The Grand Tribal Tour

China

2,815

autumn

Overview Itinerary Dates & Pricing Gallery Is this tour Right for you

Overview

This unique Asia tribal private tour highlights the immense ethnic and cultural diversity of the rugged mountainous region of southern China, northern Vietnam, and northern Laos. The journey ventures through rarely visited areas of exceptional natural beauty, and includes some light hikes along breathtaking trails. Traversing regions inhabited by colorful minorities, the tour includes visits to historic sites that shed light on how these ethnic groups' heritage intertwines with the national and regional complex history. We invite you to join this unique Asia tribal tour and indulge in the culture and cuisine of three very different yet similar countries while experiencing the indigenous people's unique heritage and traditions.

Highlights

Guizhou's Minority Heartlands. Tunbao stone villages, Bouyei communities, Miao highlands, and the iconic Huangguoshu Waterfall.
Karst Landscapes and Deep Gorges. Maling Gorge, Ten Thousand Peak Forest, Dragon's Palace caves, and the Stone Forest of Yunnan.
Yuangyang Rice Terraces. Sunrise and sunset over sculpted mountain terraces and visits to vibrant weekly minority markets.
Crossing Borders by Land. From China into Vietnam, then through Laos, ending in northern Thailand.
Northern Vietnam's Tribal Valleys. Sapa and Lai Chau regions with Hmong, Tai, Lu, and other hill tribes, plus remote local markets.
River Life in Laos. Long boat journeys along the Ou River, passing villages that still depend entirely on the waterway.
Remote Lao Highlands. Muang Ngoi, Nong Kiaw, and Muang Sing with full day hikes to villages rarely reached by travelers.
Markets as Social Centers. San Thang, Muong Lay, Yuanyang, and Muang Sing markets where trade, news, and community life meet.

Itinerary

Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.

Guiyang

Day 1

Arrival At Guiyang

Huangguoshu Waterfall

Day 2

From Guiyang to Huangguoshou Waterfall

Xingyi

Day 3

Huangguoshou - Xingyi

Shilin

Day 4

Xingyi - Shilin

Jianshui

Day 5

Shilin - Jianshui

Yuanyang

Day 6

Jianshui - Yuanyang

Yuanyang (2)

Day 7

Yuanyang

Lao Cai

Day 8

Crossing Over To Vietnam

Lai Chau Valley

Day 9

Lai Chau Valley

Muong Lay

Day 10

Minority Market By Muong Lay

Dien Bien Phu

Day 11

From Muong Lay To Dien Bien Phu

Muang Ngoi

Day 12

Through The Jungle And On To Laos

Nong Kiaw

Day 13

From Muang Ngoi To Nong Kiaw

Muang Sing

Day 14

Nong Kiaw - Muang Sing

Muang Sing (2)

Day 15

Muang Sing

Chiang Rai

Day 16

Muang Sing - Chiang Rai (Thailand)

Chiang Rai International Airport

Day 17

Departure From Thailand

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Itinerary

Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.

Guiyang

Arrive in Guiyang, the capital city of Guizhou Province in southern China. After the unavoidable immigration formalities, meet the local guide and drive to the hotel to recuperate from the long flight. If time permits (depending on arrival time), take an afternoon tour of the city, walking along the promenade beside the Nanming River and visiting the teahouse at the heart of the Jiaxiu Tower. The tower was built in 1598 to inspire the locals to take exams with a view to becoming mandarins and serving at the Imperial court during China’s feudal era. In the evening, return to the hotel for the first night in China.

Hotel
Dinner

Huangguoshu Waterfall

Leave the provincial capital and drive to a village inhabited by the Tunbao people. Generally considered as a minority, the Tunbao are descendants of Han Chinese who came to this area as soldiers sent to protect the southern borders of the then-emerging Chinese Empire. Walk amidst the narrow alleys and visit their stone village to learn about their traditions and history. Continue to the Dragon’s Palace and take a boat ride in an amazing cave, full of dramatically lit stalactites. Then pay a visit to a Bouyei village. The Bouyei are considered to be one of the first ethnic groups to inhabit southern China, believed to settle here some 2,000 years. Following massive repressions during the 1797 Nanlong Rebellion, many Boueyi have fled to northern Vietnam, where they are known as the Bố Y people. The Bouyei maintain, to this day, their distinctive language, which differs from common Chinese. In the afternoon, head towards the famous Huangguoshou Waterfall to spend the night in the waterfall’s vicinity.

