Experience the wild beauty of North Vietnam’s Tonkinese Alps on a mountain hike to the roof of Indochina - Mount Fansipan (3143 m). The area is characterized by green, green, green as far as the eye can see. We’ll hike through the beautiful Sapa Valley, meet mountain people who live according to ancient traditions, and trek through landscapes of jungle, limestone mountains, and rice terraces.
The trip begins in the vibrant capital city of Hanoi, where we’ll explore the city’s rich history and its dynamic, modern landscape. From here, we travel toward the distant mountains in the northern part of the country, the Tonkin Alps, where the actual mountain trek truly begins.
We begin in the Sapa Valley, where we’ll make our way through unique landscapes of rice terraces, dense jungle, and towering limestone mountains. Along the way, we’ll visit mountain tribes such as the H’mong and the Dzao, and experience their unique traditions and deeply rooted way of life. A unique cultural experience that gives us insight into how the local people here live. During the trip, we’ll of course also get to enjoy delicious dishes from Vietnamese cuisine, known for its fresh herbs.
Whether you’re most drawn to the wild mountain scenery or the rich culture, we’re certain this will be a truly unforgettable adventure.
Plan it your way
Want this trip just for your group? Or got something different in mind? We've got you.
Airfare is not included in this tour, so you are responsible for arranging your own transportation to and from Hanoi International Airport (Noi Bai),Vietnam. This is a travel day, and official program starts on day 2.
Airfare is not included in this tour, so you are responsible for arranging your own transportation to and from Hanoi International Airport (Noi Bai),Vietnam. This is a travel day, and official program starts on day 2.
This day is unscheduled, allowing you to arrive at our hotel in Hanoi at your convenience. Upon arrival at our charming hotel in the historic old town of Hanoi you will have time to check in and relax a bit before the whole group will meet together in the afternoon with our Norrøna Adventure team for our welcome dinner. In the evening, we'll dine at one of Hanoi's many exciting restaurants and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show for a relaxing evening's entertainment. And speaking of dinner, we have a lot of very good things in store for the next few weeks. Vietnamese food is considered some of the best in the world!
This day is unscheduled, allowing you to arrive at our hotel in Hanoi at your convenience. Upon arrival at our charming hotel in the historic old town of Hanoi you will have time to check in and relax a bit before the whole group will meet together in the afternoon with our Norrøna Adventure team for our welcome dinner. In the evening, we'll dine at one of Hanoi's many exciting restaurants and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show for a relaxing evening's entertainment. And speaking of dinner, we have a lot of very good things in store for the next few weeks. Vietnamese food is considered some of the best in the world!
We spend a large part of the day exploring Hanoi, gaining an introduction to the country's culture, ethnic groups, and history. We visit the Temple of Literature, which is the country's oldest university with roots back to the 13th century, Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, followed by a visit to the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda. This pagoda is the oldest in Hanoi and is located on the shores of West Lake in Hanoi. After lunch, we head to the Museum of Ethnology before moving into the labyrinth of small shopping streets that make up the Old Quarter. Here you will find completely distinctive architecture and plenty of handicraft shops, with colonial-era buildings side by side with modern concrete blocks. In the evening, we walk toward the railway station and board the night train heading northwest.
We spend a large part of the day exploring Hanoi, gaining an introduction to the country's culture, ethnic groups, and history. We visit the Temple of Literature, which is the country's oldest university with roots back to the 13th century, Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, followed by a visit to the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda. This pagoda is the oldest in Hanoi and is located on the shores of West Lake in Hanoi. After lunch, we head to the Museum of Ethnology before moving into the labyrinth of small shopping streets that make up the Old Quarter. Here you will find completely distinctive architecture and plenty of handicraft shops, with colonial-era buildings side by side with modern concrete blocks. In the evening, we walk toward the railway station and board the night train heading northwest.
