Walk Vietnam

For nature lovers and keen hikers, this 10-day itinerary is the perfect way to stretch your legs on some of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful hiking routes. From the terraced rice paddies of Sapa, to the verdant fields of Mai Chau, and the dramatic mountain scenery of Ninh Binh, this is a wonderful introduction to rural Vietnam.

1. Days 1-3: Hanoi

   Your adventure starts in Hanoi, the picturesque capital of Vietnam. Two nights here can be happily spent exploring the city. Your guide will stay with you for the duration of your trip, and you will spend your first day together exploring key landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, emerging from its lake like a lotus flower. In your spare time, take a walk into the intriguing Old Quarter, home to crumbling old coffee houses, colourful markets and narrow lanes along which food vendors and gemstone dealers alike jostle for space.

   Accommodation: The Apricot (2 nights)

2. Days 3-5: Sapa, Vietnam

   An early start for the picturesque 5-hour drive north into the mountains, or alternatively you could take the overnight train. Arriving in Sapa, you will be able to embark on a series of exciting treks, passing through villages belonging to hilltribes such as the Red Dzao, Black Hmong and Xa Pho. Two nights will be enough to enjoy the panoramic views and famous terraced rice paddies, before heading on to pastures new.

   Accommodation: Topas Ecolodge (2 nights)

3. Days 5-6: Hanoi

   A brief stop back in Hanoi will be well needed after a long drive back from the hills. We suggest enjoying a water puppet show on your way back into the centre, a traditional village pastime. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch the wonderful Hanoi weekend market that runs nightly on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Here people flock to the central Hoan Kiem lake to sing, dance, shop, and generally see and be seen. You can usually pick up some fascinating souvenirs and delicious street food here.

   Accommodation: The Apricot (1 night)

4. Days 6-8: Ninh Binh

   A shorter two-hour drive takes you west, to the craggy province of Ninh Binh, dominated by its spectacular limestone karsts. Often described as the ‘Halong Bay on land’, we invite you to take a boat trip around the flooded landscape of Tam Coc, trying to spot endangered langur monkeys living on the precipitous ledges above your head. You can also visit the abandoned capital where the intricately decorated Dinh and Le Dynasty temples still remain. A 6km (4 miles) walk in the Cuc Phuong National Park is the perfect way to experience the unique scenery, and you can also visit a tree that is over 1000 years old.

   Accommodation: Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh (2 nights)

5. Days 8-10: Mai Chau & Pu Luong

   From Ninh Binh you travel by road to Mai Chau, home to luminous rice paddies and broad valleys. Stay in one of the excellent eco-lodges in the area, perhaps taking one of the complimentary bicycles out in the evening to explore the local area. Your last trek of your trip is from Pu Long, a truly untouched area of Vietnam. The mostly downhill route will be greatly appreciated after your time trekking in the mountains, and you will finish up at Kho Muong village where you’ll find an interesting bat cave.

   Accommodation: Mai Chau Ecolodge (2 nights)

6. Days 10-11: Hanoi

   Your final day in Vietnam is spent back in Hanoi, after a four-hour drive back into the city from Mai Chau. We definitely recommend taking it easy today, perhaps treat yourself to a well earned massage at your hotel spa, or toast your last night with a celebratory cocktail at one of Hanoi’s fabulous rooftop bars.

   Accommodation: The Apricot (1 night)

• Ban Ho Village Tour and Trek

  From Sapa, head approximately 1hr to Ban Ho village, with stunning views of the valley and terraced rice fields along the way. Enjoy 12km of trekking through the area, stopping at different minority groups along the way. A fascinating trek.

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• Half Day City Tour of Hanoi

  Start this fascinating historical tour at Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, an imposing monument lavishly built using marble and granite, and where the preserved body of 'Uncle Ho' resides. You will then visit Ho Chi Minh's House, where he lived and worked.

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• Half Day Tour of Dinh & Le Dynasty Temples

  Due to its mountainous scenery acting as a barrier against invaders, Ninh Binh was once the capital province of Vietnam. Whilst little remains of the ancient capital city of Hoa Lu, two small but intricate temples stand on the site.

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• Hanoi Street Food Experience

  Eating on the street is a very typical activity for Hanoians and makes up an important part of the city’s unique culture. Enjoy strolling the bustling alleys and streets and savour regional specialties in favourite local spots.

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• Hill tribe Trek from Sapa, My Son Section

  This wonderful journey by road and on foot is a fantastic option for those wanting to learn about the myriad of hill tribe communities in Vietnam including Black Hmong, Red Zao and Xa Pho, all of whom have their own distinct identities.

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• Pu Luong Trekking from Mai Chau

  From Mai Chau, head deeper into rural Vietnam and onto to Pu Luong. Known for its remote hill tribes, luminous paddy fields and traditional villages you'll trek 6km (3.7miles) through glorious scenery, stopping at villages along the way.

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• Tam Coc Boat Trip

  Tam Coc is an area within Ninh Binh Province, often referred to as 'Halong Bay on Land'. A local rower will take you on a leisurely two-hour boat trip along the Ngo Dong River, which winds its way between dramatic limestone karsts.

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• The Quintessence of Tonkin

  Vietnam's most spectacular cultural performance with more than 180 skillful performers presenting to you the culture and history of Northern Vietnam on the largest water stage of Vietnam.

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• Water Puppet Show at Dao Thuc

  Completely unique to Vietnam, water puppetry is a wonderful example of this country’s vibrant cultural heritage. During this exclusive experience, you will meet one of the country's best puppet artisans and enjoy a private 30-minute show.

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Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau