The Northwest Loop 

(by car)

Northwest Loop by Car – A Four-Day Journey Through Vietnam’s Mountains and Minority Cultures

“Sometimes the most meaningful journeys happen in silence, with the window down”
— Unknown

ROAD TRIP DETAILS:

  • Total Distance: 360km approx  (route may alter based on the weather)

  • Duration: Four day loop (only availble by car).  

  • Route​: A mountainous loop through Lao Cai, Lai Chau and Dien Bien Phu Provinces.

  • Road Conditions: Paved back-roads, light traffic, ferry crossings

  • Travel Style: Cultural immersion and active adventure.

  • Accomodation: Homestays 

  • Scenery: Mountain passes, green tea plantations, rivers, rice terraces, minority villages, remote mountain lakes.

    Maximum: 4 people

Ethnic minority woman in traditional colourful attire during Northwest Loop car journey in northern Vietnam

Journey Overview

This four day loop is rich in culture an ideal for those who want to immerse into local, ethnic minority village life.  Accomodation involves three nights in local homestays.

This epic road trip is one of the most enriching cultural experiences in Vietnam. Our journey meanders through rice terraces, along the shores of great lakes, through green tea fields as well as rubber and cinnamon woodland. Beginning in Lao Cai, the loop passes through Lai Chau and into Dien Bien Phu Province and into some of the most remote villages in the northern highlands. We will spend time with the Black Thai, Hmong, Lan Tien and Lu ethnic minority groups.

​The loop is a great way of discovering some of Vietnam's greatest secrets. Weather is always difficult to predict in this region, but spring (March - May) and autumn (September - October) are probably the best months for warmth, light, and colour. The lakes are at their most beautiful between October and March while June to August see the rice terraces at their most beautiful. These months are also typically warmer and wetter. 

Our recommended months for this loop would be October, Novermber, January, February and March. 

Highlights of the Northwest Loop

Mountain passes, remote villages, and unforgettable encounters

Culture and Landscape:
The three Northern provinces are known for their beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and great lakes. The area is also home to diverse ethnic communities, each with its own unique cultural traditions. 

About this route:
If you’re lucky and the weather is good, then the scenery on the loop is fabulous. The grandeur and scale of the mountains and valleys of the north is unmatched anywhere in Vietnam. 

Cultural immersion, scenic landscapes, and authentic homestays

Practical Information

Accommodation, inclusions, and best times to travel

Includes:

  • English Speaking local guide

  • Homestay accomodation

  • All meals, snacks and refreshments

  • Car and driver 

  • Fuel​

  • Entry fees and ferries 


Excludes:

  • Personal Health / Travel Insurance 

Traveller enjoying cultural homestay experience with local ethnic minority hosts in Sapa during Northwest Loop by car
Car navigating rugged mountain road on the Northwest Loop in northern Vietnam

Prices - Northwesat loop Car 4 Day Experience

2 people - $560 per person

3 people - $525 per person

4 people - $485 per person

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.

“The car may carry you, but it’s the people and places that move you”
— Unknown
Graphic display of values including investing locally, saving energy and water, protecting wildlife, respecting culture, and Spirit of the Community.
Green terraced rice fields in a valley with mountains and cloudy sky in the background, overlaid with the text 'Terms and Conditions'.

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.

We also offer a multi-day car loop in a different region. For more information about our experience, please click here.

This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi
This slideshow portrays the Northwest Loop journey, offering a glimpse into the dramatic scenery and cultural encounters along the way. The images showcase mountain landscapes, winding roads, rivers and sunsets alongside scenes of local life, traditi