Sapa Adventure: Hard Trekking for 6 Days

Tour Code: EQZH0ZN3NTSM 

4.9 (123 Reviews)
Hanoi, Sapa
From: $572 4-star hotels
4.9
(123 reviews)
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Duration

6 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

About this tour

Embark on a captivating six-day hard trekking expedition, delving into the breathtaking landscapes of Sapa district within the protected Hoang Lien Son nature reserve. Each day, trek for 6 to 7 hours, traversing footpaths amidst mountains, forests, and terraced rice paddies. Cross rivers and water streams on suspension bridges, immersing yourself in the diverse cultures of H’mong, Zao, Tay, Xa Pho ethnic minorities. Experience the heartwarming hospitality of local homes, witness their daily life, and relish the unique experience of village homestays, offering an insightful glimpse into the local way of living.

Highlights

  • * Sapa: A mountainous region in the northwest of Vietnam, known for its beautiful rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities.
  • * Hanoi: The capital of Vietnam, with a mix of old and new architecture, street food, and cultural sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.

Included/Excluded

  • * Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
  • * Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
  • * All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
  • * Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
  • * Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of Indochina Royal Travel
  • * All sightseeing as specified including entrance fees
  • * Airfares if specified in the program. ( E-Economy class, B-Business calss)
  • * Visa Approval Letter if specified in the program
  • • Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
  • • Meals not mentioned in the program
  • • Any flights (Domestic and International) and airport tax
  • • Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
  • • Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
  • • Surcharge for the festive seasons
  • • Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
  • • The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
  • • Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Itinerary

<span> Day 1</span>Overnight Train Journey from Hanoi to Lao Cai

At 8:00 PM, gather at your hotel lobby, where our tour guide will warmly welcome you and transfer you to Hanoi Railway Station for the overnight train to Lao Cai City. Overnight on the train.

<span> Day 2 </span>Sapa Trekking - Y Linh Ho - Lao Chai - Ta Van - Homestay (B, L, D)

Upon early arrival in Lao Cai, our team will pick you up for a scenic one-hour drive uphill in a shared mini van to Sapa. After breakfast at a local restaurant, we'll embark on a 6km journey along the main road to the starting point of our captivating village trek. As we trek, we'll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, with the chance to catch a glimpse of the majestic Fansipan Peak on clear days. Crossing a suspension bridge, we'll venture uphill to Y Linh Ho village, where we'll visit local H'mong families and observe their daily activities. After a delightful picnic lunch, our trail leads us through scenic landscapes for about 2 hours until we reach Lao Chai, a large H'mong village. We'll then follow the river bank to Ta Van village, home to the Zay people, where we'll have the opportunity to visit local homes and village schools. This cultural immersion and the breathtaking Muong Hoa Valley scenery will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. For an unforgettable experience, you'll spend the night at a homestay in Ta Van Village. Night 2: Homestay Overnight in Ta Van Village.

<span> Day 3 </span>Ta Van - Giang Ta Chai - Su Pan - Ban Ho (B, L, D)

After breakfast in Ta Van village, our journey continues along a picturesque footpath that winds through magnificent terraced rice paddies on the hillsides. Passing through a bamboo forest and a stunning waterfall, we'll reach Giang Ta Chai village, home to the Red Zao ethnic group. Here, you'll have the chance to interact with local women working on their beautiful embroidery and witness blacksmiths crafting farming tools and hunting rifles. Crossing the Muong Hoa river once more, we'll trek uphill to Su Pan village, where you'll be amazed by the unique houses built on steep rocky land, showcasing the ingenuity of the locals. Afterward, we'll trek downhill for about an hour until Ban Ho valley unfolds before our eyes. Late in the afternoon, we'll arrive in Ban Ho village, inhabited by the Tay people. Check in to a spacious local house built on stilts, where you'll enjoy dinner and a homestay experience. Night 3: Homestay Overnight in Ban Ho Village

<span> Day 4 </span>Ban Ho - Nam Toong - My Son (B, L, D)

