The Spirit Tree
Experience code: EthosTree
"The trail is the thing, not the end of the trail. Travel too fast, and you miss all you are travelling for."
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Duration: Optional (1 day / 2 days / 3 days)
Departure time: flexible between 8.30 am - 9.30 am Physical activity: Moderate to challenging Location - Small traditional villages 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. The first village is Sa Pa, a village like no other in the whole North West of Vietnam. Nestled under an giant tree, this ancient village is home to great weavers of hemp who use traditional techniques to craft their tribal costumes. Continuing further up the trail, you will pass through the characteristic rice and corn fields that give Sapa its reputation. What to expect: This is a quiet trail, with few visitors. Many of the Hmong families in this valley are quite reserved and unfamiliar with western visitors, so cultural sensitivity is essential. There are few amenities along this walk, so be sure to pack everything you need. On a hot day, there is an opportunity to take a dip in a cool mountain stream. There may also be time to visit an unusual rock archway and an visit a hidden cave. Like other areas around Sapa, the people of this valley practice the ancient art of weaving hemp and dying it with indigo leaves to produce the distinct clothes that make the Black Hmong ethnic group unique. For more information about this process, click here. |
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.
Part of the experience fee is used as payment for the host family.
Costs:
- English Speaking local guide
- All required transportation
- Water and fruit
- Entrance fees to the Hoang Lien National Park
- Lunch (or four meals if you choose the two day homestay option)
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.
Part of the experience fee is used as payment for the host family.
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 "Spirit Tree" walk is also available as a homestay with a choice of either a well established mini guest house style homestay with other travellers or staying in an a traditional Hmong home as exclusive guests. In both, 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. You can choose towards the end of your trek which type of homestay you want to stay.
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 "Spirit Tree" walk is also available as a homestay with a choice of either a well established mini guest house style homestay with other travellers or staying in an a traditional Hmong home as exclusive guests. In both, 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. You can choose towards the end of your trek which type of homestay you want to stay.
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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