| Despite the rough roads the Northern Loop tour has become a bit of a classic. This is on account of the overwhelming scenery and the popular hill town of Sapa, an old hill station (elevation 1,600 meters) close to the Chinese border. The region is also home to numerous colourful ethnic minority groups. The trip also includes a visit to the historic battlefield of Dien Bien Phu, where the French, after nearly 100 years of colonization and nine years of war, were defeated in 1954 by the Viet Minh lead by Ho Chi Minh. Day 1
Hanoi - Son La
Departing Hanoi we make our way west to Son La, 320 km and 11 hours from Hanoi. We reach the small township of Mai Chau in time for lunch. Following lunch we will have a brief look around this little hill town. Arriving in Son La late in the afternoon we will check into our local guesthouse where we spend the night. 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 of the 20th century.
(Breakfast included) Day 2
Son La - Dien Bien Phu
Following breakfast we will visit the remains of former French prison and enjoy a dip in the local hot- springs. We then board our vehicle for the drive to Dien Bien Phu around 170 km away. It is a 7-hour journey on rough roads, but it is worth while as the scenery is dramatic. We will encounter many ethnic minority people along the way. In the late afternoon we arrive in Dien Bien town and check into our guesthouse for the night.
(Breakfast included) Day 3
Dien Bien Phu
Our schedule will be a little more relaxed today as we spend the day around Dien Bien Phu visiting the former battlefields. It was here that the French planned to lure the Viet Minh, led by Ho Chi Minh, into the valley by sending 16,000 French troops as bait. The French however did not count on the brilliant leadership of General Vo Nguyen Giap who somehow managed to place the Vietnamese artillery on the surrounding ridges. From March until May 1954 the Viet Minh pounded the French positions until the French capitulated with the loss of 3,000 men. It's estimated that the Viet Minh lost more than twice that number. We also visit the museum and some of the hill tribe villages. Tonight will be our second night in Dien Bien Phu.
(Breakfast included) Day 4
Dien Bien Phu - Phong Tho
After breakfast this morning we will set out on our drive to Phong Tho, around 8 hours away. After breakfast this morning we will set out on our drive to Phong Tho. This is in quite a remote area and as a result some of the roads will be fairly rough and uneven. Yet this is to our advantage as there will be fewer tourists along the way to spoil our views of the beautiful and dramatic scenery which we will encounter along the way. Once we reach Phong Tho we will visit the local market. This market is becoming popular with visitors that make the extra effort getting here, as it is one of the most colourful markets in Vietnam. We will continue the short distance to Tam Duong for our accommodation for tonight.
(Breakfast included) Day 5
Phong Tho - Sapa
From Phong Tho we drive east to Sapa, which is a five-hour drive. As the roads become even rougher, the more deserted they get. But the rougher they get, the better the scenery becomes. The beautiful hill station of Sapa has the best-of-both worlds, breath-taking scenery and modern-day comforts. We leave Tam Duong early for continuing on to Sapa, arriving around lunchtime. After lunch we have a free afternoon to explore the town. We spend tonight at a guesthouse in Sapa.
(Breakfast included) Day 6
Sapa
Today we start by getting some exercise with a five to six hour trek to villages of Cat Cat, Ta Van and Cau May situated in idyllic valleys, which are covered with a patchwork of rice terraces. Cat Cat is home to the H'mong people who originated from China, where they emigrated from about 300 years ago. The H'mong people are easily recognizable due to their dark clothing, usually blue or black. The dye is fashioned from the indigo or hemp plant that is 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 these villages nestled in the valleys below Sapa, we will meet some of the local minority people on their way to and from Sapa. These minority people, including the Red Zao, Hmong and Tay people, walk to Sapa to trade at the markets. Tonight we spend a second night in our guesthouse in Sapa.
(Breakfast included) Day 7
Sapa - Hanoi
We have an early breakfast this morning before bidding farewell to Sapa and its friendly people. Our destination for today is Hanoi. It is an 11-hour journey back to the nation's capital along some of Vietnam's most scenic roads.
(Breakfast included)
Pre Trip Information When
September to May. Grade
Moderate Accommodation
Standard tourist class but can be upgraded to the 4 star Victoria Hotel in Sapa. Transport
Air-conditioned vehicle. Spending Money
You would need to allow for additional sightseeing, shopping and drinks. As a rough guide allow US$ 20 per day. Money Exchange
Most hotels are able to exchange US dollars into local currency. Fitness Requirements
While the walks in Sapa are not challenging, you would benefit from having a reasonable level of fitness as they are in mountainous conditions. Laundry
Laundry facilities are available at the hotels for a nominal fee. What to take
You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage; therefore it is in your own interest to pack as lightly as possible. We suggest you keep your luggage weight down to a maximum of 12 kg with a reasonable daypack for the day treks. You would also need comfortable walking boots for the walks. Sandals are not advisable. Before you leave home complete the following checklist: - Lightweight and quick dry clothing is most appropriate for the summer months and warmer clothing for the winter months; sun hat.
- Comfortable walking boots for walks.
- Travel Documents: Passport, visa, Travel Insurance.
- Health requirements and travel insurance arranged.
- Flashlight/Torch, alarm clock, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal first aid kit, personal toiletries.
- Money: Us dollars or travelers cheques and/or credit card.
- Rain coat or umbrella (winter months only).
- Cable lock or padlock for luggage.
Joining instructions
You will collected from your hotel in Hanoi. Pick up time will be given on confirmation of your booking.
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