15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000
Dare to venture beyond the usual tourist trails with our "Off the Beaten Tracks North Vietnam 8 Days" tour, a meticulously designed expedition for those who crave a genuine, immersive adventure. This 8-day journey is a condensed yet comprehensive exploration of the country's most spectacular and remote northern regions, where pristine nature and vibrant ethnic cultures converge. Prepare for a thrilling experience that takes you deep into landscapes untouched by mass tourism.
Your adventure begins in Hanoi, the dynamic capital city, before you are swiftly transported to the heart of the highlands. Our first major destination is Ha Giang Province, often hailed as Vietnam's final frontier. This is a region of breathtaking, almost surreal beauty, dominated by towering limestone karsts, deep valleys, and winding mountain passes. You'll be captivated by the famous Ha Giang Loop, a series of dramatic roads offering panoramic views at every turn. This is where you'll encounter a multitude of ethnic minority groups—each with its own distinct traditions, languages, and colorful costumes—whose daily lives provide a fascinating window into a world preserved by time and geography.
From Ha Giang, we journey to Cao Bang, a province renowned for its epic landscapes and historical significance. The region is a trekker's paradise, offering trails that meander through verdant rice paddies, past stunning rock formations, and to the serene homes of local communities. Here, you will feel a profound connection to the land and its people, exploring hidden gems and seeing Vietnam in its most authentic form.
A highlight of this tour is the visit to Ba Be National Park, a true natural treasure. The park is home to Ba Be Lake, one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in Asia. Surrounded by limestone mountains and lush forests, the lake offers a tranquil escape. You can enjoy a peaceful boat trip, explore hidden caves, and witness the serene lifestyle of the Tay people who live along its shores. This is a perfect place for relaxation and contemplation, a stark and beautiful contrast to the rugged mountains of Ha Giang.
While Sapa is briefly mentioned, the focus of this tour remains on the truly "off-the-beaten-path" destinations. This ensures that every moment of your 8-day journey is filled with unique discoveries and authentic interactions, rather than following the well-trodden paths of other tours. The "Off the Beaten Tracks North Vietnam 8 Days" tour is more than a holiday; it's an opportunity to challenge your perceptions, connect with resilient cultures, and witness the raw, untamed beauty of a truly magnificent country.
Ha Giang Province:
Vietnam's Final Frontier: Embark on a thrilling journey through this remote and spectacular region, famous for its dramatic landscapes and challenging mountain passes.
The Ha Giang Loop: Experience one of Southeast Asia's most epic scenic drives, offering unparalleled views of jagged limestone peaks, terraced fields, and deep canyons.
Ethnic Immersion: Meet a multitude of ethnic groups, including the H'mong, Tay, and Lolo, and gain insight into their unique cultures and ancient traditions.
Authentic Homestays: Stay in traditional homestays, providing a genuine and warm experience with local families.
Ba Be National Park:
A Natural Treasure: Discover one of Asia's largest natural freshwater lakes, a serene body of water surrounded by stunning limestone karsts and dense jungle.
Boating & Kayaking: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the tranquil lake, visiting key sites like Puong Cave and Dau Dang Waterfall.
Cultural Connection: Experience the peaceful lifestyle of the Tay ethnic people, who live in stilt houses along the lake's banks.
Cao Bang Province:
Epic Landscapes: Trek through Cao Bang's breathtaking scenery, characterized by lush valleys, towering rock formations, and clear streams.
Untouched Nature: Explore a region less frequented by tourists, allowing for a more profound and personal connection with the natural environment.
Historical Significance: Learn about the region's rich history, particularly its role during Vietnam's revolutionary periods.
Hanoi:
Dynamic Capital: Use the vibrant city of Hanoi as your gateway to the northern highlands.
Cultural Introduction: Get a taste of Northern Vietnamese life before your adventure truly begins.
Sapa:
Scenic Introduction: While the tour's focus is off the main track, it offers a glimpse into Sapa's famous terraced rice fields.
Trekking Base: A brief but memorable introduction to one of Northern Vietnam's most iconic trekking destinations.
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.
Your Perfect Trekking Adventure, Crafted Just for You Across Asia
At Golden Trail Travel DMC, we believe every journey should be as unique as the traveler. As Asia's premier trekking tour operator, we specialize in creating bespoke hiking experiences that perfectly match your desires and budget, wherever your wanderlust takes you.
Our dedicated team-comprising experienced trekking guides, knowledgeable local experts, reliable drivers, insightful tour consultants, and passionate mountain specialists-is committed to ensuring your adventure is seamless, safe, and truly unforgettable.
