DAY 1: ARRIVAL AT LAO CAI STATION & ETHNIC MARKET EXLPORATION
Arrive at Lao Cai railway station in the early morning, greeted by the crisp mountain air and stunning natural scenery. After disembarking from the train, you'll be transferred to a nearby ethnic market. These markets are vibrant hubs of culture where local ethnic minorities, such as the Hmong, Dao, and Tay people, gather to trade goods. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the market. Witness colorful traditional costumes and the lively interactions among the locals. Look for unique products including handmade crafts, textiles, herbal remedies, and local agricultural products. Take the time to engage with the sellers and learn about their customs, traditions, and the stories behind their handicrafts. As you explore, soak in the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding the market, characterized by terraced rice fields and mountain landscapes. Feel free to capture the moment with photographs. Overnight in Sapa.
DAY 2: SAPA VILLAGES (B/L)
After breakfast at your hotel, embark on a day of adventure with a short drive to Muong Hoa Valley, famous for its stunning terraced rice paddies. Your hike begins near May Bridge, where you can take in the breathtaking scenery. Follow a dirt trail through a rocky landscape to a rattan bridge, offering views of a picturesque waterfall and Giang Ta Chai village, home to the Red Dao ethnic minority. As you trek, immerse yourself in the daily lives of local tribes, with opportunities to visit a local family’s home for a glimpse into their traditions. Continue to Ta Van village to meet the Black H’mong and Day ethnic groups, rich in culture. Enjoy a delightful lunch featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine before returning to your hotel. Spend the afternoon at leisure, whether swimming, relaxing in the spa, or enjoying the serene mountain views. Overnight in Sapa.
DAY 3: FANSIPAN MOUNTAIN – CAT CAT VILLAGE
Begin your day with a visit to the Fansipan Cable Car Station, where you will hop on the world’s most modern 3-wire cable car system to ascend Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina at 3,143 meters above sea level. Marvel at the stunning vistas of terraced rice paddies and mountains cloaked in rainforests, all protected by Hoang Lien National Park. After a satisfying lunch, trek to Cat Cat Village, home to the Black H’mong tribe. Here, you'll discover a hydroelectric power station built by the French in the early 20th century. Experience the vibrant tribal lifestyle of the locals while basking in the beautiful scenery of terraced fields and a picturesque waterfall. Learn about their unique customs and traditional crafts, including weaving and silver carving. Finally, transfer back to Laocai Station to catch the night train to Hanoi. Overnight on the train.