Fansipan is Vietnam's highest peak located in the far north just outside of Sapa. Fansipan a very steep mountain that gets a lot of moisture. Those looking to climb it should be in good shape and prepared to to have muddy wet feet The scenery is incredible remember to bring a camera. For most of Vietnam having a rain coat is a little excessive because it is so warm. On the mountain having a rain coat is not a bad idea especially at night. The trails around Sapa are a lot of fun. You will get the chance to go through some minority villages if you have the time to explore.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival (Meals : D)

Arrival at Noi Bai Airport. Meeting with guide and transfer to the hotel. Welcome dinner featuring Vietnamese specialties. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi - Lao Cai (Meals : B)

Today we enjoy a half day city tour, seeing the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s House. Close to this complex is the One Pillar Pagoda. We also visit the Temple of Literature and the peaceful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple before continuing on to the impressive Ethnologic Museum, dedicated to Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minorities, some of which we will see on our forthcoming days. The reminder of the day is free for your own exploration of Ha Noi until transferring to the rail way station for a night train to Lao Cai. Overnight on the train in first class carbin.

Day 3: Lao Cai - Sapa (Meals : B)

The train journey arrives in Laocai this morning. After breakfast at local restaurant we embark on a scenic drive uphill to Sapa. At an elevation of 1,500 meters, Sa Pa is the former hill retreat for French administrators when the heat in plain became unbearable. The remoteness and simple lifestyle of ethnic minorities are a highlight of Sa Pa although conditions are very basic. After checking into hotel we can soak up the fresh climate as much as we want by spending our time wandering around this charming town and seeing some legacies of the French period. Overnight at hotel in Sapa.

Day 4: Sapa - Fansipan mt (Meals : B/L/D)

The range of Fansipan boasts Vietnam’s highest mountain and lends an alpine feel to the area surrounding this hill station. The expedition begins as we depart the town and walk through many hill villages, home to the H'mong hill tribe people. They are very poor but have an interesting culture and a colorful history. After a short rest at the peak of 1300m, we trek up to the peak of 1650m. Here we pitch tents and enjoy our dinner around the camp fire in exotic nocturnal sound of the forest. Overnight : in tents/Camping.

Day 5: Fansipan climb (Meals: B/L/D)

Today we spend a full day trekking mountain sides. The walk is very strenuous at times so some physical preparation will enable you to maximize enjoyment from the trip. On arrival at the ridge of 2200m we stop to have lunch, stretch our legs and catch a breathtaking views over the valley of Sapa. The next stop of our trip is the peak of 2900m where will set up our tents. Overnight : in tents/Camping

Day 6: Fansipan trek (Meals: B/L/D)

The expedition continues leading us towards Phan Si Pan Summit at 3143 m. The steep path is very challenging as we weave our way through bamboo forest, but the impression of standing on the roof of Vietnam makes the hardship all worthwhile. After lunch and rest at the summit, we descend to our camping place of previous night. Overnight : in tents/Camping

Day 7: Fansipan trek - Sapa (Meals: B/L)

Upon leaving the peak of 2900m., we begin walking downhill back to Sapa Town. The steep trails is somewhat arduous but we have a chance to get some fantastic views over the surrounding mountains to the valley and the quite villages in the far distance. The memorable expeditions ends as we arrive in Sapa Town. A farewell dinner held at one of the many famous eating spots is the perfect way to thank the local team. Overnight : at hotel in Sapa.

Day 8: Sapa - Hanoi (Meals: B/D)

Breakfast. Free to visit Sa Pa town, go to the market by yourself. At 4.00 PM get on bus to Lao Cai station, have dinner then get on the night train at 8.55PM to Hanoi. Arrived in Ha Noi at 5.00 AM next day.

Day9: Hanoi departure (Meals: B)

On arrival in Hanoi. Take a taxi to the hotel. Check in to have a rest. Free at leisure until transfer to Noi Bai Airport for departure flight (check out hotel before 12h00).

WHAT TO BRING?

- Good trekking booths
- Camera + rolls
- Rain coat
- Warm Clothes
- Sun Lotion
- Your own sleeping bag
- Personal medicines
- Wide brim hat
- Insect Repellent
- Original Passport