When we wake up today, we are in a completely different world. We arrive early in the morning at Lào Cai railway station and take a short drive deep into the Tonkin Alps. The Sapa Valley opens up before us – a spectacular landscape with towering mountain peaks, terraced rice fields, and living mountain communities. After a good breakfast in Sapa, we start our first day of hiking, following trails through rice fields and mountain landscapes. Along the way, we visit a Red Dao village, where we get an insight into the daily life of this fascinating ethnic group. We cross a suspension bridge and continue to Thanh Phu, a village belonging to the Tay minority, where we enjoy a delicious homemade lunch. In the afternoon, we hike further into the valley and arrive in Shin Chải, a village inhabited by the Red Dao people. Here we are accommodated in a traditional guesthouse, which provides a unique opportunity to experience Red Dao culture up close. Before dinner, you can stroll around the village, meet the friendly locals, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings before a homemade dinner.
When we wake up today, we are in a completely different world. We arrive early in the morning at Lào Cai railway station and take a short drive deep into the Tonkin Alps. The Sapa Valley opens up before us – a spectacular landscape with towering mountain peaks, terraced rice fields, and living mountain communities. After a good breakfast in Sapa, we start our first day of hiking, following trails through rice fields and mountain landscapes. Along the way, we visit a Red Dao village, where we get an insight into the daily life of this fascinating ethnic group. We cross a suspension bridge and continue to Thanh Phu, a village belonging to the Tay minority, where we enjoy a delicious homemade lunch. In the afternoon, we hike further into the valley and arrive in Shin Chải, a village inhabited by the Red Dao people. Here we are accommodated in a traditional guesthouse, which provides a unique opportunity to experience Red Dao culture up close. Before dinner, you can stroll around the village, meet the friendly locals, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings before a homemade dinner.
We leave Shin Chải and embark on a spectacular leg along a trail winding over the mountain ridges. The route takes us through bamboo forest and beautiful rice terraces, where we are rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic mountains surrounding the Sapa Valley. We hike further down to Nậm Nhìu, a charming village belonging to the Red Dao people, where we stop for a homemade lunch with a local family. After lunch, we continue our journey toward Nậm Than, a village inhabited by the Hmong minority. The final leg of the day leads us to Nâm Cang, an idyllic Red Dao village where we will stay overnight with a local family. Here we can relax after the day's adventure and enjoy a flavorful traditional dinner.
We leave Shin Chải and embark on a spectacular leg along a trail winding over the mountain ridges. The route takes us through bamboo forest and beautiful rice terraces, where we are rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic mountains surrounding the Sapa Valley. We hike further down to Nậm Nhìu, a charming village belonging to the Red Dao people, where we stop for a homemade lunch with a local family. After lunch, we continue our journey toward Nậm Than, a village inhabited by the Hmong minority. The final leg of the day leads us to Nâm Cang, an idyllic Red Dao village where we will stay overnight with a local family. Here we can relax after the day's adventure and enjoy a flavorful traditional dinner.
We start the day early with a good breakfast before packing our backpacks and getting ready for today's hike toward Nậm Sài. Along the way, we pass several small, charming villages. The trip continues along a river and several rice terraces before we arrive in Ban Hồ, a beautiful village. Here we eat a traditional homemade lunch together with a local family. After lunch, we are picked up by car and driven back to Sapa. Upon arrival, we check into the hotel and have some free time to relax. In the evening, we meet again for dinner at a local restaurant – and perhaps explore the town's nightlife for those who have the energy for it.
We start the day early with a good breakfast before packing our backpacks and getting ready for today's hike toward Nậm Sài. Along the way, we pass several small, charming villages. The trip continues along a river and several rice terraces before we arrive in Ban Hồ, a beautiful village. Here we eat a traditional homemade lunch together with a local family. After lunch, we are picked up by car and driven back to Sapa. Upon arrival, we check into the hotel and have some free time to relax. In the evening, we meet again for dinner at a local restaurant – and perhaps explore the town's nightlife for those who have the energy for it.
After breakfast at the hotel, we start the day with a 30-minute drive to Silver Waterfall, where we take a short stroll to admire the majestic waterfall. Then we continue toward Vietnam's highest mountain pass, with panoramic views of the magnificent landscape. Here is also the guard station, where we register before starting the hike. Now we set off on foot toward Mount Fansipan (3143 m), the highest mountain in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. The trip starts calmly through the lush jungle covering the lower parts of the mountain. The trail, which is initially flat and easy to walk, gradually becomes steeper as we move higher up the mountain. Along the way, we take a break for a picnic lunch, enjoying the magnificent view of Lai Chau province and the dramatic mountain landscape in the Tonkin Alps. We arrive at the mountain hut in the afternoon, 2800 m, where we are served dinner and turn in for an early night.
