Sapa Town with Mountain Backdrop: Sapa town nestles in a valley with a picturesque lake and majestic mountains rising in the background.

Hmong minority weaving embroidery in Lao Chai Village

Sapa 3 Day Homestay Trekking – Off The Beaten Tracks

Overview

This Sapa 3 day homestay trekking tour takes you deep into the valleys around Sapa, far beyond the usual tourist paths. You’ll hike through dramatic terraced rice fields, visit remote ethnic minority villages, and stay overnight with local families in traditional homes. It’s a unique chance to experience real life in northern Vietnam’s highlands — with your guide introducing you to H’mong, Zay, Red Dao, and Tay communities along the way. All transport, meals, and logistics are taken care of, so you can focus on the journey.

Highlights

Trek through scenic rice terraces and remote mountain trails
Stay overnight in authentic homestays with local ethnic families
Visit minority villages including Lao Chai, Ta Van, Giang Ta Chai, and Ban Ho
Choose from two trekking routes based on your comfort and fitness level
Travel hassle-free with all transport, meals, and guidance arranged

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BOOKING SUMMARY

Sapa 3 Day Homestay Trekking – Off The Beaten Tracks

Starting Date: Apr 18, 2025

Package:

TRAVELLERS

Total: $0

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Not sure about something, or want to customize this tour? We’re happy to help—just reach out!

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Book directly with a local Vietnamese travel agency

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Local Support

Local team in Vietnam for questions and on-site assistance

Highly rated

Boek direct bij een lokaal Vietnamees reisbureau zonder tussenpersoon

Itinerary

Day 0 :

Hanoi to Sapa (Overnight train)

Evening: Sleeper train to Sapa
Your Sapa 3 day homestay trekking tour kicks off in Hanoi, where you'll board the Dream Train Express at 10:00 PM. This overnight train features air-conditioned 4-berth cabins with comfortable beds and clean linens — a practical way to reach the mountains while saving travel time.

Optional: If you prefer, you can swap the train for a VIP sleeper bus, limousine bus, or private transfer. Let us know your preference in advance.

Sleeper train

Day 1 :

Trekking to Ta Van village

Morning :

Arrival and breakfast in Sapa

You’ll arrive at Lao Cai Station early in the morning and be transferred to Sapa town. A hearty breakfast awaits to fuel your first day of trekking.

Breakfast

Start :

Trek from Sapa to Lao Chai village

Your trek begins with a scenic hike from Sapa to Y Linh Ho and then to Lao Chai, a Black H’mong village. Along the way, you'll pass through terraced rice fields, narrow trails, and mountain views. In Lao Chai, take time to explore the village and learn about H’mong daily life before stopping for a picnic lunch.

Lunch

Afternoon :

Hike to Ta Van and homestay

Continue trekking through more rice terraces to reach Ta Van village, home to the Zay people. It’s the only village in the region where this minority group lives. You’ll stay in a local home and enjoy a home-cooked dinner prepared by your hosts and guide. The evening is free to relax, chat with your host family, or wander around the peaceful village.

Dinner

Homestay

Day 2 :

Trekking to Ban Ho village

Morning :

Trek to Giang Ta Chai

After breakfast, begin your second day of hiking along forest trails and rice fields. You'll pass through scenic countryside to Giang Ta Chai, a Red Dao village. This ethnic group is known for their striking red headscarves and embroidered clothing. Take a break here for a picnic lunch.

Breakfast

Afternoon :

Trek to Ban Ho via Seo Trung Ho or Su Pan

Depending on weather and trail conditions, you’ll follow one of two routes:

Hard option (weather permitting): Continue deeper into remote terrain to the Tay village of Seo Trung Ho. Then descend into the valley to reach Ban Ho, a peaceful Tay minority village.

Easier option: Follow a more accessible trail through Su Pan village and down a forest path to Ban Ho, passing a small local school on the way.

In Ban Ho, you’ll settle into another welcoming homestay with a Tay family. After a traditional dinner, spend the evening enjoying the quiet village atmosphere.

Lunch, Dinner

Homestay

Day 3 :

Ban Ho village and return to Hanoi

Morning :

Free time in Ban Ho

Take it slow this morning. Explore the village, meet locals, or go for a refreshing dip in the nearby river if the weather’s warm. You can also visit a natural hot spring if you’d like. A picnic lunch will be served before departure.

Breakfast, Lunch

Afternoon :

Return to Sapa

To wrap up the trekking loop, you’ll either hike or ride a motorbike back uphill through the valley, where a jeep will take you back to Sapa. Enjoy a final rest and dinner in town before your journey home.

