6 days Cao Bang Adventure

Hanoi, That Khe, Na Papang, Pac Khoang, Na Mieng, La, Ta Lung, Pia Thap Village, Hanoi

This trip is a wonderful balance of adventure and cultural insights and for those who wish to experience the magic of trekking in Northern Vietnam. We trek through beautiful landscapes and wonderful villages staying in fascinating hilltribe villages, the warm hospitality of Tay families. Come and join us!

Day 1 Hanoi - Lang Son - That Khe - Na Pang Village

We begin our journey by driving to Lang Son, a border town that has thrived since China and Vietnam normalized relations in the early 1990s. Our first stop is To Thi Mountain, named after a local legend about a woman named To Thi. In the afternoon, we embark on a hike along trails surrounded by hills and mountains, passing by hilltribe villages. Our trek leads us to Na Pang village, where the Tay people live. There, we stay overnight in a homestay with a local family. (Lunch and dinner included)

Day 2 Na Pang Village - Pac Khoang Village

After breakfast, we begin our hike and trek towards Pac Khoang village. The terrain is hilly, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Along the way, we interact with locals going about their daily routines. Upon descending the mountain, we arrive at Pac Khoang village, a tranquil Tay ethnic minority village nestled amidst stunning mountains, where we will spend the night. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)

Day 3 Pac Khoang Village - Na Mieng Village

Today's trek takes us through remote and beautiful countryside, passing through various villages, rice paddies, and tea plantations. The terrain is hilly, offering picturesque views along the way. Later in the day, we will arrive at our Tay homestay in Na Mieng village. The accommodations are basic but rewarding. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 4 Na Mieng Village - La Village

We wind our way up through rugged mountains, eventually descending to the village of La nestled amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Tay community. Tonight, we are warmly welcomed as guests and have the opportunity to sample locally brewed rice wine. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 5 La Village - Ta Lung - Pia Thap Village

After breakfast, we embark on a hike through extraordinary mountains, heading towards Ta Lung at the border of Cao Bang and China. A short drive takes us through stunning rock formations and cliffs, leading us south to the village of Pia Thap. Upon reaching Pia Thap, we find ourselves amidst limestone forests, renowned for their tranquil beauty and the traditional art of incense making.

From Pia Thap, we wind through various ethnic villages, verdant hillsides, and lush seasonal farmlands. Tonight, we are warmly welcomed by a local Tay family, immersing ourselves in their hospitality and cultural traditions before settling in for the night with them. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included)

Day 6: Pia Thap Village - Hanoi

This morning we have breakfast and take a leisurely stroll around the village before we make our way back to Hanoi, arriving around 5 pm. (Breakfast and lunch are included)

The facts…

Physical activities: Our itinerary includes treks with:
 

• A 10-12 km trek on Day 1
• A 15-16 km trek on Day 2
   
• A 12-16 km trek on Day 3
• A 14-16 km trek on Day 4
   
• A 15-18 km hike on Day 5
• A 2-4 km hike on Day 6

We need to be reasonably fit as the hikes and the treks can be challenging sometimes, depending on the weather conditions. 

From July to September, the climate is usually humid and hot. From October to June brings cooler and more pleasant weather.

Transport: 
 

• Air-conditioned vehicle (Car or Bus)

Tour Guide: Our experienced and friendly tour guide speaks good English. He is knowledgeable about local cultures, history and the environment.

Accommodation:
 

• Homestay (4 nights)
   

Clean homestays with mosquito nets provided.

Meals: 
 

• 5 breakfasts
• 6 lunches
• 5 dinners
   

We choose local ingredients, typical of the way people eat in the area, at local restaurants, markets or homes. We also cater for Vegetarians but please request this at time of booking.

Trip cost: 
 

• $568USD per person for a group of 2 to 6 people
• $495USD per person for a group of 7 to 8 people.

The cost of the trip includes: 
 

• Accommodation
• Transportation
   
• Meals listed on the itinerary
• Purified drinking water
   
• Tour guide
• Entrance fees
• VAT and other taxes

The cost of the trip does not include: 
 

• Travel insurance
• Drinks (soft drinks, alcohol)
   
• Tips and gratuities
• Other personal expenses

What to Bring:

Pack essentials for 6 days, including light comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, comfortable hiking shoes.
Take a small day pack for walking, hiking and trekking. It is essential to bring your passport on this trip. We also recommend packing: towel, first-aid kit, torch, insect repellent, sun cream, raincoat and sun hat...