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An unhurried and friendly town, Bac Ha makes a relaxed base to explore the northern highlands and hill-tribe villages. The atmosphere is very different to Sapa, and you can walk the streets freely without being accosted by hawkers. To experience a small, untouristy mountain town, Bac Ha is an excellent destination.
The town has a certain charm, though its stock of traditional old adobe houses is dwindling and being replaced by concrete structures. Wood smoke fills the morning air and chickens and pigs poke around the back lanes. For six days a week, Bac Ha slumbers, but its lanes fill up to choking point each Sunday when tourists and Flower H’mong flood in for the weekly market.
This Sunday market is a riot of colour and commerce, and while the influx of day trippers from Sapa is changing things fast, it’s still a worthwhile and relatively accessible place to visit. The other markets around Bac Ha are also gradually becoming more visited by tourists, so if you’re after a truly authentic experience try and head to the mountain town of Sinho instead.
Bac Ha is a good base to explore the surrounding highlands, as it has an improving choice of inexpensive hotels and the climate here is noticeably warmer than in Sapa. There are 11 hill-tribe groups that live around Bac Ha: the colourful Flower H’mong are the most visible, but other groups include Dzao, Giay (Nhang), Han (Hoa), Xa Fang, Lachi, Nung, Phula, Tay, Thai and Thulao.
One of Bac Ha’s main industries is the manufacture of alcoholic home brews (rice wine, cassava wine and corn liquor). The ruou corn hooch produced by the Flower H’mong is so potent it can ignite; there’s an entire area devoted to it at the Sunday market.
Bac Ha – Can Cau market trekking
Beyond Bac Ha: Ha Giang’s Peaks, Passes, and Ethnic Heritage
Immerse yourself in the authentic culture and breathtaking natural landscapes of northern Vietnam on this 3-day trekking adventure. Journey through local ethnic villages, encounter traditional lifestyles, and enjoy the hospitality of local families as you trek from Bac Ha to Ta Van Chu, continue to Lung Phinh, and return with unforgettable memories.
Itineraries
Day 1
Trek from Bac Ha to Ta Van Chu
Start your trek from Bac Ha to the local ethnic group village, take pictures of people and beautiful landscapes. Have a picnic lunch under the shade. Afternoon, you will reach the homestay in Ta Van Chu, walk around the H'mong ethnic village. Have dinner with a local family, overnight on the stilt-house.
Day 2
Trek from Ta Van Chu to Lung Phinh
Do trekking after breakfast in home-stay, trek down hills passing the rice-fields in the morning. Have lunch at noon. Climb the hills again to Lu Than village then arrive at Lung Phinh, staying overnight in the family of the Fula ethnic minority.
Day 3
Lung Phinh to Bac Ha
Remote trek up and down the hills to come in view of beautiful landscapes and happy to discover colorful dresses of the local H'mong ethnic minority. Have lunch on the top of the mountain. Come back to Bac Ha in the afternoon.
- English speaking guide
- Meals
- Water (1.5l/person/day)
- Entrance fee
- Security fee.
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips for the guide.
We offer a variety of tours, including:
Multi-day trekking and hiking adventures
Cultural and heritage tours
Motorbike and car tours
Private and customized trips
You can book a tour through our website by selecting your preferred itinerary and filling out the booking form. Alternatively, you can contact us directly via email or WhatsApp for custom trip planning.
Yes! We can tailor your trip to match your interests, group size, and travel dates. Let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll create a unique itinerary for you.
The best time to visit is from September to November (autumn) and March to May (spring), when the weather is pleasant, and landscapes are at their most beautiful. However, each season has its unique charm.
We can arrange transportation for you, including sleeper buses, private cars, and motorbike rentals. There are also public bus options from Hanoi to Ha Giang, Bac Ha, and Cao Bang.
We recommend bringing:
Comfortable trekking shoes
Lightweight and breathable clothing
A rain jacket (especially in the rainy season)
Sunscreen and insect repellent
A camera to capture the stunning scenery!
While not mandatory, we strongly recommend having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and adventure activities.
Depending on your tour, you may stay in:
Local homestays for an immersive cultural experience
Boutique hotels and eco-lodges
Most of our tours include meals, featuring local specialties. We accommodate dietary restrictions if notified in advance.
Yes! We prioritize safety by working with experienced local guides, ensuring reliable transportation, and providing emergency support when needed.
Related Trips
Bac Ha – Can Cau market trekking
Please login to add your wishlists.Experience the raw beauty and vibrant culture of northern Vietnam on this immersive trekking adventure. Journey through stunning rural landscapes, engage with local ethnic communities, and explore the lively Can Cau Market where traditions come to life. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure for travelers seeking an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience.