After breakfast at the hotel, we start the day with a 30-minute drive to Silver Waterfall, where we take a short stroll to admire the majestic waterfall. Then we continue toward Vietnam's highest mountain pass, with panoramic views of the magnificent landscape. Here is also the guard station, where we register before starting the hike. Now we set off on foot toward Mount Fansipan (3143 m), the highest mountain in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. The trip starts calmly through the lush jungle covering the lower parts of the mountain. The trail, which is initially flat and easy to walk, gradually becomes steeper as we move higher up the mountain. Along the way, we take a break for a picnic lunch, enjoying the magnificent view of Lai Chau province and the dramatic mountain landscape in the Tonkin Alps. We arrive at the mountain hut in the afternoon, 2800 m, where we are served dinner and turn in for an early night.
The day starts with an early morning breakfast before we begin the final ascent toward the summit of Fansipan (3143 m), "Indochina's roof." The last part toward the summit involves walking up 600 steps. Once at the top of Vietnam's highest point, we are greeted with a fantastic panoramic view of rolling mountains and foggy valleys stretching as far as the eye can see. After enjoying the view at the top, we walk all those steps back down – but this time we swap the steep trails for a spectacular cable car experience. Hanging over the lush landscape, we get a unique bird's-eye view of the terrain we just struggled up. Back in Sapa, we have time for some relaxation and lunch before heading toward the next leg of our adventure. A scenic drive takes us to Bac Ha, a charming mountain town known for its colorful markets and rich ethnic culture.
The day starts with an early morning breakfast before we begin the final ascent toward the summit of Fansipan (3143 m), "Indochina's roof." The last part toward the summit involves walking up 600 steps. Once at the top of Vietnam's highest point, we are greeted with a fantastic panoramic view of rolling mountains and foggy valleys stretching as far as the eye can see. After enjoying the view at the top, we walk all those steps back down – but this time we swap the steep trails for a spectacular cable car experience. Hanging over the lush landscape, we get a unique bird's-eye view of the terrain we just struggled up. Back in Sapa, we have time for some relaxation and lunch before heading toward the next leg of our adventure. A scenic drive takes us to Bac Ha, a charming mountain town known for its colorful markets and rich ethnic culture.
After breakfast at the hotel, we explore the lively Sunday market in Bac Ha, where bargaining takes place with body language. After a visit to the market, we are driven to the village of Ta Chai, where the mountain hike begins. From here we walk for about three hours before taking a well-deserved lunch break. After lunch, we continue for about an hour to the village of Lu Suoi Tung. Here we can explore Flower Hmong traditions and houses. The day concludes with a short 8 km drive through the beautiful Ban Gia Valley to our accommodation in the village of Ta Cu Ty, where we are welcomed by the ethnic Tay group. Here we spend a quiet night in the highlands of Vietnam.
After breakfast at the hotel, we explore the lively Sunday market in Bac Ha, where bargaining takes place with body language. After a visit to the market, we are driven to the village of Ta Chai, where the mountain hike begins. From here we walk for about three hours before taking a well-deserved lunch break. After lunch, we continue for about an hour to the village of Lu Suoi Tung. Here we can explore Flower Hmong traditions and houses. The day concludes with a short 8 km drive through the beautiful Ban Gia Valley to our accommodation in the village of Ta Cu Ty, where we are welcomed by the ethnic Tay group. Here we spend a quiet night in the highlands of Vietnam.
We start the day with a drive through the remote Bac Ha district, known for its fantastic landscape. Upon arrival, we embark on a couple of hours of hiking between two villages in Pa Chu Ty, where we immerse ourselves in the area's unique traditions and impressive surroundings. After the hike, we have a tasty lunch in Xin Man before continuing with a two-hour drive through Hoang Su Phi Town to the charming Nam Dich Valley. Here we walk for about two hours through the narrow, picturesque valley in Le Hong Phong, passing villages belonging to the Tay and Red Zao, constantly surrounded by lush, rolling hills. We stay overnight in Hoang Su Phi, where we can lean back and enjoy the quiet charm of this hidden valley.
