Northern Grand Loops: Sapa, Dong Van & Ha Giang

Tour Overview

Discover Sapa, the foggy city, and immerse yourself in the lively life of the Black H’Mong people with Lao chai, Tavan & Cat cat valley.

Discover Dong van, the UNESCO-recognized Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark with King’s Palace (Dinh Thự Vua Mèo – Vương Chí Sình) and explore the charming Dong Van Old Quarter by night. Overnight in Dong Van.

Admire Ma Pi Leng Pass, famously known as one of Vietnam’s “Four Great Passes.” From the peak, you will gaze down into the majestic Tu San Canyon and witness the stunning emerald waters of the Nho Que River winding through the mountains and cannot forget to enjoy the traditional dishes here.

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 01. HANOI – SAPA ALPINE ESCAPE (LUNCH, DINNER)

Morning: Our private transport and professional guide will meet you at the designated departure point in Hanoi. We commence the scenic overland journey to the misty alpine town of Sapa. A rest stop will be arranged en route.

12:00: Arrive in Sapa. Transfer to a local restaurant to enjoy lunch featuring exquisite regional specialties.

14:00: Check in to your hotel and enjoy free time to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.

16:00: Visit the historic Sapa Stone Church, built in 1895, standing as the most intact ancient French architectural landmark remaining in Sapa. Afterward, enjoy personal time to explore the charming Sapa town center.

19:00: Haver dinner featuring traditional Sapa cuisine. The evening is free for you to explore the vibrant Sapa Night Market and the illuminated Stone Church square. Overnight in Sapa.

DAY 02. LAO CHAI – TA VAN & CAT CAT VALLEY TREK (BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER)

06:30: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.

07:00: Our guide will lead you on a scenic trek to the ethnic minority villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van. Following the Sapa valley, you will immerse yourself in the serene and peaceful landscapes, witnessing the traditional life of the local H’Mong, Giay, and Tay ethnic communities.

12:00: Lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a short rest.

15:00: Visit Cat Cat Village, home to the Black H’Mong people, nestled in a stunning valley at the foot of the majestic Mount Fansipan. Here, you will discover the daily routines of the locals, visit the Cat Cat Waterfall, and see the remnants of the French-built hydroelectric power station from the early 20th century. Free time for sightseeing and photography.

19:00: Dinner is served at a local restaurant. Enjoy free time for personal exploration or souvenir shopping in Sapa. Overnight in Sapa.

DAY 03. SAPA – OVERLAND JOURNEY TO HA GIANG (BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER)

06:30: Enjoy breakfast and complete check-out procedures.

07:30: Depart for the long but culturally rewarding overland transfer to Ha Giang Province—the Far North of the country. Rest stops will be arranged for comfort breaks.

12:00: Enjoy lunch featuring delicious regional cuisine en route.

13:30: Continue the journey to Ha Giang City.

15:00: Arrive in Ha Giang City. We make a photo stop at the Km0 Milestone, symbolizing the start of the iconic Northernmost loop. Check in to your 4-star hotel and relax.

19:00: Dinner at a local restaurant. Free time to explore Ha Giang City at night. Overnight in Ha Giang.

DAY 04. HA GIANG – KARST PLATEAU CONQUEST (BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER)

06:30: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Check out and embark on the journey to Dong Van, ascending the UNESCO-recognized Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark.

Morning Highlights: Along the way, visit iconic landmarks including Quan Ba Heaven Gate, admire the distinctive Fairy Bosom Mountain (Núi Đôi Cô Tiên), traverse the Yen Minh Pine Forest, and pass through the traditional homes of Pho Cao.

11:30: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Yen Minh.

13:30: Continue to the King’s Palace (Dinh Thự Vua Mèo – Vương Chí Sình). This grand structure, built in the late 19th century, showcases unique architecture blending several cultures and holds fascinating historical stories.

Late Afternoon: Arrive in Dong Van. Check in to your hotel (3-star standard) and rest.

19:00: Dinner at a restaurant. Free time to explore the charming Dong Van Old Quarter by night. Overnight in Dong Van.

DAY 05. DONG VAN – MA PI LENG PASS & MEO VAC (BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER)

06:30: Enjoy breakfast. Take time to stroll through the Dong Van Old Quarter.

09:00: Begin the conquest of Ma Pi Leng Pass, famously known as one of Vietnam’s “Four Great Passes.” From the peak, you will gaze down into the majestic Tu San Canyon and witness the stunning emerald waters of the Nho Que River winding through the mountains.

12:00: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the Meo Vac area.

13:30: Transfer back to Ha Giang City. Check in to your 4-star hotel and rest.

19:00: Dinner at a restaurant. Free time to explore Ha Giang City. Overnight in Ha Giang.

DAY 06. HA GIANG – HANOI DEPARTURE (BREAKFAST, LUNCH)

06:30: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and complete check-out.

07:30: Begin the long-distance return transfer to Hanoi.

12:00: Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties in Tuyen Quang province.

13:30: Continue the drive back to Hanoi, including rest stops along the route.

16:00: Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). The 6- days Sapa – Ha Giang tour concludes.

Pre-Trip Informations

Group Size	Deluxe (4-Star)	Luxury (5-Star)
6 Guests Per person	535	560
8 Guests Per person	475	495
10 Guests Per person	455	475

1. Weather

Vietnam's weather is highly diverse as you travel through its three distinct regions: North, Central, and South. Each area offers its own unique climate patterns, contributing to the country's rich geographical tapestry.

As you embark on your adventure, we strongly recommend checking the specific temperatures and weather conditions of each region for your travel dates to ensure you pack appropriately and enjoy the full experience.

2. Travel Documents & Requirements

Documentation Responsibility:

As a traveler, you are responsible for obtaining and maintaining all necessary travel documents for your trip, including:

Valid Passport
Visa (if required)
Health documentation (if applicable)

Please consult the relevant embassy/consulate and your healthcare provider for specific requirements. As regulations can change, we advise checking current requirements well before your departure date.

Note: We are not liable for any disruption or loss incurred due to inadequate documentation or failure to comply with health requirements. You will be responsible for reimbursing any penalties or costs we incur as a result of your non-compliance.

Vietnam Visa Information:

Depending on your nationality, you may require an eVisa for entry into Vietnam. Please apply through the official immigration portal here: https://evisa.gov.vn/

Insurance:

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance immediately upon booking your tour. For assistance in arranging insurance, please contact your travel agent or Hanoi Int. Media & Travel Booking Office for guidance.

3. Sightseeing & Excursions

Throughout your journey, our qualified English-speaking guides will accompany you on all sightseeing tours and excursions.

When visiting traditional temples and pagodas, we kindly ask that you show respect for local customs and practices.

For your safety and best experience, please remain with your guide and follow their instructions at all stops along the way.

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