Hotel
Breakfast

Xingyi

The image of Huangguoshou decorates Chinese restaurants worldwide. It symbolizes the stamina and strength of the Chinese people through the ages and is a source of great national pride. Take an easy walking tour around the falls and through the natural cave running along the cliff behind the gushing falls. Leave the waterfall for a drive through Guizhou’s backroads, visiting minority villages. This part of the province is inhabited mainly by the Miao people. The term Miao people refers to a cluster of ethnic groups that are somewhat linguistically and culturally related (though sometimes very loosely so), collectively defined as Miao under the Chinese ethnic group classification. Some of the largest ethnic groups now referred to as Miao are Hmong, Hmu, Xong, and A-Hmao. Both Bouyei and Miao are highlanders, inhabiting the high-altitude mountain ranges of southern China, and thus have developed lifestyles, agriculture, and other means of subsistence appropriate to these rugged terrains. In the afternoon, take a two-hour walk through Maling Gorge, which has been described as the ‘most dramatic gorge in all of Asia’. Arrive late in the evening in Xingyi, and spend here the night.

Hotel
Breakfast

Shilin

The day begins with a visit to the Ten Thousand Peak Forest. This scenic spot features beautiful karst peaks scattered through the valley floor. Though these landscapes are often associated with the city of Guilin, China, this unique and impressive phenomenon extends from the Chinese Guangxi province to the north-eastern part of Vietnam. Continue driving through Guizhou’s backroads and enjoy the beautiful countryside scenery. A Chinese proverb says that ‘one won’t find in Guizhou three kilometers of straight road, three days without rain, and three coins in one pocket.’ Indeed, Guizhou is one of the poorest provinces in China, and its infrastructure is still somewhat lacking. Leave Guizhou, enter the province of Yunnan, and head directly for the Stone Forest. Many legends tell the story of the creation of this unique geological phenomenon, but only seeing it for yourself can reveal the true majesty of these landscapes. During the visit to the “forest”, meet the people of the Sani, famous for their colorful embroidered traditional clothing and their heart-stirring singing and dancing. After touring the Stone Forest, head to the local hotel in Shilin.

Local Hotel
Breakfast

Jianshui

Leave Shilin for the long drive south to Jianshui. On arrival, visit the Confucius Temple in the heart of the city. The temple served as a school where young candidates studied for the Imperial exams, the one factor that could have changed the life of a boy born to an impoverished peasant family into the lavish life of a court official or army officer. Continue to visit the Zhu Family Garden. The garden and the estate in which it is located were built and owned by a local family of traders. During an uprising at the very beginning of the 20th century, the Zhu family had to flee to Japan. Upon their return after five years in exile, they have built this impressive estate. Today, it offers an insight into the life of high society during the Qing Dynasty. In the evening, take a walk along the small town’s pedestrian street to the well-preserved City Wall before settling into the hotel.

Local Hotel
Breakfast

Yuanyang

Continue the road trip south, pausing at Tuan Shan. This small village from the feudal era was once ruled by a local warlord. The village has been remarkably well preserved, but the faces of many of the figures decorating the village buildings were ripped off during the Cultural Revolution, as they symbolized values and beliefs that belonged to the ‘old days’ but were then banned by the socialist revolutionaries. Thus, this small village offers an interesting perspective on two very different yet significant eras in Chinese history. Back in the car, continue heading south to visit the Hui people, a Muslim community that has lived in southern China since the days of the great trading routes that crossed the Muslim states of Central Asia. Visit a local mosque, and try to meet key figures in this community, to hear how they have preserved their ancient traditions in modern-day China. From there, continue down south, stopping en route at a very interesting cave where the local people practice Buddhism combined with the worship of ancestral spirits, a common religious practice throughout East Asia, often referred to as “the religion with no name”. The last section of today’s drive would be through the winding road, climbing the steep mountain to Yuanyang. The mountain is dotted with picturesque minority villages, and along the way, locals can be seen dressed in their traditional colorful clothing, which distinguishes between the different ethnic groups inhabiting the mountain. Arrive in Yuanyang late in the evening, and if time permits, take a walk through the town’s lively night street before settling into the hotel.

