Hidden Trails of Vietnam and Laos

12 Days

Hanoi – Mai Chau – Son La – Dien Bien Phu – Tay Trang/Sop Hun Border – Muang La – Nong Khiaw – Luang Prabang

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  • Get ready for an exhilarating expedition through Northern Vietnam and Laos, where you'll uncover remote regions, breathtaking landscapes, and a wealth of cultural heritage.
  • This extraordinary journey will lead you deep into the heart of Southeast Asia, where majestic mountains and verdant river valleys are the backdrop for vibrant ethnic communities and ancient capitals brimming with history.

Trip Highlights

  • Experience Hanoi’s lesser-known areas on vintage Russian Minsk motorbikes
  • Cross the remote border from northern Vietnam into northern Laos
  • Take part in a traditional Baci blessing ceremony, central to Lao culture Trek and cycle through remote Lao villages, interacting with ethnic minorities
  • Journey through Vietnam’s untouched northern landscapes, rarely seen by travelers

Itinerary Summary

Day 1: Hanoi | Hidden Treasures on Vintage Minsk Motorbikes

  • Explore the timeless beauty of Hanoi, with its historic French architecture, peaceful lakes, and charming streets.
  • Discover the city’s lesser-known spots on a guided tour aboard vintage Russian Minsk motorbikes.
  • Ride down narrow alleys and past bustling markets, with stops at the Opera House and a war veteran’s home for tea and cultural exchange.
  • End the day sampling Hanoi’s famous street food.

Day 2: Hanoi – Nom | Traditional Village Exploration

  • Escape the city for a visit to Nom, a centuries-old village in the Red River Delta.
  • Stroll through its ancient streets lined with banyan trees, explore the local market, and visit lakeside pagodas.
  • Learn about village life from a local family, and witness age-old traditions in a serene setting.

Day 3: Hanoi – Mai Chau | Trekking to Hill-Tribe Villages

  • Venture to Mai Chau, a valley surrounded by picturesque mountains and rice paddies.
  • Trek around Kha Lake and visit White Thai villages, where you’ll have the chance to meet locals and learn about their rural way of life.
  • Experience the hospitality of a Thai family as you immerse yourself in their traditions.

Day 4: Mai Chau – Son La | Rugged Mountains and Ethnic Diversity

  • Travel through stunning mountain roads to Son La, a province home to over 30 ethnic minority groups.
  • Visit Moc Chau's tea plantations and trek to hill-tribe villages before reaching Son La town, once a French garrison.
  • Discover its historical significance and growing prominence in Vietnam’s northernmost region.

Day 5: Son La – Dien Bien Phu | War History and Ethnic

  • Encounters Visit the ruins of the infamous French prison in Son La before continuing to Dien Bien Phu, a site of historical importance during the First Indochina War.
  • On your way, stop at a Blue H'mong village and marvel at the breathtaking scenery.
  • In the evening, meet the local Thai minority people in Men Hamlet.

Days 6-7: Dien Bien Phu – Laos Border – Muang La | Trekking to Remote Lao Villages

  • Cross the border from Tay Trang into northern Laos and continue to Muang La.
  • The next day, embark on a trek through remote countryside, passing rice terraces and forest trails.
  • Arrive at the hilltop village of Ban Phavie and relax by nearby waterfalls after a full day of exploration.

Days 8-9: Muang La – Luang Prabang | Trekking & Cultural Exploration

  • Transfer to picturesque Nong Khiaw and trek to Muang Ngoi, exploring caves and traditional Khmu and Tai Daeng villages, connecting authentically with rural life.
  • Continue along the Nam Ou River to UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang, renowned for royal palaces and temples.
  • Visit Ock Pop Tok Crafts Centre to discover traditional Laotian textiles and join an insightful cultural discussion with a local heritage expert.

Day 10: Luang Prabang | Morning Alms Ritual and Baci Blessing

  • Start your day by offering alms to the saffron-robed monks in a centuries-old Buddhist tradition.
  • Later, explore the Royal Palace and ancient temples before climbing Mount Phousi for panoramic views.
  • In the evening, join a local family for an authentic Baci blessing ceremony, a unique Lao tradition.

Day 11: Kuang Si Waterfall & Bear Rescue Centre | Sacred Sites and Nature

  • Visit the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall and learn about the efforts to protect Laos' endangered bears at the rescue centre.
  • After helping with the bears' feed, enjoy a serene hike to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues.

Day 12: Departure

  • Transfer to Luang Prabang International Airport for your onward flight.

For more information, email our friendly team at info@quietasia.com
tree
On each trip we will buy 1 tree to plant
By planting one tree on each journey, we aim to nurture nature and promote sustainability for future generations.