How to Plan Your 3-Day Sapa Trek with Guide, Homestay and Meals from Hanoi

Are you planning a visit to Hanoi and looking for a unique experience to explore Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural heritage? One of the top-rated tours in the area is the 3-day Sapa Trek with Guide, Homestay, and Meals. This tour offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local hill tribe culture, see breathtaking natural scenery and enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Experience

The tour offers a unique experience to trek through green rice terraces, verdant paddies, and visit outlying stilt villages, gaining fascinating insights into the culture and traditions of the local hill tribes. During the three-day tour, you will be introduced to Vietnam’s ethnic minority groups and their unique way of life.

Highlights

The highlights of the tour include:

• Exploring the natural beauty of Sapa
• Trekking through green rice terraces in Muong Hoa Valley
• Visiting Cat Cat village, home of the Black H’mong tribe
• Experiencing authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a homestay and meals included
• Learning about the culture and traditions of local hill tribes

Tour Itinerary

The 3-day tour includes the following:

Day 1: Hanoi – Sapa by bus with a short trek Cat Cat Village (L D)

The tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter (if you book the bus with the tour company). You will travel to Lao Cai city with two rest stops along the way. Once you arrive in Sapa town, you will have lunch with local Vietnamese dishes. After lunch, you will take a short walk to the gate of Cat Cat village, which is the home of the Black H’mong tribe. You will spend the night at a homestay in Cat Cat village.

Day 2: Muong Hoa Valley Trekking to Lao Chai Ta Van Villages (B L D)

After breakfast, you will start trekking through the green rice terraces of the Muong Hoa Valley. You will visit the Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, home to the Black H’mong and Giay ethnic minorities. Along the way, you will enjoy the stunning views of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range. You will spend the night at a homestay in Ta Van village.

Day 3: Hoang Lien National Park – Sapa – Hanoi by bus (B L)

After breakfast at the homestay, you will visit the Hoang Lien National Park, which is home to the highest mountain in Vietnam – Fansipan. You will then return to Sapa town and have lunch at a local restaurant. The tour ends with a bus trip back to Hanoi, arriving in the evening between 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM.

Price and Inclusions

The tour costs $105.00 per person and includes the following:

• Round-trip bus transfers from Hanoi – Sapa
• English-speaking guide
• Accommodation in a homestay for two nights
• All meals as specified in the itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)
• All activities and entrance fees as per itinerary

Booking

To book the 3-day Sapa Trek with Guide, Homestay, and Meals tour, click here to visit the tour company’s website. In conclusion, the 3-day Sapa Trek with Guide, Homestay, and Meals is an excellent way to explore Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The tour provides an immersive experience into the local hill tribe culture, stunning views of rice terraces, and delicious Vietnamese cuisine. With all activities and meals included, this tour is an excellent value for money and highly recommended for anyone visiting Hanoi.

Frequently Asked Questions – Hanoi

1. What is Hanoi?

Hanoi is the capital and second-largest city of Vietnam, with a population of over 7.5 million people. It is located in the northern part of the country, on the banks of the Red River. Hanoi has a rich history that dates back over a thousand years, and it served as the capital of French Indochina from 1902 to 1954.

2. What is the weather like in Hanoi?

Hanoi has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The summer months (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 35°C (95°F) and occasional storms. The winter months (December to February) are relatively dry and cool, with temperatures averaging around 15°C (59°F). March to May and September to November are pleasant times to visit with comfortable temperatures and little rain.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Hanoi?

Hanoi has many popular tourist attractions, including:

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum:

Built to honor Vietnam’s beloved leader, visitors can pay their respects to Ho Chi Minh and learn about his life and legacy.

Temple of Literature:

One of the oldest universities in Vietnam, it served as a Confucian temple and is famous for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Hoan Kiem Lake:

Known as the “Lake of the Restored Sword” and located in the heart of Hanoi, this picturesque lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

The Old Quarter:

A maze of narrow streets and alleyways filled with shops, markets, restaurants, and street vendors. It’s a lively and colorful place to explore.

4. What are the best things to do in Hanoi?

In addition to visiting the city’s top tourist attractions, there are many other things to do in Hanoi, including:

Try local street food:

Hanoi is known for its delicious and varied street food, including pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwich), and bun cha (grilled pork with noodles).

Visit a traditional market:

Hanoi has many traditional markets selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The Dong Xuan Market is one of the largest and most popular.

Watch a water puppet show:

This traditional form of Vietnamese theater involves puppets dancing on a stage set in water, accompanied by live musicians.

Take a cooking class:

Learn how to cook Vietnamese cuisine in a fun and interactive class taught by a local chef.

5. Is it safe to travel to Hanoi?

Hanoi is generally a safe city for visitors, but as with any city, it is important to take precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. It is also advisable to avoid political demonstrations and to be aware of traffic when crossing the streets. As with all international travel, it is advisable to check the latest advice from your government travel advice service before booking your trip.