Hotel
Breakfast

Yuanyang (2)

Today, drive to one of the many villages scattered throughout Yuanyang prefecture to visit the weekly local market. In this market, people from various ethnic groups, including Dai, Miao, Zhuang, Yi, and Haany people, meet once a week to exchange goods, usually handicrafts and agricultural produce. Then continue exploring the area, visiting villages of various minorities to see their traditional architecture, and, in the late afternoon, drive to Laohuzui to enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the rice terraces curved along the mountain slopes. In the evening revert to the hotel for a second night in Yuanyang.

Hotel
Breakfast

Lao Cai

After two nights in Yuanyang, set off for a drive to Vietnam. Enjoy the marvelous landscapes of rural southern Yunnan along the course of the Red River, before arriving at the small border town of Hekou. After going through the necessary formalities at the Chinese and Vietnamese border posts, arrive in Lao Cai, the provincial capital on the Vietnamese side. Meet your local Vietnamese guide and embark on another 1-hour drive to Sapa. Before 1912, when the French built a sanatorium for sick officers, the area was inhabited solely by hill tribes, mainly the H’mong, Yao, Tai, and Giay. Nestling at the foot of Fansipan, Vietnam’s highest peak, the Sapa region enjoys a very agreeable climate, unlike the Vietnamese lowlands, which are hot and humid. This northern area attracted French people from all walks of life, among them missionaries and biologists. Over time, the growing presence of the French army stabilized the political borders with neighboring China, making Sapa a major trading city. Reach Sapa in the late evening and go for a stroll in the lively main street.

Hotel
Breakfast

Lai Chau Valley

Today is the first of three days’ exploration of the valley of Lai Chau. Less known to most visitors to northern Vietnam, the valley is inhabited by people of some twenty different ethnic groups. Before the arrival of French colonialists to the Indochina peninsula, the region was independently controlled by the White Tai people, but was later annexed to French-dominated Vietnam, and became part of Vietnamese territory. Drive out of Sapa, and make a short stop for a hike up the Silver Falls. Then pause by Tram Ton mountain pass for a view over the dramatic valleys of Sapa to the east and Lai Chau to the west. From here, glide gently into the deep valleys of Lai Chau, stopping en route at villages of the Lu, Tai, Hmong, and other ethnic minorities. After a full day of close encounters with these local communities and their unique, rich cultures, arrive in the small town of Muong Lay just in time to enjoy the weekly evening market, where locals gather to share fresh traditional food and a good drink.

Hotel
Breakfast

Muong Lay

Begin the day with a visit to the little-known minority market of San Thang. The locals, from different ethnic groups, gather to trade mostly agricultural produce, as well as a variety of handicrafts, and to purchase their supplies. This is a unique opportunity to see in one place a great variety of ethnic groups, some of whom live up in the mountains, where it is nearly impossible to visit them. Walk through the bustling market amid the colorful booths, and see the locals as they sit for a cup of tea and exchange news about who has married whom, whose child has left for the city, and other such important items. Around noon, leave the market for an easy afternoon hike past the local villages of the H’mong people. Pause by rice paddies, vegetable plots, and water buffalo leisurely rolling in the mud, and stop by local homes for a lively conversation and a friendly cup of tea. Late in the evening revert to the hotel in Muong Lay for a second night.

Hotel
Breakfast

Dien Bien Phu

In the morning, continue driving through the rural area, amidst rice terraces, and explore local communities of different ethnic groups. In the afternoon, arrive in Dien Bien Phu, which has played a significant role in the region’s history and is remembered as the place where the revolution against the French colonial regime began. Visit the regional museum, which tells the story of Dien Bien Phu’s battle against the French and their allies. Then proceed to Hill A1, which remained one of the most strategic points throughout the period of conflict. In the evening set in the hotel in Dien Bien Phu for the last night in Vietnam.

