Day 1: Hanoi - Sapa
This evening we take the overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai near the Chinese border.
Day 2: Sapa (B, L)
Upon arrival in Lao Cai we drive the 35kms to Sapa. The morning will be free to walk around this former French hill station town. Later we visit the market and walk up Ham Rong hill for some good panoramic views of Sapa town and the surrounding valleys.
Day 3: Sapa - first camp (2,000 m) (B, L, D)
We embark on the first part of the ascent as we trek through terraced rice paddies and valleys. En route we pass through the small H'mong village of Cat Cat nestled in the valley. We cross the Linh Ho river via a bamboo bridge and start our ascent. Once we reach an elevation of 2,000m we set up camp for the night.
Day 4: Trek to second camp (2,400m) (B, L, D)
Today we continue our ascent through rainforest as we climb approximately 400m before setting up our second camp with the help of our porters. We spend a second night in the open.
Day 5: Trek to summit and return to second camp (2,400m) (B, L, D)
After breakfast we set out for summit, which will take the best part of the day. As we continue on we pass through primary forest containing giant, centuries old pine trees and expanses of yellow bamboo. Our continuing trek will take us to an altitude of over 3,000m as we arrive at the roof of Vietnam: Fansipan Peak. Once at the summit we will have time to savor the best panorama in Vietnam.
Day 6: First camp - Sapa (B)
Today it’s downhill just about all the way. Following breakfast we begin our descent and reach Sapa by around lunchtime. From here we will return by road to Lao Cai for the overnight return train journey to Hanoi.
Day 7: Arrive Hanoi
Upon arrival at Hanoi Station (around 5.00am) you will be transferred back to your hotel. |