Ethnic Encounters: 9 Days with Hill Tribes in Northwest & Northeast Vietnam

Morning

Start your day as your personal driver awaits to pick you up from Hanoi Old Quarter. The first destination is Duong Lam Ancient Village, a designated National Cultural Monument renowned for its distinctive old-aged houses, historical temples, and rich Confucian cultural heritage.

At lunchtime, we pause at a local residence to relish a delightful meal then indulge in a brief rejuvenating nap if needed.

Afternoon

Embark on a journey to Nghia Lo, located in Yen Bai province, celebrated for its breathtaking rice terraces and mountainous panoramas. This region is a melting pot of diverse ethnic communities which each shine in its own spiritual and ritual uniqueness.

The Vietnamese uplands are famous for being an ideal spot for growing delicious tea farms, besides corn or maize fields nestled neatly amidst the enormous landscapes. Tourists should take a moment to admire the pure yet glamorous beauty. Laid in this tranquility of the rural countryside are paddy fields, terrace after terrace, making the backdrop an artistic picture. All set against the backdrop of karst limestone formations. 

Cap off your day of exploration by lodging in a charming traditional stilt house owned by a Thai ethnic family who always express hospitality towards tourists. In the warmth of their welcome, we can gain insights into their distinctive culture and get a taste of authentic dinner featuring local specialties.

Morning/Afternoon

Start your day by awakening to the crisp, refreshing air and the serene ambiance of the countryside. Recharge your energy with a delectable breakfast.

Once the check-out formalities are completed, set your course for Mu Cang Chai, a renowned destination celebrated for its awe-inspiring landscapes and authentic rural allure. 

This locale is where various ethnic communities live. Therefore this place contains not one but many one-of-the-kind ethnic traditions. 

Embark on a journey to Nam Co Village to witness the traditional customs and daily life of the H’Mong people.

Continue your exploration to Mam Soi and La Pan Tan terrace rice fields. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to an elevated vantage point and take in the panoramic view of the surroundings.

Evening

Indulge in a delightful dinner featuring unique cultural dishes prepared by the locals. Retire for the night in a cozy homestay in Kim Noi Village, immersing yourself in the authentic charm of the area.

Morning

Commence your day with a delightful breakfast to invigorate yourself for the adventures that lie ahead.

Your private car will pick you up, transporting you from Mu Cang Chai, passing through Tan Uyen (Lai Chau District), and onward to Sapa. Along the journey, relish the breathtaking views of the rural countryside, where majestic mountains and serene rice fields unfold before your eyes.

Upon reaching Sapa, indulge in a scrumptious lunch before making your way to the hotel for a well-deserved period of relaxation.

Afternoon

The afternoon grants you the freedom to explore the enchanting town of Sapa at your own pace for the remainder of the day.

Morning

Arrive at the lively Bac Ha Market, renowned as one of the most prominent ethnic markets in Northern Vietnam. Immerse yourself in the dynamic trading culture that unfolds among various minority groups, where the market comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colors as people don traditional costumes.

Embark on an exploration of the market, immersing yourself in its authentic and primal characteristics. Discover unique souvenirs and gifts, such as intricately hand-embroidered textiles, or indulge in local snacks and delicacies like grilled meat skewers or sticky rice cakes.

Following the exploring tour, relish a delectable lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon

Proceed to the Palace of Hoang A Tuong, a remarkable architectural gem characterized by a fascinating blend of baroque and oriental design.

Venture to Ban Phung Village to encounter the La Chi ethnic people, marveling at their traditional attire featuring black knee-length skirts and jackets adorned with delicate colored embroidery.

Move down to Hoang Su Phi for dinner and retire for the night at your homestay.

NOTE: Bac Ha Market operates every Sunday. In the event of closure, there are lots of alternative vibrant ethnic markets that can be explored.

Morning/ Afternoon:

For today, be ready because the two most impressive passes in the Northern area of Vietnam are on the visiting list for us to explore. They are the famous Tan Su Phin Pass and Cong Troi Pass.

This private journey leads us through captivating scenes of majestic nature. Don’t miss out the opportunity to capture the moment off yourself drowned into scenery. 

After that, head to Ha Giang and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the way.

Evening

We are expected to arrive at Ha Giang at dusk. 

Tonight, we will stay overnight at a stilt house of the Tay community.

Morning

Commence our day with a picturesque drive traversing Cong Troi Pass and Yen Minh en route to Dong Van.

Begin by visiting the King's Palace in Sa Phin Village, a 20th-century architectural marvel belonging to the leader of the H'Mong ethnic community. Hear captivating stories about the family's life and witness the distinctive architectural style.

Sightsee the Karst Plateau Geopark in Dong Van, an enthralling region boasting extensive limestone areas, breathtaking mountain vistas, and the cultural richness of various ethnic minorities.

We take a break and pause for lunch at one of the ancient houses near the old market area. 

After lunch, enjoy leisure time meandering through the old market area, soaking in its lively atmosphere.

Afternoon

Prepare for a trek through Ma Pi Leng Pass, renowned as one of Vietnam's most stunning roads, offering panoramic views of the river valley. Seize the opportunity to capture breathtaking photos and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the surroundings.

Evening

Conclude the day in Meo Vac, where we'll spend the night. Relax and embrace the tranquility or venture out to explore the town at your own pace.

Morning

Today, we pay a visit to a quaint town inhabited by various ethnic groups such as Tay, Dao, H'mong, and Lo Lo which is named Meo Vac.

If our tour happens to coincide on a Sunday morning, seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local market scene. Witness local artisans selling handmade clothes and crafting indigo-dyed jackets using vintage sewing machines, all adorned in vibrant ethnic attire.

Lunch will be served at a restaurant in Bao Lac.

Afternoon

Journey to Pac Rang to engage with the Nung ethnic community and gain insights into their craftsmanship of farm tools and blacksmithing.

Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at a local Nung ethnic house, providing a unique and immersive experience of their culture and way of life.

Morning/Afternoon

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out on a hill tribe's adventure to Cao Bang.

Our touring attraction today is Ban Gioc Waterfall, a breathtaking gem nestled in the Northern mountainous region. Take a leisurely stroll, soak in the sights, and capture the stunning beauty of the waterfall in photographs. If your visit coincides with the period between September to December, you're in for the best opportunity to witness the waterfall's majestic splendor.

Proceed to Nguom Ngao, aptly named "Tiger Cave," a remarkable sight featuring awe-inspiring rock formations and stalactites of various captivating shapes.

Pause for a delightful lunch at a local restaurant by noon. 

Following a brief respite, venture onward to the tranquil wilderness of Ba Be National Park. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna in this pristine ecosystem.

Evening

Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at a local homestay, providing an authentic and immersive experience in the heart of the region.

Revitalize yourself with a delectable breakfast.

Embark on a trek through the mesmerizing rice fields, guiding your way to the Bo Lu boat station. Upon arrival, embark on a 3-hour boat tour, cruising the crystal-clear waters of Ba Be Lake. Absorb the awe-inspiring scenery, relish the refreshing breeze, and take a dip in the invigorating waters for a swim.

Indulge in a satisfying lunch at a local house.

Continue your exploration of the surroundings until late afternoon, at which point your private driver will escort you back to Hanoi by car.

Now is time to say goodbye, we hope you have had a lot of fun and memorable experiences thanks to this adventure with us! See you again soon!