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OVERVIEW

Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Vietnam on this 8-day walking tour based in the incredible Karst mountains South west of Hanoi. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene terraced rice paddies of Mai Chau and the incredibly biodiversity of Cuc Phuong National Park, every step unveils a new facet of Vietnam’s beauty.

Learn about the unique traditions of local ethnic communities, immerse yourself in the diverse flora and fauna, and relish the local cuisine prepared with fresh, regional ingredients. This experience promises an unforgettable fusion of adventure, culture, and comfort.

Highlights

  • Explore the historic streets of Hanoi, including Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter
  • Explore the stunning Mai Chau Valley
  • Breathtaking landscapes and terraced rice fields of Pu Luong
  • The ancient rainforest of Cuc Phuong National Park
  • Enjoy a rowing boat ride to the magnificent Galaxy Grotto
  • Vietnamese cuisine, including a welcome dinner at a social enterprise restaurant
  • Half-day food tour for a taste of authentic local dishes in Hanoi

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
GROUP GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
8 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 3195

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 480

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

  • 30+ years

  • guided

  • eco travel

  • pack free

CONTACT US
DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8

DAY 1
Arrival Hanoi

Xin chào! Welcome to Vietnam.

Step into the vibrant heart of Vietnam. Our friendly guide will greet you and whisk you away to the luxuriously appointed Golden Silk Boutique Hotel in the heart of Hanoi. Take some time to rest and refresh before joining everyone for a delicious welcome dinner at a remarkable restaurant dedicated to empowering disadvantaged street children through culinary training. Enjoy their heartfelt hospitality and locally inspired dishes.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Silk Boutique hotel

DAY 2
Transfer to Mai Chau and Hiking in the Valley

A scenic drive from Hanoi to Mai Chau after breakfast (approx 4.5 – 5hrs) takes you to a world framed by stunning limestone mountains and lush rice paddies. We stop at Thung Khe Pass for panoramic views before enjoying lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, set out on foot to explore the captivating landscapes and traditional stilt houses of the valley, immersing yourself in the daily lives and warm hospitality of the local communities.

Distance: 8.4km
Ascent: 100m
Descent: 100m
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Mai Chau Ecolodge or Mai Chau Mountain View Resort

DAY 3
Full-Day Hiking in Mai Chau

Today, dive deeper into the enchanting Mai Chau region with a full-day hike. Departing from your lodge with a very short transfer to van village. From here we’ll traverse serene jungles and terraced rice fields as you make your way towards Pu Bin Village. Experience the vibrant culture of the local communities while savouring a traditional lunch at a homestay. The day culminates with a rewarding return trek via an alternative route.

Distance: 16-20km
Ascent: 700m
Descent: 800m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mai Chau Ecolodge or Mai Chau Mountain View Resort

DAY 4
Hiking from Mai Chau to Pu Luong

After breakfast, we transfer to (approx. 45mins) to Pu Luong for a day filled with stunning scenery and cultural encounters. Todays walk is glorious with beautiful views of valleys and forests and begins in Ban Hang with terraced fields and charming villages of the Muong people. We descend into the Kho Muong valley before enjoying a relaxing dinner at Pu Luong Retreat.

Distance: 18-20km
Ascent: 950m
Descent: 700m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Pu Luong Retreat

DAY 5
Hiking in Cuc Phuong National Park

We begin the day with a quick transfer to a remote village on the outskirts of Cuc Phuong National Park. This is Vietnam’s oldest national park renowned for its ancient trees and rich biodiversity. Upon arrival visit the local Muong hamlets before we hike through dense primaeval forest, eventually arriving at the park centre. Here, time permitting, we may visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre to learn about local conservation efforts. In the late afternoon we transfer to your hotel in Ninh Binh, where a delicious dinner awaits.

