China to Vietnam: An Overland Adventure - 7 Days

From £757£108 per daySave 16%

Trip Snapshot

Genders

  • Female74%
  • Male26%

Average age

37
12 Min100 Max

Start / End

  • Kunming
  • Hanoi

Physical rating

3/5

Group size

1 - 16

Meals included

6

Highlights

  • Discover the Ancient Charms of Jianshui: Immerse yourself in the historical grandeur of Jianshui, exploring architectural marvels like the majestic Double Dragon Bridge and the intricate Zhu's Family Garden, followed by an authentic local dinner.
  • Witness the Breathtaking Yuanyang Rice Terraces: Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Yuanyang Rice Terraces, where the carved mountainsides reflect the sky in a symphony of colours, especially during unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. Enjoy gentle hikes through this serene landscape, meeting local villagers.
  • Cross the Border into Vibrant Vietnam: Experience the unique overland journey from China to Vietnam, transitioning from ancient landscapes to the distinct cultural tapestry of Sapa, where a warm welcome awaits.
  • Engage with Hmong Culture in Sapa: Delve into the rich indigenous heritage of Sapa with a hands-on Hmong Batik painting experience. Explore the region's lush rice terraces and tea plantations on a half-day trek through picturesque local villages.
  • Savor Authentic Vietnamese Flavours: Indulge in an authentic, rustic hotpot dinner, a true specialty of Sapa's regional cuisine, and later enjoy a meaningful lunch at Hanoi's KOTO Restaurant, supporting disadvantaged youth.
  • Explore the Electric Energy of Hanoi: Conclude your adventure amidst the bustling vibrancy of Hanoi, experiencing the pulse of its lively Old Quarter from a traditional cyclo, offering a captivating final glimpse into Vietnamese city life.
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What's inside the PDF

  • Day-by-day itinerary
    Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.
  • Packing & kit list
    Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.
  • What's included
    Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
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Summary

This week-long adventure packs in the best of China and Vietnam in just seven days. Kick things off in China’s breathtaking Yunnan province, where the rice terraces are nothing short of magical. Then, cross the border and dive into Vietnam’s rural heart in Sapa, spending two days soaking up the local culture. Your grand finale? The electric streets of Hanoi! From epic landscapes to vibrant cities, this off-the-beaten-path journey delivers the best of both worlds. Plus, you can always tack on extra days to explore more of China or Vietnam.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Kunming

    Arrive at any time and meet your group and CEO for a welcome meeting.

  • Day 2

    Kunming/Jianshui

    China explorations await and its off to Jianshui. After an orientation walk, take an tour of the city. Visit the Xianghui Bridge, the Xianghui old train station, the Double Dragon Bridge, the Chaoyan Tower and the Zhu's Family Garden. Then enjoy a free evening.

  • Day 3

    Jianshui/Yuanyang

    Start the day with a tofu workshop and watch how the locals make this popular dish. Afterwards, drive toward Yuanyang to visit the impressive Yuanyang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and see the sunshine reflect off the carved out mountainside. We'll spend the day exploring this huge rice terrace from different viewpoints and do some gentle hiking through the greenery. This place is special to visit. In a country often associated with bustling, crowded and noisy cities, this picturesque and peaceful landscape will transport you to a whole new side of China.

  • Day 4

    Yuanyang

    Opt to rise early, and we recommend you do, to see the sun rise over the beautiful and peaceful Duoyishu Scenic Area. Take a short hike to the Pugao Old Village and see the local way of living. In the afternoon, we'll head to the main scenic area of the rice terrace with a chance to catch an epic sunset scene and meet some locals living in the field. Walk through Quan Fuzhuang to Bada platform and admire the incredible view.

  • Day 5

    Yuanyang/Sa Pá

    Say goodbye to China this morning and drive to Hekou Border to cross into Vietnam. Your Chinese CEO will help you get to immigration but will stay in China. You'll meet your new Vietnamese CEO once you cross through customs. After arrival into Vietnam drive to the beautiful mountain region of Sapa. The first stop is at the Hmong Batik House for a painting experience with the local indigenous group, the Hmong people. Then we'll sit down together for an authentic and rustic hotpot dinner, a specialty of the Sapa regional cuisine.

  • Day 6

    Sa Pá

    With mountainside covered in lush green rice terraces, picturesque villages tucked away in the hills and a rich culture unique to this region, Sapa is a must visit, off the beaten path part of Vietnam. Today, spend half a day trekking some of the best trails of the country. Hike through local villages, rice terraces and tea plantation. We'll stop part way on the trek to eat lunch at a local restaurant. After finishing the trek, head back to your hotel for the evening.

