Northwest and Northeast Vietnam Circuit

Hello, We’ll arrive in Hanoi on April 17, 2025, and plan to head to the Northwest (Sapa region) and Northeast starting on April 20. How many days do you recommend for this trip? We’re two couples and a 4-year-old child. Should we book through an agency in Hanoi and do the circuit by van, or can we manage with buses—like an overnight bus from Hanoi to Sapa, then 2–3 days in the Sapa region, followed by a bus from Sapa to Ha Giang for a 3-day loop? Thanks in advance for your tips, itinerary ideas, accommodation suggestions, guesthouses, restaurants, and any great deals!

hi

if you can afford it, it’s best to rent a car with a driver, especially with a 4-year-old. You’re more flexible if you want to stop for photos or anything else—the driver stops whenever you want, which isn’t the case with a bus. Sapa, Bac Ha, Ha Giang, Dong Van, Cao Bang, Ba Be Lake—if you’ve got the time, plan for 10 days to soak it all in without rushing.

Hi there, Thanks for your reply. We’ve decided to go with the driver option after all. We already have a few quotes, including one from the Mikey Ha Giang agency offering 1 driver and 1 English- or French-speaking guide.

I rented a motorbike from Strawberry Ha Giang Loop, and that day, they offered to let me ride alongside a group on an organized tour, so they could help me in case of a police check (since I didn’t have a license) and also so I could benefit from having a local guide.

The owner, Tuan, is really thoughtful and very professional. He always looks for the best solution for his clients. People who rent a motorbike or book a tour with them can even stay one night for free before departure.

Throughout the trip, they were very available and attentive to our safety. This is a place I sincerely recommend to all travelers. You can really trust this team! 😊