Distance: 16 km
Ascent: 100m
Descent: 100m
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Le Clos du Fil

DAY 6
Full-Day Exploration in Ninh Binh

Today’s walk intentionally bypasses more popular routes offering a quieter more immersive experience through tranquil rural landscapes, dotted with traditional villages and expansive rice fields. Along the way we’ll visit lesser-known temples and soak in the views of stunning limestone karsts mountain scenery that defines the region. After enjoying a lunch of local fare, we will take a serene rowing boat ride to the picturesque Galaxy Grotto cave. The cave features winding passages beneath thousands of sparkling stalactites in various shapes, This site also preserves archaeological remains of ancient Vietnamese people. After the boat ride we’ll transfer back to your hotel for dinner.

Distance: 8-10 km
Ascent: minimal
Descent: minimal
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Le Clos du Fil

DAY 7
Hanoi Walking Tour and Food Experience

After breakfast we return to Hanoi for a delightful half day walking tour. Discover the charming Old Quarter’s rich history with a stroll through the maze of streets known for their artisanal boutiques and engaging street life. Hanoi’s urban layout of leafy boulevards and beautiful common spaces was heavily influenced by the French occupation making many of its older neighbourhoods a very walkable experience. We visit Hanoi’s most iconic site, the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake (“Lake of the Returned Sword”) named after a magical sword once used by a legendary Vietnamese emperor to defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty. On an island in the middle of the lake sits the Ngoc Son Temple (“Temple of the Jade Mountain”),  dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao (who defeated the Mongols in the 13 th century). The temple is accessible by the bright red Huc Bridge (“Rising Sun”).
Conclude the tour with a visit to the famed Old Quarter known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’ named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date as far back as the 13 th century. Explore the fascinating maze of back streets, fronted by narrow houses known as “tunnel” or “tube houses”, built to avoid taxes based on the width of their frontage onto the street, a wonderfully eclectic glimpse into Hanoi street life.

We end our day with dinner at a local restaurant.

Distance: 7-8 km
Ascent: minimal
Descent: minimal
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Silk Boutique Hotel

DAY 8
Departure

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before being transferred to the airport or if you wish, continue on with further travels.

Meals: Breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 3 and 4 star hotels

  • Epic Hiking

  • Luggage transfers

  • Accommodation in luxurious rooms with daily breakfast
  • Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicles throughout the tour
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary, including a welcome dinner
  • Experienced English-speaking local guides to enhance your experience
  • Snacks and drinking water provided during each days walk
  • Entry fees for all highlighted sites and activities
  • A scenic boat trip to Galaxy Grotto for a unique perspective of the limestone caves

 

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

We stay in a selection of charming accommodations, including the Golden Silk Boutique Hotel in Hanoi and the peaceful Mai Chau Ecolodge. Each venue has been carefully chosen for comfort and local character, providing a memorable and relaxing retreat after a day of adventures.

Dining experiences feature a blend of traditional Vietnamese dishes and modern interpretations all showcasing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Look forward to delightful meals at local restaurants, as well as enjoying the unique flavours of homestays that reflect the culture and hospitality of the regions you visit.

 

  • Night 1 & 7

  • NIGHTS 2 & 3

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHTS 5 & 6

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10. Moderate to challenging overall.

ngraph

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation is not a major consideration regarding how you train. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training as it will increase your endurance.

UNEVERN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a nuanced blend of physical and mental readiness. Commence your regimen with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a foundational groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is pivotal, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups to enhance both stability and power. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement. The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

These tours operate in the best times of the year to hike in this region.

THE WALKING

The walking on this tour is on a mixture of terrain. Days in Hanoi, the Mai Chau valley and Ninh Binh are on easy terrain which is in flat countryside, some paved roads, and village trails.

The hiking during the middle of the tour is on a mixture of paved and unpaved paths through jungle, karst mountain, villages and farms.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

This tour starts and ends in Hanoi. Hanoi has an International airport and is serviced by many airlines.

The trip starts with a transfer from the International Airport to your accommodation. If you are already in Vietnam and Hanoi then you can simply meet at the hotel. Our hotel is the Golden Silk Hotel (109-111 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem District).