We start the day with a drive through the remote Bac Ha district, known for its fantastic landscape. Upon arrival, we embark on a couple of hours of hiking between two villages in Pa Chu Ty, where we immerse ourselves in the area's unique traditions and impressive surroundings. After the hike, we have a tasty lunch in Xin Man before continuing with a two-hour drive through Hoang Su Phi Town to the charming Nam Dich Valley. Here we walk for about two hours through the narrow, picturesque valley in Le Hong Phong, passing villages belonging to the Tay and Red Zao, constantly surrounded by lush, rolling hills. We stay overnight in Hoang Su Phi, where we can lean back and enjoy the quiet charm of this hidden valley.
We start the day with a morning hike to Nam Hong, the home of the Red Dzao people. The trip goes through beautiful valleys with views of mountains and rice terraces. Then we drive four hours to Ha Giang city for lunch, before we continue to Ha Thanh – a beautiful Tay village surrounded by great hiking terrain. Here we enjoy the view of the mountain formation "World's Spine" and end the day with a local farewell dinner in true Vietnamese style.
We start the day with a morning hike to Nam Hong, the home of the Red Dzao people. The trip goes through beautiful valleys with views of mountains and rice terraces. Then we drive four hours to Ha Giang city for lunch, before we continue to Ha Thanh – a beautiful Tay village surrounded by great hiking terrain. Here we enjoy the view of the mountain formation "World's Spine" and end the day with a local farewell dinner in true Vietnamese style.
We’ll have the morning free to relax, reflect, and enjoy our final moments in Vietnam at our own pace. Whether it’s savoring a leisurely breakfast, taking a stroll through the local area, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, the morning is ours to enjoy. Later, we’ll transfer back to Hanoi, where our journey through Vietnam comes to an end. Participants are free to arrange their own flights home or make other travel plans as they wish. For those departing in the evening, this marks the conclusion of an unforgettable adventure.
We’ll have the morning free to relax, reflect, and enjoy our final moments in Vietnam at our own pace. Whether it’s savoring a leisurely breakfast, taking a stroll through the local area, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, the morning is ours to enjoy. Later, we’ll transfer back to Hanoi, where our journey through Vietnam comes to an end. Participants are free to arrange their own flights home or make other travel plans as they wish. For those departing in the evening, this marks the conclusion of an unforgettable adventure.
The extension program is run as a group with a local guide for the entire trip. Day 12 in the original program is day 1 in the extension program: We say goodbye to the group that is traveling home today, and start the day with a scenic drive through the spectacular Quan Ba mountain pass. After a short hike to the Nam Dam village, the home of the Zao Ao Dai people, we get an insight into local life and everyday life here. Afterwards we continue towards Lung Tam to visit a traditional weaving mill that supports local women, before we end the day in Dong Van with a relaxing evening and dinner at a nice mountain hotel.
The extension program is run as a group with a local guide for the entire trip. Day 12 in the original program is day 1 in the extension program: We say goodbye to the group that is traveling home today, and start the day with a scenic drive through the spectacular Quan Ba mountain pass. After a short hike to the Nam Dam village, the home of the Zao Ao Dai people, we get an insight into local life and everyday life here. Afterwards we continue towards Lung Tam to visit a traditional weaving mill that supports local women, before we end the day in Dong Van with a relaxing evening and dinner at a nice mountain hotel.
Today we set out on a trip through the spectacular landscape of Dong Van. First stop is Pho Bang, an ancient town with centuries-old mud-brick houses and traditional yin-yang roofs. We also visit the historic Vuong Palace, an architectural reminder from the time when the Vuong family ruled the area and controlled the local opium trade. Later in the day we continue further up in sloping terrain over the Ma Pi Leng pass. At the top we get spectacular views of the deep canyon that makes up the Nho Que River. In the afternoon we finish with a relaxing boat trip on the river, where we get to experience the impressive Tu San Abyss Alley – one of the most magnificent and dramatic valleys in all of Southeast Asia.
Today we set out on a trip through the spectacular landscape of Dong Van. First stop is Pho Bang, an ancient town with centuries-old mud-brick houses and traditional yin-yang roofs. We also visit the historic Vuong Palace, an architectural reminder from the time when the Vuong family ruled the area and controlled the local opium trade. Later in the day we continue further up in sloping terrain over the Ma Pi Leng pass. At the top we get spectacular views of the deep canyon that makes up the Nho Que River. In the afternoon we finish with a relaxing boat trip on the river, where we get to experience the impressive Tu San Abyss Alley – one of the most magnificent and dramatic valleys in all of Southeast Asia.
