Lao Cai
1 day
AH-LC19
4/10
$59 USD
WHY THIS TOUR?

This tour is a great choice for travelers who want to experience the cultural diversity and scenic beauty of northern Vietnam in one day. The journey combines the colorful atmosphere of Can Cau Market, where several ethnic groups gather in traditional dress, with a peaceful visit to Trung Do Village of the Tay people and a relaxing boat cruise along the Chay River. It is an ideal trip for guests who enjoy ethnic markets, local culture, photography, and beautiful countryside landscapes.

Highlights

  • Visit the colorful Can Cau Market
  • See traditional costumes of the Flower H’mong, Black Dao, and Phu La people
  • Enjoy lunch in Bac Ha Town
  • Visit Trung Do Village of the Tay community
  • Explore a traditional Tay house
  • Take a scenic boat cruise on the Chay River
  • A perfect combination of market culture, village life, and river scenery
SUMMARY
  • Departure Point: Lao Cai

  • Duration: 1 day

  • Destination: Lao Cai

  • Activities: Special Interest

  • Min : 2 people

  • Best time: Year-round

  • Max : 20 people

  • Difficulty level: 4/10

ITINERARY
Lao Cai – Can Cau Market – Bac Ha – Trung Do Village – Chay River – Lao Cai

You will be met by your local guide and driver upon arrival at Lao Cai Station and transferred to a local restaurant for breakfast (optional).

After that, begin the drive to Can Cau Market. The road is relatively flat from Lao Cai to Bao Nhai Bridge. After crossing the bridge, the route gradually climbs uphill and offers beautiful views over the surrounding valleys.

Located about 20 km from Bac Ha, Can Cau Market is a small but very colorful ethnic market. Open only on Saturdays, it is known for its vibrant atmosphere and the traditional clothing of the Flower H’mong, Black Dao, and Phu La people. Spend the whole morning exploring the market and enjoying its unique local character.

After the market visit, continue to Bac Ha Town for lunch.

In the afternoon, drive back toward Lao Cai for around 30 minutes. On the way, stop for a short walk to Trung Do Village, home to the Tay people. Tay villages are often located at the foot of mountains or along streams, and their houses are traditionally built on stilts or directly on the ground. Here, visit a traditional Tay house for a short cultural stop.

After that, take a boat cruise upstream on the Chay River. The scenery on both sides of the river is very beautiful and peaceful. The boat trip ends at Bao Nhai Bridge, where the vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Lao Cai. End of the tour.

* Approximate duration:

  • Driving: 6 hours
  • Boat cruise: 30 minutes
  • Walking: 30 minutes
  • Lunch: 1 hour

* Note: If the water level is not suitable for the boat trip, the experience can be replaced with a buffalo cart ride in Trung Do Village.

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

  • English speaking guide 
  • Transportation
  • All indicated meals 
  • All entrance fees and permits
  • All needed accommodation (Hotel or homestay if any)
  • Boat on Chay River (if any)

Exclusion:

  • Tips
  • Soft drink (beer, coca cola…)
  • Medical Insurance
  • All other services not indicated above