Ky Quan San, also known as Bach Moc Luong Tu, is a majestic mountain belonging to the Hoang Lien Son range, located on the border between Lao Cai and Lai Chau provinces. With an altitude of 3046m, Ky Quan San is dubbed the “4th highest peak” of Vietnam, attracting a large number of people who love trekking and exploring nature. This article by Cuu Long Camping will provide you with detailed information about Trekking Ky Quan San, from preparation experience, itinerary, to things to note for a safe and memorable trip.
Where is Ky Quan San Located?
Ky Quan San, also known as Bach Moc Luong Tu, is a mountain located in the Hoang Lien Son range, bordering the two provinces of Lao Cai and Lai Chau in Northern Vietnam. More specifically:
- Administratively: Ky Quan San is located on the border between Bat Xat district (Lao Cai province) and Phong Tho district (Lai Chau province).
- Geographically: It belongs to the Ky Quan San mountain range, part of the majestic Hoang Lien Son range.
To make it easier to visualize, consider the following points:
- Common starting point: Most Trekking Ky Quan San tours usually start from Sang Ma Sao commune, Bat Xat district, Lao Cai province. This is considered an easier route with more beautiful scenery.
- Nearby provinces: Ky Quan San is located near famous tourist destinations like Sapa (Lao Cai).
See more: Nui Dinh Camping: A Wonderful Pristine Experience Near Saigon.
Interesting Ky Quan San Trekking Itinerary for Beginners
Although Ky Quan San is known as quite a challenging mountain, with good health and careful preparation, beginners can absolutely conquer it. Below is a Trekking Ky Quan San itinerary designed specifically for beginners, focusing on the experience and reducing pressure regarding speed:
Important notes:
- Go on a tour with a professional guide: This is extremely important for beginners, helping to ensure safety and providing support with skills and experience.
- Choose a 3 days 2 nights tour: This itinerary provides enough time to acclimatize to the altitude and is not too rushed.
- Physical training before the trip: Although the itinerary is adjusted for beginners, you still need a good physical foundation.
Detailed itinerary (3 days 2 nights):
Day 1: Sapa – Sang Ma Sao – Rest stop at 2100m (Approximately 6-8km trekking)
- Morning: The car picks you up in Sapa and takes you to Sang Ma Sao (the starting point of trekking). Travel time is about 2-3 hours. You should eat a full breakfast before departing.
- Noon: Have lunch in Sang Ma Sao, get acquainted with the porter and guide. Check your luggage and personal belongings.
- Afternoon: Start trekking, passing through gentle slopes, through corn fields, tea plantations, and villages of the Hmong people. This section helps you get used to the terrain and climate. Move slowly, stopping and resting to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Evening: Arrive at the rest stop at an altitude of about 2100m. Set up camp (if on a self-sufficient tour), have dinner, and rest. You should go to bed early to recover.
Highlights of Day 1:
- Discover local culture in Sang Ma Sao.
- Admire the peaceful natural scenery along the way.
- Get used to the altitude and terrain.
Day 2: Rest stop at 2100m – Ky Quan San Peak (3046m) – Rest stop at 2100m (Approximately 8-10km trekking)
- Morning: Wake up early to watch the sunrise (if the weather permits). Have a light breakfast and prepare for the journey to conquer the summit. Bring enough water and snacks.
- Morning/Noon: Start climbing to the peak of Ky Quan San. This section will have steeper slopes, but the guide will help you get through it. Go slowly, keep your breathing steady, and rest when needed.
- Noon: Have lunch on the peak of Ky Quan San, take souvenir photos, and enjoy the majestic scenery. You should take time to rest on the peak to avoid altitude sickness.
- Afternoon: Descend the mountain back to the rest stop. Be careful when descending slopes to avoid slipping and falling.
- Evening: Have dinner and rest.
Highlights of Day 2:
- Conquering Vietnam’s “4th highest peak.”