A useful planning tool for travel is Rome2Rio should you be travelling from or to other destinations.

 

LUGGAGE

There are no luggage restrictions other than what you have on your airline. You will need to carry personal items you require or wish to carry each day whilst your luggage is transferred between accommodations.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 9 May 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $480
    BOOK NOW
  • 16 May 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $480
    BOOK NOW
  • 3 Oct 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $480
    BOOK NOW
  • 10 Oct 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $480
    BOOK NOW

SIMILAR TRIPS

Kumano Kodo Nakahechi – 7 Days

Group-guided

Be guided through Kumano’s sacred mountains over 7 days from Tanabe to Nachisan. Traverse mountains and forests, through villages to ancient temples and waterfalls.

 Group-guided 7 Days From $3495 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Kumano Kodo Nakahechi – 7 Days

BACK What's Included
  • Relax and enjoy being fully supported on our guided walk on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi end to end
  • Hike via magnificent shrines ending at the glorious Nachi waterfall and temple complex
  • Walk with a light pack only with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • 6-nights accommodation in both Western style hotels and traditional Japanese lodgings some with in-house onsens
  • Traditional Japanese meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk.  Plus 4 walkers lunches – all inclusive except 1 lunch
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with our guide leading the way and 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground
  • All transfers between hikes and to accommodation during the tour

Nakasendo & The Kaida Plateau – 6 Days

Group-guided

Group Guided walk staying in Japanese Ryokans, all Japanese style elaborate dinners and breakfasts: the Kaido Plateau: includes the Kiso Valley section: cedar forest and waterfalls

 Group-guided 6 Days From $3195 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Nakasendo & The Kaida Plateau – 6 Days

BACK What's Included
  • Guided walking holiday experience
  • Explore the beautiful Kaida Kogen Plateau in the hills north of Kiso-Fukushima
  • 5 nights stay in a family-run Ryokan or Hotels
  • Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day
  • Walk with a light pack, with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • Beautiful views and authentic Japanese cultural experience

Northern Vietnam: Sapa and Halong Bay – 9 Days

Group-guided

Experience the best of northern Vietnam, take an overnight train to Sapa. Trek through breathtaking mountain landscapes, visit remote ethnic villages.

 Group-guided 9 Days From $2795 Moderate What's Included

Northern Vietnam: Sapa and Halong Bay – 9 Days

BACK What's Included
    • 8 breakfasts, 8 dinners and 8 lunches.
    • Transfers during the tour are in an air-conditioned private bus.
    • Professional, passionate and local English-speaking hiking guide
    • 1 nights accommodation in Hanoi
    • 2 nights’ accommodation on the overnight train to and from Sapa in 2-berth rooms
    • 4 nights’ accommodation in a hotel in central Sapa
    • Luggage transfers during the tour
    • Walk pack-free and relax knowing you are walking with a company that has 30 years of experience
    • Welcome dinner night 1 in Hanoi
    • Airport transfers upon arrival
    • Walking & Street food tours in Hanoi
    • 2 Day 1 Night luxury boat cruise in Ha Long Bay

Great Wall of China – 7 Days

Group-guided

Walk along remote sections of the Great Wall, uncover 2000 years of history, sample rural Chinese life, and experience vibrant Beijing, your gateway to further adventures in China.

 Group-guided 7 Days From $3595 Challenging What's Included

Great Wall of China – 7 Days

BACK What's Included
  • Relax and enjoy being fully supported on our guided walk on the Great Wall of China
  • Walk with a light pack only
  • 6 nights’ accommodation in both Western-style hotels and comfortable rural guest houses.
  • All inclusive of meals, transport from Beijing and accommodation
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with our guide leading the way
  • 6 weeks from departure, a walking pack including trip notes
  • The security of Auswalks’ 30 years of experience running and curating walking holidays
Overview

OVERVIEW

Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Vietnam on this 8-day walking tour based in the incredible Karst mountains South west of Hanoi. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene terraced rice paddies of Mai Chau and the incredibly biodiversity of Cuc Phuong National Park, every step unveils a new facet of Vietnam’s beauty.

