Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Upon arrival at Noi Bai airport, pick up and transfer to hotel at centre of Hanoi. Rest of the day is free. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 2: Hanoi - Mai Chau - Poom Coong (B/L/D)
This morning you leave early and head southwest to Mai Chau, past sweeping vistas of lush hills and limestone karsts. After lunch, stretch your legs with a walk around the village of Pom Coong, inhabited by the Thai people. As you enjoy a barbeque dinner, watch a performance of local dance and music. (Today’s trek is 6km)
Overnight in local home in Pom Coong.
Day 3: Mai Chau - Xa Linh - Hang Kia - Cun Pheo (B/L/D)
Transfer to the village of Xa Linh for the start of your trek along a mixture of paths, streambeds, and steep jungle hillsides reaching a H’mong village for a late lunch. This afternoon is mainly downhill, trekking along tracks which wind through hamlets, across small streams, and over suspension bridges. As you approach the village of Cun Pheo, soak in the beautiful scenery of the Mai Chau valley. (Today’s trek is 21km, 9-10hrs)
Homestay in Cun Pheo.
Day 4: Cun Pheo - Van Mai - Hang Tribe village (B/L/D)
Today, experience the diversity of Vietnam as you trek through indigenous villages belonging to the region’s different tribes. After lunch, transfer to Sai village for the trek to Hang Village, an oasis in the middle of Pu Luong Nature reserve. This path follows a route once used as part of the Ho Chi Minh trail during the Vietnam War to supply the resistance, but now is a tranquil area perfect for a late afternoon trek. (Today’s trek 25km, 8-10 hrs)
Overnight in Hang Village.
Day 5: Trekking the hills of Pu Luong (B/L/D)
Today, hike through the Pu Luong valley with steep ascents and relaxing downhills. Reach Kho Muong for your overnight stay, an incredibly scenic village nestled between steep limestone karts and lush, verdant hills. Should you have enough energy remaining, take a short walk out to a nearby cave for some adventurous exploring. (Today’s trek 18km, 6-8hrs)
Homestay in Kho Muong.
Day 6: Pu Luong Market Trek (B/L)
Today begins with a challenging but glorious downhill hike which takes you to the Nature Reserve’s only market. The vendors are from nearby villages and they trek two hours uphill to bring their produce and goods to sell. After this fascinating market visit, continue on foot to the beautiful surroundings of the Nua Village eco-lodge. (Today’s trek 18km, 6-7hrs)
Overnight in Nua Village.
Day 7: Hin Village - Hanoi (B/L/D)
The last day of trekking takes you from the mountains and paddy fields to Tom village. From here you will be picked up and transferred back to Hanoi, arriving late this afternoon. Relax and freshen up before dinner at a delicious Vietnamese restaurant. (Today’s trek 11km, 4-5hrs)
Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 8: Hanoi - Halong - Hanoi (B/L/D)
Travel from Hanoi through the Red River Delta to Halong Bay. Spend the day cruising aboard a wooden junk boat, traveling amongst the limestone karsts and beautiful waters of the bay. Visit a cave and go for a swim before transferring back to Hanoi for a farewell dinner.
Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 9: Hanoi - Departure (B)
Today is at your leisure for last minute shopping or sightseeing before transferring to the airport for your onward flight.
