Embark on an Unforgettable 8-Day North Vietnam Trekking Tour

Explore the best trekking routes in Northern Vietnam on this 8-day adventure, featuring the breathtaking Mu Cang Chai rice terraces trek and the legendary Sapa Valley hiking experience. This immersive journey takes you through the cultural highlights of Bac Ha Market and the scenic Hoang Su Phi trek, blending stunning landscapes with authentic ethnic encounters.
Trek from Nghia Lo to Sapa and witness Vietnam’s most stunning rice terrace landscapes, making this the ultimate Vietnam rice terrace trekking tour. Perfect for adventurers seeking off-the-beaten-path trekking in North Vietnam, this trip offers an unparalleled homestay trekking tour in Vietnam, where you'll stay in traditional homes for an authentic cultural experience.
Marvel at the scenic rice terraces in Mu Cang Chai and Hoang Su Phi, visit hill tribes during a cultural trekking tour to Bac Ha Market, and challenge yourself on a 9-day adventure trek from Hanoi to Sapa. The best time to trek the Mu Cang Chai rice fields is during the golden harvest season (September-October), while spring trekking in Sapa and Hoang Su Phi (March-May) offers lush greenery and vibrant landscapes.
Whether you prefer a guided trekking tour in Northern Vietnam or hiking through ethnic minority villages in Vietnam, this tour covers it all—including trekking from Hanoi to Nghia Lo, comparing Mu Cang Chai vs Sapa trekking difficulty, and exploring the remote Hoang Su Phi rice terraces hiking trails. Don’t miss the vibrant Bac Ha Sunday Market trekking tour or the rugged Y Ty highland trekking route for an extra dose of adventure. Ready to book a 9-day Vietnam trekking tour? Discover the best North Vietnam trekking itinerary, compare private vs group trekking tours in Sapa, and find out the cost of a 9-day trek in Northern Vietnam for the trip of a lifetime!

Day 1: Hanoi to Nghia Lo – Escape to Tranquil Villages & Begin Your Northern Vietnam Trekking Adventure

Kick off your 8-day Northern Vietnam trekking tour with an early morning departure from Hanoi, where your private guide and driver will take you on a scenic journey through the stunning Vietnamese countryside. As you travel northwest to Nghia Lo—a hidden gem in Yen Bai province—you’ll leave behind the city bustle and enter a world of serene rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Upon arrival, settle into a traditional homestay, immersing yourself in authentic Vietnamese hospitality while enjoying a delicious local lunch. Then, embark on a leisurely cycling tour through the surrounding countryside, pedaling past lush rice fields and remote Thai and H’mong villages. This is your first chance to witness the daily life of Vietnam’s hill tribes, where farmers tend to their terraced fields and children play along winding paths.
This soft trekking and cycling introduction sets the tone for your Vietnam rice terrace trekking tour, offering a perfect balance of cultural immersion and scenic beauty. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking off-the-beaten-path trekking in North Vietnam, Day 1 ensures an unforgettable start to your Mu Cang Chai to Sapa Valley hiking adventure.
Included meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Nghia Lo to Mu Cang Chai – Trek Through Rice Valleys & Discover Vietnam's Most Breathtaking Terraces

Rise to a homemade breakfast at your Nghia Lo homestay before setting out on today's adventure—a scenic journey to Mu Cang Chai, home to some of Vietnam's most spectacular rice terraces. Your first stop is Tu Le, a peaceful valley town nestled beneath the legendary Khau Pha Pass, where you'll begin a gentle trek through emerald rice paddies and traditional H'mong and Thai villages.
As you walk, interact with local farmers working in their fields and capture postcard-perfect shots of the lush, tiered landscapes—a highlight for any photography enthusiast or nature lover. After a farm-to-table lunch featuring regional specialties, continue toward Mu Cang Chai, the UNESCO-recognized rice terrace capital of Vietnam. Along the way, stop at viewpoints for panoramic vistas of the Golden Rice Valley, especially stunning during harvest season (September-October). Arrive at your authentic homestay by late afternoon, where you'll be welcomed by a Thai ethnic family. Unwind with a leisurely village walk, observing daily life and perhaps learning about traditional weaving or farming techniques. As the sun sets over the terraced hills, savor a homecooked dinner made with fresh, local ingredients—the perfect end to an unforgettable day of trekking and cultural immersion.

Day 3: Mu Cang Chai Trek – Explore the UNESCO National Rice Terrace Heritage

Embark on the highlight of your Mu Cang Chai trekking adventure with a full-day trek from Che Cu Nha Commune to La Pan Tan Commune, covering approximately 13 km through breathtaking landscapes. Throughout the trek, marvel at the awe-inspiring Mu Cang Chai rice terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning beauty and agricultural significance.
As you trek through the region, you'll visit H'mong hill tribe villages, gaining insight into their traditional farming methods and daily life. These villages offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic culture of the local communities while appreciating their sustainable agricultural practices.
In the late afternoon, return to your accommodation, where you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved dinner after a day of exploration.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Mu Cang Chai to Sapa – Scenic Drive and Trekking through Ta Phin Valley