Following breakfast, we'll embark on a one-hour trek to explore Ban Ho, a vast village of the Tay ethnic group known for their well-organized and spacious wooden houses built on stilts. Next, we'll ascend uphill to Nam Toong village, inhabited by the Red Zao people. Although the trail is steep, the breathtaking scenery at higher altitudes will reward your efforts. Nam Toong sits atop a hill and offers isolation and simple, rudimentary houses, but the locals are incredibly hospitable. Continuing our trek, we'll meander through hills and slopes for an hour, reaching Nam Keng and My Son, two small villages home to the Xa Pho ethnic minority, with a population of only about 4000 in Vietnam. The Xa Pho maintain a primitive way of life, relying on forest gathering, hunting, and slash-and-burn agriculture. You'll spend the night in this village. Night 4: Overnight in Homestay

<span> Day 5 </span>My Son - Thanh Phu - Sapa (B, L, D)

Rise early to savor the refreshing morning air and observe the vibrant local life before breakfast. Witness the heartwarming sight of children trekking several kilometers up and down hills to reach their school, evidently cherishing their learning experience. Departing this humble village, we trek downhill to the river for a crossing and then uphill once more to reach Thanh Phu, another charming Tay village. Here, you'll have approximately two hours to leisurely explore the village before enjoying lunch. In the afternoon, we continue our trek for a few more hours, offering panoramic views of Ban Ho valley along the way. We'll be picked up and driven back to Sapa by jeep. Check into your basic hotel, and the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Night 5: Overnight at a basic hotel in Sapa Town

<span> Day 6 </span>Sapa Free Day - Sleeper Bus to Hanoi (B, L)

Today is yours to explore Sapa town at your own pace. We recommend a visit to Sapa market, where you can encounter various tribal ethnic peoples such as Black H'mong, Red Zao, and Zay, who come from nearby villages to sell their agricultural and gathering products, including vegetables, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and handmade handicrafts for souvenirs. Continue your walk to the church and ascend to the top of Ham Rong Mountain, where you can explore an orchid garden and a small museum showcasing the cultures of ethnic peoples in the Northwest. In the afternoon, around 3 PM, a mini van will pick you up and take you to the bus departure point. You will then board the sleeper bus to return to Hanoi, arriving at approximately 10 PM.

