Vietnam Northwest Loop

Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm on Day 1. You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting; please ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader. 

The capital of Vietnam is a charming city with a population of around four million. Hanoi is famous for its beautiful lakes, shaded boulevards, verdant public parks and its thriving old town centre, which is an architectural museum piece with blocks of ochre buildings retaining the air of a 1930s provincial French town. As Vietnam develops to compete with other South-East Asian countries, the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake reflects the contrasts of modern office buildings, old Buddhist temples and the tangle of ancient streets in its still surface. 

If you arrive early, why not get your first taste of Vietnam exploring the lovely, laidback capital. You can stroll the tree-lined boulevards to get a sense of the old days, wander the Old Quarter to uncover ancient temples and a rich, religious culture or head to the Temple of Literature, an oasis of calm right at the heart of Hanoi. 

Optional Activities 

Spend the afternoon walking through the various ethnic minority villages in this spectacular area. Enjoy the local hospitality in our simple stilt-house homestay in the village of Poom Coong. Our amicable hosts will cook you a fabulous home-cooked meal and there may even be a chance to sample some of the local rice wine produced in the region. 

Included Activities 

Accommodation 

Included Activities 

Included Activities 

Set off on a short trek to the hilltribe village of Cat Cat (approx 2.5 hrs). Situated in an idyllic valley covered with a patchwork of rice terraces, Cat Cat is home to the H'mong people. The H'mong originated from China and emigrated to this region of Vietnam about 300 years ago. They are easily recognisable due to their dark clothing, usually blue or black. The dye is fashioned from the indigo or hemp plants that are native to the area. H'mong women wear long aprons with embroidered waistcoats and have their hair rolled up into a turban-like hat, whilst the men wear a black skullcap, long waistcoat and loose trousers. As we walk to the villages nestled in the valley below Sapa, we'll meet some of the local minority people on their way to and from Sapa to trade at the markets. 

Board an overnight train to Hanoi. Although conditions are basic, overnight trains are a true Intrepid experience and the best way to travel long distances with the locals. Sleeper trains typically have four berth compartments (occasionally six berth depending on seasonal variations), which have bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided, although some travellers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. On occasion, passengers of different genders will be required to share a compartment and there will be occasions where you'll be sharing with local travellers or travellers who are not part of your group. Most trains have a dining carriage serving simple food, but some travellers take the opportunity to stock up on fresh bread, cheese and fruit prior to departure. 

Included Activities 

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart our accommodation at any time. Please check the 'Finishing Point Hotel' section for checkout times and luggage storage possibilities.