18:00 Meet at the designated departure point in Hanoi and transfer to Bac Yen, Son La. Short dinner stop on the way if needed.
24:00 Arrive at the homestay in Xim Vang. Overnight at the homestay.
* Dinner is not included.
WHY THIS TOUR?
If you are looking for a forest trek that feels immersive, atmospheric, and less commercial than many better-known peaks, this journey is an excellent choice. The Xim Vang route to Samu - U Bo Peak takes travelers through the magical landscapes of the Ta Xua special-use forest, where ancient trees, moss-covered trunks, shifting cloud layers, and high-mountain vegetation create a truly otherworldly trekking experience. It is especially appealing for hikers who want a rewarding summit, rich forest scenery, and a route that combines adventure with the quiet beauty of Vietnam’s northwestern highlands. Sa Mu is widely described as one of the standout trekking peaks in the Tà Xùa area, with strong appeal during cloud season and spring bloom season.
Highlights
- Trek through the mystical forests of the Ta Xua special-use forest
- Summit Samu - U Bo Peak (2,756 m) via the scenic Xim Vang route
- Experience mossy woodland, ancient trees, and high-mountain cloudscapes
- Spend a night at a mountain camp before the final summit push
- Enjoy one of the most atmospheric trekking routes in northwestern Vietnam
SUMMARY
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Departure Point:
Hanoi
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Duration:
2 days, 3 nights
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Destination:
Son La
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Activities:
Hiking / Trekking
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Min :
7 people
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Best time:
Sep - Apr
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Max :
15 people
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Difficulty level:
6/10
ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi - Bac Yen - Xim Vang
Day 2: Xim Vang - U Bo Camp
07:00 Wake up, personal time, and breakfast at the homestay.
07:45 Route briefing with the guide. Final check of gear and essentials before the trek.
08:30 Transfer from the homestay to the trailhead and begin trekking. Today’s route takes around 6 hours, starting through lower forest sections before entering denser, higher-altitude woodland.
12:00 Picnic lunch in the forest. Porters prepare lunch for the group.
16:00 Arrive at the overnight camp near U Bo. Check in, wash up, change clothes, and enjoy free time around camp.
18:00 Dinner at camp. After dinner, relax by the fire, enjoy herbal tea, and take in the quiet mountain atmosphere.
* Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: U Bo Camp - Samu Peak - Xim Vang - Hanoi
05:30 Wake up early. Light breakfast or hot drinks at camp.
06:30 Begin the final ascent to Samu Peak.
08:00 Reach the summit area. Rest, take photos, and enjoy the panoramic mountain views.
09:00 Start descending. On the way down, pass through the old-growth forest sections and the iconic mossy trees that make this route so distinctive.
12:30 Lunch break on the way down.
15:30 Return to the homestay. Shower and rest.
17:00 Early dinner at the homestay.
19:00 Depart for Hanoi.
24:00 Arrive in Hanoi. End of the program.
* Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
INCLUSION/EXCLUSION
Inclusion:
- Round-trip bus: Ha Noi – Bac Yen – Ha Noi
- Trekking equipments
- Meals as the schedule on the itinerary
- Round-trip motorbike taxi
- Tour guides & Porters
- Homestay at Xim Vang
- Mountain shed
- Soaking foot in herbal
- Daily drinking water
- Fee for entrance tickets
- Travel insurance
Exclusion:
- Other kinds of beverage unlist in the tour program
- Personal expenses
- Transportation fee before and after the trip
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY
Equipment provided by VAH:
- Trekking pole
- Insect repellent
- First-aid kit
- Gloves
- Backpack (10L)
- Reusable bottle
- Flashlight or headlamp
What to bring:
- 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
Also recommended:
- Hand sanitizer
- Spare clothing
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Multi - tool
IMPORTANT NOTES
1. Trekking Notes
- Distance: The trekking route is approximately 13 to 14 km per day.
- Terrain: We will undertake a relatively long ascent to the summit; however, only a few sections of the trail feature gentle inclines, making it not overly challenging. The route offers an engaging journey, with diverse landscapes and distinct scenery unfolding at different elevations.
- Suitability: This route is ideal for most fitness levels, including beginners. But not for children under the age of 14.
2. Accommodation.
- The mountain hut provides basic overnight accommodation, including sleeping mats, sleeping bags, or blankets. Sanitary facilities at the hut include a bathroom and toilet. Please note that hot water is not available; however, if you require a warm shower, you may purchase hot water directly from the porter, who heats it on-site at the hut.
3. 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.
4. 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.