sapa, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Tour guide, Entrance fees
 
Day 12: Sapa - night train back to Hanoi
The Panxiphang range gives the area around this hill station an alpine atmosphere and is home to Vietnam's highest mountain. Following breakfast, we take a tour of the busy Sa Pa Market, where the ethnic minorities of the Red Dao, Black Hmong, Tay, and Xa Pho assemble from the nearby valleys and mountains to exchange wares and purchase food. We then take a stroll into this mountainous area. As we leave the town, we go off the main path and pass through numerous hill villages and stunning mountain scenery.Take night train to Hanoi
Overnight on train.
Include: Overnight on train, Transportation, Meals: Breakfast, lunch, Tour guide, Entrance fees
 
Day 13: Hanoi - Ha Long on Cruise
After an early morning arrival in Hanoi, you will have time to freshen up before leaving the city to drive to Ha Long Bay, recently voted as one of the new seven natural wonders of the world and truly one of the most impressive sights in Vietnam. Arriving around noon. Our crew in Ha Long will welcome you aboard a junk with a complimentary drink and help you check into your cabin. A seafood lunch will be served and at 13:00 the 3.5 hour cruise on Ha Long Bay begins, visiting the famous karsts including Mat Qui (Monsters' face) islet, But Moc islet, and Cap De islet, as well as Trong (Drum) and Trinh Nu caves and a floating fishing village for insight into a unique way of life. Explore Luon cave from 16:40 to 17:30 and enjoy plenty of time for swimming and sun bathing. Savour a beautiful sunset dinner and relax under the starlit sky before retiring to the comfort of your cabin.
Includes: Transportation, accommodation on the boat, tour guide, entrance fees, breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
 
Day 14: Ha Long Bay - Hanoi
Early risers can enjoy a morning view of Ha Long Bay's landscapes with a cup of tea or coffee and fresh fruit. From the upper deck of the junk you will be amazed at the breathtaking beauty of the rocky islands rising up from the crystal-clear water. The quiet is quite eerie; you can hear birds singing and cicadas chirping onshore accompanied by the gentle lapping of the waves against the boat; the perfect soundtrack to the fresh air and gentle breezes. Explore the Sung Sot (Amazing) cave for an hour, then swim and relax at Titop beach before cruising back to the mainland at 09:30 while enjoying a brunch buffet from 10:30 to 11:30. Return to in the harbor around noon then drive back to Hanoi, arriving around 16:00
Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.
Includes: Transportation, hotel in Hanoi, tour guide, entrance fees, breakfast, lunch.
 
Day 15: Ha Noi - Departure
Have breakfast at your hotel then free time to relax, do some shopping or explore Hanoi a bit further before you are driven to Noi Bai international airport for your departure.
Includes: Transportation, breakfast

HOTELS
Homestay
Economy 2*+ Hotels
Superior 3* Hotels
First Class 4* Hotels
Deluxe 5* Hotels
Luxury 5*++ Hotels

Notes:
*All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request

Important Notes:
HOTELS, PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

GUIDE/LEADER:
English speaking guide. French , Germany , Spanish, Italian, Russian  speaking guide can be arranged with on request.

What’s included
v A trekking guide who speaks English (other languages upon request)
v Private Eco homestay village based on group size v Meals specified in itinerary (10 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 10 dinners)
v Accommodations are based on double or twin occupancy
On the first and last days, there will be a van or bus transfer. Every day, a truck will support and transport luggage to the homestay.
v Halong Bay cruise excursion for two days and one night on the bay.
A first aid kit, a cold water box, a tiny fresh towel, and sightseeing tours following itineraries are included.
v Drinking water from minerals
v Water for picnics and hiking days provided by the support staff
v Food preparation for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
v Local trekking guide

What is not included
v International travel expenses 
v Travel insurance v Personal belongings 
v Beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) during meals 
v Mineral water above and beyond what is provided 
v Optional excursions v Extra transportation needed in case of an emergency
v Individual costs like phone and laundry bills.
v Visa cost 
v Departure tax 
v Advice and guidance for the team

The following brings are essential suggested for trekking days only:

backpack designed specifically for hiking.
hiking boots (lightest possible sandal recommended).
Lightweight and cozy pants (02 pieces)
Long sleeve cotton shirt: (one piece per day)
One pair of long socks every day
Water-resistant outerwear: 01
Pullover: 01 Nighttime coat for warmth and waypoint: 01
robust flashlight.
Cap, sunglasses, and other essentials
camera (a small camera is recommended)

Itinerary disclaimer
Occasionally our tour itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travelers’ comments and our own research. The information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the service proposal. It’s very important that you print and review a final copy of your itinerary a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. If you have any queries, please contact us. We are here to help you!
Please note that while we operate successful trips in Vietnam throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary from time to time.

Difficulty levels
Our trekking tours can be classified into three levels

Easy
There are about 8 – 10K to walk on flat roads. No previous experience is necessary. Anyone in good health and fit enough to perform an occasional hike can take an easy level trek. Vietnam easy walks are provided in Hanoi, Bac Giang, Mai Chau, Ngoc Son Ngo Luong…

Moderate
There are about 10 – 15K to hike on flat and hilly roads. At this point too, no special background is required. Hikers accustomed to trekking in hilly areas of Mai Chau, Pu Luong or Lai Chau, Yen Bai successfully accomplish our treks “moderate”, provided they are in good health and to have a correct fit. These treks are moderate or easy hikes with an average duration or shorter but more difficult steps.

