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OVERVIEW

Experience the best of northern Vietnam, starting in Hanoi. Here, you’ll explore historic streets, visit ancient landmarks, and dive into the city’s vibrant food scene before taking an overnight train to Sapa in the country’s mountain interior.

Trek through breathtaking mountain landscapes, visit remote ethnic villages, and discover the stunning rice terraces of Muong Hoa Valley. Wander through bamboo forests, explore hidden caves, and take in panoramic views from dramatic mountain passes.

Wrap up your journey with a 2-day, 1-night cruise on the stunning Halong Bay, where towering limestone karsts rise from emerald waters. Here you can explore caves, relax on deck and enjoy this luxurious end to the tour.

Highlights

  • Walking street food tour in Hanoi
  • Explore Hanoi on a guided tour of the city
  • Overnight sleeper train to Sapa
  • English-speaking guides who will bring the destination to life
  • Explore Sapa on foot
  • Visit remote ethnic villages
  • Luxury cruise on Halong Bay

 

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
GROUP GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
9 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
$ 2795

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 730

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

  • GUIDED

  • ECO TRAVEL

  • 30 YEARS

  • 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 9

DAY 1
Arrival Hanoi

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Upon arrival, you will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your awaiting hotel. The standard check-in time is from 14:00. At 18:00, you will meet your guide in the hotel lobby/restaurant, from there we will head out to a local Vietnamese restaurant for a welcome dinner and briefing.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Rex Hotel

DAY 2
Explore Hanoi and overnight train to Lao Cai

This morning we start with a walking tour with your guide around Hanoi, taking in sights such as the Hanoi Opera House, a distinguished example of French architecture in the capital of Vietnam, Ba Da Pagoda, a religious and historic site of Hanoi in the
The Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake are iconic and are in the heart of Hanoi.
After this exploratory walk in the morning, you can discover the capital yourself and explore the many, many food options as you wish, but save some space….
At 16:30, your expert local guide will give you an insight into the intricacies and traditions of Vietnamese food culture, including details on ingredients and historical backgrounds of popular northern dishes. You will eat as you go and immerse yourself in the atmospheric heart of the Old Quarter. Wander past street stalls and quiet residential lanes to observe local life that has changed little since Hanoi was founded over 1000 years ago. The street food tour in the late afternoon involves around 3 km of walking.

There is a day room in the hotel to use back at the hotel before we head to Hanoi Railway Station later that evening to take the overnight train to Lao Cai.

Walking: 8.4km

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train in 2-berth cabins. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided.

Meals: Breakfast, Street food tour & Dinner

DAY 3
Lao Cai- Sapa- Y Linh Ho

Upon arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to Sapa, where we will enjoy a local breakfast and a short rest before we commence our hiking. Your luggage will be transferred to the hotel, so please be ready for hiking when we arrive in Sapa. We will walk southeast of Sapa along the side of the Muong Hoa Valley to Y Linh Ho village, home to the H’mong people. We will visit the local village and then proceed to Lao Chai village. Our private bus will be waiting for you to take you back to your awaiting hotel and luggage in Sapa.

Walking: 11km / 4 to 5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Cat Cat View Hotel or of a similar standard.

DAY 4
Sapa – Su Pan - Giang Ta Chai - Sapa

After breakfast, it’s a short transfer on our bus (25 mins). From there we’ll walk to discover the small village of Su Pan. From here we continue into the Hoang Lien National Park, which contains an amazing bamboo forest and numerous waterfalls.

Walking: 11km / 4 to 5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Cat Cat View Hotel or a similar standard.

DAY 5
Sapa – O Quy Ho – Sin Chai - Sapa

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the starting point in O Quy Ho Pass – one
of the most impressive and challenging mountain passes in the northern region of Vietnam. We start our walk today in Sin Chai village, which is located right at the foot of the Hoang Lien
mountain range.

Walking: 15.5km /  5 to 6 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Cat Cat View Hotel or of a similar standard.

DAY 6
Sapa – Ma Tra - Ta Phin - Sapa

A quick transfer this morning to Ma Tra village, we head off the main road, onto hilly mountainous trails surrounded by lush vegetation. Ma Tra has around 50 households, populated by the local H’mong people. After about 3 hours ‘ walk from Ma Tra, you will then reach Taphin village, where the red Dao and H’mong reside. With this mix of ethnicity, the culture of this village is exciting and colourful. Lunch will be served en route.  You will also have a chance to visit the unique caves in the Taphin area. The village also has an old monastery built during the French colonial period. There is also an arts and crafts house that displays and sells authentic jewellery made by the locals.

Walking: 8km / 3 to 4 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Cat Cat View Hotel or of a similar standard.

