The Spirit Tree Trek
Spirit Tree Trek – A Cultural and Nature Journey in Sapa
“The trail is the thing, not the end of the trail. Travel too fast, and you miss all you are travelling for.”
Duration: One Day
Departure time: 8.30am at the ETHOS Community Centre for briefing
Physical activity: Moderate
Location: Small traditional villages and rice terraces
Travel Style: Cultural immersion and active adventure
Connectivity: Wifi - None, Mobile coverage - good
Maximum: 6 people
Explore Hmong Traditions, Mountain Paths and Sacred Stories
Walk Through Rice Terraces, Share a Family Meal and Discover the Spirit of the Land
Our Spirit Tree Trek is an immersive one-day journey into the heart of Hmong culture and the natural landscape of Sapa.
What to expect:
This experience is more than a walk through hills and rice terraces; it is a mindful exploration of sacred spaces, living traditions and quiet connection with the land.
The trek weaves through gently sloping mountain paths, across streams and through rice paddies carved into the hillsides. Along the way, you’ll be guided by a local Hmong guide who shares deeply rooted stories passed down through generations. These are not rehearsed scripts but personal accounts that bring to life the customs, challenges and wisdom of Hmong communities.
Lunch is taken in a traditional home, offering the chance to enjoy simple, nourishing food while looking out over the valley. The pace of the day is unhurried. There is time to ask questions, to sit and to observe rather than simply pass through.
ETHOS crafts this experience not just as a trek but as a cultural dialogue. The guides speak honestly about their lives and histories, and guests are encouraged to do the same. This creates a mutual exchange rather than a one-sided tour. Many travellers leave with new perspectives on community, tradition and their place within the wider world.
Expect to return with tired legs, a mind full of stories and a deeper sense of what it means to walk through another culture with care and curiosity.
Included:
English Speaking local guide
All required transportation
Water and fruit
Lunch
Excluded:
Travel insurance
Prices - Spirit Tree 1 Day experience
1 Person - $95 US per person
2 people - $55 US per person
3 people - $45 US per person
4 people - $40 US per person
5 people - $35 US per person
6 people - $32 US 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. 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.
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.
“Each step through the rice terraces is a step onto another story.”
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.