Difficult
There are about 16 – 23K to trek on uphill/downhill dirty, rocky trails. Physical fitness is very important for these treks and you may have to lead you home before the trek. Most treks in this level are comparable with long rides in the Fansipan mountain or the the mountainous region of Ha Giang, Cao Bang, sometimes higher altitudes. The climate and isolation can also participate in difficulty. Prior trek experience is preferable but not vital if you have confidence in your fitness.

Tour Guide
Our tour guides speak English or French. They hold a university degree in tourism and national license as a guide. If you wish to send a tour leader along with any group, he or she can fully rely on the knowledge and experience of our local guides.
Remote treks are always accompanied by a local representative to deal with permits and authorities and manage the porter team. They speak the local dialects, know the cultural traditions and give tips on suggested behavior in fragile ecological areas and tribal communities. For some itineraries, the role of tour leader and representative is combined.

When to hike
The north Vietnam experiences two distinct seasons; winter and summer. Winter is cool, dry and lasts from November to April. Temperatures range between 15 to 25°C during the day and 0 to 10°C during the night. With little rain, the winter season offers the most pleasant weather conditions for trekking in Vietnam. Read more about Vietnam weather.

Porter
During all trekking tours we may use local porters to carry your luggage as well as our trekking equipment, where required. To generate local income we employ local villagers for this task. Participants will have their own porter, carrying trekking equipment and luggage to a maximum of 15 kg per client. Travelers only have to carry their day packs. Read more how to pack

Vehicle
Depending on the nature of the tour, journeys will be accompanied by an air-conditioned car/minibus cover the larger overland sections.

Accommodation
Campsites and lodges are not common in Vietnam, instead we make use of homestays; staying the night in tribal villages along the way. Facilities are clean, but very basic. Travelers share a bamboo-slat floor, separated by curtains. Animals usually sleep under the house and restrooms and showers are often absent. Water sources are available outside. Mattresses, blankets and mosquito nets are taken care of.
Over the years Golden Trail Travel has established a number of projects to upgrade home stay accommodation into a bit more comfort. Basic facilities aside, spending the night in a tribal village and enjoying a meal with the locals brings travellers unforgettable cross-cultural experiences. In the past 15 years of organizing trekking by this way, we never received a complaint.

Food
During all treks meals will be arranged on the spot, in local restaurants and at home in local villages along the way. The meals are prepared by our cooks, the local guide or by the local host. Our cooks are well trained to prepare and serve food hygienically and they cook a variety of local delicacies. Sometimes this may include the slaughter of a chicken, duck or pig. We sometimes have the chance to bring western food, and snacks from Hanoi for breakfast and picnics along the way, and coffee and tea are available in abundance. Our cooks make a special effort to provide as much variety as possible. The porters give necessary assistance on the spot.

Drinking water
There are many shops and villages that have bottled water for sale. On remote trekking tours, we buy a sufficient supply of water for the next couple of days. We recommend bringing some water purifying tablets.

Packing
Comfortable lightweight clothing in natural fabrics such as cotton is most suitable for travelling in Vietnam. The dress code is fairly casual as in most parts of the tropics but it is advisable to cover arms and legs in the evenings against biting insects. A lightweight raincoat is a good idea in the rainy season. During the winter months warm clothing is needed for visiting the north of Vietnam. Visitors should not wear shorts, short skirts or other skimpy clothing when visiting religious buildings such as pagoda, temple, communal house and shoes should be removed before entering a private home.
What you take will naturally depend upon where you are travelling and the style of journey you are undertaking, and it can often be difficult to decide what to pack. Nevertheless, the following should act as a useful checklist of essential items worth thinking about taking.

1 medium-sized backpack.
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
1 long (easy to dry) pants and 1 long sleeved shirt to wear during the trek (easy to dry).
1 pair of flip flop (sandals).
1 pair of shorts and T-shirt to wear at camp site (2 if you do 4-day trek).
1 medium-sized towel.
1 medium-sized dry bag.
Hiking poles/walking sticks
GPS
Responsible Tourism
We strongly believe that Responsible Tourism can support to local communities: proving incomes,positive cultural exchanges and an incentive to protect natural environment. We recognize that there is always space for improvement. We continually strive to narrow the gap between principle and practice.

Environment
We have been turning environmentally responsible tourism into practices to minimize tourist impact upon the local habitat. From biodegradable soaps to re – usable water containers, we provide clients with the best information and mean to help them identify and implement effective ways to positive protect local nature and communities. It is a vital criteria that can be passed on and abided by all, long after the trip ended.

Community
Prior to our tours, we contact and work with local community leaders to make sure we are welcome and in a manner that minimizes negative social and cultural impacts. We visit local development and community projects specific to the region, encouraging customers to donate and assist such a projects in appropriate and sustainable manner.
Where make sure that where and whenever possible our tours positively benefit the local community. We stayed at locally owned accommodation and visit cottage industries for local handicraft souvenir, generating income for local business. We often employ, hire support team such as local guide, motor-taxi drivers, cook assistants on all trips to ensure that the local community benefit not only short term but with increased employment opportunities for the future.