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Dien Bien Phu and the north west of Vietnam

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Dien Bien Phu and the north west of Vietnam are less visited by travelers. Most travelers who visit the north west, limit themselves to Sapa and Lao Cai and imagine they have seen enough of the minorities and the mountains.

However, a continuing journey from Sapa to Dien Bien Phu is very rewarding. Don't expect it to be easy. The roads are rough, facilities basic but you will get your rewards in finding more different minorities and spectacular scenery.

On the way to Dien Bien Phu you can find some very basic guesthouses or you can try your luck with locals who are mostly a bit shy but very friendly. Phong Tho, Lai Chau and Luan Chau have guest houses. Although this area is not heavily populated you will be able to find food and water without a problem. Camping is certainly possible.

The valley of Dien Bien Phu

Dien Bien Phu

Dien Bien Phu has a long history. It is located near the border with Laos (although you can not cross here). The city is mostly known for the events there during the First Indochina War, the Battle of Dien Bien Phu. The French colonial troops retreated into the valley of Dien Bien Phu. The Viet Minh of Ho Chi Minh occupied the surrounding hills to make sure nothing could go in or out. The French didn't expect the Viet Minh to be able to bring heavy artillery (including anti-aircraft guns) into the hills but were mistaken.

After two months the French surrendered. Shortly after the battle, the war ended with the 1954 Geneva Accords. The France agreed to withdraw from its former Indochinese colonies leaving the country in two parts. The fear for the communists would later on develop into the Second Indochina War.

Most interesting thing to visit in Dien Bien Phu is the historical value and, as in most place in north west Vietnam, the market where many local minorities come for their shopping.

In the wide open valley of Dien Bien Phu there are still some remains of the wars left.

Going south, Son La, Hoa Binh and back to Hanoi

The road from Dien Bien Phu to Son La gets better the closer you come to Son La. It is possible to cycle it in a day. The road mostly swindles through the mountains. Much of the hills is in use for agricultural use but there are many areas still untouched. That said,

On the way to Dien Bien Phu

Son La is hardly worth mentioning. It is a small town which mostly exists because of it's location. The town is a center for the local villages to do their shopping at the market.

Son La

From Son La it is still two days cycling to Hoa Binh and another day to Hanoi. It's a hard trip but certainly worth the effort.

Accommodation in Dien Bien Phu

Dien Bien Phu has some good hotels, check them out if you are going into the north west of Vietnam.

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