Vietnam's Fansipan and Halong Bay
Vietnam, Trek & Walk, 12 days - from $1,645 (land only)
- A North Vietnam Adventure
- Climb Fansipan the highest peak in Indochina
- Explore colourful markets in Hanoi, Sapa and Bac Ha
- Cruise aboard a Vietnamese Junk Boat in Halong Bay
- Explore Hmong tribal villages
With its spectacular scenery and unique mix of cultures, Vietnam is one of the most welcoming of countries. Arriving in the beautiful city of Hanoi, we have time for sightseeing, before taking the sleeper train north to the hill-station of Sapa, on the Chinese border. Here, 3 days of adventurous trekking leads us ultimately to the summit of Mount Fansipan (3143m), the highest peak in all of Indochina, with stunning views into China and Laos. Two further days of walking take us through a verdant landscape, home to colourful hilltribes, such as the Hmong, Dao and Tay. Returning to Hanoi, we transfer to magical, island-studded Halong Bay, where we have 2 nights aboard a traditional junk. We will have time to explore the bay in stable kayaks and plenty of opportunity to relax and enjoy the unique surroundings. Vietnam is surely the ideal adventure destination - fresh, exotic, chaotic, and never dull.
Is this holiday for you?
The ascent of Fansipan, a 3 day trek, is adventurous and involves 2 nights wild camping. The ascent and descent routes involve some very steep and rocky sections through a jungle landscape. In places the trail can be quite slippery and it is occasionally necessary to pull on branches, tree roots or rocks to make progress. Rain, which can fall at any time on Fansipan, can make the going more difficult. This 'technical' ground together with the high humidity encountered and the moderately high altitudes attained, mean that the ascent of Fansipan is physically and mentally tough and will provide an adventurous challenge even for regular hikers. There are 2 other days of walking in the Sapa area where underfoot conditions are much easier, but you should expect to be on the trail for up to 6 hours. Other parts of the holiday involve exploration on foot and by kayak where the pace is a little more relaxed. However, please note that the itinerary is action-packed and involves long journeys, from Hanoi to Sapa and to Halong Bay.
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