DAY 01: HANOI ARRIVAL
Upon arrival in Noi Bai International Airport, you will be greeted by local guide and transfer you to your hotel in Hanoi that is Vietnam's capital, ranks amongst the world's most attractive and interesting cities. It was first the capital of Vietnam in A.D. 1010, and though the nation's capital moved to Hue under the Nguyen dynasty in 1802, the city continued to flourish after the French took control in 1888. In 1954, after the French departed, Hanoi was declared Vietnam's capital once again. The remnants of over 1,000 years of history are still visible here, with that of the past few hundred years wonderfully preserved. After checking in hotel, you are free at leisure. There’s plenty to do and see or you may choose to find a spot on the lakeside and just watch the world go by - Hanoi is a truly unique city. In the evening you can choose from one of the many restaurants near Hoan Kiem lake or in the Old Quarter. Hanoi is also a fascinating city to enjoy an alfresco drink. Overnight in Hanoi.
Meals included: None
Optional lunch or dinner:
DAY 02: HANOI CITY TOUR SAPA
After having a breakfast at hotel, enjoy a peaceful walk around tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake and try the famous Vietnamese coffee before an exploration of the intriguing Ethnology Museum. In the afternoon, drive to Sapa, set in the stunning mountains of Northern Vietnam. Sapa is your base for discovering the surrounding rice terraces and villages of the ethnic minorities that live here. Sapa itself is full of charm and provides plenty of opportunity for exploration. Arrive at Sapa, check in hotel and free at leisure. Overnight in Sapa.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 03: SAPA COLORFUL ETHNIC MARKET
Take an early morning drive to one of the most exotic tribal markets in northern Vietnam which attracts a large number of minority groups. After visiting the market, walk through the Black H'mong villages of Hau Thao and Saseng and soak up the regional lifestyle of the mountain-dwelling locals. Back to hotel for overnight.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 04: SAPA TA PHIN TOPAS ECOLODGE
Your journey will be mostly driving downhill toward Lao Cai, before taking a left turn into a small paved road leading to Ta Phin village. Here you can experience the unmixed cultural life of Black Hmong and Red Dao minorities, 2 largest ethnic groups in the area. They live happily together while maintaining their own tradition from generation to generation. You can recognise them by dressing while they are both very famous of handicraft. You will enjoy walking among local people. The trip also offers you the opportunity to visit the local houses. Then transfer to Topas Ecolodge, with incredible views on all sides of the valley below. Gain a deeper insight into the lives of the unique minority people, as you are immersed in their villages. Overnight at Topas Ecolodge in Sapa.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 05: SAPA LAO CAI HANOI
After enjoying your breakfast, you will start the walking trip by following the main road for three kilometers to Lech village of the Red Dao minority, observing the magnificent valley view on the way. Here you will take a short walk on dirt road to visit a traditional Red Dao family, where you experience the culture of the minority villagers who are living peacefully the same way of life as their ancestors. Back at the parking place, you will take a further ride to the new Lech village, where you will take a longer break to learn how the women in their doorways doing their embroidery, which the Red Dao people are very famous for. Back to the lodge for rest before returning to your hotel in Hanoi. Enjoy free time in Hanoi and a farewell dinner. Overnight in Hanoi.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 06: HANOI DEPARTURE
Free at leisure until transferring to the Noi Bai International Airport for your departure.
Meals included: Breakfast