An active cultural escape through Vietnam combines mountain trekking in Sapa, time by the sea in Hoi An, and daily yoga to create a balanced rhythm of adventure and rest.
Vietnam offers striking variety: dramatic mountains, terraced rice fields, golden beaches, and lively cities. From the misty highlands of Sapa to the calm coastline of Hoi An, the landscape pairs naturally with rich culture and warm local traditions.
This journey is ideal for travelers who want both movement and mindfulness. Hike hidden mountain paths past ethnic villages and sweeping scenery, then return to yoga by the beach, fresh local meals, and time to recharge. With a mix of nature, culture, and daily practice, this retreat is designed to refresh both body and mind.
Hanoi, the capital, is where history and modern life meet. Ancient temples, busy markets, and the aroma of street food fill the streets, while peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake and the energetic Train Street add to the city’s character.
Sapa is one of Vietnam’s most rewarding trekking regions. Set in the misty mountains of northern Vietnam, this highland town in Lào Cai Province sits at about 1,500 meters above sea level in the Hoàng Liên Son range. It is also home to Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina at 3,143 meters.
The area is equally memorable for its people. Several ethnic minority groups live here, including the Hmong, Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho, each with distinct clothing, customs, and ways of life. In the villages, you may see Hmong women wearing finely handwoven textiles and selling their crafts in local markets.
Hoi An, located on the Thu Bon River, is often considered one of the most beautiful cities in Vietnam. Its old town is filled with yellow-painted houses, Chinese-style temples, and elegant historic buildings that invite slow exploration.
Day 1, November 25 - Arrival day in Hanoi
Take a taxi from the airport to the hotel and spend the day discovering Hanoi independently or with fellow travelers. If time allows, you may also take a boat trip to Ha Long Bay (40-50 USD). Accommodation is at Hanoi Old Quarter, 3-star hotel, The West Hotel & Spa, or another hotel of your choice.
Explore the Old Quarter and Train Street, where trains pass just inches from homes, cafés, and people.
Visit the French Quarter and the National Museum of Vietnamese History, reflecting nearly a century of French colonial influence.
See Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi.
Try street food or join the group for dinner. Dinner is not included.
Day 2, November 26 - Transfer from Hanoi to Sapa 5,5-7 hrs
Pick up from the hotel in Hanoi and arrival in Sapa in the afternoon.
In the afternoon, hike to Cat Cat Village, a 3 km walk and one of the most well-known cultural villages in northern Vietnam. Set in a scenic valley at the foot of the Hoàng Liên Son mountains, it is home to the Black Hmong people. The route follows stone paths downhill past wooden houses, terraced rice fields, and green hills. Local women often sell handmade textiles and jewelry along the way. Cat Cat Waterfall is one of the highlights, and traditional Hmong clothing can be rented for photos against the mountain backdrop.
Day 3, November 27 - Trekking with Sapa Sisters - Sapa to Ta Van Village 6 hrs, 23 km
Breakfast and morning yoga at the hotel.
Sapa Sisters supports young Black H'Mong women by paying them fairly for their skilled guiding work. All guides speak English and have extensive experience.
Leave luggage at the hotel or at the Sapa Sisters office. The trek descends into the valley along narrow dirt paths, terraced fields, streams, and wooden houses. Lunch and dinner are included. The first village is Lao Chai, home to the Black Hmong ethnic group. After about 2 hours and 9 km, lunch will be served there.
The trail continues through hills and along the Muong Hoa River, with bamboo and wooden bridges connecting the valley. You may see water buffalo, ducks in the rice paddies, and farmers working the land.
After 3-4 hours of trekking and 13 km, arrive in Ta Van Village, home to the Giay ethnic group. Here, the pace is gentler, the homes are simpler, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Dinner, yoga, and an overnight stay at a local homestay follow. Dinner and lunch are included.
Day 4, November 28 - Trekking back to Sapa and one more night at the hotel in Sapa.
Breakfast and lunch are included. Dinner is not included, so you may eat at a local restaurant or choose something from the street. There is also an option to take a cable car to Fansipan, the highest mountain in Indochina, where many tourists gather.
Day 5, November 29 - Transfer from Sapa to Hoi An
Transfer from Sapa to Hanoi International Airport (6-7 hrs), then a local flight to Da Nang International Airport and a shuttle to Hoi An. Afternoon yoga session.
Day 6, November 30 - Relaxing in Hoi An
Stay at the beachfront villa, rest, join the yoga session, and explore independently or with the group. Breakfast is included.