  • Day 7

    Sa Pá/Hanoi

    After breakfast at the hotel, we'll depart from Sapa this morning and drive to the bustling city of Hanoi. After a long drive, we'll leave our bags at the hotel and have lunch at KOTO Restaurant, which provides job training opportunities for disadvantaged youth. Then it's time to explore Hanoi and what better way than on the front of a cyclo. Have a seat as you zoom through Hanoi's lively Old Quarter. Your tour ends upon return to the hotel where your bags are being stored.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Hotels (6nts)

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 2, Lunches: 2, Dinners: 2

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Jul 2026

    from £757
  • Aug 2026

    from £757
  • Sep 2026

    from £782
  • Oct 2026

    from £782
  • Nov 2026

    from £841
  • Dec 2026

    from £841
  • Jan 2027

    from £841
  • Mar 2027

    from £890
  • Apr 2027

    from £920
  • May 2027

    from £920
  • Jun 2027

    from £890
  • Jul 2027

    from £890
  • Aug 2027

    from £890
  • Sep 2027

    from £920
  • Oct 2027

    from £920
  • Nov 2027

    from £841
  • Dec 2027

    from £841
  • Jan 2028

    from £841
  • Mar 2028

    from £841
  • Apr 2028

    from £841
  • May 2028

    from £841
  • Jun 2028

    from £841
  • Jul 2028

    from £841
  • Aug 2028

    from £841
  • Sep 2028

    from £841
  • Oct 2028

    from £841
  • Nov 2028

    from £841
  • Dec 2028

    from £841
  • Save 16%
    Saturday 15 Aug 2026to Friday 21 Aug 2026
    6+ spaces of 16 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £899£757
    Best offer
    Solo Room from +£206
  • Save 16%
    Thursday 27 Aug 2026to Wednesday 2 Sep 2026
    6+ spaces of 16 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £899£757
    Best offer
    Solo Room from +£206

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What are the main highlights of this trip?

    The main highlights include a Jianshui City Tour, a Local Tofu Workshop in Jianshui, gentle hiking in the Yuanyang Rice Terraces, a Sapa 1-day Trekking Tour, and a Hanoi Cyclo Tour.
  • What types of accommodation are used on this tour?

    Accommodation for this tour consists of hotels for all 6 nights.
  • What meals are included in the tour price?

    The tour price includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.
  • What is the maximum group size for this adventure?

    The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 14.
  • Who will be leading the group during the tour?

    The group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and local guides throughout the trip.
  • Are international flights included in the cost of the trip?

    No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.
  • What are the age requirements for joining this trip?

    You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
  • What forms of transportation will be used during the tour?

    Transportation methods include train, private vehicle, walking, public bus, and cyclo.
  • Are there any optional activities available on this trip?

    There are no optional activities specified for this trip.
  • What should I know about internet access in China?

    While traveling through mainland China, you will not be able to access some popular internet websites such as Google, Facebook, Instagram, and Whatsapp. It may be possible to access some of these using a VPN, which is recommended to install prior to travel.
  • What are the recommendations for luggage on this tour?

    Backpacks are much more suitable than suitcases for this trip due to the use of local and sometimes crowded transport. Travelling as light as possible is recommended as bags may need to be stowed overhead or under beds on trains.
  • Are there any restrictions on power banks for flights within China?

    As of June 28, 2025, power banks that lack the official China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark will be confiscated on domestic flights within China. Passengers will no longer be allowed to bring them.
  • What is the recommended currency and payment method in China?

    Although WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most common payment methods, it is strongly recommended to carry some cash as a backup, as credit cards or mobile apps may not always work. Setting up WeChat Pay or Alipay on your device and linking a card prior to arrival is advised.
  • What are the visa requirements for China and Vietnam?

    All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. For China, you may need an official Letter of Invitation (LOI) to apply for a visa, which can be obtained through our visa support agent. For Vietnam, an E-Visa needs to be arranged ahead of time (minimum 2 weeks processing) as they are not available upon arrival. Travellers must have at least two blank passport pages for each country they will visit.
  • If I book the 'My Own Room' option, will I have a single room?

    Yes, if you have booked the 'My Own Room' option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.
  • Is this trip suitable for LGBTQ+ travelers?

    The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and information to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.
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