- Admiring the panoramic view of the mountains and forests from the summit of Ky Quan San.
- Experiencing standing on the clouds (if there are clouds).
- Overcoming your limits.
Day 3: Rest stop at 2100m – Sang Ma Sao – Sapa (Approximately 6-8km trekking)
- Morning: Wake up a bit later, have breakfast, and pack your belongings. Double-check personal belongings before leaving the rest stop.
- Morning/Noon: Trek down to Sang Ma Sao. The descent is usually easier than the ascent, but still be careful to avoid slipping or injuring your knees.
- Noon: Have lunch in Sang Ma Sao.
- Afternoon: The car picks you up and takes you back to Sapa.
Highlights of Day 3:
- Relax after the trekking journey.
- Share experiences with everyone in the group.
- Buy souvenirs in Sapa (if you have time).
Things to note for beginners:
- Talk to the guide: Discuss your health status and any concerns with the guide. The guide will provide helpful advice and support you throughout the journey.
- Go slowly and rest sufficiently: Do not try to go fast to keep up with the group. Listen to your body and rest when needed. This helps you avoid overexertion and injury.
- Drink enough water and eat enough nutrients: Ensure your body is supplied with enough energy and water throughout the journey. Bring enough water and snacks such as bread, fruit, chocolate,…
- Wear suitable trekking shoes: Good trekking shoes will help you avoid slipping and protect your feet. Choose shoes with good grip, waterproof, and that fit your feet well.
- Prepare mentally: Be mentally prepared for difficulties and challenges along the way. However, don’t worry too much; enjoy the journey and the beautiful scenery you admire.
- Learn about altitude sickness: Read information about altitude sickness and how to prevent it. If you have any symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea,… inform the guide immediately.
What’s Interesting About Trekking Ky Quan San?
Trekking Ky Quan San (Bach Moc Luong Tu) offers countless interesting things for those who love exploring and conquering nature. Here are the highlights that make Ky Quan San an attractive destination:
1. Conquering Vietnam’s “4th highest peak”:
With an altitude of 3,046m, Ky Quan San is the 4th highest mountain in Vietnam, after Fansipan, Pu Ta Leng, and Pu Si Lung. Conquering this mountain peak is an exciting and proud challenge for any trekker. The feeling of standing on the mountaintop and admiring the majestic panoramic view of the mountains and forests will be an unforgettable memory.
2. Exploring a diverse ecosystem:
The Trekking Ky Quan San route goes through many different terrains and ecosystems, from dense primary forests with centuries-old ancient trees, to lush bamboo forests, and rich vegetation. You will admire the diversity of flora and fauna here, with many rare species.
3. Beautiful “cloud hunting”:
Ky Quan San is known as one of the most beautiful “cloud hunting” spots in Vietnam. From above, you can admire the vast white sea of clouds covering the overlapping mountain ranges, creating an incredibly spectacular and magical scene. Especially, sunrise and sunset on Ky Quan San are beautiful moments that you cannot miss.
4. Checking in at the unique “Salt Hill”:
Salt Hill is a special spot on the Trekking Ky Quan San route. Here, there are white rocks like salt, creating a unique and impressive scene. Salt Hill is also a beautiful spot to watch the sunrise and sunset, and an ideal place to take “virtual living” photos with a swing amidst the clouds and sky.
5. Experiencing the “Dinosaur’s Back”:
A section of the Trekking Ky Quan San route is likened to the “Dinosaur’s Back” with steep slopes and deep ravines on both sides. This is a significant challenge for trekkers but also an incredibly exciting and memorable experience.
6. Exploring local culture:
The Trekking Ky Quan San journey often starts from Sang Ma Sao valley, where the Hmong ethnic people live. You will have the opportunity to learn about the culture, customs, and life of the local people.
7. Improving health and willpower:
Trekking Ky Quan San requires good physical fitness and strong willpower. Overcoming difficulties along the way will help you improve your health, willpower, and team spirit.
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