Today we spend plenty of time on the trip from Meo Vac to Ha Giang, with scenic driving legs and cultural experiences along the way. If the timing aligns with the lunar calendar, we visit a lively, ethnic market – a colorful meeting point where locals sell goods, livestock, and crafts in traditional attire. We also take an easy hike and visit villages belonging to the Lolo, Tay, and Dzao people. Here we get a genuine insight into daily life, traditions, and stilt house architecture. The evening ends in Ha Giang city, where we check in and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
Today we spend plenty of time on the trip from Meo Vac to Ha Giang, with scenic driving legs and cultural experiences along the way. If the timing aligns with the lunar calendar, we visit a lively, ethnic market – a colorful meeting point where locals sell goods, livestock, and crafts in traditional attire. We also take an easy hike and visit villages belonging to the Lolo, Tay, and Dzao people. Here we get a genuine insight into daily life, traditions, and stilt house architecture. The evening ends in Ha Giang city, where we check in and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
After breakfast we set out on the trip back to Hanoi. The 6–7 hour drive offers beautiful views of Northern Vietnam\'s impressive landscape, with the last glimpses of dramatic mountains and peaceful countryside. We arrive in Hanoi in the afternoon, where we enjoy our last lunch together and get our luggage ready for the trip home.
After breakfast we set out on the trip back to Hanoi. The 6–7 hour drive offers beautiful views of Northern Vietnam\'s impressive landscape, with the last glimpses of dramatic mountains and peaceful countryside. We arrive in Hanoi in the afternoon, where we enjoy our last lunch together and get our luggage ready for the trip home.
Back in Norway, with great memories and new hiking friends.
Back in Norway, with great memories and new hiking friends.
Airfare is not included in this tour, so you are responsible for arranging your own transportation to and from Hanoi International Airport (Noi Bai),Vietnam. This is a travel day, and official program starts on day 2.
This day is unscheduled, allowing you to arrive at our hotel in Hanoi at your convenience. Upon arrival at our charming hotel in the historic old town of Hanoi you will have time to check in and relax a bit before the whole group will meet together in the afternoon with our Norrøna Adventure team for our welcome dinner. In the evening, we'll dine at one of Hanoi's many exciting restaurants and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show for a relaxing evening's entertainment. And speaking of dinner, we have a lot of very good things in store for the next few weeks. Vietnamese food is considered some of the best in the world!
We spend a large part of the day exploring Hanoi, gaining an introduction to the country's culture, ethnic groups, and history. We visit the Temple of Literature, which is the country's oldest university with roots back to the 13th century, Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, followed by a visit to the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda. This pagoda is the oldest in Hanoi and is located on the shores of West Lake in Hanoi. After lunch, we head to the Museum of Ethnology before moving into the labyrinth of small shopping streets that make up the Old Quarter. Here you will find completely distinctive architecture and plenty of handicraft shops, with colonial-era buildings side by side with modern concrete blocks. In the evening, we walk toward the railway station and board the night train heading northwest.
When we wake up today, we are in a completely different world. We arrive early in the morning at Lào Cai railway station and take a short drive deep into the Tonkin Alps. The Sapa Valley opens up before us – a spectacular landscape with towering mountain peaks, terraced rice fields, and living mountain communities. After a good breakfast in Sapa, we start our first day of hiking, following trails through rice fields and mountain landscapes. Along the way, we visit a Red Dao village, where we get an insight into the daily life of this fascinating ethnic group. We cross a suspension bridge and continue to Thanh Phu, a village belonging to the Tay minority, where we enjoy a delicious homemade lunch. In the afternoon, we hike further into the valley and arrive in Shin Chải, a village inhabited by the Red Dao people. Here we are accommodated in a traditional guesthouse, which provides a unique opportunity to experience Red Dao culture up close. Before dinner, you can stroll around the village, meet the friendly locals, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings before a homemade dinner.