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on your journey to Sapa, one of Vietnam's top trekking destinations known for its spectacular mountain landscapes. During your scenic drive, make stops at must-see locations such as the Than Thuoc Tea Plantation, O Quy Ho Pass, and the majestic Silver Waterfall, where you'll have plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs.
Upon arrival in Sapa, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, set off on a trek to the tranquil Ta Phin Valley, home to the Red Dzao ethnic group. This peaceful valley offers breathtaking views of terraced rice fields nestled between towering mountains, providing the perfect backdrop for your trek.
After your exploration, check in to your hotel in Sapa and unwind after a day filled with adventure and scenic beauty.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Sapa to Bac Ha – Trekking Through Muong Hoa Valley and Exploring Ethnic Markets

Begin your day with an exhilarating trek through th scenic Muong Hoa Valley, one of the most stunning trekking destinations in Sapa, as you visit the traditional Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai villages. Along the way, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Black H'mong hill tribe, observing their daily life and age-old farming practices.
After a delicious lunch at a family-run restaurant in Ta Van Village, continue your journey to Bac Ha, a mountain town known for its lively ethnic markets and captivating mountain scenery. Bac Ha offers a unique opportunity to explore local traditions and shop for handmade goods from the diverse ethnic groups in the region.Upon arrival in Bac Ha, check into your hotel and unwind, preparing for the exciting explorations ahead. 
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Bac Ha to Hoang Su Phi – Hill Tribe Markets and Scenic Trekking Through Terraced Rice Fields

Start your day by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bac Ha’s hill tribe market, where the streets come alive with colorful traditional attire, livestock, and handmade goods. This bustling market is an excellent opportunity to experience the rich cultural diversity of the region, showcasing the unique customs of the local ethnic groups.
After a delicious lunch, continue your journey towards Hoang Su Phi, renowned for its breathtaking terraced rice fields and stunning mountain landscapes. Along the way, make stops at hill tribe villages to explore rural life and observe traditional farming techniques. As you approach Vinh Quang Town, enjoy a short trek to your peaceful home-stay, where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Hoang Su Phi Trek – Discover Ban Luoc and Majestic Rice Terraces

Start your day with an unforgettable trek through Ban Luoc, one of Vietnam’s national rice terrace heritage sites, renowned for its stunning beauty and lush landscapes. The rice terraces, especially during the harvest season, offer unparalleled views of the mountainous countryside, providing fantastic photo opportunities and a deep connection to the region's agricultural traditions.
After enjoying a hearty lunch in Vinh Quang, continue your journey to Thong Nguyen Commune, where you'll check in to a cozy local home-stay. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of Hoang Su Phi’s highlands, and experience the unique lifestyle of the local ethnic communities.
Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Hoang Su Phi to Hanoi – Conclude Your Unforgettable Trekking Adventure in Northern Vietnam

After a final breakfast in the serene Hoang Su Phi, begin your journey back to Hanoi, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable trekking tour in Northern Vietnam. Enjoy the scenic drive, taking in the beautiful landscapes and reflecting on the cultural richness and stunning natural beauty you've experienced throughout your journey.
Upon arrival in Hanoi, check in to your hotel, where you can unwind and reminisce about the incredible trekking adventures, from the rice terraces to the ethnic villages and mountain landscapes. This marks the end of an enriching adventure in one of Vietnam's most picturesque regions.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Note: Hotel and Meal Information

Hotels: Please note that hotels are subject to availability. In case of changes, we will provide you with accommodations of equivalent quality

Meals: If you have any specific food requirements (vegetarian, vegan, food allergies, etc.), kindly inform us in advance. This will allow us to notify our restaurant partners and tour guides, ensuring a smooth and personalized experience. For food lovers, Snail Adventure Tours can be your culinary guide, offering opportunities to savor tempting local delicacies and world-famous dishes throughout your journey.

What’s Included:

English-speaking Trekking Guide (Other languages available upon request)
Accommodations based on double/twin occupancy
Private Eco Homestay (based on group size)
Meals as detailed in the itineraries: 6 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 6 dinners
Van or Bus Transfers to and from the trekking locations, with luggage support to homestays each day
Sightseeing Excursions as outlined in the itinerary
First Aid Kit for safety
Cold Water Box and small fresh towel for convenience
Permission Papers for entrance to sightseeing locations
Mineral Water provided for drinking
Support Crew to supply picnic lunches and water on trekking days, as well as to prepare all meals during the trek
Local Trekking Guide for additional insights and support during the hike

What’s Not Included:

International Airfare
Travel Insurance
Items of Personal Nature (e.g., souvenirs, toiletries)
Alcoholic Beverages and Soft Drinks during meals
Mineral Water beyond what is provided
Optional Excursions not specified in the itinerary
Additional Transport required in case of an emergency situation
Personal Expenses such as telephone charges, laundry, etc.
Visa Fees
Departure Tax
Tips for the guide and support team

Essential Gear for Trekking Days:

Backpack specialized for trekking
Trekking Shoes (extra light sandals recommended)
Light and Comfortable Trousers (2 pairs)
Cotton Long Sleeves (1 per day)
Long Socks (1 pair per day)
Waterproof Jacket (1)
Pullover (1)
Coat for warmth at night and during stops (1)
Durable Flashlight
Hat, Sunglasses, and other sun protection gear
Camera (compact camera recommended)