Buffalo Valley Trek
Experience code: BuffaloValley
" To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles"
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Duration: Two days, one night.
Departure time: flexible between 8.30 am - 9.30 am Physical activity: Moderate to challenging Location - Small traditional villages, bamboo forests, woodland areas, vast terraced valleys Travel Style: - Cultural immersion and active adventure Connectivity: Wifi - None, Mobile coverage - good. Background This is a unique walking experience and incorporates three very special minority villages. What to expect: Buffalo Valley is a brand new, post pandemic trek for us. It’s in a fantastic area around an hours drive from Sapa. We particularly enjoy treks that incorporate routes through bamboo forests and across streams. During these months, water buffalo are left to wander and graze freely while river levels are usual low enough to make fording easier. Cooler air temperatures above 1000 metres creates comfortable hiking conditions. This option contains all of the above. The first days walk is approximately 10km over undulating and spectacular terrain. The homestay we are working with in this area is brand new to us as well and extremely basic. Whilst absolutely authentic, this comes with a few challenges. There is a toilet located adjacent to the home but no shower facilities whatsoever. Locally, people walk down to the nearby stream and use the trickling water to freshen up. The water is cool and comes with its own challenges in early spring. The walk itself is lovely, with a second day passing through bamboo forests. and past a beautiful waterfall. Day two is approximately 14km through beautiful rice terraces. |
Sample of what to expect when trekking:
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Included:
Excluded:
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. This trek usually involves two river crossings. 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 three host family. You can read more about our Social Responsibility projects here.
Costs:
- English Speaking local guide
- All required transportation
- Water and fruit
- Entrance fees to the Hoang Lien National Park
- Homestay accomodation
- Four meals (lunch and dinner on day one, breakfast and lunch on day two)
Excluded:
- Travel insurance
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. This trek usually involves two river crossings. 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 three host family. You can read more about our Social Responsibility projects here.
Costs:
Two day / one night homestay option:
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.
The Buffalo Valley trek is only available as an option when staying in an a traditional Hmong home as exclusive guests. Expect to experience village life in all its glory. On the plus side, you will get some quality time with the wonderful Black Hmong community. Hmong homes are set within the famed rice paddies and have incredible views if the weather permits. On the downside, expect to be awoken early by roosters or the families livestock.
Costs:
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.
The Buffalo Valley trek is only available as an option when staying in an a traditional Hmong home as exclusive guests. Expect to experience village life in all its glory. On the plus side, you will get some quality time with the wonderful Black Hmong community. Hmong homes are set within the famed rice paddies and have incredible views if the weather permits. On the downside, expect to be awoken early by roosters or the families livestock.
Costs:
"Before this trek I was a little dubious about how authentic this experience would be. Having finished the trek, I can safely say that this is THE most genuine travelling experience I have ever had. This is real sustainable tourism and the benefits are felt by all. We loved every minute of it" - Antoine (France)
For a comprehensive list of suggested kit for Sapa, please click on the following link:
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