Dinner

Evening :

Sleeper train to Hanoi

In the evening, you’ll be transferred to Lao Cai station for the overnight train back to Hanoi aboard the Dream Train Express.

Optional: You can also choose a VIP bus, limousine bus with an extra night in Sapa, or a transfer to another destination like Ha Giang — let us know what suits your plans.

Sleeper train

Included / Excluded

All accommodation described in the itinerary
All meals described in the itinerary
All transfers described in the itinerary
Trekking tour with local guide

Other meals and drinks not mentioned above
Tips for guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
Personal expenses (e.g. souvenirs, snacks, laundry)

Tour information

Total distance

The total trekking distance varies depending on the chosen route, but expect to walk around 18–25 km over two and a half days. Daily distances are manageable but involve some steep and uneven terrain.
Difficulty level

This tour is moderate to challenging, with a mix of dirt paths, rice terraces, and mountain trails. A basic level of fitness is recommended. If you’re unsure about the difficulty, let us know — we can adjust the route to match your comfort level.
Best time

This tour is possible year-round, but the best months are from March to May and September to November when the weather is dry and the rice fields are at their most scenic. Summer can be lush but humid, and winter is cooler with clearer skies.
What to wear

Wear comfortable trekking shoes with good grip, and dress in layers. Bring a waterproof jacket, especially in the rainy season (May–August), and pack warm clothing for cool mornings and evenings.
Safety information

Our experienced local guide leads the trek and ensures your safety on the trail. Routes are chosen based on weather and trail conditions. Let us know if you have any health concerns or mobility issues in advance.
Wifi and internet

Wifi is not available during the homestay nights. Some phone signal is possible near villages, but coverage is spotty. For better access, we recommend using a Vietnamese SIM card with data before starting the trek.
Luggage details

Large suitcases can be left safely at your hotel or the starting point in Sapa. Bring a small backpack with essentials for the trek, including clothes, toiletries, and personal items for 2 nights.
Dietary options

Vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-specific meals can be arranged. Please inform us in advance so the homestay hosts and guide can prepare accordingly.
Weather considerations

This tour runs in all weather conditions. During the rainy season, trails can be slippery and challenging — good footwear and a rain jacket are essential. In colder months, pack warm clothes, especially for nights in the mountains.
What to bring

Bring a small backpack, refillable water bottle, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, basic toiletries, a headlamp or flashlight, and your personal medication. A light towel and flip-flops can also be handy at the homestays.
Availability

This tour runs daily and can be booked year-round. Early booking is recommended during peak seasons (April–May and September–October), especially for preferred train or bus options. Custom departure dates and private tours are also available on request.
Minimum Age

1
Maximum Age

96

FAQ

How physically demanding is the trek?

The trek is moderate to challenging depending on the chosen route. Expect uneven trails, some steep sections, and daily walks of several hours. You don’t need to be an athlete, but a basic level of fitness is recommended.

Is the overnight train comfortable?

The Dream Train Express offers 4-berth shared cabins with air-conditioning and clean bedding. It’s a popular and practical way to travel between Hanoi and Sapa.

Do I need special hiking gear or boots?

No technical gear is required. Regular sports shoes or walking shoes with grip are fine for these trails. If you'd like a walking stick, we can help you arrange one locally.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, this tour is family-friendly, especially if you choose the easier trekking route. We recommend discussing the best option for your child’s age and ability with us before booking.

Is altitude sickness a concern in Sapa?

Sapa is around 1,500 meters above sea level — most people don’t experience altitude sickness here. However, you might notice slightly cooler air or shortness of breath during uphill sections.

Is it possible to join this tour from somewhere other than Hanoi?

Yes, we can arrange private transfers or adjust the itinerary if you're coming from another city like Ha Giang or Lao Cai. Let us know your travel plans in advance.

What happens if it rains during the trek?

The tour continues in light rain, but trails can get muddy. We recommend wearing waterproof shoes and bringing a rain jacket. In case of severe weather, the itinerary may be adjusted for safety.

Is there a toilet during the trek?

Toilets are available at village stops or homestays along the way. During the trek itself, facilities are limited — be prepared to go “bush style” if needed so it’s a good idea to bring tissues and hand sanitizer.

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An Epic Himalayan Adventure!

By Sarah Johnson
from United States
August 3, 2023
I just returned from the Everest Base Camp trek, and WOW! It was absolutely breathtaking. The stunning Himalayan vistas, warm Sherpa hospitality, and the sense of accomplishment made it an unforgettable journey. Highly recommended!

Date of Experience: August 03, 2023

Sapa 3 Day Homestay Trekking – Off The Beaten Tracks

Overview