Learn about the unique traditions of local ethnic communities, immerse yourself in the diverse flora and fauna, and relish the local cuisine prepared with fresh, regional ingredients. This experience promises an unforgettable fusion of adventure, culture, and comfort.

Highlights

  • Explore the historic streets of Hanoi, including Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter
  • Explore the stunning Mai Chau Valley
  • Breathtaking landscapes and terraced rice fields of Pu Luong
  • The ancient rainforest of Cuc Phuong National Park
  • Enjoy a rowing boat ride to the magnificent Galaxy Grotto
  • Vietnamese cuisine, including a welcome dinner at a social enterprise restaurant
  • Half-day food tour for a taste of authentic local dishes in Hanoi

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
GROUP GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
8 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 3195

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 480

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

  • 30+ years

  • guided

  • eco travel

  • pack free

CONTACT US
DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8

DAY 1
Arrival Hanoi

Xin chào! Welcome to Vietnam.

Step into the vibrant heart of Vietnam. Our friendly guide will greet you and whisk you away to the luxuriously appointed Golden Silk Boutique Hotel in the heart of Hanoi. Take some time to rest and refresh before joining everyone for a delicious welcome dinner at a remarkable restaurant dedicated to empowering disadvantaged street children through culinary training. Enjoy their heartfelt hospitality and locally inspired dishes.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Silk Boutique hotel

DAY 2
Transfer to Mai Chau and Hiking in the Valley

A scenic drive from Hanoi to Mai Chau after breakfast (approx 4.5 – 5hrs) takes you to a world framed by stunning limestone mountains and lush rice paddies. We stop at Thung Khe Pass for panoramic views before enjoying lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, set out on foot to explore the captivating landscapes and traditional stilt houses of the valley, immersing yourself in the daily lives and warm hospitality of the local communities.

Distance: 8.4km
Ascent: 100m
Descent: 100m
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Mai Chau Ecolodge or Mai Chau Mountain View Resort

DAY 3
Full-Day Hiking in Mai Chau

Today, dive deeper into the enchanting Mai Chau region with a full-day hike. Departing from your lodge with a very short transfer to van village. From here we’ll traverse serene jungles and terraced rice fields as you make your way towards Pu Bin Village. Experience the vibrant culture of the local communities while savouring a traditional lunch at a homestay. The day culminates with a rewarding return trek via an alternative route.

Distance: 16-20km
Ascent: 700m
Descent: 800m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mai Chau Ecolodge or Mai Chau Mountain View Resort

DAY 4
Hiking from Mai Chau to Pu Luong

After breakfast, we transfer to (approx. 45mins) to Pu Luong for a day filled with stunning scenery and cultural encounters. Todays walk is glorious with beautiful views of valleys and forests and begins in Ban Hang with terraced fields and charming villages of the Muong people. We descend into the Kho Muong valley before enjoying a relaxing dinner at Pu Luong Retreat.

Distance: 18-20km
Ascent: 950m
Descent: 700m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Pu Luong Retreat

DAY 5
Hiking in Cuc Phuong National Park

We begin the day with a quick transfer to a remote village on the outskirts of Cuc Phuong National Park. This is Vietnam’s oldest national park renowned for its ancient trees and rich biodiversity. Upon arrival visit the local Muong hamlets before we hike through dense primaeval forest, eventually arriving at the park centre. Here, time permitting, we may visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre to learn about local conservation efforts. In the late afternoon we transfer to your hotel in Ninh Binh, where a delicious dinner awaits.

