China & Vietnam: Chengdu to Hanoi

This nearly two-week trip with G Adventures takes you across two countries, starting in Chengdu and finishing in Hanoi. In China’s Yunnan province, expect a blend of ancient towns and rural landscapes. You might find yourself wandering the Old Town of Lijiang, with the quiet waters of Black Dragon Pool nearby, or walking the thousand-year-old streets of Xizhou, where local markets and traditional buildings hold a steady rhythm.

Further south, the rice terraces around Yuanyang provide opportunities for gentle hiking amid striking layers of farmland that change with the seasons. Crossing the border into Vietnam, two days in Sapa offer a chance to meet local hilltribes and take a one-day trek through terraced slopes. The final stop is Hanoi, where the streets challenge your senses with their constant buzz—cyclo rides provide a comfortable way to take this all in.

The group is kept small, with a maximum of 16, and accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer who is there to assist without crowding. Transport is by private vehicle, local train and foot. The trip strikes a balance between time spent exploring historic sights and engaging with local life in quieter settings.