North Unveiled – 11 Days

Our journey kicks off with a stroll through the Ho Chi Minh Quarter, encompassing notable attractions such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Our exploration extends to his unassuming house on stilts, the Museum, Presidential Palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda. The tour proceeds with a visit to Hanoi's inaugural university, the Temple of Literature, which traces its origins back to 1070. Following lunch, we delve into the renowned Ethnology Museum. As the day concludes, immerse yourself in the captivating water puppet show, a remarkable highlight of Hanoi's evening entertainment.

Commencing our journey at the break of dawn, we embark on a full day of travel to the Muong region of Hoa Binh. The day unfolds as we ascend into the mountains, ultimately reaching the charmingly situated village of Mai Chau. In this picturesque locale, we find accommodation in a traditional home among the White Thai people.

Our route from Mai Chau to Son La guides us through Yen Chau and Moc Chau, renowned for their lush mango, banana, and longan orchards. This region stands out as one of the rare areas in Vietnam with a thriving dairy industry, supported by initiatives from Australia and the United Nations. En route, we also traverse Vietnam's most extensive tea-growing areas surrounding Moc Chau. Prior to settling into our accommodation in Son La, we explore the remnants of the former French prison.

In the morning, our journey takes us along one of Vietnam's most scenic mountain routes to Dien Bien Phu, the historical site of the decisive battle that concluded French occupation in 1954. During the afternoon, we explore the renowned former battlefields that have etched their place in history for this town. Highlights include a visit to the recently constructed museum and Hill A1, the location of the most intense fighting. By late afternoon, we check into our hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Our exploration today guides us through breathtaking landscapes and various hill tribe settlements, encompassing communities such as Black Tay, Muong, and Meo villages. You'll have the opportunity to capture photographs and wander through the villages, immersing yourself in the local culture, before reaching the remote town of Lai Chau later in the afternoon.

On this day, we traverse stunning mountainous landscapes of remarkable beauty. Along the journey, encounter the vibrant communities of Red Dzao and Mien, pausing to engage with the locals. As the day draws to a close, we explore the awe-inspiring Thac Bac waterfalls and catch a glimpse of Mount Fansipan, the loftiest peak in Vietnam at 3,143 meters, before reaching our conveniently situated hotel in Sapa.

A full day is dedicated to exploring both the town of Sapa and its surroundings. In the morning, we navigate the lively market, where traders from the Hmong and Dao minorities showcase and vend their goods. During the afternoon, embark on a walk through the picturesque terraced rice fields to reach one of the nearby Hmong villages, where you can partake in their traditional hospitality. The Hmong people, exceeding one million in Vietnam, are renowned for their vibrant attire and intricate embroidery.

Later in the day, you'll have ample free time to independently explore this former French hill station.

In the morning, we journey to Bac Ha village to witness its exceptionally vibrant and diverse Sunday market. People from various ethnic groups travel for miles to Bac Ha every Sunday, engaging in the activities of buying, selling, bartering, and socializing. Following our time in Bac Ha, we proceed to Lao Cai. As evening falls, we board a (basic) overnight sleeper train for the return trip to Hanoi.

The present day is at your leisure, providing the opportunity to indulge in additional shopping or further exploration of the charms of this exquisite city.

Following your morning meal, proceed to the airport, marking the conclusion of your expedition.