We leave Shin Chải and embark on a spectacular leg along a trail winding over the mountain ridges. The route takes us through bamboo forest and beautiful rice terraces, where we are rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic mountains surrounding the Sapa Valley. We hike further down to Nậm Nhìu, a charming village belonging to the Red Dao people, where we stop for a homemade lunch with a local family. After lunch, we continue our journey toward Nậm Than, a village inhabited by the Hmong minority. The final leg of the day leads us to Nâm Cang, an idyllic Red Dao village where we will stay overnight with a local family. Here we can relax after the day's adventure and enjoy a flavorful traditional dinner.
We start the day early with a good breakfast before packing our backpacks and getting ready for today's hike toward Nậm Sài. Along the way, we pass several small, charming villages. The trip continues along a river and several rice terraces before we arrive in Ban Hồ, a beautiful village. Here we eat a traditional homemade lunch together with a local family. After lunch, we are picked up by car and driven back to Sapa. Upon arrival, we check into the hotel and have some free time to relax. In the evening, we meet again for dinner at a local restaurant – and perhaps explore the town's nightlife for those who have the energy for it.
After breakfast at the hotel, we start the day with a 30-minute drive to Silver Waterfall, where we take a short stroll to admire the majestic waterfall. Then we continue toward Vietnam's highest mountain pass, with panoramic views of the magnificent landscape. Here is also the guard station, where we register before starting the hike. Now we set off on foot toward Mount Fansipan (3143 m), the highest mountain in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. The trip starts calmly through the lush jungle covering the lower parts of the mountain. The trail, which is initially flat and easy to walk, gradually becomes steeper as we move higher up the mountain. Along the way, we take a break for a picnic lunch, enjoying the magnificent view of Lai Chau province and the dramatic mountain landscape in the Tonkin Alps. We arrive at the mountain hut in the afternoon, 2800 m, where we are served dinner and turn in for an early night.
The day starts with an early morning breakfast before we begin the final ascent toward the summit of Fansipan (3143 m), "Indochina's roof." The last part toward the summit involves walking up 600 steps. Once at the top of Vietnam's highest point, we are greeted with a fantastic panoramic view of rolling mountains and foggy valleys stretching as far as the eye can see. After enjoying the view at the top, we walk all those steps back down – but this time we swap the steep trails for a spectacular cable car experience. Hanging over the lush landscape, we get a unique bird's-eye view of the terrain we just struggled up. Back in Sapa, we have time for some relaxation and lunch before heading toward the next leg of our adventure. A scenic drive takes us to Bac Ha, a charming mountain town known for its colorful markets and rich ethnic culture.
After breakfast at the hotel, we explore the lively Sunday market in Bac Ha, where bargaining takes place with body language. After a visit to the market, we are driven to the village of Ta Chai, where the mountain hike begins. From here we walk for about three hours before taking a well-deserved lunch break. After lunch, we continue for about an hour to the village of Lu Suoi Tung. Here we can explore Flower Hmong traditions and houses. The day concludes with a short 8 km drive through the beautiful Ban Gia Valley to our accommodation in the village of Ta Cu Ty, where we are welcomed by the ethnic Tay group. Here we spend a quiet night in the highlands of Vietnam.
We start the day with a drive through the remote Bac Ha district, known for its fantastic landscape. Upon arrival, we embark on a couple of hours of hiking between two villages in Pa Chu Ty, where we immerse ourselves in the area's unique traditions and impressive surroundings. After the hike, we have a tasty lunch in Xin Man before continuing with a two-hour drive through Hoang Su Phi Town to the charming Nam Dich Valley. Here we walk for about two hours through the narrow, picturesque valley in Le Hong Phong, passing villages belonging to the Tay and Red Zao, constantly surrounded by lush, rolling hills. We stay overnight in Hoang Su Phi, where we can lean back and enjoy the quiet charm of this hidden valley.
We start the day with a morning hike to Nam Hong, the home of the Red Dzao people. The trip goes through beautiful valleys with views of mountains and rice terraces. Then we drive four hours to Ha Giang city for lunch, before we continue to Ha Thanh – a beautiful Tay village surrounded by great hiking terrain. Here we enjoy the view of the mountain formation "World's Spine" and end the day with a local farewell dinner in true Vietnamese style.