DAY 7
Sapa – Ham Rong – Lao Cai – Overnight train to Hanoi

This morning we walk straight from the town to Ham Rong Mountain. Its name is derived from the shape of its peak, which resembles the jaw of a dragon. It offers unrivalled views and panoramic vistas of Sapa and the surrounding mountains. After the amazing view, we walk back to the town to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, enjoy free time exploring Sapa town, or we will continue our walk to the nearby Cat Cat village.

Late afternoon walk back to the hotel and take a shower before an early dinner tonight, we then say goodbye to Sapa to transfer to Lao Cai Station for the overnight train to Hanoi.

Walking: Approx 10km /4hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Overnight sleep train in 2 berth cabins a sheet, pillow and blanket are provided.

DAY 8
Hanoi- Halong Bay

After arriving back in Hanoi, you will be picked up from the railway station, and we will head to a local restaurant for a typical regional breakfast. You will then be transferred to another fascinating land, the gem in northern Vietnam, Halong Bay.
From the harbour, board our boat for a cruise among the numerous limestone karsts rising from the emerald water. After a welcome drink and special lunch aboard, sit back as we cruise to Lan Ha Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Immerse yourself in the emerald water, go kayaking, and enjoy the top-deck Jacuzzi. In the evening, you can join the chefs for a cooking demonstration of authentic spring rolls.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Luxury 2-berth rooms aboard Peony cruises

DAY 9
Halong Bay- Trung Trang Cave- Hanoi

Revel in the luxury this morning of your cabins or opt for an early morning Tai Chi session on deck before breakfast. Later in the morning, you can join a tour to Trung Tran, one of the most impressive limestone caves on Cat Ba Island. Enjoy your time sunbathing and relaxing with the fascinating bay landscape all around you. After brunch on board – around 11.30 am, we then dock and transfer you back to Hanoi, arriving at approx 14:-15:00, where we end our tour.

Walking: Approx 1km / 1 hr

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 3 & 4 star

  • all inclusive

  • CHEF PREPARED MEALS

  • boat transfers

    • 8 breakfasts, 8 dinners and 8 lunches.
    • Transfers during the tour are in an air-conditioned private bus.
    • 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

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

We have an array of accommodations on this tour. For your initial night in Hanoi, we stay at the Rex Hotel Hanoi. Centrally located, the Rex Hanoi Hotel provides concierge services and also welcomes guests with a restaurant and an indoor pool.

Travelling between Hanoi and the hill town of Sapa is a long drive. What better way to do it than on an overnight train journey in a comfortable two-berth room on one of the most luxurious trains from Hanoi to Sapa? We travel overnight to save time and ensure we maximise our time in the mountains. The train provides all modern comforts and is a delightful way to travel.

In Sapa, we stay at the comfortable and perfectly positioned Cat Cat hotel.

Your final night on this diverse tour is on the luxury boats of Peony Cruises, two of the Most Luxurious Yachts in Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. With a luxury restaurant and spacious Cabins with Private Balconies, it’s a perfect way to unwind after exploring the mountains.

  • Night 1

  • NIGHT 2 & 7

  • Nights 3, 4, 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.

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance training is always a consideration in your overall training program, so take every opportunity you can to walk. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan. But the walking is not long, but there are some longer days in the itinerary.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 16km daily. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. 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.

FLAT TERRAIN

Whilst training for walking on flat, hard terrain focus on building endurance and ensuring you can maintain a comfortable pace.

Start with regular walks on sidewalks, roads, or paved paths to get used to the surface. Maintain a proper posture and engage your core muscles to support your back, keeping a steady gait. Ensure that you have comfortable, supportive footwear with adequate cushioning. If endurance is important, consider incorporating low-impact cross-training activities like swimming or cycling into your routine.

GENERAL INFO

THE WALKING

Most of the hiking on this tour takes place in the mountains surrounding Sapa on well-formed paths and rural back roads.

 

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

This tour starts and ends in Hanoi. Hanoi has an International airport and is served 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 Rex Hanoi Hotel at 42-44 Gia Ngu ward, Hang Bac District

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

 

LUGGAGE

Your luggage will be transferred with you to all accommodations on the tour, including the Ha Long boat tour.

 

INSURANCE

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

You must have purchased travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage for all trips that require international travel.

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.

INFORMATION PACK

For over 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

ABEL TASMAN MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

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

    $2795

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $730
    BOOK NOW
  • 20 Sep 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2795

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $730
    BOOK NOW
  • 4 Oct 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2795

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $730
    BOOK NOW
  • 18 Oct 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2795

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $730
    BOOK NOW

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Overview

OVERVIEW

Experience the best of northern Vietnam, starting in Hanoi. Here, you’ll explore historic streets, visit ancient landmarks, and dive into the city’s vibrant food scene before taking an overnight train to Sapa in the country’s mountain interior.

