Maeve Nolan, EXO Vietnam’s Product Manager, and Brice Van Huffel, Business Development Manager for the French Speaking Market, recently completed a five-day inspection through Northern Vietnam’s Bac Ha region, one of the country’s most authentic, rewarding and under-explored areas.
While places such as Hanoi’s train street, Sapa and the Ha Giang loop have become widely popular through social media, Bac Ha offers so much for those willing to travel off the beaten path. It’s affordable, culturally rich and its combination of active exploration and meaningful encounters make it a highlight of every itinerary for authentic discovery.
These inspections are a chance for our team to examine every element that shapes traveller experiences and inform advisor recommendations, assessing details such as market conditions, trail quality, accommodation standards, access logistics and the overall guest flow through the region.
Read on for Maeve and Brice’s reflections on the trip and insights for travel agents looking to diversify Vietnam itineraries.
Connecting with local life
Northern Vietnam’s local markets for ethnic minority communities remain a vivid expression of daily life in the region, and this visit confirmed that they continue to operate much as they always have. H’mong, Tay and other minority communities still gather to trade textiles, produce and other locally produced goods, creating a lively atmosphere that feels entirely local. With so few visitors in the region, Brice noticed how incredibly warm and curious the locals were towards newcomers.
Beyond the markets, the team was invited to observe several Tay shamanic ceremonies held in family homes, rituals used for purposes such as spiritual protection, healing, honouring ancestors and marking important life events. Experiences like these offer meaningful insight into living spiritual traditions and are a reflection of the deep relationships and trust our network has built with the community.
For travel advisors, this region offers a clear client match for guests who appreciate authenticity, are interested in learning more about local cultures or prefer a slower paced travel experience.
Accommodation developments
The region’s accommodation landscape has seen encouraging change in the last few years. Several long-running properties have been renovated, while a new generation of family-run lodges and homestays now deliver both comfort and local character. This evolution allows advisors to position Bac Ha for a bit more adventurous groups looking for natural authentic escapes who enjoy rustic charm with basic comforts.
Soft adventure through natural trails
Over four hikes, Maeve and Brice explored trails through rice terraces, corn fields, bamboo groves and tea plantations. Even without the famous green rice season, the scenery remains rich and varied, showcasing the beauty Northern Vietnam offers in various times of year. The trails are moderate, scenically beautiful and easily integrated into itineraries that combine soft adventure with community visits and homestays.
Rail travel updates on the horizon
Before heading north, the team also met with several rail operators running services between Hanoi and Lao Cai, and there are some exciting upgrades on the way which we will share further once details are finalised. Train travel is always a hot topic at EXO, and these developments will soon give advisors even more flexibility when designing overland journeys through Northern Vietnam.
Outlook for travel designers
For advisors, Northern Vietnam offers a compelling alternative to the country’s better-known regions. It is easily accessible — roughly five hours by road from Hanoi — yet feels far removed from mass tourism. The area combines accessible soft adventure, authentic culture, and improved lodging standards in a setting that remains personal and untouched.
It is best suited for clients who have already seen the classic highlights of Vietnam or who seek slower, more meaningful travel with strong community engagement. The region works beautifully as an extension or as part of a longer northern circuit.
With new and improved accommodation, engaging market visits and an incredible trail network, Bac Ha and its surrounding valleys are now positioned for the kind of responsible, experience-led travel that EXO loves to bring attention to.
About EXO Travel:
EXO Travel is a premium Destination Management Company (DMC) providing bespoke travel solutions across a growing portfolio of global destinations. Our services range from one-off tours for individual travellers to memorable incentive trips for groups of hundreds or thousands.
Established in 1993, we’ve harnessed in-depth local knowledge and a widely-recognised penchant for authentic, groundbreaking touring to become a leading DMC for the premium travel market. As a Certified B Corporation, EXO is also demonstrably committed to sustainability and using travel as a force for good.
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