Distance: 16 km
Ascent: 100m
Descent: 100m
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Le Clos du Fil

DAY 6
Full-Day Exploration in Ninh Binh

Today’s walk intentionally bypasses more popular routes offering a quieter more immersive experience through tranquil rural landscapes, dotted with traditional villages and expansive rice fields. Along the way we’ll visit lesser-known temples and soak in the views of stunning limestone karsts mountain scenery that defines the region. After enjoying a lunch of local fare, we will take a serene rowing boat ride to the picturesque Galaxy Grotto cave. The cave features winding passages beneath thousands of sparkling stalactites in various shapes, This site also preserves archaeological remains of ancient Vietnamese people. After the boat ride we’ll transfer back to your hotel for dinner.

Distance: 8-10 km
Ascent: minimal
Descent: minimal
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Le Clos du Fil

DAY 7
Hanoi Walking Tour and Food Experience

After breakfast we return to Hanoi for a delightful half day walking tour. Discover the charming Old Quarter’s rich history with a stroll through the maze of streets known for their artisanal boutiques and engaging street life. Hanoi’s urban layout of leafy boulevards and beautiful common spaces was heavily influenced by the French occupation making many of its older neighbourhoods a very walkable experience. We visit Hanoi’s most iconic site, the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake (“Lake of the Returned Sword”) named after a magical sword once used by a legendary Vietnamese emperor to defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty. On an island in the middle of the lake sits the Ngoc Son Temple (“Temple of the Jade Mountain”),  dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao (who defeated the Mongols in the 13 th century). The temple is accessible by the bright red Huc Bridge (“Rising Sun”).
Conclude the tour with a visit to the famed Old Quarter known for its ‘36 streets of 36 wares’ named after the original 36 artisan guilds that date as far back as the 13 th century. Explore the fascinating maze of back streets, fronted by narrow houses known as “tunnel” or “tube houses”, built to avoid taxes based on the width of their frontage onto the street, a wonderfully eclectic glimpse into Hanoi street life.

We end our day with dinner at a local restaurant.

Distance: 7-8 km
Ascent: minimal
Descent: minimal
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Silk Boutique Hotel

DAY 8
Departure

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before being transferred to the airport or if you wish, continue on with further travels.

Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 3 and 4 star hotels

  • Epic Hiking

  • Luggage transfers

  • Accommodation in luxurious rooms with daily breakfast
  • Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicles throughout the tour
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary, including a welcome dinner
  • Experienced English-speaking local guides to enhance your experience
  • Snacks and drinking water provided during each days walk
  • Entry fees for all highlighted sites and activities
  • A scenic boat trip to Galaxy Grotto for a unique perspective of the limestone caves

 

Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

We stay in a selection of charming accommodations, including the Golden Silk Boutique Hotel in Hanoi and the peaceful Mai Chau Ecolodge. Each venue has been carefully chosen for comfort and local character, providing a memorable and relaxing retreat after a day of adventures.

Dining experiences feature a blend of traditional Vietnamese dishes and modern interpretations all showcasing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Look forward to delightful meals at local restaurants, as well as enjoying the unique flavours of homestays that reflect the culture and hospitality of the regions you visit.

 

  • Night 1 & 7

  • NIGHTS 2 & 3

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHTS 5 & 6

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10. Moderate to challenging overall.

ngraph

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation is not a major consideration regarding how you train. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training as it will increase your endurance.

UNEVERN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a nuanced blend of physical and mental readiness. Commence your regimen with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a foundational groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is pivotal, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups to enhance both stability and power. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement. The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

These tours operate in the best times of the year to hike in this region.

THE WALKING

The walking on this tour is on a mixture of terrain. Days in Hanoi, the Mai Chau valley and Ninh Binh are on easy terrain which is in flat countryside, some paved roads, and village trails.

The hiking during the middle of the tour is on a mixture of paved and unpaved paths through jungle, karst mountain, villages and farms.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

This tour starts and ends in Hanoi. Hanoi has an International airport and is serviced by many airlines.

