Travelog - A travel guide to Vietnam

Obviously, most hill tribe destinations also make excellent nature destinations, and Sapa certainly is no exception.

This mountain town offers breathtaking scenery and excellent opportunities for hikes and trekkings.

One day from Hanoi

Four-day excursion.

Considered the most authentic hill tribe destination by many, Bac Ha is a small village in the mountains a few hours from Sapa.

The Sunday market is the main attraction here, but on weekdays there are far less tourists.

Add one day (and overnight) to your Sapa trip to visit Bac Ha.

Mai ChauHill tribe village in rural area.

Opportunities for hiking.

Two-day excursion from Hanoi

Provincial town with hill tribe people living nearby.

Their village is beautifully situated but a visit is not as nice as before due to rather fierce selling techniques by the locals.

One-day excursion from Hanoi

There is a loop road to Son La, Dien Bien Phu (where the French colonial army fought its final battle - and lost dramatically), Lai Chau and Sapa.

To see this unspoiled and possibly most stunning area of Vietnam requires a time, effort and a strong car.

Six to eight-day round-trip from Hanoi

Roads in the provinces of Ha Giang, Cao Bang and Bac Can are of an even lower standard than in the North-west, and hence receive even fewer tourists.

Contrary to common belief, this area is equally interesting in terms of nature and authenticity, yet the mountains are somewhat lower than near Sapa.

Five to seven-day round-trip from Hanoi

Towns in the Central Highlands, noteworthy because of their unspoiled character, nature and hill tribes.

Less impressive than the north, and hence less touristy.

Half-day from Danang via renovated Ho Chi Minh Trail.

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