Mysteries of Indochina Hiking Tour

Tormented mountains in the North, along the Chinese border where we will hike - karstic reliefs (limestone and dolomite type of terrain), sugar loafs, canyons, paddy fields, authentic ethnic groups - with the maze of small islands and floating villages of Halong bay, historical cities of Hanoi and Saigon to the tropical orchards and the softness of Mekong delta living, Vietnam, from north to south, in all its diversity!
A judicious cocktail of nature, culture and encounters with the people; all to help us discover the essentials of this country!

• Day 1/  Arrive in Hanoï
• Day 2/  Visit Hanoï, night train to Lao Cai 
• Day 3/  Mountains of the North, Thaïs, homestead Nam Khanh
• Day 4/  Mountains of the North, in flower H'mongs, homestead Na Lo
• Day 5/  Gaily-colored H'mong , Sapa (mountain retreat)
• Day 6/  Black H'mong people discovery, Sapa
• Day 7/  Black H'mong , night train to Hanoï
• Day 8/  Ha long, night on a "deluxe junk"
• Day 9/  Discovery of Halong Bay, flight to Saïgon (Ho chi Minh city)
• Day 10/  Delta Mekong, night on a traditional boat
• Day 11/  Delta, traditional, floating markets, Saïgon
• Day 12/  Cu Chi (tunnel path) Ho chi Minh, Saïgon sightseeing
• Day 13/  Depart from Saïgon.

A true Vietnamese kaleidoscope! In the form of a North-South discovery of the country, we go from the mountains of the North to the Mekong delta, while passing by the sumptuous Halong Bay.
Northern Mountains:  we accomplish three beautiful days of trekking here along the Chinese border. In the time of Indo-China, this area was known under the name of Tonkin. Mountain paths lead to Taï, Nung and Dao villages, ethnic groups with strong Chinese influences. If these ethnic groups have, partly, given up their traditional costumes, certain habits of theirs have been preserved, especially their languages, different from those of Vietnam. Here perhaps more than elsewhere, trekking is an excellent way of meeting the local population. In an area characterized by its tormented and shredded "relief", we discover very cordial populations.
- Halong Bay: one day and an unforgettable night in the middle of this "8th wonder of the world", its emerald colored water speckled with a multitude of small islands.
- Ho Chi Minh (ex-Saigon) and the Mekong delta. Discover another part of Vietnam, the paddy fields and the waters of the Mekong Delta.

Day 1/ Arrival Hanoï
Arrival at Hanoi airport, reception and transfer down town. Settle in at the hotel (Hilton 5 str, or similar). City discovery by a trishaw tour in the old Hanoi city, with its 36 narrow, commercial streets.

Day 2/ Hanoi visit - Night train for Lao Cai
Visit of Hanoi. The Small Lake or lake of the "Returned Sword", the small bridge of Tea Huc. "The bridge where the spirit rests", the pagoda (temple) of the Tortoise and its legend, the temple of  Literature dedicated to Confucius and to the well-read men, the old Chinese city, a city with its thirty-six specialized streets that have been regrouped by corporations: the silk road, the goldsmiths street ... The afternoon will be reserved for discovering the ethnographic museum, which perfectly encompasses all of the various Vietnamese cultures. As for the rest of Hanoi, it has remained practically unchanged since 1955, it is a very beautiful colonial style town. At the end of the day, after taking a little rest at the hotel, we will go to the Hanoi railway station to take a night train (berths) for Lao Cai.

Day 3/ Lao Cai - Bac Ha - Nam Khanh
Early morning arrival at the Lao Cai train station. Immediate transfer for Bac Ha, via a spectacular mountain road. Approaching the city, we pass by many villagers, wearing multicolored ornaments and carrying a multitude of various goods.
After we prepare our bags, we start our first ascent for an hour and a half.  The paddy fields go on as far as the eye can see. A small pause at the pass (3,937 feet) before going down into a very beautiful valley, then we pass by a forest of cinnamon-trees. We arrive at the village at the end of the day. Night in a local's home in Nam Khanh.
5/6 H walk.

Day 4/Nam Khanh - Ban Lien - Na Lo
The morning, we leave Nam Khanh village and walk towards Ban Lien village. We cross very beautiful Thai villages located at the foot of the hills covered of palm trees and tea plants. The people welcome us with large smiles, full of curiosity. Arrival at Ban Bond around midday and after our picnic, we gain height, the view on a very beautiful valley is unobstructed. At the end of the day, we enter onto a flat path which leads us to Na Lo. Night at a local's home.
6 H walk.

Day 5/ Nalo - Bac Ha - Sapa
This morning, our stroll crosses some villages of the gaily colored H' Mong ethnic group , here is our opportunity to discover the craft technique of weaving women's skirts. Arrival at Bac Ha about midday. Lunch in a nice restaurant before leaving the village by a mountain road in direction of the Coc Ly River, where a traditional boat awaits to take us on a part of our voyage. The luxuriant landscapes are punctuated with wooden stilt houses, inhabited by the Thais. Transfer by bus to Sapa, a health resort, located at 5,413 feet of altitude, discovered by the French in 1920. and which is a health resort. Settle in for two nights at the VICTORIA hotel or similar in Sapa **** (resort of charm).
3/4 H walk.

