Know before you go
- The journey offers traditional homestays or basic guesthouses for accommodation, and meals typically feature simple local cuisine. Expect basic amenities for an authentic cultural experience.
- Please respect the customs and traditions of the ethnic minority groups, and follow the tour guide’s instructions to ensure proper behavior and cultural respect.
Overview
Get ready for an unforgettable 5-day off-the-beaten-path adventure through the remote highlands of Northern Vietnam, where rugged mountains, golden rice terraces, and rich ethnic cultures await. This curated itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking authentic experiences far from the crowds — especially during the breathtaking harvest season from August to October, when the terraced fields of Mu Cang Chai glow in hues of gold.
This journey invites you to slow down and connect with the land and its people. With a balance of scenic trekking, cultural encounters, and peaceful moments in local villages, this tour promises both adventure and serenity — with homestays providing a genuine look into daily life of ethnic minorities.
Begin your trip in Nghia Lo, a peaceful town in Yen Bai province. After a scenic bus ride from Hanoi, you’ll visit the spectacular Khau Pha Pass, one of Vietnam’s legendary mountain passes, and take a gentle walk through nearby ethnic villages. Optional hands-on activities like indigo dyeing or beeswax painting are available for those interested in local crafts.
On Day 2, lace up your boots for a challenging yet rewarding trek to the summit of Ta Tao Peak (2,720m) — one of the highest and most remote peaks in the region. Along the way, rest in a rhododendron forest, enjoy a picnic lunch, and take in sweeping views of untouched landscapes. Later, unwind in Ngoc Chien Village, where hot springs and quiet hills await.
Your journey continues with a trek to the hidden Bang Long Waterfall, followed by a scenic drive to Mu Cang Chai, the heart of Northern Vietnam’s terraced rice culture. Here, you’ll explore some of the most iconic views of the region on a motorbike ride to La Pan Tan, Na Hang Tua Chu bamboo forest, and the horseshoe-shaped rice terraces in Sang Nhu Village.
The final day offers time to slow down. Wander through local markets, relax by a nearby stream, or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of life in Mu Cang Chai. After a special lunch at the homestay, a limousine will take you back to Hanoi, concluding your journey full of connection, adventure, and wonder.
Highlights
- Trekking to the summit of Ta Tao Peak (2,720m) and enjoying a picnic lunch in a rhododendron forest with breathtaking mountain views.
- Exploring off-the-beaten-path villages in Nghia Lo, Ngoc Chien, and Mu Cang Chai, and experiencing authentic homestays with warm local hospitality.
- Riding motorbikes to the iconic rice terraces of La Pan Tan and watching the sunset over the stunning horseshoe-shaped fields of Sang Nhu village.
- Visiting the hidden Bang Long waterfall and walking through peaceful bamboo forests in Na Hang Tua Chu.