Hotel
Breakfast

Muang Ngoi

Early in the morning, drive for an hour from Dien Bien Phu to the Vietnam–Laos border, amid a dense sub-tropical jungle. Once again, go through border formalities before crossing to the Lao side. Meet the local guide, and embark on a ride through little-known parts of Laos to the small town of Muang Khua. Here, board a boat and travel down the Ou River to Nong Kiaw. The river trip provides a unique perspective on life in Laos, especially the lives of communities living on the riverbanks and off the river. For them, the river serves as the main source of water for all purposes, a place for the cattle to drink, and, of course, a rich source of all kinds of fish. From the boat, see children washing in the river, fishermen laying their nets, and traders in their small boats paddling from one village to another. Late in the afternoon arrive in Muang Ngoi to spend here the night.

Bungalow
Breakfast

Nong Kiaw

Once the center of a 12th-century Tai principality, Muang Ngoi has seen much decline due to its topographical constraints, as it was left behind when the provincial main road was built. On the other hand, due to these unfortunate circumstances, the tranquil town retains its old charm. After breakfast, take a short hike to Tham Kang and Them Pah Kaew caves, both of which served as shelters for locals during the horrific days of the US-led Secret War. From here, continue hiking to villages in the vicinity to get a first-hand experience of Lao culture. In the afternoon, take a boat ride to Nong Kiaw. En route, stop for a two-hour hike to Tad Mok Waterfall, passing along rice paddies and following the freshwater stream. Back in the boat, complete the short ride to Nong Kiaw.

Hotel
Breakfast

Muang Sing

Back in the car, drive to Luang Namtha on an amazingly beautiful route of forested hills, orchards, and stilt-house villages of various ethnic groups dotting the hillsides. Stop from time to time to walk through small villages, chat with locals, or visit their homes and local schools, if possible. In the afternoon, arrive at Ban Nam Di. Here, take a short walk to the small waterfall, and after a short break by the clear water pond, move on to visit a village of the Lanten people, who originated from China (and who still write in Chinese), and are famous for their handmade paper. Another short drive ends at Muang Sing, a small town on the Lao–China border, serving as the administrative center for numerous hill-tribe settlements in the vast plains and hills surrounding it. The history of Muang Sing is no less exciting than that of the hill tribes that inhabit the area. Until the 19th century, the town was ruled by the Tai prince of Chiang Khong. It was then conquered by the Nam people and became part of French Indochina. After the French defeat at Dien Bien Phu in 1954, the region became a no-man ’s-land, and the Chinese, Vietnamese, Americans, and, of course, the Lao fought to gain control over it until it eventually ended as a Lao territory. Upon arrival in Muang Sing, settle in the very simple yet cozy bungalows for the night.

Bungalow
Breakfast

Muang Sing (2)

Today, enjoy a full day’s hike to the remote areas of Muang Sing, where the communities have preserved their traditional way of life for centuries. The majority of the people here do not speak Lao, the official national language, but only their distinct dialects. Start the day with a ride in a local ‘jumbo’ vehicle, and continue on foot. Pass through and stop by the villages of the Tai Lu, Lu Lu, Yahoo, Khamu, and Akha people before reverting to Muang Sing for a second night.

Hotel
Breakfast, Lunch

Chiang Rai

Check out the hotel, and take a trip to the town’s small morning market, which, like other markets visited on this trip, draws locals from nearby villages of different ethnic groups. Then leave Muang Sing and drive along the road recently built by the Chinese to transport logs from northern Thailand to China. Arrive early in the afternoon at Houei Xay, the quiet border town on the Lao-Thai border. After dealing with immigration formalities on both sides, crossing the mighty Mekong River, which marks the border between the two nations, board the vehicle, and drive to the city of Chiang Rai for the last night of the trip.