Day 6/ Sapa trekking
We will walk to Sapa valley, often called "the paradise of Tonkin", on the well traced local paths. We begin with Lao Chai, villages belonging to the H'mong black ethnic group. We then follow the Ta Van River where we will be able to admire the most beautiful paddy fields of Vietnam.
5 H walk.

Day 7/ Sapa - Lao Cai - night train for Hanoi 
In the morning, we will discover this old health resort. Visit  the Catcat village of the black H'mong, ascent of Mount Ham Rong from where we have a splendid panoramic view on the city. In the afternoon, we visit Ta Phin village, inhabited by the Dzao Rouge people, then the road for Lao Cai by minibus. Board the night train for Hanoi. Night aboard comfortable coach berths train.
3 H walk.

Day 8/ Hanoi - Halong
We arrive at Hanoi early morning. Settle in at the hotel close to the train station to take a shower after this long tour. After breakfast, road for Along Bay (Vinh Ha Long) by bus. Arrival at Bai Chay.
We spend two half-days sailing in the middle of the 3000 small islands of the Halong Bay, "the 8th wonder of the world"!  The water is the color emerald, from where it got it's name, "Jade Sea". On the way, we visit one or two caves, objects of mysterious legends (the Legend of the Lake and that of the Island of Surprises). Hike to the summit of Tiptop Island: the panoramic view covers the all whole bay.
At sunset, our boat lies at anchor in Lan Ha bay, surrounded by sharp-edged peaks. Night on boat, nice standing bedrooms with private toilets and hot water. Lunches and dinners, consisting of excellent fish and seafood, are served on the boat.

Day 9/ Halong - Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh city
The deserted fine white sand deserted beaches are discovered with the backward flow of the tide. After a morning bath, we leave by boat to see the village of the fishermen in the middle of Lan ha Bay. The inhabitants make their living by breeding fish and move their houses, thanks to the fishing boats, to calm places protected from the storms.  We "return to land" to complete our transfer to Hanoi. Transfer to the Hanoi airport for the flight to Saigon. Night at the CARAVEL hotel (five stars) or similar in Saigon.

Day 10/ Ho Chi Minh city - Mekong Delta - Cai be
We leave Saigon to reach the Mekon Delta and its river culture. At Can Duoc,on the right bank of the Saigon river, we embark on a traditional type boat named COCHINCHINE and sail in direction of Cai Be. Short hike on the island of Thoi Son, through several luxuriant orchards. At the end of the day, the boat drops anchor in the Cai Be area. Night on board of the traditional boot, good comfort.

Day 11/ Cai Be - My tho - Saigon
Early morning, we are awaked by the noises of the floating market. Hundreds of boats meet to exchange their agricultural produce. A very unique atmosphere! Excursion on An Binh island, visit rice cake, lime and bricks manufacturers and a crocodile breeding farm. We then unload in My Tho and take our bus for Saigon. Settle in for two nights at the CARAVEL hotel *****, or similar.

Day 12/ Saigon - Cu Chi - Tay Ninh - Saigon
Departure for Cu Chi, a very complex system of undergrounds, 19 miles in the North-West of Ho Chi Minh city, connecting the northern part of Ho Chi Minh city to the terminal of the Ho Chi Minh Track, (dating back to the Vietnam war). After exploring the tunnels and immersing ourselves into what the living conditions must have been like for the Viet Cong soldier, we once again take the road towards Tay Ninh where we visit the Caodaï Temple. A very colorful, one of a kind temple, it is at the center of the Cao-Daiste religion in Vietnam. Return to Saigon.

Day 13/ Depart from Saïgon
Transfer to the airport for flight home.

- The walking time schedules are given only as an estimate.
- For different reasons involving trip organization, daily schedules and planned altitude gains (ascent or descent) may be modified without any prior  notice. 

Each participant walks with a light back pack, carrying only the personal items necessary for the day (water bottle, camera, protective clothing, etc). We are using the service of porters during hiking days (one porter per participant).

The guide
- an English speaking Vietnamese professional Mountain World Travel guide
The local team
- during hikes, a cook for the group and a porter per participant
- a driver in charge of the bus

The airport/hotel transfer and all other transportation is organized through private tourism Bus vehicles with air conditioning
Nautical transfer by boat.
Domestic flights with Vietnam Airlines.

Hanoï, Saïgon: hotels of 5 star quality, based on double occupancy.
Sapa: hotel of 4 star quality, based on double occupancy.
In the small cities (Coa Bang, Lang Its, Sapa and Tan Coc): the best available hotel (two or three star), based on double occupancy.
In the villages of the north: lodging at the inhabitant's stilt house. Minimal comfort. Sleeping mat on the ground and animals on the lower level. Men and the women sleep communally. Water is outside (it is not always possible to wash yourself ). Toilets in full nature. Very rustic but fully authentic. We provide you with a sleeping bag and a sheet.
Bay of Along, delta of Mekong: we travel on a very comfortable private junk: double rooms of good standing with private toilets, showers and hot water. Meals consist of excellent fish and other seafood; all are served on the boat.

