Epworth Sapa eco-camp Challenge

Support Epworth and discover northern Vietnam’s stunning terraced landscapes and vibrant ethnic cultures on guided day walks from the comfort of a boutique ecolodge

Challenge Highlights

  • Unwind in the misty mountains and rice terraces of northern Vietnam’s Hoang Lien National Park
  • Stay in a sustainable ecolodge set high on a peaceful mountain ridgeline, with stone bungalows, infinity pools and panoramic views over Sapa’s rice terraces
  • Enjoy guided walks through terraced valleys, bamboo forests and quiet mountain paths
  • Explore remote hill tribe villages and meet H’mong and Red Dao artisans, known for their vibrant traditional dress and intricate embroidery
  • Travel alongside an Epworth representative

Overview

Immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of northern Vietnam on this 8-day journey through Hanoi and the spectacular landscapes of Sapa. From the vibrant streets of the capital to the serene mountains of the Hoang Lien range, this itinerary offers a rich blend of cultural

discovery, scenic trekking and time to unwind.

Based at the award-winning Topas Ecolodge, perched high above the valleys of Hoang Lien National Park, you’ll enjoy a series of guided day walks through terraced rice fields, remote villages and lush mountain landscapes. Along the way, connect with local H’mong and Red Dao communities, gaining insight into their traditions and daily life.

Each day offers a balance of active exploration and relaxation, with opportunities to challenge yourself on more adventurous hikes or simply soak in the tranquillity of your surroundings.

Evenings are spent in the comfort of your private mountain bungalow, taking in sweeping views across the valleys below.

Fundraising Portal

Before you begin fundraising for the charity donation component of this challenge, it’s important to obtain permission from the charity to fundraise on their behalf. Once you register, the Epworth team will contact you with details for setting up your official online fundraising page and will provide formal approval to begin fundraising.

Challenge Grade

To determine the grade of a particular adventure we consider a number of factors. These include the condition of the walking terrain, the altitude, the number of pass crossings and the length of the trek. The Sapa trek in Northern Vietnam is graded introductory. This is primarily due to the low altitude gains and the condition of the trail which is well defined and not unduly demanding. During the trek you will be walking for up to five to six hours a day at a slow but steady pace. You will need a reasonable level of fitness (remember there is no such thing as an easy trek) and we suggest 30 minutes of aerobic type exercise, (either cycling or jogging) three times a week for the three months leading up to your trek. Hill walking with a daypack in variable weather conditions is also recommended.

Itinerary

Xin chào! Welcome to Vietnam. On arrival at Hanoi Airport, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is a captivating blend of old and new. The bustling, narrow streets of the Old Quarter contrast with the serene atmosphere of ancient temples and lakes, while elegant French colonial architecture and tree-lined boulevards add to its unique charm. After check-in (rooms available from 2:00pm), the rest of the day is free to relax or explore at your own pace. Overnight: Hanoi

Meals:  D

Enjoy a free day at leisure before transferring to Hanoi Railway Station at around 6:30pm to board the overnight train to Lao Cai. Overnight on the train in a 4-berth soft sleeper cabin.

Meals:  B

Arrive early at Lao Cai Station (around 06:50) and meet your driver and trekking guide for an approximate one-hour drive to Sapa. Upon arrival, enjoy breakfast before starting your hike. Begin by exploring the charming town of Sapa, then follow a dirt trail through vegetable gardens and rice paddy terraces, with the stunning Muong Hoa Valley unfolding before you. Follow the river through the valley to Y Linh Ho, a Black H'mong village, where you'll take a break for a picnic lunch. Continue your hike between Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai, with the trail offering expanding views of the valley. In Lao Chai village, visit a local house to experience the traditional lifestyle before continuing to Ta Van village, home to the Giay minority. Transfer to Topas Ecolodge, nestled deep in the Hoang Lien Mountains. Check into your bungalow and enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding ethnic minority villages far below. Drive: +/- 1h30min Hiking: 13km +/- 5hrs Overnight: Topas Ecolodge Note: Please be aware that on rainy days the trail is muddy and slippery.

