Northwest Vietnam mountains & hill-tribes adventure tour

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the Moc Chau tea plantations - the highlight of the plateau, where endless rows of vibrant green tea bushes stretch beautifully across the landscape. Then continue your journey along winding mountain roads ascending toward Nghia Lo, where breathtaking natural scenery unfolds before you.

On the way, cross the majestic Da River (part of the Son La hydropower reservoir) and pass through peaceful small towns like Phu Yen and Van Chan. Arrive at Nghia Lo, a charming town nestled in the fertile Muong Lo Valley, home to 12 ethnic groups including the Thai, Kinh, Tay, Nung, and Muong peoples. Here, you’ll have time to explore the lively Nghia Lo Market, a perfect spot to immerse yourself in local life, discover highland specialties, and experience authentic cultural traditions.

Next, travel to the small town of Tu Le, situated at the foot of the famous Khau Pha Pass - one of the four legendary mountain passes of Northwest Vietnam, renowned for its stunning terraced rice fields weaving through majestic mountains.

Check in to your hotel in Tu Le, and enjoy a free evening to relax and breathe in the fresh, crisp air of the Northwest highlands.

Summary of inclusions

Private vehicle

Moc Chau tea plantation

Sightseeing en route

Breakfast

Hotel in Tu Le

After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable journey across the Khau Pha Pass - one of the longest and most challenging mountain passes on National Highway 32, stretching about 30 kilometers. The name “Khau Pha” means “Sky Horn” in the local Thai language, inspired by the mountain peak that rises like a horn piercing through a sea of clouds.

From the top of the pass, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below, where winding terraced rice fields embrace the mountainsides, dotted with charming hill tribe villages. You’ll have multiple stops to admire the stunning scenery and capture unforgettable photos.

Next, head to the starting point near Mu Cang Chai, famous for having some of the most spectacular terraced rice fields in Vietnam - officially recognized as a National Heritage Site. Prepare for a rewarding 14-kilometer trek through the legendary terraces of La Pan Tan and Che Cu Nha communes, where nature and human craftsmanship combine to create a masterpiece.

Along the trek, visit traditional H’Mong villages, learning about the lifestyle, customs, and culture of the ethnic people who have shaped this incredible landscape. A picnic lunch will be served amidst the tranquil mountain scenery, offering a perfect moment to recharge.

At the end of your trek, a vehicle will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in Mu Cang Chai. Spend the evening at your leisure, relaxing and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this highland region.

Summary of inclusions

Private vehicle

Trekking mu cang chai

Breakfast & picnic lunch

Hotel in Mu Cang Chai

After breakfast, leave Mu Cang Chai and begin your journey to the enchanting highland town of Sa Pa. Nestled at about 1,500 meters above sea level and lying at the foot of Fansipan Peak — the highest mountain in Indochina — Sa Pa boasts a perfect blend of cool climate, stunning mountainous landscapes, and the rich cultures of ethnic minorities such as the H’Mong, Dao, and Tay. Once a favorite French colonial retreat in the early 20th century, Sa Pa remains a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Vietnam.

Your first stop is Binh Lu, where you will visit a traditional Lu ethnic minority village. Here, locals proudly preserve their unique customs, traditional clothing, and lifestyle. Take a leisurely walk around the village, visit local homes, and capture authentic photos of the simple mountain life.

Next, you will conquer the breathtaking O Quy Ho Pass, the highest mountain pass in Vietnam, soaring over 2,000 meters above sea level. From the summit, be amazed by the spectacular panorama of lush green valleys, rolling mountains veiled in mist, and winding roads that look like a scene from a painting.

After descending partway, enjoy a short trek through the ancient forest of Hoang Lien National Park to reach the famous Love Waterfall — where cascading white waters plunge into pristine nature, creating a romantic, fairy-tale setting.

Late in the afternoon, arrive in Sa Pa, check in to your hotel, and enjoy free time to rest or explore this charming mountain town at your own pace.

Summary of inclusions

Private vehicle

Hill tribe villages visit

Love waterfalls explore

Breakfast

Hotel in Sapa

After breakfast, begin your journey to explore the stunning Muong Hoa Valley - one of the most beautiful and culturally rich areas in Northern Vietnam. Your vehicle will take you to the trekking starting point, where you’ll embark on an unforgettable trek through breathtaking landscapes featuring majestic mountains, lush terraced rice fields, dense bamboo forests, and peaceful villages inhabited by the Black Hmong, Red Dao, and Dzay ethnic groups.

Along the way, witness the daily lives of the local people - from plowing fields and planting rice to children playing alongside water buffalo. You’ll have the chance to visit local homes, engage warmly with villagers, and discover unique cultural traditions and customs. Don’t forget your camera - this area is a paradise for capturing stunning photos of both natural beauty and authentic rural life. Depending on your fitness level, you can choose an easier trek along the main stream or a more challenging route winding through hills and hidden villages.

In the afternoon, arrive at a traditional local homestay, a rustic stilt house nestled among vibrant green terraced fields. The rest of the day is yours to relax, explore, or connect with the serene mountain surroundings.

As the sun sets, enjoy a hearty local dinner with your host family, prepared from fresh, homegrown ingredients. Share stories and experience the genuine warmth and hospitality of the mountain people - a truly unforgettable cultural exchange.

Summary of inclusions

Sapa trekking

Hill tribe villages visit

Breakfast & dinner

Homestay local house

After breakfast, say goodbye to your warm-hearted host family and hop on a private vehicle to begin an unforgettable journey through spectacular mountain passes toward Bac Ha - one of Northern Vietnam’s most vibrant cultural regions.

The highlight of the day is a visit to the unique and colorful Bac Ha Market, a lively highland market where people from remote villages, including the Flower H’mong, Tay, Dao, and Nung ethnic groups, gather wearing their most striking traditional costumes. Here, you’ll experience a dazzling world full of colorful stalls selling exquisite handwoven fabrics, local herbs, and unique handicrafts, alongside steaming pots of delicious regional specialties. Don’t miss the bustling livestock market, where locals trade horses, buffaloes, pigs, and dogs - a scene that perfectly captures the authentic spirit of the mountain highlands.

Stroll through the lively market atmosphere, taste local delicacies, engage with friendly locals, and capture the most memorable photos of your journey.

In the afternoon, leave Bac Ha and drive back to Lao Cai, then continue your journey returning to Hanoi. Expect to arrive in the capital city by late afternoon, marking the end of an emotional and colorful exploration of Northern Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Summary of inclusions

Private vehicle

Hill tribe market explore

Breakfast