Durations

5 - 8 days

Regional Tours

Vietnam

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Tour's Location

Hanoi, Sapa
Hanoi’s Colonial Architecture - 🏛️ Exploring Hanoi’s Colonial Architecture: A Journey Through Time in the French Quarter When most travelers think of Hanoi, their minds often jump to the lively chaos of the Old Quarter — buzzing scooters, sizzling street food stalls, and narrow alleyways filled with history. But just a short stroll away lies another side of the city: the French Quarter, where grand boulevards, leafy trees, and elegant colonial mansions whisper stories of Vietnam’s colonial past. If the Old Quarter feels like a vibrant maze, then the French Quarter offers space, serenity, and timeless elegance. And what makes it truly fascinating is how these buildings — constructed during French rule in the late 19th and early 20th centuries — now blend seamlessly into modern-day Hanoi. In this blog, let’s dive deep into Hanoi’s colonial architecture, explore the must-see landmarks, uncover hidden gems, and share insider tips to make your visit in 2025 unforgettable. 🌿 A Different Pace: From Old Quarter to French Quarter After the sensory overload of the Old Quarter, stepping into the French Quarter feels like a breath of fresh air. The streets are wider, the pace slower, and the trees taller. Instead of tiny tube houses, here you’ll find broad boulevards, neoclassical façades, and elegant villas that once housed colonial administrators and wealthy merchants. This neighborhood, located around Hoan Kiem Lake and stretching toward Ba Dinh District, is sometimes called Hanoi’s “second French Quarter.” Both areas showcase different layers of colonial influence, each with its own unique atmosphere. Walking here is a joy: you can actually hear birdsong, admire the pastel-colored villas, and feel the cool shade of banyan and flamboyant trees. It’s no wonder that many embassies, luxury hotels, and cultural institutions now call this district home. 🏰 Architectural Styles: From Neoclassical to Art Deco The architecture of Hanoi’s French Quarter isn’t uniform. Instead, it’s a rich mix of styles that evolved over decades: ✨ Neoclassical (early 1900s) – Think grand pillars, symmetrical facades, and whitewashed walls. These buildings often housed important colonial offices.✨ Beaux-Arts & Renaissance influences – Characterized by ornate balconies, arched windows, and elaborate detailing.✨ Art Deco (1930s) – Sleek, geometric lines that represented modernity at the time.✨ Oriental touches – Some villas incorporated tiled roofs or dragon motifs, blending French design with Vietnamese aesthetics. The result? A living museum of architectural evolution, all within walking distance. 🌟 Must-See Colonial Landmarks in Hanoi (Updated for 2025) Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss when exploring Hanoi’s French Quarter and beyond: 1. Hanoi Opera House 🎭 Perhaps the most iconic colonial building in Hanoi, the Opera House (built in 1911) was modeled after Paris’s Palais Garnier. With its elegant yellow façade, grand columns, and ornate interior, it remains a cultural hub. Today, it hosts concerts, ballets, and international performances — check the 2025 schedule for special events if you want to experience it firsthand. 2. Government Guest House 🏛️ Originally the residence of the Governor of Tonkin, this grand neoclassical mansion now serves as the Government Guest House. While it’s not open to the public, you can admire its pastel-yellow walls and elegant gardens from the outside. It’s located at the intersection of Ngo Quyen and Le Thach streets, just a few steps from Hoan Kiem Lake. 3. Metropole Hanoi Hotel ✨ A living legend of colonial luxury, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi (built in 1901) has hosted everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Angelina Jolie. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can enjoy afternoon tea in the glass-roofed Le Club Bar or sip cocktails at the Bamboo Bar by the pool. 4. St. Joseph’s Cathedral ⛪ Although technically in the Old Quarter, this Gothic Revival church (built in 1886) reflects the French colonial period. Often compared to a mini version of Notre-Dame de Paris, it’s still an active place of worship and a popular photography spot. 5. Ba Dinh’s Colonial Villas 🏡 Along Phan Dinh Phung and Dien Bien Phu streets in Ba Dinh District, you’ll find tree-lined avenues dotted with French villas. Many of them now serve as embassies or government offices. These quieter streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll away from tourist crowds. 6. Vietnam National Museum of History 📚 Housed in a former colonial building with yellow walls and Indochinese architectural flair, this museum is worth visiting not only for its exhibits but also for its design. The mix of French style and Vietnamese motifs makes it a standout landmark. 🚶 Best Ways to Explore the French Quarter Exploring Hanoi’s French Quarter is best done on foot. Here are some tips for your 2025 visit: 👟 Walking Tour – Start from Hoan Kiem Lake, pass by the Opera House, then wander down Trang Tien Street, where luxury boutiques now sit inside colonial storefronts. Continue toward Ngo Quyen Street to see the Government Guest House, then loop around toward the Metropole. 🚲 Cyclo Ride – For a slower pace, hop on a cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) and let a local guide pedal you through the boulevards while you sit back and soak in the views. 🚌 Guided Tour – Several Hanoi walking tour companies now offer themed “Colonial Architecture Tours,” which include hidden villas and access to buildings usually closed to the public. ☕ Cafés & Dining in Colonial Buildings One of the best ways to experience colonial architecture is to enjoy it from the inside. Many of Hanoi’s historic villas have been transformed into stylish cafés, restaurants, and art spaces: Maison de Tet Décor – A villa-turned-café with garden views, perfect for brunch. L’Espace (French Cultural Center) – A cultural hub with exhibitions, film screenings, and a cozy café. Metropole’s Angelina Bar – For fine dining and crafted cocktails inside one of Hanoi’s most elegant hotels. 