Trek through breathtaking mountain landscapes, visit remote ethnic villages, and discover the stunning rice terraces of Muong Hoa Valley. Wander through bamboo forests, explore hidden caves, and take in panoramic views from dramatic mountain passes.

Wrap up your journey with a 2-day, 1-night cruise on the stunning Halong Bay, where towering limestone karsts rise from emerald waters. Here you can explore caves, relax on deck and enjoy this luxurious end to the tour.

Highlights

  • Walking street food tour in Hanoi
  • Explore Hanoi on a guided tour of the city
  • Overnight sleeper train to Sapa
  • English-speaking guides who will bring the destination to life
  • Explore Sapa on foot
  • Visit remote ethnic villages
  • Luxury cruise on Halong Bay

 

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
GROUP GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
9 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
$ 2795

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 730

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

  • GUIDED

  • ECO TRAVEL

  • 30 YEARS

  • 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 9

DAY 1
Arrival Hanoi

Xin chao! Welcome to Vietnam. Upon arrival, you will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your awaiting hotel. The standard check-in time is from 14:00. At 18:00, you will meet your guide in the hotel lobby/restaurant, from there we will head out to a local Vietnamese restaurant for a welcome dinner and briefing.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Rex Hotel

DAY 2
Explore Hanoi and overnight train to Lao Cai

This morning we start with a walking tour with your guide around Hanoi, taking in sights such as the Hanoi Opera House, a distinguished example of French architecture in the capital of Vietnam, Ba Da Pagoda, a religious and historic site of Hanoi in the
The Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake are iconic and are in the heart of Hanoi.
After this exploratory walk in the morning, you can discover the capital yourself and explore the many, many food options as you wish, but save some space….
At 16:30, your expert local guide will give you an insight into the intricacies and traditions of Vietnamese food culture, including details on ingredients and historical backgrounds of popular northern dishes. You will eat as you go and immerse yourself in the atmospheric heart of the Old Quarter. Wander past street stalls and quiet residential lanes to observe local life that has changed little since Hanoi was founded over 1000 years ago. The street food tour in the late afternoon involves around 3 km of walking.

There is a day room in the hotel to use back at the hotel before we head to Hanoi Railway Station later that evening to take the overnight train to Lao Cai.

Walking: 8.4km

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train in 2-berth cabins. A sheet, pillow and blanket are provided.

Meals: Breakfast, Street food tour & Dinner

DAY 3
Lao Cai- Sapa- Y Linh Ho

Upon arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to Sapa, where we will enjoy a local breakfast and a short rest before we commence our hiking. Your luggage will be transferred to the hotel, so please be ready for hiking when we arrive in Sapa. We will walk southeast of Sapa along the side of the Muong Hoa Valley to Y Linh Ho village, home to the H’mong people. We will visit the local village and then proceed to Lao Chai village. Our private bus will be waiting for you to take you back to your awaiting hotel and luggage in Sapa.

Walking: 11km / 4 to 5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Cat Cat View Hotel or of a similar standard.

DAY 4
Sapa – Su Pan - Giang Ta Chai - Sapa

After breakfast, it’s a short transfer on our bus (25 mins). From there we’ll walk to discover the small village of Su Pan. From here we continue into the Hoang Lien National Park, which contains an amazing bamboo forest and numerous waterfalls.

Walking: 11km / 4 to 5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Cat Cat View Hotel or a similar standard.

DAY 5
Sapa – O Quy Ho – Sin Chai - Sapa

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the starting point in O Quy Ho Pass – one
of the most impressive and challenging mountain passes in the northern region of Vietnam. We start our walk today in Sin Chai village, which is located right at the foot of the Hoang Lien
mountain range.

Walking: 15.5km /  5 to 6 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Cat Cat View Hotel or of a similar standard.

DAY 6
Sapa – Ma Tra - Ta Phin - Sapa

A quick transfer this morning to Ma Tra village, we head off the main road, onto hilly mountainous trails surrounded by lush vegetation. Ma Tra has around 50 households, populated by the local H’mong people. After about 3 hours ‘ walk from Ma Tra, you will then reach Taphin village, where the red Dao and H’mong reside. With this mix of ethnicity, the culture of this village is exciting and colourful. Lunch will be served en route.  You will also have a chance to visit the unique caves in the Taphin area. The village also has an old monastery built during the French colonial period. There is also an arts and crafts house that displays and sells authentic jewellery made by the locals.

Walking: 8km / 3 to 4 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Cat Cat View Hotel or of a similar standard.

