Vietnam Hill Tribe holiday
Hike to meet and live with the remote communities of northern Vietnam – sleeping in stilt houses, sharing meals – on this unique cultural holiday.
Hanoi guided day tour sleeper train to Lao Cai Sapa stay in ethnic minority villages waterfall hikes volunteer with tree planting or village work Mai Chau Pu Luong cave exploration market visits Hoi An cycling to village outside Hoi An
More info
Price based on twin share accommodation in superior hotels (4-star).
We can arrange flights from the UK.
We can arrange flights from the UK.
Description of Vietnam Hill Tribe holiday
Price information
Departure information
We offer a complete tailor made service and this suggested sampled itinerary can be tailor made to suit your requirements
Travel guides
Head to the mountain regions that are home to the country’s minority peoples, for homestays and the pleasure of shared meals.
How to explore the Mekong Delta, travel by train, and have an unforgettable Southeast Asian holiday.
Holiday information
Indigenous communities:
This trip benefits multiple indigenous communities in Vietnam by encouraging the purchase of indigenous handicrafts and providing economic support through homestays. Tourists have the opportunity to engage in voluntary activities like tree-planting, participating in ongoing projects, and helping older school children with English lessons. The trip utilises local materials, transport, food, and guides.
Reviews
1 Reviews of Vietnam Hill Tribe holiday
4 out of 5 stars
Reviewed on 29 Aug 2019 by Helen Evans
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Meeting the local guide in Sapa, and getting to know her a bit. Seeing the amazing local textiles in sapa, and walking in Pu Long.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Go to My Son near Hoi An. Tell local ladies in Sapa, you are 'not shopping' so they dont follow you and then expect you to buy from them, it's mostly Chinease imports any way!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Not really. Home stay may be helped a locsl family.. I went out my way to buy genuine textiles from local ladies, but it was an effort to get the real thing.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very good, intresting and a good cross section of North Vietnam.
Responsible Travel
As the pioneers of responsible tourism, we've screened this (and every) holiday so that you can travel knowing we've worked to maximise the benefits of your holiday to local people and places, and minimise any negative impacts.
Planet
Carbon ReductionsAs you embark on your adventure through Northern Vietnam, we’re committed to minimising our carbon footprint. Our journey begins with the overnight sleeper train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, a more sustainable travel option that significantly reduces emissions compared to flying or long-distance driving. This eco-friendly approach allows you to rest comfortably while enjoying the scenic beauty of the countryside.
Throughout your travels in Sapa and Ha Giang, we utilise motorbikes for excursions, a mode of transport that not only enhances your experience but also has a lower environmental impact than larger vehicles. This choice promotes an intimate connection with the landscape while ensuring we contribute less to air pollution. By selecting activities that prioritise sustainability, such as responsible trekking and engaging with local conservation initiatives, your visit helps preserve the natural beauty of Vietnam for generations to come. Each step taken with care on this journey is a step towards protecting our planet.
Environment and Wildlife
Northern Vietnam is a treasure trove of biodiversity, featuring stunning landscapes from the terraced rice fields of Sapa to the lush expanses of Ba Be National Park. Our approach to exploring these areas is rooted in environmental conservation, ensuring that we tread lightly on these beautiful ecosystems.
During your treks through Sapa, we encourage responsible hiking practices that respect local wildlife and habitats. This means leaving no trace behind and actively participating in conservation efforts that protect the area’s flora and fauna. Similarly, your visit to Ba Be Lake is a chance to engage with pristine ecosystems; your support of eco-conscious tourism plays a vital role in safeguarding these natural wonders. By enjoying the great outdoors responsibly, you not only enrich your experience but also contribute to the preservation of Vietnam's remarkable wildlife and landscapes.
People
Local Economy and EmploymentYour travels through Northern Vietnam provide a significant boost to the local economy, creating employment opportunities and supporting community livelihoods. By choosing to stay in locally-owned lodges and participating in homestays in Sapa, you directly benefit local families and artisans. Your patronage helps to sustain these communities, ensuring that the economic advantages of tourism are felt at the grassroots level.
Visiting vibrant markets in Lao Cai and Dong Van allows you to engage with local craftspeople and farmers, helping to create a sustainable economic environment. As you savour traditional meals and purchase handmade souvenirs, you empower local artisans, helping them preserve their skills and traditions. Your support makes a tangible difference in the lives of the people you meet, fostering economic resilience and encouraging a more sustainable tourism model.
Inclusivity and Diversity
Northern Vietnam is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, and your journey highlights the importance of inclusivity and diversity. Exploring areas like Sapa allows you to meet various ethnic groups, such as the H’mong, Dzay, and Red Dao, providing an opportunity to learn about their rich customs and ways of life. This cultural exchange is not only rewarding but also essential in fostering mutual respect and understanding among diverse communities.
Our tours are designed to ensure that everyone has an enriching experience, promoting inclusivity regardless of background. By supporting underrepresented groups and showcasing their heritage, we strive to empower these communities and provide a platform for their voices to be heard. Embracing diversity during your travels enriches your experience and reinforces the significance of cultural appreciation in a rapidly changing world.
To deepen the experience, we encourage travellers to engage in voluntary activities – tree-planting, working on on-going projects, helping older school children with their English lessons and so on. Wherever possible, we generate income for people living in poor areas by using local materials, transport, food and guides and paying directly to the individuals concerned rather than intermediaries.
This tour fits our philosophy admirably. It’s a means of alleviating poverty, conserving our indigenous culture, protecting the natural environment and, at the same time, providing our customers with an unforgettable holiday.
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