📸 Photography Tips for 2025 Morning Light: The soft glow between 7–9 AM is ideal for capturing yellow façades. Avoid Midday Heat: Hanoi can get hot, especially from May to September. Details Matter: Don’t just snap the whole building — zoom in on wrought-iron balconies,...Hanoi Opera House - 🎭 Hanoi Opera House in 2025: A Timeless Icon of Art, Culture & History Few landmarks in Hanoi capture the city’s unique mix of history, culture, and elegance quite like the Hanoi Opera House. Known officially as the Municipal Theatre, this magnificent building stands proudly at the eastern end of Trang Tien Street, where French charm meets Vietnamese soul. More than just a venue for performances, the Opera House is a symbol of Hanoi’s colonial heritage and its continuing transformation into a global cultural capital. Let’s dive into its history, architecture, experiences, and tips for visiting in 2025. 🏛️ A Journey Through Time 🇫🇷 French Ambitions in Vietnam Construction of the Opera House began in 1901 and lasted nearly ten years. Built on reclaimed land, it officially opened in 1911, modeled after the neo-Baroque Palais Garnier in Paris. With its Ionic columns, slate tiles imported from France, and intricate façade, it was the ultimate jewel of French Hanoi. During the colonial era, it wasn’t just a building — it was the epicenter of high society, where the French elite attended operas, ballets, and classical concerts. ✊ The August Revolution of 1945 In August 1945, the Opera House became a stage for politics rather than performance. From its balcony, the Viet Minh proclaimed the success of the August Revolution, marking a turning point in Vietnam’s fight for independence. 🎭 From Socialist Realism to Global Stage After independence, the Opera House hosted plays and performances centered on Socialist Realism and revolutionary ideals. However, following a major restoration in the early 2000s, the building returned to its former grandeur, once again shining as a cultural hub. Today in 2025, it remains a living monument where history, art, and architecture merge. ✨ Architectural Grandeur Step inside (or even admire from outside), and you’ll instantly understand why this is one of Hanoi’s crown jewels. 🕯️ Interiors That Breathe Elegance The Opera House is adorned with: Crystal chandeliers ✨ Sweeping marble staircases 🪞 Ornate Parisian mirrors Red velvet seats and golden accents Every detail reflects Parisian luxury, yet it has been carefully restored to preserve authenticity. 🌙 Exterior Beauty If you don’t attend a show, don’t worry. The facade is a masterpiece in itself — especially under: Evening floodlights 🌆 The soft glow of a full moon 🌕 Early morning golden light 🌞 It’s a photographer’s dream, and many locals gather here just to enjoy the atmosphere. 🎶 Performances & Events in 2025 The Hanoi Opera House isn’t just about history — it’s an active cultural hub. 🎻 What You Can See In 2025, the Opera House continues to host: Classical concerts featuring Vietnamese and international orchestras 🎼 Ballet & opera performances in collaboration with global companies 🩰 Traditional Vietnamese music and dance shows with modern interpretations 🎶 Contemporary fusion events, blending Vietnamese instruments with Western symphonies 🎷 💡 Pro Tip Tickets often sell out quickly, especially for international collaborations. Book online directly at the official Hanoi Opera House website or via reputable Vietnamese ticketing platforms. 🍵 Experiences Around the Opera House The Opera House is located in the French Quarter, one of Hanoi’s most elegant districts. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss nearby: ☕ Café Terrace at Sofitel Metropole Hotel – enjoy afternoon tea in Hanoi’s most iconic hotel. 🛍️ Trang Tien Plaza – luxury shopping and local designer boutiques. 🎨 L’Espace (Institut Français) – exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural events. 🌳 Hoan Kiem Lake – just a short walk away, perfect for an evening stroll. 📸 Best Photo Spots For the perfect Opera House picture in 2025: 📍 Across Trang Tien Street – for a full frontal view. 📍 From the side boulevards – to capture the columns and angles. 📍 At night – when the building glows in golden light. 📍 During Tet Festival – when the Opera House is decorated with flowers and lights. 🗺️ Practical Travel Tips (2025) 🕰️ Opening Hours The Opera House is only open to the public during performances and special tours. If you don’t attend a show, you can still admire the exterior anytime. 🎟️ Ticket Prices Local performances: From 150,000 VND (~6 USD) International shows: Up to 2,500,000 VND (~100 USD) Guided tours (when available): Around 200,000–300,000 VND (~8–12 USD) 🚕 Getting There 🚶 Walking: Only 10–15 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake. 🚖 Taxi or Grab: Affordable and convenient. 🚲 Cyclo ride: A charming old-fashioned way to arrive. 👜 Dress Code While not extremely strict, smart casual is recommended. Locals often dress elegantly for evening shows. 🌟 Why Visit the Hanoi Opera House in 2025? It’s Hanoi’s most iconic colonial building. It’s a living museum of Vietnamese history — from colonial times to independence. It offers world-class performances in a unique setting. It’s surrounded by the French Quarter’s charm — perfect for a half-day cultural stroll. 🎭 Final Thoughts The Hanoi Opera House is more than just a building — it’s a symbol of Hanoi’s identity. From colonial glamour to revolutionary history and modern-day cultural rebirth, it has witnessed the city’s greatest transformations. In 2025, whether you attend a world-class ballet, enjoy a Vietnamese traditional concert, or simply admire its architecture under the moonlight, the Opera House promises an unforgettable experience. 👉 My advice: Don’t just pass by. Book a performance, step inside, and let the magic of Hanoi’s Opera House transport you across time.

