Your journey begins the moment you touch down in Vietnam’s historic capital, Hanoi. The city’s vibrant energy is palpable as you weave through its tree-lined streets. Your personal driver and English-speaking guide will warmly greet you at the airport, escorting you through Hanoi’s buzzing neighborhoods to your luxurious hotel.

Afternoon Exploration

After settling in, you’ll step out into the heart of Hanoi to dive into its rich cultural and historical tapestry.

+ Museum of Ethnology: Begin your adventure at the Museum of Ethnology, where the story of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups unfolds before your eyes. Each exhibit is a window into the country’s diverse traditions, from intricate textiles to life-size models of stilt houses. As you wander through the museum, you’ll come to understand the incredible variety of cultures that make up modern Vietnam.

+ Cyclo Tour through the Old Quarter: From here, hop on a traditional cyclo for a leisurely ride through the bustling Old Quarter. These 36 narrow streets are like veins pumping life into Hanoi, with each street dedicated to a particular craft or trade. As you wind your way through, you’ll see vendors selling everything from fragrant street food to delicate silks. The vibrancy and energy of the quarter will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a living piece of history.

+ Water Puppet Performance: As the sun sets, you’ll experience one of Northern Vietnam’s most unique art forms—a mesmerizing water puppet performance. Set to traditional Vietnamese music, wooden puppets glide across the water, reenacting scenes of rural life and ancient legends. Originating from the rice paddies of the Red River Delta, this art form is as enchanting as it is culturally significant.

Overnight at Apricot Hotel Hanoi 5*, where your Canvas Lake View/Junior Studio Room offers views of the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, providing the perfect sanctuary after your day of discovery.

6:30 – 7:00 AM

Early in the morning, the Topas Mountain Express will whisk you away from the hustle of the city into the serene beauty of Sapa. The five-hour drive is a journey in itself, with the Vietnamese countryside unfolding like a living canvas. Lush rice paddies stretch out into the distance, dotted with farmers tending to their fields, while misty mountains rise majestically in the background.

     – Arrival at Topas Ecolodge: As you approach the ecolodge, perched high above the terraced valleys, the sheer beauty of your surroundings is awe-inspiring. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, Topas Ecolodge offers a peaceful escape. After checking into your Premium Executive Bungalow, you’ll have time to soak in the panoramic views of the undulating rice terraces and misty peaks from your private balcony.

+ Afternoon Hike to Red Dao Village: After lunch, your guide will take you on a leisurely hike to the nearby Red Dao village of Lech. As you meander along quiet trails lined with terraced fields, your guide will explain the fascinating agricultural practices that sustain these communities. In the village, you’ll meet the Red Dao people, recognizable by their striking traditional clothing. The women, with their shaved eyebrows and elaborate embroidery, will welcome you into their homes, sharing stories of their daily lives and ancient customs. The walk back to the ecolodge is nothing short of magical, as you cross a suspension bridge with stunning views of the valley below.

Overnight at Topas Ecolodge, where the stillness of the night and the soft rustling of the mountain breeze lull you into a peaceful sleep.

Today’s adventure takes you deeper into the untouched beauty of Hoang Lien National Park. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off on an unforgettable trek through remote villages, past cascading waterfalls, and over verdant valleys.

Morning Trek to Nam Nhiu Village

The day begins with a drive to your starting point near Sin Chai village. The trek leads you along narrow paths that hug the mountainside, offering sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. You’ll soon arrive in Nam Nhiu village, home to the Red Dao people. Here, you’ll visit local homes, learning about the villagers’ ancient traditions and way of life that remain unchanged for centuries.

Walk Through Rice Valleys to Nam Cang Village

Continuing your trek, you’ll descend into the valley, crossing over rivers and walking through lush rice paddies. The path will take you to Nam Cang village, one of the most remote areas in Sapa. The Red Dao women in Nam Cang are known for their mastery of traditional medicine and herbal baths, as well as intricate embroidery and jewelry making. After a fascinating cultural exchange, you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to the ecolodge.

Afternoon at Leisure

Back at Topas Ecolodge, the afternoon is yours to relax and take in the serenity of the surroundings. You might want to book a traditional Red Dao herbal bath at the lodge’s spa—a soothing way to end a day of exploration.

Overnight at Topas Ecolodge, where the mountain views and fresh air provide a refreshing end to an exhilarating day.

Your final morning at Topas Ecolodge is one of quiet reflection. Enjoy your breakfast overlooking the mist-shrouded mountains, with the option to explore the area on your own terms.

Morning at Leisure

You can borrow a mountain bike from the lodge and take a ride through the surrounding villages, or simply relax on your balcony, absorbing the peaceful ambiance of the mountains. Alternatively, you might choose to take a shuttle into Sapa town, where you can visit the local market or explore the town’s French colonial architecture.

Return to Hanoi

In the early afternoon, the Topas Mountain Express will bring you back to Hanoi. As you journey from the peaceful mountains back to the vibrant capital, you’ll carry with you memories of the breathtaking landscapes and the warm hospitality of the hill tribes.

Overnight at Apricot Hotel Hanoi 5*, where you can enjoy your last evening in the city, perhaps taking a final stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Your final day in Hanoi is yours to explore or relax at your leisure. You may wish to revisit your favorite spots in the Old Quarter, shop for souvenirs, or savor one last cup of Vietnamese coffee. When it’s time to depart, your driver will escort you to the airport, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s cultural and natural wonders.