Thu – Depart Hanoi
Guided transfer to the Hanoi rail station for the overnight train to Lao Cai.

Fri – Lao Cai to Sapa
Arrive early morning at Lao Cai Station, near the Chinese border, and meet your Sapa based guide. Take a scenic drive to the hill station of Sapa. Enjoy spectacular views of rice-terraced mountains. Take a walking tour through the local market. Also visit Cat Cat village, home to the Black Hmong hill tribe, by car. Balance of the day at leisure. Stay two nights in Sapa.

Sat – Ta Van excursion
Good walking shoes are needed today – 5 km walk for approx. 2.5 hours. Depart at 8.00am for a short drive south into the Muong Hoa Valley, home to the largest terraced rice fields in Vietnam. Begin trekking from Lao Chai village of the Black Hmong minority to Ta Van village of the Giay minority. The magnificent views of the terraced fields, Fansipan mountain range and the cool climate all contribute to an excellent experience. Trek through farmlands and rolling hills before heading back to your hotel early afternoon by car. Balance of the day at leisure. (B)

Sun – Market and depart Sapa
Drive 130 km to Bac Ha to visit the colourful market of the Flower Hmong, Phu La and Dao Tuyen people. Drive on to Trung Do village of the Tay. Walk to the village to observe the lifestyle of northern hill tribe people and the beautiful landscape. Take a short river boat trip. Transfer back to Lao Cai late and board the overnight train back to Hanoi. (B)

Mon – Arrive Hanoi
Early morning arrival and transfer to hotel.