The trip starts with a transfer from the International Airport to your accommodation. If you are already in Vietnam and Hanoi then you can simply meet at the hotel. Our hotel is the Golden Silk Hotel (109-111 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem District).

A useful planning tool for travel is Rome2Rio should you be travelling from or to other destinations.

 

LUGGAGE

There are no luggage restrictions other than what you have on your airline. You will need to carry personal items you require or wish to carry each day whilst your luggage is transferred between accommodations.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 9 May 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $480
    BOOK NOW
  • 16 May 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $480
    BOOK NOW
  • 3 Oct 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $480
    BOOK NOW
  • 10 Oct 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3195

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $480
    BOOK NOW
Similar Trips

SIMILAR TRIPS

Kumano Kodo Nakahechi – 7 Days

Group-guided

Be guided through Kumano’s sacred mountains over 7 days from Tanabe to Nachisan. Traverse mountains and forests, through villages to ancient temples and waterfalls.

 Group-guided 7 Days From $3495 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Kumano Kodo Nakahechi – 7 Days

BACK What's Included
  • Relax and enjoy being fully supported on our guided walk on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi end to end
  • Hike via magnificent shrines ending at the glorious Nachi waterfall and temple complex
  • Walk with a light pack only with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • 6-nights accommodation in both Western style hotels and traditional Japanese lodgings some with in-house onsens
  • Traditional Japanese meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk.  Plus 4 walkers lunches – all inclusive except 1 lunch
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with our guide leading the way and 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground
  • All transfers between hikes and to accommodation during the tour

Nakasendo & The Kaida Plateau – 6 Days

Group-guided

Group Guided walk staying in Japanese Ryokans, all Japanese style elaborate dinners and breakfasts: the Kaido Plateau: includes the Kiso Valley section: cedar forest and waterfalls

 Group-guided 6 Days From $3195 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Nakasendo & The Kaida Plateau – 6 Days

BACK What's Included
  • Guided walking holiday experience
  • Explore the beautiful Kaida Kogen Plateau in the hills north of Kiso-Fukushima
  • 5 nights stay in a family-run Ryokan or Hotels
  • Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day
  • Walk with a light pack, with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • Beautiful views and authentic Japanese cultural experience

Northern Vietnam: Sapa and Halong Bay – 9 Days

Group-guided

Experience the best of northern Vietnam, take an overnight train to Sapa. Trek through breathtaking mountain landscapes, visit remote ethnic villages.

 Group-guided 9 Days From $2795 Moderate What's Included

Northern Vietnam: Sapa and Halong Bay – 9 Days

BACK What's Included
    • 8 breakfasts, 8 dinners and 8 lunches.
    • Transfers during the tour are in an air-conditioned private bus.
    • Professional, passionate and local English-speaking hiking guide
    • 1 nights accommodation in Hanoi
    • 2 nights’ accommodation on the overnight train to and from Sapa in 2-berth rooms
    • 4 nights’ accommodation in a hotel in central Sapa
    • Luggage transfers during the tour
    • Walk pack-free and relax knowing you are walking with a company that has 30 years of experience
    • Welcome dinner night 1 in Hanoi
    • Airport transfers upon arrival
    • Walking & Street food tours in Hanoi
    • 2 Day 1 Night luxury boat cruise in Ha Long Bay

Great Wall of China – 7 Days

Group-guided

Walk along remote sections of the Great Wall, uncover 2000 years of history, sample rural Chinese life, and experience vibrant Beijing, your gateway to further adventures in China.

 Group-guided 7 Days From $3595 Challenging What's Included

Great Wall of China – 7 Days

BACK What's Included
  • Relax and enjoy being fully supported on our guided walk on the Great Wall of China
  • Walk with a light pack only
  • 6 nights’ accommodation in both Western-style hotels and comfortable rural guest houses.
  • All inclusive of meals, transport from Beijing and accommodation
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with our guide leading the way
  • 6 weeks from departure, a walking pack including trip notes
  • The security of Auswalks’ 30 years of experience running and curating walking holidays

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