Meals:  B,L,D

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off for the day. Your adventure begins with a transfer deeper into Hoang Lien National Park, reaching the trek's starting point near Sin Chai village. As you venture off the beaten path, you'll be greeted by stunning views of towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and deep valleys. The trail leads you to the Red Dao village of Nam Nhiu, where you’ll meet locals, enjoy a cup of green tea in their home, and gain insights into their daily life. From there, a small dirt trail takes you to a breathtaking view of the rice valley, dotted with bamboo huts used by farmers during harvest. Continuing through rice terraces and along a quiet road, you'll arrive at Nam Cang village, one of the most remote areas in Sapa. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then explore the village with your guide. The Red Dao women are known for their vibrant costumes, and you'll learn about their skills in herbal baths, local medicine, and embroidery. You’ll also see how they make rice paper, jewelry, and intricate embroidery. In the mid-afternoon, return to the serene Topas Ecolodge. Hiking: 8.5 km ~ +/- 3.5hrs Overnight: Topas Ecolodge Note: Please be aware that on rainy days the trail is muddy and slippery.

Meals:  B,L,D

Challenge yourself with a rewarding trek to Mount Silverstone, one of the most scenic vantage points in the region. Starting from Topas Ecolodge, the trail winds through a Red Dao village before climbing steeply through lush bamboo forest. While the ascent is relatively short, it is invigorating and well worth the effort. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views across Ban Ho, Thanh Kim Valley, and the surrounding mountains — a true highlight of the journey. The descent offers a different perspective, following gentler trails past remote Black H’mong villages, where you’ll gain insight into local life in the highlands. Perfect for those seeking a moderate challenge with exceptional scenery, this trek is best enjoyed in dry conditions for the safest and most rewarding experience. Hiking: 12.9 km ~ +/- 6hrs

Meals:  B,L,D

Start the day with breakfast at the lodge. The rest of the day is at your leisure, to relax at the lodge, or transfer to Sapa to visit the town. Optional hike to local area - Lech Dao – Ban Mo Walk from the lodge along the foothills of Mount Silverstone, following scenic trails with sweeping views of valleys and terraced rice fields. Around midday, arrive at Lech Village, home to the Red Dao community, where you’ll visit a local house and enjoy lunch. Afterwards, continue on foot to a nearby Red Dao village. If visiting on a school day, there may be an opportunity to stop by the local school and meet children from Red Dao and H’mong communities. The walk then follows gentle hill trails back towards the main road, offering panoramic views of rolling peaks, endless rice terraces, and the Muong Bo River, before a short transfer returns you to the lodge.You will arrive back at Topas Ecolodge after another 15-minute walk on the main road. Hiking: 9.6km +/- 4.5hrs Overnight: Topas Ecolodge

Meals:  B,D

After breakfast, depart from Topas Ecolodge and return to Hanoi for overnight.

Meals:  B

After breakfast, enjoy some free time at leisure before your transfer to the airport for your departure flight. (Your room is available until 12:00 noon)

Meals:  B

What's Included

  • 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners
  • 4 nights Topas Eco Lodge twin share/double room basis
  • 2 nights Hanoi hotel
  • Train ticket Hanoi - Lao Cai (soft sleeper AC cabin 4 berths)
  • Minibus transfer from Sapa - Hanoi
  • Transfers as indicated in itinerary
  • Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in itinerary
  • Professional English speaking guide throughout
  • Local English speaking trekking guide in Sapa

What's Not Included

  • Travel to/from Hanoi
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory)
  • Visa
  • Meals and beverages not indicated in the itinerary
  • Tips

What You Carry

  • In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip-eze etc.

Fundraising Impact

Epworth Medical Foundation - The difference you make

When you donate to the Foundation, your generosity is used to directly benefit our patients. For example, more than half of all medical equipment at Epworth Health Care is funded by the Foundation, and 80 percent of our medical research.

Charitable funds are used to support:

*state-of-the-art medical equipment that ensures our patients receive the very best

*world-class facilities that maximise patient outcomes, safety and comfort

*groundbreaking medical research projects and trials, shared with our patients

*staff education and training opportunities to pass best-practice on to our patients

*support programs to care for our patients’ emotional and financial needs

Vietnam Challenge Reviews

Travel Dates

Fast Facts

Trip Dates: DepartReturn
Duration:8 Days
Activities:day treks
Grade:Introductory  Click for more information
Trip Code:EPV