6. What is the best time of year to visit Hanoi?

The best time to visit Hanoi is from September to November and March to May, when the weather is comfortable and dry. December to February can also be a good time to visit, although it can be chilly, especially at night. Avoid visiting during the summer months (June to August) when it can be hot, humid, and prone to occasional storms.

7. How can I get around Hanoi?

Getting around Hanoi is relatively easy, with a variety of transportation options available. The most popular mode of transportation is by taxi or ride-sharing app, with companies such as Grab and GoViet being widely used. Alternatively, you can hire a motorbike or bicycle, or use public transportation such as buses or trams. Walking is also a good option, especially in the Old Quarter, where many of the city’s top attractions are located within walking distance of each other.

8. What is the currency used in Hanoi?

The currency used in Hanoi is the Vietnamese dong (VND). It is advisable to exchange some currency before arriving in Hanoi as not all establishments accept credit cards. You can exchange currency at banks or exchange booths throughout the city, although rates may vary.

9. What language do they speak in Hanoi?

The official language of Hanoi and Vietnam is Vietnamese. English is widely spoken in most tourist areas, and many signs and menus are also in English. It can be helpful to learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases, such as “xin chao” (hello), “cam on” (thank you), and “loi chao moi” (goodbye).

10. What is the food like in Hanoi?

Hanoi is famous for its delicious and varied street food, which reflects the city’s rich culinary history and diverse regional influences. Some popular dishes include pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwich), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and cha ca (fish cooked with turmeric and dill). Hanoi is also known for its coffee culture, with many trendy cafes and traditional coffee houses serving strong and aromatic coffee.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Hanoi

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, Hanoi must be on your list. The capital city of Vietnam is famous for its rich culture, history, and delicious food. There is no shortage of things to do and see in Hanoi, and it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. In this guide, we will help you make the most of your time in Hanoi by providing a step-by-step guide to the best things to see and do.

1. Explore the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is a charming maze of streets, each named for the commodity once sold there. It is the historic heart of Hanoi and home to ancient temples, traditional shops, and lively markets. You can spend hours wandering the narrow streets, admiring the colonial architecture, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the iconic Ngoc Son Temple, built on an islet in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. The temple honors the 13th-century national hero Tran Hung Dao and Buddhist scholar Van Xuong.

2. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex

Ho Chi Minh is the father of modern Vietnam, and the Ho Chi Minh Complex is a must-visit when in Hanoi. The complex includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, the Presidential Palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda. Start the tour at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can pay respects to the national hero. Next, visit Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, an example of simple living that contrasts sharply with the grandeur of the Presidential Palace. Finally, head to the One Pillar Pagoda, built in 1049 by Emperor Ly Thai Tong. This unique pagoda is delicately balanced on just one stone pillar and is one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples.

3. Watch a Water Puppet Show

The art of water puppetry is unique to Vietnam, and the country’s famous water puppet shows are performed in Hanoi. The shows take place on a shallow pool of water, with the puppeteers hidden behind a screen. The puppets are made of wood and lacquer and are controlled by bamboo rods hidden beneath the water. The shows typically depict stories from Vietnamese folklore, including scenes of rural life, fishing, and ceremonial dances.

4. Sample Traditional Vietnamese Cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine is famous worldwide for its fresh ingredients, delicate flavors, and fragrant herbs. Hanoi is renowned for its street food, with vendors selling delicious dishes from morning until night. Try the famous pho, a noodle soup made with beef or chicken, or bun cha, a dish of grilled pork served with noodles and herbs. For dessert, indulge in banh mi, a sweet and sticky rice cake served with coconut cream.

5. Visit the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a complex of traditional Vietnamese architecture in Hanoi that includes the Temple of Confucius, the First Imperial Academy, and the Imperial Academy. The Temple of Literature is dedicated to Confucius, and it was built to honor scholars and men of literary achievement. The complex is home to beautiful gardens, impressive pavilions, and courtyards.

6. Take a Walk around West Lake

West Lake is the largest lake in Hanoi, and it is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The lake is surrounded by some of Hanoi’s most exclusive neighborhoods, and there are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore in the area. Take a walk around the lake and enjoy the beautiful views of the water, and stop for a coffee or a meal at one of the many lakeside cafes.

7. Visit the Museum of Ethnology

The Museum of Ethnology is one of Hanoi’s top-rated museums and a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about Vietnam’s ethnic heritage. The museum provides an insight into the lifestyles, customs, and traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. The exhibitions include recreated traditional Vietnamese houses, artifacts, and daily life objects.

8. Explore the Ba Vi National Park

If you want to escape the city for a day, head west to the Ba Vi National Park. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The park is a perfect spot for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.

Book Your Tour Now

Hanoi is a city full of charm, history, and unique culture. It has something to offer everyone, from the hustle and bustle of the Old Quarter to the serenity of West Lake. With this guide, you can make the most of your time in Hanoi and experience the city’s sights, sounds, and flavors. So pack your bags and come to Hanoi for an unforgettable experience!