Hotel
Breakfast

Chiang Rai International Airport

After breakfast, transfer to Chiang Rai airport to finish the private tour.

Breakfast

Dates & Pricing

Rates for the Grand Tribal Tour are quoted in US Dollars.Note: Grand Tribal Private Tour rates are valid all year round, but are not valid for trips that occur (in whole, or in part) during Chinese national holidays:
New Year (1-3 Jan 2025)
Chinese Spring Festival (28 Jan-03 Feb 2025)
Qingming Festival (4-6 Apr 2025)
Labor Day Holiday (1-3 May 2025)
Dragon Boat Festival (30 May-02 Jun 2025)
Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day (1-8 Oct 2025)
Trips@Asia reserves the right to change Grand tribal prices and programs due to changes in flight schedules, airfares, and other local circumstances.
Prices are based on twin share occupancy.Rates for private groups of 2 travelers and above:
2 travelers- US$4,710/ person
4 travelers- US$3,206/ person

Dates	Status	Price	Notes
25 Oct 2026 - 10 Nov 2026	available	$ 2,815	Per Person (For a group of 6 or more) $620 Single Room Supplement

Additional Information

Inclusions

Accommodation at select hotels including breakfast
Transfer by private A/C vehicle
Meals as indicated in the program
English speaking guide for each area as per program
Entry fees for all sightseeing as mentioned on the program

Exclusions

International travel to Guiyang (China) and from Chiang Rai (Thailand)
Travel Insurance

Is this trip right for you?

You want real cultural immersion. This trip focuses on everyday life, not performance or staged encounters.

You enjoy long overland journeys. Expect winding mountain roads, border crossings, and full travel days.

You are comfortable with simple accommodation. Many nights are in modest hotels or basic bungalows.

You enjoy walking and village hikes. Easy to moderate hikes are part of most days.

You value markets over monuments. Weekly markets and village visits are central to the experience.

You are curious and patient. Schedules adapt to weather, road conditions, and local rhythms.

Overview

Highlights

Guizhou's Minority Heartlands. Tunbao stone villages, Bouyei communities, Miao highlands, and the iconic Huangguoshu Waterfall.
Karst Landscapes and Deep Gorges. Maling Gorge, Ten Thousand Peak Forest, Dragon's Palace caves, and the Stone Forest of Yunnan.
Yuangyang Rice Terraces. Sunrise and sunset over sculpted mountain terraces and visits to vibrant weekly minority markets.
Crossing Borders by Land. From China into Vietnam, then through Laos, ending in northern Thailand.
Northern Vietnam's Tribal Valleys. Sapa and Lai Chau regions with Hmong, Tai, Lu, and other hill tribes, plus remote local markets.
River Life in Laos. Long boat journeys along the Ou River, passing villages that still depend entirely on the waterway.
Remote Lao Highlands. Muang Ngoi, Nong Kiaw, and Muang Sing with full day hikes to villages rarely reached by travelers.
Markets as Social Centers. San Thang, Muong Lay, Yuanyang, and Muang Sing markets where trade, news, and community life meet.

Dates & Pricing

Dates	Status	Price	Notes
25 Oct 2026 - 10 Nov 2026	available	$ 2,815	Per Person (For a group of 6 or more) $620 Single Room Supplement

Additional Information

Inclusions

Accommodation at select hotels including breakfast
Transfer by private A/C vehicle
Meals as indicated in the program
English speaking guide for each area as per program
Entry fees for all sightseeing as mentioned on the program

Exclusions

International travel to Guiyang (China) and from Chiang Rai (Thailand)
Travel Insurance

Is this trip right for you?

You want real cultural immersion. This trip focuses on everyday life, not performance or staged encounters.

You enjoy long overland journeys. Expect winding mountain roads, border crossings, and full travel days.

You are comfortable with simple accommodation. Many nights are in modest hotels or basic bungalows.

You enjoy walking and village hikes. Easy to moderate hikes are part of most days.

You value markets over monuments. Weekly markets and village visits are central to the experience.

You are curious and patient. Schedules adapt to weather, road conditions, and local rhythms.