The names of accommodations (hotels, lodges, etc...) when they are indicated, are only indicative.
Depending on availability, accommodations (hotels/Lodges, etc...) may be replaced by another equivalent type.
It is possible that accommodations may change without prior notice due to a number of factors.

Meals
- During our trekking days, local cooking. The Vietnamese food is rich and varied. We bring from Hanoi, cereals, cheese and jam for breakfast.
- In the cities and during the transfers: meals eaten at restaurants. Southeast Asia cooking is one of the most sophisticated in the world.
Drinks
mineral water and tea included
To note
you can request to taste the local specialties: to test the local specialties: snake, dog and medicinal drinks. You have to taste them at least once in your life!
The meals are served with sticks (they are always new and protected by a packing). If you are not comfortable with the sticks, you will obtain a spoon easily.

Although we are an experienced adventure travel company doing our best to respect the itinerary schedule as presented on this detailed itinerary, there is always the possibility that we may need to modify it for different reasons beyond our control. Please read the Registration Conditions: Terms and Booking conditions - Limitations of Liability.

• International flights in/out Hanoï/Saigon
• All services mentioned in Services+/extensions/options
• Personal medical & Travel Insurance
• Cost of foreign country entrance visa
• All services not expressively mentioned in "What's included".

• Drinks (except mineral water - tea)
• Personal expenses
• Tips for guide and local team
• All services not expressively mentioned in "What's included".

As airfare is NOT included in our adventures, please check if your trip is "a guaranteed departure" before confirming your own airline travel arrangements. You can check your trip status at the Mountain World Travel website or contact the Mountain World Travel office at 1-970-544-WALK (1-970-544-9255) or at 1 888-MWT-TREK (698-8735).

Our preferred airlines to fly to Hanoï, out Ho Chi Minh Ville

• Vietnam Airlines, in cooperation with American Airlines operates daily flights to Hanoï, out Ho Chi Minh Ville, from anywhere in the States.
• Star Alliance (United) in cooperation with Thaï Airlines operates daily flights to Hanoï, out Ho Chi Minh Ville, from anywhere in the States.
• Skyteam (Delta) in cooperation with Korean Airlines, Air China and Air France operates daily flights to Hanoï, out Ho Chi Minh Ville, from anywhere in the States.

Formalities for US, Canada, Australia, NZ passports travelers: a valid passport and Vietnamese visa are required.
For US citizens, please check with  US Government Travel Entry Exit Requirements.
For other nationalities, please contact the Vietnam embassy of your country.

Vaccine
No vaccine is obligatory. We advise you, however, to be up date with traditional vaccinations: diphtheria, tetanus, polio, typhoid fever, hepatitis.
A treatment against Malaria is strongly recommended for those traveling to Vietnam. Ask your Physician for advice. We highly recommend that you carry an anti-mosquito repellant.
For more information visit the website of the US Department of Health.

Avian flu
An endemic state prevails in the intensive poultry breeding sites at the border with Kampuchea.
The risk of contamination is very weak. Your guide, well informed, will take all necessary precautions to help you avoid any contact with animals likely to be carrying the disease
For more information visit the website of the US Department of State.

Dentist and doctor
A check up before your departure is recommended.

LEVEL 3
2 months prior:  Hike 9 to 10 miles every weekend or on two consecutive days OR if you are regularly committed, on an annual basis, to another sports activity for a cumulative duration of 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes per week, you should be up to speed.  

Basic equipment
- A warm fleece hat
- A cap or a hat to protect from the sun
- Sun glasses (minimum index 3 or 4 for high mountain)
- Thermal top and bottom, short and long) underwear (fast drying).
- Fleece turtle neck top
- A warm fleece jacket (light weight/well insulated).
- A waterproof/breathable shell jacket (Gore-Tex).
- A pair of gloves
- A rain poncho
- Hiking shorts
- Lightweight hiking long pants
- A Camelback or a water bottle.

Shoes and technical material
- Hiking socks
- Light ventilated hiking shoes with a good traction on different type of terrain, for people with fragile ankles: waterproof ankle hiking boots and a sole offering good traction.
- A pair of telescopic walking poles

Luggage
- A back pack equipped with broad straps, with an adjustable anatomical back reinforcement, and a capacity of 7 to 9 gallons, for your daily belongings
- A soft travel bag, which can hold between 18 to 23 gallons that will be transported by the porter team or by vehicle during the day.

Miscellaneous
- A change of clothes.
- A pair of replacement shoe laces
- A dop-kit and a bath towel.
- Toilet paper.
- A pocket knife (not in carry on luggage).
- Some plastic bags to protect your belongings.
- A bathing suit.
- A small pocket anti-theft protection device, to always keep on yourself, along with your identity papers, money, certificate of insurance.
 
Some advice
During your flight your back pack should contain fragile and useful items that you might need while on the plane (camera, memory cards, jacket, books, magazines, medication, dop-kit etc).