Two-Day Ha Giang trek
Time: Starts at 8 AM. 2 days 1 night
Fitness level: Medium-Challenging* - 31 km
*Please note that the terrain can be challenging, with steep inclines, particularly during foggy or rainy weather. We recommend wearing sturdy trekking shoes with good grip for your safety and comfort.
Description
Tucked away in Northwest Vietnam, Mu Cang Chai is a breathtaking destination known for its iconic terraced rice fields and vibrant ethnic culture. Still off the beaten path, it offers a peaceful, authentic experience far from the crowds.
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Picnic lunch while enjoying the beautiful scenery
Possible to swim beneath a beautiful waterfall
Stay in a traditional Tay homestay, experiencing their culture and cuisine
Experience the cultural richness - of the Dao people, the Tay people and the Dao Ao Dai people
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Day 1: Thon Tha Village - Na Thac - Lung Vai Village (16 km)
Your guide picks you up in a minivan at 8 AM, and drive to Thon Tha Village, where you start a scenic trek through lush landscapes and quiet trails. You’ll meet local Tay and Dao peoples along the way.
You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch at Lung Vai Village, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet a local Dao family. They will welcome you at their home and share their way of life.
Continue to Ha Thanh Village, where you can swim beneath a beautiful waterfall.
Trek the last part to Thon Tha Village, where you’ll spend the night in a traditional Tay home, experiencing their warm hospitality and delicious home-cooked meals.
Day 2: Thon Tha - Khuoi Mi - Thon Tha (15km)
Rise bright and early at 8AM, where you can participate in daily activities such as feeding the animals, cleaning, preparing breakfast.
After a filling breakfast, trek through the green valley and up the mountain towards Khuoi My village.
You’ll stop for a picnic lunch or with a local family. Your guide will share stories about the unique culture of the Dao Ao Dai people.
You’ll spend some time at Khuoi My Village, home to about 200 Dao Ao Dai households, the village is located at the foot of Mt. Tay Con Linh - highest mountain in Ha Giang.
Walk back to the highway. where you’ll be picked up by a minivan and driven back to Ha Giang.
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All transportation incl pick-up and drop off at the meeting point in Ha Giang city
Knowledgeable English-speaking, local guide
Food (Day 1: Lunch, Dinner. Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch) + 1 water per day
Homestay accommodation and towels
Village entrance fees
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Personal travel insurance
Drinks and personal expenses
Gratuities
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Comfortable walking shoes
Insect repellent, sunscreen
Seasonal clothing
Essentials for the overnight stay
Swimsuit
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$140 pp
1 person
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$110 pp
2 people
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$100 pp
3 people
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$95 pp
4 people
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$90 pp
5 people +
✺ Frequently asked questions ✺
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The best time to visit Sapa and Northern Vietnam is during the dry season, from September to April, when temperatures are milder, and rainfall is minimal. In mountainous Sapa, winter months (December to February) can get chilly, with temperatures occasionally dropping below zero.
Sapa is known as the “Town in the Clouds” and offers unpredictable, fast-changing weather. One village might be experiencing thick fog while another enjoys clear blue skies.
For the most stunning views of Sapa's terraced rice fields, visit in September or early October when the fields glow golden with ripe rice.
Ethnic minority festivals are most vibrant around Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, which typically falls between mid-January and late February.
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Your ideal stay depends on your travel style and interests. We recommend at least two days to get a taste of Sapa’s charm, or up to a full week for a deeper, more immersive experience. This gives you time to trek through ethnic minority villages, explore the local markets, climb the majestic Fansipan Mountain, and soak in the stunning landscapes. Most trekking tours range from one to three days, so plan accordingly.
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Sapa’s weather can be unpredictable, so come prepared:
Year-round: Breathable, waterproof clothing and sturdy trekking shoes.
Summer: Sunscreen and mosquito repellent to stay protected.
Winter: Warm layers, gloves, and a hat – temperatures can drop below zero.
Rainy days: A poncho or umbrella, easily available in town at reasonable prices.
Need help packing? We’re happy to give you more tips!
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In Sapa, you may encounter ethnic minority villagers, including children, selling handmade crafts or performing for tips. While their persistence can feel overwhelming, here’s how you can respond responsibly:
Show Understanding: Many villagers rely on street selling due to poverty and limited opportunities. However, buying from children encourages them to stay out of school, limiting their future opportunities. Please, do not buy from them.
Be Firm but Polite: If approached, respond calmly and firmly without giving money. Children are sometimes sent to evoke pity, with parents watching nearby.
Support Ethical Tourism: Choose responsible businesses that hire locals as guides, support homestay development, and invest in education and healthcare. Your choices can help create long-term, positive change in the community.
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From Hanoi you have two convenient options:
Bus/Minibus
The fastest and most affordable option, with frequent departures throughout the day. Choose from standard seats, sleeper seats, or VIP cabins.
Duration: ~6 hours (with snack/toilet stops)
Cost: 200,000–500,000 VND
Train + Transfer
Take the overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, followed by a short transfer to Sapa. Vietnam Railways offers budget-friendly tickets, while Chapa Express and King Express provide more comfort.
Duration: ~8 hours by train + 1-hour transfer
Cost: 500,000–1,000,000 VND (train) + ~75,000 VND (transfer)
Let us know if we can help you book your journey – we’re happy to assist!
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Sapa Town is compact and easily explored on foot.
For more convenience, taxis and shuttles are readily available (~25,000 VND/km).
Looking for adventure? Rent a motorbike (~100,000 VND/day) or mountain bike (~200,000 VND/day) and ride the scenic trails of Muong Hoa Valley.
For your convenience, you can also rent motorbikes and bicycles directly from us – reach out, and we’ll be happy to help! -
We recommend Indigo Inn Sapa, conveniently located where our office is based. Enjoy stunning mountain views, comfortable private rooms, and the ease of starting your trekking tours right from the doorstep.
Just a 10-minute walk from Sapa town center – the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience! -
Sapa offers a variety of delicious local treats. Don’t miss:
Chestnut Cake (Bánh Hạt Dẻ) – roasted ground chestnuts, fried until golden and sprinkled with sesame, available at street stalls.
Barbecue – grilled meats and veggies, perfect for a cozy evening.
Salmon or Sturgeon Hot Pot – a hearty dish made with fresh mountain-raised fish.
For local produce:
Sapa Market (7:30 am–6 pm) – Fresh produce, spices, clothing (including ethnic clothing), and a budget-friendly food court.
Night Market (evenings) – Just outside the main market, great for snacks and souvenirs.
Xuân Trường Supermarket (8 am–9:30 pm) – The largest supermarket in town, a one-stop shop for groceries at local, non-haggle prices.