DAY 7
Sapa – Ham Rong – Lao Cai – Overnight train to Hanoi

This morning we walk straight from the town to Ham Rong Mountain. Its name is derived from the shape of its peak, which resembles the jaw of a dragon. It offers unrivalled views and panoramic vistas of Sapa and the surrounding mountains. After the amazing view, we walk back to the town to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, enjoy free time exploring Sapa town, or we will continue our walk to the nearby Cat Cat village.

Late afternoon walk back to the hotel and take a shower before an early dinner tonight, we then say goodbye to Sapa to transfer to Lao Cai Station for the overnight train to Hanoi.

Walking: Approx 10km /4hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Overnight sleep train in 2 berth cabins a sheet, pillow and blanket are provided.

DAY 8
Hanoi- Halong Bay

After arriving back in Hanoi, you will be picked up from the railway station, and we will head to a local restaurant for a typical regional breakfast. You will then be transferred to another fascinating land, the gem in northern Vietnam, Halong Bay.
From the harbour, board our boat for a cruise among the numerous limestone karsts rising from the emerald water. After a welcome drink and special lunch aboard, sit back as we cruise to Lan Ha Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Immerse yourself in the emerald water, go kayaking, and enjoy the top-deck Jacuzzi. In the evening, you can join the chefs for a cooking demonstration of authentic spring rolls.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Luxury 2-berth rooms aboard Peony cruises

DAY 9
Halong Bay- Trung Trang Cave- Hanoi

Revel in the luxury this morning of your cabins or opt for an early morning Tai Chi session on deck before breakfast. Later in the morning, you can join a tour to Trung Tran, one of the most impressive limestone caves on Cat Ba Island. Enjoy your time sunbathing and relaxing with the fascinating bay landscape all around you. After brunch on board – around 11.30 am, we then dock and transfer you back to Hanoi, arriving at approx 14:-15:00, where we end our tour.

Walking: Approx 1km / 1 hr

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 3 & 4 star

  • all inclusive

  • CHEF PREPARED MEALS

  • boat transfers

    • 8 breakfasts, 8 dinners and 8 lunches.
    • Transfers during the tour are in an air-conditioned private bus.
    • 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
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

We have an array of accommodations on this tour. For your initial night in Hanoi, we stay at the Rex Hotel Hanoi. Centrally located, the Rex Hanoi Hotel provides concierge services and also welcomes guests with a restaurant and an indoor pool.

Travelling between Hanoi and the hill town of Sapa is a long drive. What better way to do it than on an overnight train journey in a comfortable two-berth room on one of the most luxurious trains from Hanoi to Sapa? We travel overnight to save time and ensure we maximise our time in the mountains. The train provides all modern comforts and is a delightful way to travel.

In Sapa, we stay at the comfortable and perfectly positioned Cat Cat hotel.

Your final night on this diverse tour is on the luxury boats of Peony Cruises, two of the Most Luxurious Yachts in Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. With a luxury restaurant and spacious Cabins with Private Balconies, it’s a perfect way to unwind after exploring the mountains.

  • Night 1

  • NIGHT 2 & 7

  • Nights 3, 4, 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.

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance training is always a consideration in your overall training program, so take every opportunity you can to walk. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan. But the walking is not long, but there are some longer days in the itinerary.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 16km daily. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. 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.

FLAT TERRAIN

Whilst training for walking on flat, hard terrain focus on building endurance and ensuring you can maintain a comfortable pace.

Start with regular walks on sidewalks, roads, or paved paths to get used to the surface. Maintain a proper posture and engage your core muscles to support your back, keeping a steady gait. Ensure that you have comfortable, supportive footwear with adequate cushioning. If endurance is important, consider incorporating low-impact cross-training activities like swimming or cycling into your routine.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

THE WALKING

Most of the hiking on this tour takes place in the mountains surrounding Sapa on well-formed paths and rural back roads.

 

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

This tour starts and ends in Hanoi. Hanoi has an International airport and is served 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 Rex Hanoi Hotel at 42-44 Gia Ngu ward, Hang Bac District

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

 

LUGGAGE

Your luggage will be transferred with you to all accommodations on the tour, including the Ha Long boat tour.

 

INSURANCE

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

You must have purchased travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage for all trips that require international travel.

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.

INFORMATION PACK

For over 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

ABEL TASMAN MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

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

    $2795

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $730
    BOOK NOW
  • 20 Sep 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2795

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $730
    BOOK NOW
  • 4 Oct 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2795

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $730
    BOOK NOW
  • 18 Oct 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2795

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $730
    BOOK NOW
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ENQUIRE NOW

If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.

Get in touch