We’ll have the morning free to relax, reflect, and enjoy our final moments in Vietnam at our own pace. Whether it’s savoring a leisurely breakfast, taking a stroll through the local area, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, the morning is ours to enjoy. Later, we’ll transfer back to Hanoi, where our journey through Vietnam comes to an end. Participants are free to arrange their own flights home or make other travel plans as they wish. For those departing in the evening, this marks the conclusion of an unforgettable adventure.
The extension program is run as a group with a local guide for the entire trip. Day 12 in the original program is day 1 in the extension program: We say goodbye to the group that is traveling home today, and start the day with a scenic drive through the spectacular Quan Ba mountain pass. After a short hike to the Nam Dam village, the home of the Zao Ao Dai people, we get an insight into local life and everyday life here. Afterwards we continue towards Lung Tam to visit a traditional weaving mill that supports local women, before we end the day in Dong Van with a relaxing evening and dinner at a nice mountain hotel.
Today we set out on a trip through the spectacular landscape of Dong Van. First stop is Pho Bang, an ancient town with centuries-old mud-brick houses and traditional yin-yang roofs. We also visit the historic Vuong Palace, an architectural reminder from the time when the Vuong family ruled the area and controlled the local opium trade. Later in the day we continue further up in sloping terrain over the Ma Pi Leng pass. At the top we get spectacular views of the deep canyon that makes up the Nho Que River. In the afternoon we finish with a relaxing boat trip on the river, where we get to experience the impressive Tu San Abyss Alley – one of the most magnificent and dramatic valleys in all of Southeast Asia.
Today we spend plenty of time on the trip from Meo Vac to Ha Giang, with scenic driving legs and cultural experiences along the way. If the timing aligns with the lunar calendar, we visit a lively, ethnic market – a colorful meeting point where locals sell goods, livestock, and crafts in traditional attire. We also take an easy hike and visit villages belonging to the Lolo, Tay, and Dzao people. Here we get a genuine insight into daily life, traditions, and stilt house architecture. The evening ends in Ha Giang city, where we check in and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
After breakfast we set out on the trip back to Hanoi. The 6–7 hour drive offers beautiful views of Northern Vietnam\'s impressive landscape, with the last glimpses of dramatic mountains and peaceful countryside. We arrive in Hanoi in the afternoon, where we enjoy our last lunch together and get our luggage ready for the trip home.
Back in Norway, with great memories and new hiking friends.
Roundtrip Oslo - Hanoi.
Norwegian-speaking guide on programs with Norwegian language.
English-speaking local guides. Including local mountain porters and cooks for Mount Fansipan.
All transportation as specified in the program.
In shared multi-bed rooms at guesthouses, in twin rooms at hotels and in twin tents on the mountain trip.
Meals as specified in the program.
Tent, sleeping pads, cooking equipment.
For trips where flights are not included, please check our website to confirm that the departure is guaranteed before booking your own plane tickets. For each trip, we require a minimum number of confirmed participants before the departure can be guaranteed.
To local guides and assistants. Tips are a common and expected part of being a tourist in many of the destinations we visit. These are given in cash during the trip and therefore cannot be included in the trip price.
Available upon request, limited quantities.
In addition to what is specified in the program.
Request quotes from other cities in Norway.
Day 12–16. Please contact us for pricing on the additional program.
We reserve the right to change prices. The day by day program is indicative and changes may occur. We also refer to our general travel conditions.
On all our trips, we require you to have full travel and accident insurance, which must also cover potential medical repatriation. Read more about travel insurance.
For departures with Norrøna Adventure guides:
On our trips, it is important to understand that we often will be traveling far off the beaten track. We will, of course, do everything we can to assist if anything should happen, but a potential rescue operation can be demanding. It is therefore extremely important that all participants arrive well-prepared and ready to handle unforeseen situations.
Some segments of the journey may prove challenging. It's essential to possess a solid level of fitness prior to departure. Persistence will be required in reaching the trip's goal.
Simple accommodations, such as cabins or guesthouses, often with multi-bed rooms. Sometimes with bunk beds and often with a shared bathroom.
Activities/trips with some risk. Certain incidents may occur, and they may be of such a nature that they may require professional help.
Participants should be in good physical condition and prepared for a variety of terrain, including trails through dense jungle and uneven, rocky roads. Some of the stages are moderate, while others are strenuous full-day hikes with significant elevation gain and loss.
