Today you will have an early breakfast at the hotel, for we are leaving early at 8 a.m. for Ha Giang. We take the road via Phu Tho and Tuyen Quang provinces. During the 8-hour-journey there are plenty of chances to see picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, tranquil villages and lush rice fields lined with palm trees. When passing by Tuyen Quang, we stop to visit a Black Tay village. Around 5 pm, we arrive at Ban Luoc village (populated by the Black Dao). We take a short walk or motorbike ride (in winter time) to reach the homestay. Overnight at the homestay (hot shower is available).

A day of hiking in the Ban Luoc area, among the villages scattered on the mountain. Ban Luoc is a place far from the national road where its inhabitants, the Dzao and Nung people still maintain their unique way of life and follow traditional values. Despite the invasion of modern life, they still dress in their traditional clothes and speak in their native dialects. The people here have acquired enough know-how and knowledge that it has allowed them to live in complete autonomy. Return to Ban Luoc in the afternoon. Second night with the Dzao family.

We will spend the day trekking through the capital region for rice terrace cultivation in Vietnam, to enjoy the magnificent views of the Tay Con Linh massif’s high peaks and green valleys. A one-hour climb will take you to a heavenly gate (at 1356m) where you’ll have a chance to better understand the tea culture here. We then follow a hidden path under bamboo and tea trees to reach the village of Ho Thau. Enjoy a picnic lunch in natural surroundings. In the afternoon, we’ll resume walking. On the way we will pass by many rice fields and forests of magnificent vegetation. Finally arriving at Nam Ai, a village dominated by the black Dao minority. Great overnight stay and a delicious dinner with the locals.

By waking up early you can enjoy the morning tranquillity in the high mountains and the cozy ambiance with the host family gathered around the fireplace. After having breakfast with your newfound friends, we start our beautiful day of walking. The path leads us through many villages nestled at the foot of the mountains or in the middle of rice terraces. On the way we will meet the Red Dao, the Black Dao people in their distinguished tunics as well as the Pa Then or La Chi. We will spend the night in a local stilt house in Nam Hong village.

After breakfast, we will return to the trek through rice fields and rainforests, heading towards the Thong Nguyen valley. After about four hours of walking, you can enjoy a lunch break with locals or out in the natural surroundings. A pleasant descent will take you to the Thong Nguyen Valley. Transfer to Yen Binh, the dominant provincial home for the Tay and Pa Then ethnic minorities. Accommodation at a local homestay.

Today we drive to Bac Ha, a small, calm and charming town mainly dominated by colourful H’Mongs. The local climate and the soil are very favourable for the cultivation of plum trees. In spring, the whole plateau is covered with flowering trees, leading people to believe the region is adorned with a touch of magic. In the afternoon, we will walk and explore Thai Giang Pho and Na Lo villages. The hike will start on a nice balcony path crossing a picturesque valley. Return to Bac Ha to spend the night.

Taking place every Sunday, Bac Ha Market is where tribal people from surrounding villages flock to exchange their goods. Most still use horses to carry their loads, which means they have to depart early to get to the market in time. If you visit Bac Ha on a spring weekend, you will meet locals in their most beautiful and colourful costumes heading to the market, as it’s the best time of the year for youngsters seeking a partner to marry. Despite the low temperatures, spring is a joyful time because it’s the season of courting, dating and weddings. Nature also contributes to the atmosphere with vibrant red and white flowers blooming everywhere. It all makes for a wholly unique setting. 
After having lunch, we will drive back to Hanoi.