Nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s northern countryside, a remarkable day trip awaits those seeking to enjoy the vibrant cultures of the Dzay and Hmong people. This journey through the picturesque villages of Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Van, and Cat Cat promises an unforgettable experience, where visitors can witness the intricate traditions and stunning natural wonders that have captivated travelers for generations. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this day trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Vietnam’s ethnic diversity and uncover the hidden gems that make this region so truly remarkable.
Key Points

- This day trip explores several ethnic villages, including Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Van, and Cat Cat, offering a culture experience.
- The tour includes trekking through scenic rice terraces, visiting a local restaurant for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and exploring the Cat Cat village and waterfall.
- The tour is led by an English-speaking local guide who provides information about the villages and ethnic groups, enhancing the cultural learning experience.
- The tour is priced at $46.68 per person, with a maximum of 12 participants, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years, wheelchair users, or people over 80 years, and preparation for trekking conditions is recommended.
Tour Overview

This day trip visit provides an opportunity to explore the diverse ethnic villages around Sapa, including Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Van, and Cat Cat Village.
Priced from $46.68 per person, the tour lasts one day and is limited to 12 participants. Available in English and Vietnamese, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary includes a morning trek through rice terraces, a visit to the Dzay ethnic village of Ta Van, and an afternoon exploring the Black H’mong village of Cat Cat, including a waterfall.
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Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins with a pickup from the hotel in Sapa Town around 8:15-8:30 AM.
The day trip begins with a pickup from the hotel in Sapa Town around 8:15-8:30 AM.
Trekking through rice terraces, visitors reach Lao Chai village in 1.5 hours. They then trek to Ta Van village, home of the Dzay ethnic people, for another 1.5 hours.
After lunch at a local restaurant, the group walks to Cat Cat village, home of the Black H’mong people.
Exploring local life, visiting a waterfall, and trekking back to Sapa takes 4.5 hours. The return to Sapa is by a modern air-conditioned bus.
Included Services

The tour package includes a modern air-conditioned bus for transportation from Lao Chai to Sapa.
The services provided also include:
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An English-speaking local guide in Sapa to lead the tour and provide information about the villages and ethnic groups.
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A lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a chance to try authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
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Entrance tickets to the indicated sites, ensuring smooth access to the attractions.
While beverages, travel insurance, VAT, and personal expenses aren’t included, the package covers the essential elements for a seamless day trip experience.
Important Information

Although the day trip to Y Linh Ho and the local villages is suitable for most travelers, there are a few important considerations. Hikers should bring sun hats, cameras, drinks, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and pants. The tour is not recommended for children under 2 years, wheelchair users, or people over 80 years. Travelers can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
| What to Bring | Not Suitable For | Reservation |
| — | — | — |
| Sun hat | Children under 2 years | Reserve now & pay later |
| Camera | Wheelchair users | Cancel up to 24 hours in advance |
| Drinks | People over 80 years | Full refund |
| Hiking shoes | | |
| Sunscreen | | |
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the day trip, with an impressive 5/5 rating based on a single verified review.
The review commends the guided hike, praising the wealth of information provided by the knowledgeable guide.
Key highlights from the review include:
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"Very nice hike with lots of information."
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"The guides were great."
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The reviewer, Hauke from Germany, booked the tour in November 2024.
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Exploring Y Linh Ho

What does the day trip to Y Linh Ho entail?
The tour begins with a short drive from Sapa Town to Y Linh Ho. Trekkers then embark on a 1.5-hour hike through picturesque rice terraces to reach Lao Chai village. The path offers stunning vistas of the valley below.
After exploring Lao Chai, the group continues trekking for another 1.5 hours to Ta Van, home of the Dzay ethnic minority. This scenic journey allows participants to enjoy the local culture and witness the daily life of these mountainous communities.
Trekking to Lao Chai and Ta Van

After departing Y Linh Ho, trekkers embark on a 1.5-hour hike through the captivating rice terraces, which offer breathtaking vistas of the lush valley below.
The trek takes them to the Lao Chai village, home to the Dzay ethnic minority. Visitors can:
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Observe the traditional way of life and cultural practices of the Dzay people.
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Learn about the intricate process of rice cultivation and the importance of these terraced fields.
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Interact with the friendly locals and gain a deeper understanding of their community.
The trek continues to the nearby Ta Van village, where trekkers can further enjoy the vibrant ethnic minority culture.
Discovering Cat Cat Village

The trek continues to the nearby Cat Cat village, home to the Black H’mong ethnic group. Guests explore the local life, visiting a scenic waterfall and trekking back to Sapa over 2 hours. The village offers a glimpse into traditional Hmong culture and way of life.
| What to Expect | Information |
| — | — |
| Explore Cat Cat Village | Home of the Black H’mong ethnic group |
| Visit Local Waterfall | Scenic natural attraction |
| 2-Hour Trek Back to Sapa | Leisurely walk back to town |
After immersing in the vibrant cultures of Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, and Ta Van, the day trip concludes with the visit to Cat Cat village, capping off an unforgettable experience in the Sapa region.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The tour details indicate the group size is limited to 12 participants, so a private booking would be possible for smaller groups.
What Is the Refund Policy for This Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows customers to book with confidence and get their money back if their plans change.
Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?
The tour offers vegetarian and vegan meal options upon request. Guests can inform the tour operator of any dietary requirements when booking, and the local restaurant will accommodate those needs during the included lunch.
Can I Purchase Additional Travel Insurance?
Yes, travelers can purchase additional travel insurance for the tour. The tour operator doesn’t include travel insurance, but customers can opt to buy their own comprehensive coverage before the trip.
How Difficult Is the Trekking on This Tour?
The trekking on this tour is moderately difficult, with a total distance of around 7.5 hours across various terrain. It involves hill climbs and uneven paths, suitable for most active adults but not recommended for children or seniors.
The Sum Up
Discover the enchanting ethnic villages of Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Van, and Cat Cat on this immersive day trip. Venture through lush rice terraces, savor Vietnamese cuisine, and marvel at a stunning waterfall. With knowledgeable guides, you’ll gain cultural insights and experience the rich traditions of the Dzay and Hmong communities. This unforgettable adventure promises breathtaking scenery and a deeper understanding of the region’s vibrant heritage.
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