Whether you're exploring solo, enjoying a family getaway, or embarking on a group expedition, we're here to design a trip that's exclusively yours. The itineraries you see are just a starting point; consider them a canvas upon which we'll paint your ideal Asian trekking tour. We invite you to share your ideas, tell us your preferences, and let us know your budget. We'll meticulously customize an existing itinerary or craft a brand-new program from the ground up, adding or excluding elements until it's absolutely perfect for you.
Ready to start planning your dream trekking adventure across Asia? Share your requirements with us today, and let's create memories that will last a lifetime.
Your journey begins with a 7:30 AM pickup in Hanoi. Settle in for a comfortable, scenic 5-hour drive as the urban landscape gives way to stunning terraced rice fields and rolling hills. Upon arrival in Sapa, we'll enjoy a local lunch before embarking on a breathtaking adventure. You'll take the record-breaking cable car system to the summit of Fansipan, the "Roof of Indochina" at a staggering 3,143 meters. The 30-minute ride offers incredible panoramic views. At the top, you can explore the tranquil temples and choose to climb the final 600 stairs or take a funicular to the very peak. We'll then return to Sapa town for a restful night at a hotel.
Highlights: Cable car to Fansipan summit, breathtaking views of rice terraces, and a peaceful evening in Sapa.
Note: Remember to bring a warm jacket as it can get windy and cold at the summit.
Prepare for a challenging but rewarding 15-17km trek today. We’ll hike through the lush landscapes of Ý Linh Hồ, exploring stunning flower valleys and the traditional villages of the Black Hmong people. You’ll have the unique opportunity to visit a local house, learning about daily life and culture. After a local lunch, our trek continues through the most impressive rice terraces in Sapa, leading us to Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, home to the Zay people. We'll end the day with a delicious home-cooked dinner and a memorable overnight stay at a local homestay in Ta Van.
Highlights: A challenging trek through iconic rice terraces, meeting Black Hmong and Zay communities, and an authentic homestay experience.
Today, we journey from Sapa to the untamed beauty of Ha Giang Province. Our route takes us through picturesque landscapes, with a stop for lunch in Pho Rang. We'll then enjoy a gentle 6-8km walk through Vinh Yen, a village inhabited by the Tay ethnic group, known for their traditional stilt houses. We'll continue our drive into the heart of Ha Giang, where we'll arrive at another Tay village around 6 PM. A delicious home-cooked dinner awaits us before we settle in for the night at a traditional Tay stilt house homestay.
Highlights: Scenic drive to Ha Giang, a gentle walk through Tay villages, and an overnight stay in a traditional stilt house.
After obtaining our mandatory permit, we begin our spectacular drive along a series of winding mountain passes. The scenery is simply breathtaking, with towering limestone karsts and unique flora and fauna. We'll have lunch in the charming town of Tam Son before visiting the villages of H’mong Lung Cam B. Here, you'll see the former palace of the H'mong King, a historic site with a fascinating story. We’ll arrive in Dong Van around 6 PM, where we'll enjoy dinner and spend the night in a hotel.
Highlights: Driving through spectacular mountain passes, visiting the historic H'mong King’s Palace, and a relaxing evening in Dong Van town.
Start your day with breakfast and a visit to the bustling Dong Van Market (if it's a Sunday) where locals from surrounding villages come to trade. We’ll then embark on an 8-10km trek to the Pu Lo fortress, a historic French-built fort with spectacular views of the entire region. From there, we climb to the top of the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass. Here, you can walk along the "Sky Path" for jaw-dropping views of the Nho Quế River canyon. We'll descend into the valley of Meo Vac, have lunch in Bao Lac, and then drive to Cao Bang for an overnight stay in a hotel.
Highlights: Trek to Pu Lo fortress, the epic Ma Pi Leng Pass, and stunning views of the Nho Quế River canyon.
Today will likely be the highlight of your tour! We’ll drive for about two hours to the magnificent Ban Gioc Waterfall, a stunning 300-meter-wide cascade on the border of Vietnam and China. You’ll have time to relax, take incredible photos, and even take a bamboo boat to get up close to the falls. Afterward, we'll venture underground into the mesmerizing Nguom Ngao Cave, famous for its intricate rock formations. Our day ends in the Nung village of Quang Uyen, where we'll be warmly welcomed by a friendly blacksmith named Mr. Hung Dao for a home-cooked dinner and a cozy overnight stay in a traditional Nung house.
Highlights: The majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, a close-up boat ride, exploring Nguom Ngao Cave, and a charming homestay in a Nung village.
