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Journey: Experience the Living Heritage of the Dao Tien People in Tuyen Quang

Tour Overview

Hong Thai enchants visitors with its cool mountain climate, pristine natural beauty, and peaceful atmosphere, far removed from the pace of modern life. Perched at an altitude of over 1,000 meters above sea level, this tranquil highland village is renowned not only for its breathtaking terraced rice fields but also as the homeland of the Dao Tien people, who have proudly preserved their rich cultural heritage for generations. A journey to Hong Thai offers far more than spectacular scenery. It is an invitation to slow down, embrace the authentic rhythm of local life, and discover the enduring traditions of Vietnam’s highland communities.

Highlights

  • Experience seasonal farming activities alongside your local host
  • Rejuvenate with a traditional herbal foot bath, a time-honored wellness ritual deeply rooted in local culture
  • Witness the breathtaking sea of clouds drifting over the mountain peaks at sunrise
  • Cook rice, grill fresh fish, and savor authentic highland specialties prepared together with your host family
  • Listen to ancient local stories and try on the distinctive traditional attire of the Dao Tien people
  • Gather around the fire for a cozy evening filled with traditional folk songs and the vibrant Bell Dance, a unique cultural performance of the local community
Day-by-day Itinerary

DAY 1: HANOI – HONG THAI (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

06:00: Meet your guide and driver in Hanoi and depart for Hong Thai, a peaceful highland destination in Tuyen Quang Province. Enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant along the way. As the journey unfolds, watch the scenery gradually transform from the fertile plains to the majestic mountains of Northeast Vietnam, where winding roads lead through mist-covered valleys and remote villages.

12:00: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant en route.

14:00: Arrive in Hong Thai and check in to your homestay. After a short rest, spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace: • Stroll through the peaceful village. • Admire the traditional stilt houses of the Dao Tien people. • Discover the daily life and customs of the local community. • Breathe in the refreshing mountain air that makes Hong Thai a year-round retreat. This is the perfect opportunity to slow down, immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere, and experience the authentic rhythm of life in the highlands.

19:00: Enjoy a traditional dinner featuring authentic local specialties. After dinner, experience a relaxing herbal foot bath and traditional medicinal herb bath, two time-honored wellness practices of the Dao Tien people. Gather around the fire with your hosts as they share stories about the Dao Tien people's culture, customs, daily life, and traditional herbal medicine. You will also have the opportunity to try on the distinctive traditional costume of the Dao Tien. Overnight at a homestay in Hong Thai.

DAY 2: FARMING EXPERIENCE & CULTURAL DISCOVERY (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

06:00: Wake up to the fresh mountain air and enjoy breakfast at your homestay before setting off on an authentic farming experience with the local community. Join your host family in a seasonal agricultural activity, such as planting, tending crops, or harvesting, depending on the time of year. Discover the traditional farming methods of the Dao Tien people and gain a deeper appreciation of their close relationship with the land and their everyday way of life.

10:00: Together with local villagers, catch fish, prepare fresh ingredients, and cook a simple meal rich in the flavors of the mountains. Share the meal with your hosts while enjoying meaningful conversations and genuine cultural exchange that offer a glimpse into life in the highlands.

12:00: Enjoy lunch, followed by free time to relax at your homestay.

15:00: Continue your journey through the natural beauty of Hong Thai: • Take a leisurely walk along the peaceful village paths. • Visit the ancient pear orchards. • Stop for photos at Don Hill. • Watch the sunset over the mountains and valleys. With its serene atmosphere and poetic landscapes, Hong Thai reveals the timeless charm of Northeast Vietnam's highlands.

19:00: Enjoy dinner at your homestay. Spend the evening at your leisure. Relax with a cup of local tea and join a cultural exchange program featuring traditional music and performances presented by the Dao Tien community. Overnight at your homestay in Hong Thai.

DAY 3: CLOUD HUNTING IN HONG THAI – NA HANG–LAM BINH ECO-TOURISM AREA – HANOI (Breakfast & Lunch)

05:00: Wake up early to welcome the sunrise and, weather permitting, witness the spectacular sea of clouds from the mountaintops of Hong Thai. Watch soft clouds drift through the valleys as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the terraced fields and peaceful village rooftops, creating a truly unforgettable highland landscape.

08:00: Check out of your homestay and depart for the Na Hang – Lam Binh Eco-tourism Area. Board a boat for a scenic cruise on Na Hang Lake. Admire the dramatic limestone mountains rising from the emerald waters, take in the breathtaking landscapes, learn about the daily life of the communities living along the Gam River, and immerse yourself in the unspoiled natural beauty of this remarkable region.

11:30: Enjoy lunch on board, featuring a selection of local specialties while taking in the beautiful scenery of Na Hang Lake.

14:00: Disembark and begin the return journey to Hanoi.