Day 7, December 01- Hoi An - Bicycle city and cultural tour
Morning yoga, breakfast, and a half-day bicycle tour with a local guide.
Day 8, December 02 - Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills
Morning yoga and breakfast, followed by an excursion to the Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills, with a one-way drive of 1.5 hours.
Day 9, December 03 - My Son Sanctuary tour.
Lonely Planet lists Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary among the “15 best things to do in Vietnam.” This remarkable complex of red-brick temples and towers near Hoi An offers insight into the Champa civilization and its architectural, historical, cultural, and artistic legacy spanning the 4th to the 13th centuries.
Day 10, December 04: Check out of the hotel at 11 a.m. and transfer to the airport or bus/train station.
Accommodation includes a 3-star hotel, a private villa, and one night in a homestay during the Sapa hike.
Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and balanced, often built around herbs, rice, and locally sourced ingredients. Pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls reflect the country’s blend of Vietnamese, French, and Chinese influences.
During the 2-day hike in Sapa, breakfasts, lunches, and one dinner are included.
Early Bird Price (booking until May 31, 2026):
Single room for 1 person 1990 USD
Shared/Doubble room for 2 persons 3380 USD (1690 per person)
Last minute Price after January 31, 2026:
Single room for 1 person 2390 USD
Shared/Doubble room for 2 persons 4180 USD (2090 per person)
A reservation requires a deposit of 300 USD.
The deposit is refundable if the booking is canceled 90 days before the retreat starts.
The remaining payment is due 90 days before arrival and is non-refundable.
Bank transfer
Wise
Debit or credit card (an additional charge of 4,8 % of the transferred amount will be charged)
Seven nights' accommodation at the villa and hotel
One night's accommodation in Sapa at the local family
Breakfasts all days
Guided hikes in Sapa, two lunches, and one dinner at the local family
Hoi An bicycle tour
Excursion to Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills
My Son Sanctuary tour
Yoga and meditation classes
Yoga mats
The transfer during the retreat, except for the local flight from Hanoi to Hoi An, is 95 USD with Vietnam Airlines
Personal attention, motivation, care, and enthusiasm
Airfare
Dinners
Lunches
Travel insurance (medical and trip cancellation) is mandatory to protect you from unforeseen emergencies.
First night in Hanoi
Transfer from Hanoi International Airport (Noi Bai) to the Hotel in the city center with a taxi costs 10-15 USD
Transfer from Hoi An to Hanoi with a night bus costs ~30 USD, or with Vietnam Airways is 95 USD
Weather and Packing Tips:
Sapa (North Vietnam): Cooler, especially in the mountains, with temperatures around 10–20°C / 50–68°F and colder nights. Bring layers, a rain jacket, and good hiking shoes.
Hoi An (Central Vietnam): Warm, rainy, and humid at 18–23°C / 64–73°F. Pack light clothing, a rain jacket, swimwear, and sunscreen.
Yoga & Meditation sessions:
Suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced yogis.
Yoga mats are provided, but a lightweight travel mat is recommended.
Accommodation & Food:
Sapa: Stay in a hotel and local homestays, with ethnic culture and home-cooked meals.
Hoi An: Stay in a beachfront hotel and relax by the ocean.
Food: Expect fresh local meals with rice, noodles, vegetables, tofu, seafood, and meat.
Cultural Etiquette & Local Experience:
Respect local traditions, especially in ethnic minority villages, and ask before taking photos.
Bring small cash for local purchases, as card payments are limited in rural areas.
Modest clothing with covered shoulders and knees is appreciated in some temples or homestays.
Health & Travel Essentials:
No special vaccinations are required, though insect repellent is useful for trekking.
Travel insurance covering hiking and medical emergencies is recommended.
ATMs are available, but it is wise to carry some Vietnamese dong (VND), especially in rural areas.
Fitness Level and Trekking Details:
Expect 3 days of hiking in Sapa, with moderate-to-challenging trails of 6–15 km per day.
Trails can be muddy or slippery, so sturdy hiking shoes are essential.
Stay in a charming double room for two, set on a historic fishing pier dating back to 1910. This welcoming accommodation combines character with comfort, offering quality hotel beds designed for a restful night’s sleep.
Guests also have access to plenty of pleasant shared areas, creating space for both relaxation and activity throughout the stay. Whether you want to unwind quietly, enjoy the setting, or make the most of the surrounding atmosphere, this room provides a simple and inviting base.
With its unique location and relaxed feel, it is a comfortable choice for couples or two travelers looking for a memorable stay in a distinctive setting.
Yoga & Hiking with Pille Mitt
Wed, Nov 25 – Fri, Dec 4