Leaving Quang Uyen behind, we drive through the beautiful Ma Phuc Pass on our way to Ba Be National Park. Once we arrive, you’ll have time to explore the park's natural wonders, including the serene Ba Be Lake, the mysterious Puong Grotto, and the impressive Dau Dang Waterfall. We’ll also see the tiny Widow Island in the middle of the lake. Tonight, you'll experience life like a local with a traditional Tay stilt house homestay, staying with a local host family.
Highlights: Scenic drive through Ma Phuc Pass, exploring Ba Be National Park, and a peaceful homestay with a Tay family.
After breakfast, we’ll take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront, visiting local villages before a final hike to a viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Our last adventure is a visit to Hua Ma Cave, the biggest dry cave in Northeastern Vietnam, renowned for its thousands of stalactites and stalagmites. After a final local lunch, we’ll begin our drive back to Hanoi, arriving at your hotel around 5 PM, filled with unforgettable memories.
Highlights: Gentle hike to a scenic viewpoint, exploring Hua Ma Cave, and a final, memorable local lunch.
Answer: Golden Trail Travel specializes in offering a wide range of travel packages to Vietnam and other Indochina countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, China, and Malaysia. We offer themed tours including Classic Highlights, Cycling, Trekking, Beach Holidays, Luxury Honeymoon, Short Trips, Family, Off The Beaten Track, Multi-Country, Motorbiking, Veteran, Food, Students, Luxury, Golf, Photography, Cooking Class, Bird Watching, Indochina Cruises, Kayaking, Muslim-friendly tours, Offroad 4x4WD, Indochina MICE Travel, Cave Expedition, and Helicopter tours.
Answer: You can book a tour by contacting us directly via phone, email, or by filling out the contact form on our website. Our team of travel experts will advise and assist you in designing a suitable itinerary.
Answer: Absolutely! We understand that every traveler has unique preferences. Golden Trail Travel is happy to customize tour packages to fit your specific needs, interests, and budget.
Answer: Depending on your nationality and the destination, we may provide guidance or assistance with the necessary visa procedures. Please contact us for more detailed information.
Answer: We are committed to delivering authentic and unique travel experiences in Vietnam and Indochina. With a team of knowledgeable local experts, meticulously designed tour packages, and dedicated customer care, we ensure every trip is a memorable journey.
Answer: We will provide you with a detailed checklist of what to prepare, including information on luggage, appropriate clothing for the weather and local culture, essential personal items, and health advice.
Answer: Our cancellation policy will be clearly stated in the terms and conditions when you book a tour. Please refer to this information or contact us for specific details.
Answer: We prioritize the safety and health of our travelers. Before your trip, we will provide information and advice regarding health, travel insurance, and safety measures at the destination.
Answer: Yes, we can arrange tour guides who speak Vietnamese or other common languages (such as English, French, German, Spanish, etc.) upon your request and subject to availability. Please inform us of your language preference when booking your tour.
Answer: We highly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure. While we do not directly provide insurance, we can advise on suitable insurance types and the importance of having coverage during your trip
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Answer: Yes, we have tour options suitable for solo travelers, including group joining tours or specially designed private tours. Please contact us so we can advise on the best package for you.
Answer: We offer many family-friendly tour packages and can adjust itineraries to suit travelers of all ages, including children and seniors. We will advise on the difficulty level, travel time, and activities appropriate for each member of your family.
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Answer: We are committed to practicing responsible and sustainable tourism. We constantly strive to minimize our environmental impact, respect local cultures, and contribute positively to the communities where we operate.
Answer: Your safety is our top priority. Golden Trail Travel has a 24/7 emergency support team. We will provide emergency contact numbers and detailed instructions before your trip. Our guides and local partners are trained to handle emergency situations professionally.
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Answer: Yes. Throughout your trip, you will always have the support of your local guide, driver, and Golden Trail Travel's operation team. We will provide a 24/7 support hotline so you can contact us anytime if you have any issues or need assistance.
Answer: Each tour package has clear details on included services (e.g., accommodation, transportation, meals as per itinerary, entrance fees to attractions, tour guide) and exclusions (e.g., international flights, visas, travel insurance, drinks, tips, personal expenses). You will receive a detailed itinerary and an inclusion/exclusion list before confirming your tour booking.
Answer: Our tour group sizes can vary depending on the type of tour. For join-in tours, we try to keep the numbers small to ensure a personalized and comfortable experience. We also offer private tours for families or groups of friends upon request.
Answer: Before departure, you can contact our team of consultants via phone, email, or online chat. We are always ready to answer any questions and help you prepare best for your trip.
Answer: We are strongly committed to sustainable tourism. This is reflected in our collaboration with responsible local partners, supporting local communities, encouraging travelers to respect culture and environment, and minimizing negative impacts on destinations. Our goal is to benefit both travelers and local people.