You should be accustomed to walking and be in generally good physical shape to participate. Building endurance, leg strength, and balance will ensure that you’re ready to tackle both the easier stretches and the more demanding, rugged trails. This preparation will help you enjoy the adventure to the fullest while navigating safely through the varied landscape. Longer hikes in the mountains and hut-to-hut trips are good preparation for this hike.
Before embarking on our journey together, we kindly remind all trip participants to check their respective country's visa status and vaccination requirements. Ensuring your travel documents are in order is a crucial step in guaranteeing a smooth and hassle-free adventure.
Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of return. Norwegian citizens visiting Vietnam for up to 45 days do not need a visa. If you plan to extend your stay in Vietnam, you must apply for a visa in advance. See also the current entry and visa regulations on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' country pages, or check for your country's current visa rules.
If you are over 67 years old, you should have a thorough medical check-up before your trip. Make your doctor aware that this is a trip involving physical exertion and moving off the beaten track.
It is important that you complete all parts of the registration form (especially where we ask for information about health and allergies), and let us know if there is anything we need to be aware of prior to and during the trip. Relevant health information that may affect the trip should also be communicated to the guide at the start of the trip. *Note* - If you are on regular medication, have known allergies or anything similar, you must always bring your personal medication with you.
See the overview on FHI´s pages on travel health advice. For vaccination and guidance, please contact Sentrum Reisemedisin: Reisemedisin.no.
Please check our website to confirm that the departure is guaranteed before booking your own plane tickets. For each trip, we require a minimum number of confirmed participants before the departure can be guaranteed. Contact us if you need help buying flights.
On this trip, we’ll stay at a variety of accommodations, ranging from hotels and local family-owned guesthouses to scenic mountain cabins. At the hotels, we’ll stay in shared double rooms, while at the mountain cabins we’ll stay in a mix of dorms and more private rooms, depending on the location.
It is not always easy to get hold of gluten-free wholemeal bread, lactose-free alternatives or to accommodate other food preferences. If you have any allergies, please let us know in the registration form and we will try to accommodate you as best we can. However, we would still recommend that anyone with special dietary needs bring some alternatives in the form of, for example, a packet of crispbread, energy bars or similar that you know you can eat.
This list is intended as a guideline, so that we have what we need regardless of the weather we get on the trip. Remember that you can also get used outdoor equipment that works perfectly. Get in touch if you have any questions. TIP: We recommend that you have the most important equipment in your hand luggage, for example hiking boots and gore-tex jacket/trousers.
Wool or synthetic. Avoid cotton.
Fleece or wool.
Waterproof jacket and pants.
We recommend thin wool or synthetic.
Bring waterproof shoes/boots that you are familiar with.
Avoid bringing a suitcase, they are more difficult to transport between hotels.
In this pack, you’ll carry what you need during the day on the hike: extra clothes, food, water, snacks, etc. Remember a rain cover. Around 30 liters, give or take, is suitable.
Comfort temperature down to -10 degrees (C).
Light. Have to be foldable or telescope.
Remember new/extra batteries.
Personal medicines and, for example, band-aids, blister plaster, sports tape, throat lozenges, nasal drops, Paracetamol/Ibuprofen, stomach regulators, etc.
We need to know about all medicines you are taking, in case something happens.
Tooth brush, tooth paste, small towel, ear plugs, wet wipes, biodegradable soap, etc.
High SPF, 30-50. Remember chapstick for lips and nose.
You should be able to bring 2-3 litres of water.
Passport, tickets, bank card, proof of vaccination andproof of insurance. Remember to have a copy of important documents on your phone and/or somewhere in your bag.
For evenings and leasure days.
Warm hat for cold days.
As light at possible.
Although this trip is usually taken outside of the rainy season, light rain showers may still occur. Rain showers usually last only 1–2 hours before the sun comes out again and the weather warms up. In the mountains, however, conditions can be more unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for changes in the weather and pack accordingly.
Choose versatile clothing suited to varying weather conditions. Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and layered outfits are ideal for cool mornings and evenings. Good hiking boots with solid traction are also necessary for hikes on muddy trails and through rice terraces.
Visit Støtt, Rødøy, Lovund, Træna and Myken
A variation of another world
The Island of Endless Contrasts