The Bamboo Trail 

The Bamboo Trail Trek – One Day Cultural and Nature Experience in Sapa

Trekking is the most perfect form of motion for a person who wants to discover the true life
— Thoreau.

Duration: One Day
Departure time: 8.30am 
Physical activity: Moderate to challenging 
Distance: 11km to 14km with some flexibility in distance and trail type.
Location: Small traditional villages, bamboo forests, mountain streams, vast terraced valleys.
Travel Style: Cultural immersion and active adventure.
Connectivity: Wifi - None, Mobile coverage - good. 

Maximum: 6 people

Travellers walking along the Bamboo Trail through bamboo forests in Sapa, Vietnam

Background
This is a unique hiking experience incorporating three Hmong minority villages.  

Elevation Gain: Significant (500 - 700 metres approx.)

Elevation profile graph showing terrain with a mix of steep and gentle slopes, height marked from 1,030 meters to 1,450 meters.

Immerse Yourself in Sapa’s Forests, Streams and Traditional Hill Tribe Culture

Cross Suspension Bridges, Explore Bamboo Forests and Share a Meal in a Hmong Home

Embark on a trek from Sapa into the foothills of the Hoang Lien National Park. Journey through some of the most iconic and picturesque rice terraces in all of Vietnam. As you walk, you’ll traverse rice paddy walls and get a true sense of scale. The trail will also pass through serene woodlands, and enchanting bamboo forests, immersing yourself in the authentic rural charm of Sapa. Crossing babbling streams and over spectacular suspension bridges, this trek passes through three ethnic minority villages. During the trek, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a culturally immersive experience with lunch in a traditional Hmong home. Savour local cuisine, prepared with ingredients either picked fresh from their farms or foraged along the way.

On sunny days between May and October, there may also be opportunities to go for a swim in a mountain stream.

This trek offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant Hmong hill tribe culture, off the beaten tourist path.

Included:

  • English Speaking local guide

  • All required transportation

  • Water and fruit

  • Entrance fees to the Hoang Lien National Park

  • Lunch

Excluded:

  • Travel insurance

Prices - The Bamboo Trail 1 Day experience

1 person - $95 per person

2 people - $55 per person

3 people - $50 per person

4 people - $45 per person

5 people - $40 per person

6 people - $35 per person

Notes:
Be aware that during foggy and rainy periods, trails around Sapa are often muddy and slippery.  Walking shoes with good grip are highly recommended. We believe that trekking is all about discovery and access to the most exciting villages may involve steep inclines and clay slopes. During periods of heavy rainfally, the walk route may be changed to avoid any unnecessary risk.

Part of the experience fee is used as payment for your host family. You can read more about our Social Responsibility projects here.

Community based tourism is tourism in which local residents (often rural, poor and economically marginalised) invite tourists to visit their communities with the provision of overnight accommodation.

Community based tourism (CBT) is a form of tourism where local communities are directly involved in developing, managing, and benefiting from tourism activities within their area. It emphasises community ownership, cultural preservation, and sustainable practices, offering visitors authentic experiences and fostering economic opportunities for residents.

When you learn from a culture, you carry it’s spirit forever.
— Unknown
Icons and text promoting environmental and cultural values: investing locally, saving energy and water, protecting wildlife, respecting culture, with a silhouette of a family or community members and the text 'WE LIKE:'.

Please travel with respect. Dress modestly, support local crafts, protect nature, be patient, and stay safe. Connect, learn, and contribute positively during your ETHOS journey. Please refer to our terms for booking conditions for all ETHOS experiences.