19:30: Arrive in Hanoi, marking the end of your journey. Thank you for traveling with us. We wish you good health, happiness, and safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you again on your next adventure!

Duration

3 Days 2 Nights

Pick-up & Drop-off

Hanoi (Old Quarter / Opera House area) → Hanoi

Group Size

Private cultural experience (2–12 guests)

Activity Level

  • Travel time: moderate (Hanoi – Hong Thai)
  • Terrain: highland village, terraced fields
  • Continuous activity: moderate
  • Fitness & age: light village walks, suitable from age 10+
  • Signature activities: seasonal farming, Dao herbal bath, cultural exchange

Best Time to Travel

Year-round; best Sep–Nov and Mar–May (sea of clouds, cool climate)

Accommodation

Dao community homestay in Hong Thai

Transport

Tourist vehicle as per itinerary

Tour Guide

Cultural tour guide

Services Included

  • Round-trip transportation from Hanoi by private tourist vehicle, as specified in the itinerary
  • English-speaking tour guide throughout the journey
  • 2 nights' accommodation at a traditional homestay
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary: 3 breakfasts and 5 main meals
  • Entrance fees to the Na Hang – Lam Binh Eco-tourism Area
  • Boat cruise on Na Hang Lake
  • Traditional cultural exchange and folk performance program
  • Traditional Dao Tien herbal foot bath experience
  • Complimentary bottled water on the vehicle (1 bottle per person per day)
  • Travel insurance for the duration of the tour
  • One complimentary travel hat per guest

Services Excluded

  • International and domestic airfare
  • Vietnam entry visa (if required)
  • Personal expenses, including telephone charges, laundry, minibar, and beverages not specified in the itinerary
  • Gratuities for the tour guide and driver
  • Additional expenses incurred due to weather conditions, natural disasters, itinerary changes, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control
  • Any services not specifically mentioned under "Tour Price Includes"

Dao Tien Village Hong Thai – Tuyen Quang 3 Days 2 Nights
Starting from: 531 USD/guest
(Applies to groups of 10 international guests or more)

Single Supplement

A single-room surcharge applies for solo travelers or private rooms; the amount will be confirmed at booking.

Child Policy

  • Children under 5 years old: Free of charge (sharing a bed with parents; any additional expenses, if applicable, are the responsibility of the parents).
  • Children from 5 to under 10 years old: Charged at 75% of the adult

Deposit Policy

A deposit is required upon confirmation; the amount and payment schedule will be advised when booking.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Cancellation and refund terms follow the booking conditions; please contact us for details based on your departure date.

Health Requirements

Guests should be fit for long transfers and light highland walking. Please inform us in advance of any medical conditions or special dietary needs.

What to Prepare

Clothing

  • Non-slip walking shoes for light village walks and Hong Thai’s terraced fields (over 1,000 m).
  • A light jacket — highland mornings and evenings can be cool.
  • Season-appropriate clothing; dress modestly at temples, pagodas, or ceremonies.

Luggage & money

  • Travel light for transfers and a Dao community homestay.
  • Carry some VND; small shops often do not take international cards.
  • Homestay Wi-Fi may be unstable in the mountains and on Na Hang Lake.

Also bring

  • A valid passport.
  • Personal medication if you are in treatment or have allergies.
  • Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses; insect repellent if needed.
  • A power bank and a camera/phone with enough storage.

Weather & Safety Notes

Weather

  • Hong Thai sits above 1,000 m: cool mornings and evenings, mild days. Cloud hunting depends on weather.
  • Highland weather changes quickly; bring a layer for sunrise viewing.

Lake & mountain safety

  • Always wear a life jacket on the Na Hang – Lam Binh boat cruise.
  • Follow the guide and boat operator; do not leave the group in forest or lakeside areas.
  • Do not enter the water or slippery spots without guidance.

Respect local culture

  • Ask before photographing people; do not enter worship areas unless invited.
  • Keep noise low in community spaces; minimize single-use plastics.

WHY CHOOSE HIDDEN NORTH VIETNAM:

  • Our local team has an in-depth understanding of the culture, people and actual conditions at destinations in Tuyen Quang.
  • Visitors experience the daily life of local people in an authentic and natural way while respecting the customs and living spaces of the community.
  • Each group is limited to a maximum of 10 guests in order to maintain a close and personal experience and minimise the impact on the private daily life of local families.
  • Priority is given to services provided by local residents, helping to create livelihoods and encourage responsible tourism for the community and the environment.
FAQ

Is this tour private or shared?

We operate private and small-group journeys. Published rates may assume a minimum group size; contact us for a private quote.

What is included in the price?

See Price Includes / Excludes on this page. Final inclusions are confirmed in writing.

Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes. Use Customize This Tour or the enquiry form to tailor the journey.

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