Hiking in the Northwest

One of the best ways to experience northern Vietnam is by tackling the trails that lead out of the towns and into more remote areas of the highlands. These footpaths lead through more pristine terrain than you would be able to see from the back seat of a Landcruiser. Villages throughout the mountains are connected by trails, and it may not be long before someone produces a publication documenting and mapping a network of the best hiking trails in the north. Until then, however, your best bet is to pick up local maps when you arrive at a destination or to arrange a trekking itinerary with an ethical guide group. These operators have researched the hikes with knowledgeable locals and are pretty familiar with the needs and preferences of Western travelers. Dozens of trails lead out of the hillside town of Sapa, for instance, and into H'mong villages. Minority peoples have a vast knowledge of local routes, and working as guides has become a key source of income and respect for the women in these families. These local guides often speak better English than Vietnamese and homestays are a beautiful way to learn about their way of life. You can venture out independently, but communication may be a hurdle. A decent guide becomes essential if you intend on trekking to the top of Mt. Fansipan, Vietnam's highest peak.