Reviews

4.9/5
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(123 Reviews)
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123 reviews on this Tour - Showing 1 to 15
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Martha
19/05/2025

Excellent!

Traveling Myanmar with Indochina Royal Travel was a truly rewarding experience. The hotels were cozy and authentic, the itinerary included must-see sites and cultural experiences, and the English-speaking guides were passionate and well informed. Their professional approach and genuine warmth made the trip seamless and deeply enriching.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Barbara
19/05/2025

Excellent!

Indochina Royal Travel impressed us with how quickly they responded to every question before the trip. Once in Vietnam, everything was even better than expected. The English-speaking guide was engaging and easy to follow. Each meal and hotel reflected local charm and great taste.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Jodi
19/05/2025

Excellent!

Vietnam with Indochina Royal Travel was a perfect adventure. The hotels were comfortable and ideally located. The food was delicious, showcasing authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The English-speaking guides were professional and engaging, providing fascinating insights that enriched every part of the trip.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Kelsie
17/05/2025

Excellent!

I thoroughly enjoyed my Laos trip thanks to Indochina Royal Travel. The accommodations were authentic and comfortable, and the itinerary was well paced to include cultural and natural highlights. The English-speaking guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Violet
17/05/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar trip with Indochina Royal Travel was inspiring. The blend of historical landmarks, local traditions, and personal storytelling created a truly immersive experience. The accommodations were neat and centrally located. I especially appreciated our guide’s perfect English and deep cultural knowledge, which gave the trip a sense of authenticity and connection.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Angel
16/05/2025

Excellent!

Traveling through Laos with Indochina Royal Travel felt effortless. The itinerary was well-planned, giving us time to absorb each location fully. The English-speaking guide added thoughtful context to each site, making the experience both educational and fun. We would book again.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Daryl
15/05/2025

Excellent!

Myanmar tours by Indochina Royal Travel were exceptional. The cultural tours were well planned, and the guides were both professional and personable.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Stacey
14/05/2025

Excellent!

The hotels on our Vietnam trip were top-notch, with great locations and friendly staff. The food was fantastic, and the guides made the whole journey smooth and fun.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Amie
14/05/2025

Excellent!

Indochina Royal Travel truly delivered an amazing Cambodia experience. The temples were breathtaking, and the guide gave so much background in fluent English that we could fully appreciate what we saw. The schedule allowed us to enjoy each place deeply, and the food—especially the local dishes—was absolutely delicious. Highly recommended for culture lovers.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Herbert
14/05/2025

Excellent!

Indochina Royal Travel turned our Vietnam tour into a real cultural journey. We visited hidden gems and local eateries that we wouldn’t have found on our own. Our guide communicated clearly in English and answered all our questions. The accommodations were always clean and welcoming.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Tracie
14/05/2025

Excellent!

I highly recommend Indochina Royal Travel for Laos tours. The accommodations were charming and comfortable, and the itinerary balanced sightseeing with cultural experiences. The English-speaking guides were knowledgeable and friendly, sharing stories that brought the local traditions to life and making the trip deeply enjoyable.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Vivian
12/05/2025

Excellent!

We couldn’t have asked for a better Vietnam experience than what we had with Indochina Royal Travel. Everything was thoughtfully arranged, from sightseeing to meals. The hotels were clean, quiet, and close to the highlights. Our guide’s English was excellent, and he shared stories that gave depth to every site we visited, making it more than just sightseeing.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Liana
12/05/2025

Excellent!

Indochina Royal Travel arranged a wonderful Cambodia trip for me. Their team was quick to respond and very professional, tailoring the itinerary to my preferences. The hotels were comfortable and well-located, and the English-speaking guides provided rich historical and cultural commentary, greatly enhancing the overall travel experience.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Angelina
11/05/2025

Excellent!

I was pleasantly surprised by the high level of professionalism Indochina Royal Travel demonstrated during our Cambodia tour. The detailed itinerary, attentive customer service, and well-prepared guides who spoke excellent English all contributed to an exceptional travel experience. I highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a hassle-free trip.
Black Hmong people walking home towards their village, Sa Pa
Susan
11/05/2025

Excellent!

My Myanmar tour with Indochina Royal Travel was outstanding in every way. The itinerary was well-balanced, the hotels were cozy and authentic, and the English-speaking guides were expert storytellers who made the rich culture and history come alive during every stop.

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