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Discover Vietnam’s rugged and scenic northwest and its
people first hand. By trekking and cycling from the
capital Hanoi to the remote area of the northwest we can
see life as it truly is for the Vietnamese. Our fleet of
modern European road bikes ensures you get the most out of
the trip in terms of comfort and enjoyment. Along the way
we encounter dramatic landscapes and sweeping panoramas as
the rural population goes about its business. Highlights
include the terraced valleys of Sapa and the historic
battlefields of Dien Bien Phu.
Activities:
Trekking, mountain biking, and cultural experience
Day 1: Hanoi - Mai Chau
Once we are comfortably away from the capital and the bulk
of the traffic we begin cycling and head for Hoa Binh town
where we stop for a lunch break. We then driver to Mai
Chau province and the White Thai village of Lac. Lac is
well known for its handicrafts, especially its brightly
colored clothes that are all handmade by the local
population. Here we spend the night as guests of the Thai
people in a traditional home stay built on stilts.
(L/D)
Day 2: Mai Chau - Son La
In the morning, we drive out of Mai Chau and head north to
the town of Son La. Son La is located in a scenic valley,
inhabited by Thai, Muong and H'mong minority people. This
area is historically important for its involvement in the
Vietnamese struggle for independence from France during
the first half the 20th century.
(B/L/D)
Day 3: Son La - Dien Bien Phu
Today we drive the first 80km as far as Tuan Giao before
we take to our bicycles and ride the 80km to the town of
Dien Bien.
(B/L/D)
Day 4: Dien Bien Phu - Lai Chau
Today we cycle along the windy roads that snake trough the
beautiful countryside that characterizes this part of the
country. At times the roads are steep but the stunning
panoramas afforded us more than compensate for any
hardships.
(B/L/D)
Day 5: Lai Chau - Phong Tho
Following breakfast we cycle through more superb mountain
country en route to Phong Tho. Along the way we pass
through several different minority villages and are able
to see at close quarters how people go about their daily
lives.
(B/L/D)
Day 6: Phong Tho - Sapa
Today we continue winding our way through the scenic hills
and valleys. We stop at To Binh Lu and for the remaining
50km we take the support vehicle as we sake our way up to
the celebrated former hill station of Sapa.
(B/L/D)
Day 7: Sapa
We have a full day to see some of Sapa’s most colorful and
interesting sights by bicycle. These include the Red Dao
village of Ta Phin, nestled on the floor of a beautiful
valley and the picturesque Tay village of Ta Van.
(B/L/D)
Day 8: Sapa - Hanoi
Following breakfast we embark on the return drive to the
capital. Along the way we will make numerous photo stops
as we pass through different hill tribe villages.
(B/L)
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