Son La
2 days, 1 night
AH-SL05
6/10
DESCRIBE

If you are looking for a rewarding trekking journey in northern Vietnam, this experience is an excellent choice. The tour combines the challenge of climbing Pha Luong Peak with some of Moc Chau’s most iconic landscapes, from tea hills and waterfalls to remote mountain villages near the Vietnam–Laos border. It is ideal for active travelers who want more than a sightseeing trip and are looking for a mix of trekking, nature, and highland scenery. Official tourism sources describe Pha Luong as the “roof of Moc Chau,” famous for its dense forest trail, dramatic rock outcrop, and sweeping cross-border views.

Highlights

  • Trek to Pha Luong Peak, one of Moc Chau’s best-known adventure routes
  • Enjoy panoramic mountain views near the Vietnam–Laos border
  • Visit Dai Yem Waterfall and the iconic heart-shaped tea hills of Moc Chau
  • Experience local life with an overnight stay in Pha Luong Village
  • Capture dramatic photos on the famous rock ledge near the summit
SUMMARY
  • Departure Point: Hanoi

  • Duration: 2 days, 1 night

  • Destination: Son La

  • Activities: Trekking

  • Min : 6 people

  • Best time: Sep - Apr

  • Max : 20 people

  • Difficulty level: 6/10

ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi – Moc Chau – Dai Yem Waterfall – Tea Hills – Pha Luong Village

08:00 Meet your guide in Hanoi and depart for Moc Chau. Enjoy short breaks along the way.

12:00 Arrive in Moc Chau and have lunch at a local restaurant.

14:00 Visit Dai Yem Waterfall and the heart-shaped tea hills, two of Moc Chau’s best-known scenic stops.

15:30 Continue to Chieng Son. From the vehicle drop-off point, walk around 2 km into Pha Luong Village.

Check in at the homestay and enjoy free time to explore the village, relax, or take a short walk around the surrounding terraced fields.

19:00 Dinner and overnight at the homestay.

* Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Pha Luong Trek – Return to Hanoi

06:00 Breakfast at the homestay. Prepare for the trek.

07:00 Begin the trek through the forest to conquer Pha Luong Peak.

10:30 Reach the summit area. Enjoy the mountain views, check in at the famous rock ledge, and take in the spectacular scenery near the Vietnam–Laos border.

12:30 Picnic lunch on the way down.

14:30 Return to Pha Luong Village.

15:30 Depart for Hanoi. Stop in Moc Chau for local products and a dinner break on the way.

21:00 – 21:30 Arrive in Hanoi. End of the program.

* Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

Exclusion: 

  • Round-trip vehicle Hanoi – Son La - Hanoi
  • Personal expenses
  • Meals as the schedule on the itinerary
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Tour guides and porters
  • Beverages during meal
  • Homestay in Pha Luong Village
  • Other kinds of beverage unlist in the tour program
  • Trekking poles, backpack, and water bottle
  • Cable car ticket
  • Daily drinking water and snacks

 

  • Pha Luong trekking permit

 

  • Entrance tickets

 

  • Travel insurance

 

  • Souvenir medal

 

 

 

THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Equipment provided by VAH:

What to bring:

Also recommended:

  • Trekking pole
  • Insect repellent
  • First-aid kit
  • Gloves
  • Backpack (10L)
  • Reusable bottle

 

  • Hiking shoes/ walking sandals
  • Backpack (10L–20L)
  • clothing: long-sleeved swimwear (rash guard) or T-shirt and shorts
  • Sun protection: hat/cap, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Personal medications
  • Electronics (Mobile phone, camera, power bank...), appropriate waterproof cases
  • ID or passport
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Spare clothing
  • Waterproof phone pouch
  • Multi - tool

 

 

IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Trekking Notes

  • Distance: The trekking route is approximately 6 to 7 km.
  • Terrain: The journey will be fairly demanding, as reaching the summit requires following a single steep trail with several physically challenging sections that test endurance. Along the way, the route passes through scenic stream crossings and picturesque terraced rice fields, offering landscapes of exceptional natural beauty.
  • Suitability: This route is ideal for most fitness levels, including beginners. But not for children under the age of 14.

2. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable Reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). Refill stations will be provided throughout the trip.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

3. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical fitness: Train by running or kayaking/SUP at least two weeks in advance. Run 2–3 sessions per week, about 5 km per session. Alternatively, paddle 2–3 sessions per week, covering 5–7 km per session.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.