What to expect:
Ha Giang's(Quang Ba) This is a sustainable trek that supports local communities in a deprived region in the extreme northern province of Ha Giang.
Quan Ba district remains one of the poorest districts in Vietnam. It is located in the remote rocky limestone mountainous region of Ha Giang, the northernmost province of Vietnam. 97% of the local populations are minority’ people - Hmong, Dao, Tay, Nung, Giay, and Bo Y. Most speak their own languages, which do not yet have written scripts.
Caritas Switzerland and Caritas Luxembourg are two charities that have entered into a development partnership with the District People’s Committee. The Caritas agencies aim to support a development process “to build sustainable livelihoods for the poorest people and the poorest communities”. The project began in mid-2003, and included supporting sustainable agriculture, forest gardens, domestic water supply, adult literacy, indigenous cultures, improved cook stoves, and responsible tourism.
The villagers have prepared a simple ‘Code of Conduct’ which Green Trail Tours should consider before their visit to demonstrate their commitment to protect local culture and environment. By participating on this trek a Green Trail Tours will be directly supporting the livelihoods of the communities they visit.
Bac Ha This exciting trek offers a true experience of unspoiled remote villages in the border province of Lao Cai. The dramatic scenery, picturesque villages nestled into the sides of Thang Phin Mountain, and colourful ethnic minority groups can captivate any adventure lover’s heart. Begin at Lao Cai and trek along the Chinese border to Muong Khuong Valley through remote H’Mong, Tay and Nung ethnic minority villages. Ascend to Can Cau and Bac Ha to observe colorful Saturday and Sunday markets, the most vibrant in the province, where hundreds of hill tribe people from different groups gather to exchange their wares. End a challenging trek with a boat trip on the scenic Chay River.
Green Trail Tours is known for customized adventures trips and the above is a sample trekking tour only. That can be flexible, customizable and subject to weather conditions and other circumstances. If you have any ideas, suggestions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Note:
Should I purchase insurance?
Yes! This must cover medical care and emergency evacuation/repatriation. Also keep hardcopy of emergency contact numbers as well as insurance policy number.
What are the main vaccination and health procedures?
Before travel please consult a general practitioner for up to date advice on recommended vaccines and malaria prophylaxis. Is there anything I can do to better prepare for a situation requiring first aid?
All guides have basic first aid training and carry a small first aid kit. But each client should also bring personal first aid supplies including antiseptic wipes, antiseptic liquid/cream, steristrips, sterile gauze and bandage as well as oral dehydration sachets.
What about the weather?
The climate is hot and humid throughout with some variation between North and South. The South is tropical and warm throughout the year. Hanoi is cooler from November to February with a pronounced wet season in the centre of the country from September to October. For biking, September, October, November, March, April and May are the best times ? not so hot and dry enough! Be prepared for anything, though. (That?s part of the fun.)
What gear do I need?
The objective is to stay cool in hot weather and warm in cool weather. Plan accordingly. Basic items are lightweight walking boots; water bottle, eye protection; lightweight shirt and trousers; waterproof jacket; mosquito repellent; sun hat; shorts; sandals; sheet sleeping bag; strong sunscreen; torch; towel; fleece; small backpack for day use; biodegradable toiletries; swimming gear. All of these things are indispensable.
What can I do to improve safety on my trip?
Safety is our most important consideration. Be aware that trekking can be dangerous and accidents can happen. You can never do too much to look out for yourself. Always notify the guide if you feel sick particularly at altitude. And if you don’t know, ask?
What are the accommodations?
We provide two-person tents with sewn-in ground sheets and mosquito nets in the Northwest of the country. Accommodation is mostly in local village homestays. Here the family may supply a simple mattress, mosquito net, pillow, sheet and blanket. Or in the case of more remote locations, bedding will be provided by TITC. The houses are usually on stilts with a bamboo floor? Surprisingly comfortable! The facilities are clean but very basic.
What sort of transport and support are available?
All equipment and luggage will be carried by porters or by jeep. Please try to keep baggage to a minimum weight. Often a cook will accompany the tour. Depending on the nature of the trek, there will be a private air-conditioned bus, minibus or jeep for transfer between destinations.
Do these tours support responsible travel?
Yes! We try to make sure that these holidays are as socially, economically and environmentally sound as possible. We are affiliate members of the Environmental Certification Green Globe 21 Scheme. Our goal is to deliver biking tours that do not contribute to the destruction of Vietnam’s unique cultural and natural environment.
Itinerary in brief
Day1: Hanoi - Lao Cai
Day2: Lao Cai - Bac Ha
Day3: Bac Ha - Hoang Su Phi - Ha Giang
Day4: Ha Giang - Khau Lan
Day5: Khau Lan Trekking
Day6: Khau Lan - Lang Tan
Day7: Lang Tan Trekking
Day8: Lang Tan - Quan Ba passing Meo Vac
Day9: Quang Ba Trekking
Day10: Quang Ba - Hanoi
Day11: Hanoi – Departure
If you want to see scenic Ha Giang, check out our new offer here.
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