Northern Mountaineering: A Guide to Conquering Peaks at the End of the Year

When the weather in the North changes to winter, the dry and cold air is also the time when the mountain climbing season enters its most beautiful period, attracting thousands of people to conquer the peaks and hunt for the majestic sea of clouds. However, the sudden increase in tourists also poses safety challenges. Below are the experiences shared by Mr. Manh Chien, representative of YOLO Trekking, and Mr. Thanh Tung, a seasoned person, to help you have the best preparation for your journey.

The inviting roads

Mountain climbing routes in the North are very diverse, classified based on difficulty, altitude and terrain. Depending on your fitness and experience, you can choose the appropriate destination.

Son La - Yen Bai area: Famous for Ta Xua, Ta Chi Nhu, Lung Cung and Sa Mu peaks, ideal places for cloud hunting.
Lao Cai area: Concentrated with many high and rugged mountains such as Ngu Chi Son, Lao Than, Nhiu Co San, Fansipan and Bach Moc Luong Tu.
Lai Chau area and surrounding areas: Challenge experienced feet with Po Ma Lung, Chung Nghia Vu, Pusilung, Khang Su Van, Putaleng, Ta Lien Son.

Tourists check in at Lung Cung peak on the morning of November 16. Photo: Nguyen Trong Cung

Choose the form of climbing

There are three main options for your trip, each with its own pros and cons in terms of cost and convenience.

Self-sufficient

This is the most cost-effective form, suitable for experienced groups. You will have to take care of everything from transportation, food to hiring a porter for about 500,000 - 700,000 VND/day. The total cost for one person is usually from 1.5 million VND, but requires careful preparation and has more potential risks.

Tour porter

With this model, experienced porters will organize a package tour locally. Tourists will travel to the meeting point themselves, then the porters will take care of the rest. The cost ranges from 1.5 million to 2 million VND. "This is the model I often choose. The cost is higher than self-sufficient travel, but cheaper than a tour, no need to worry about many things, and it allows local porters to make money," said Mr. Tung.

Package tour

This is the most leisurely option, especially suitable for beginners. Travel companies will take care of the entire itinerary from A to Z, including pick-up and drop-off from Hanoi. The cost is usually from 3 million VND or more. Although the price is higher, you will receive better service and more safety, as long as you choose a reputable organization.

Pocket skills when climbing mountains in the North at the end of the year - 1

The golden time to hit the road

The period from November to February of the following year is considered the most ideal for climbing, when the weather is dry, favorable for cloud hunting and the opportunity to admire the ice. The climbing season can last until April. Those without experience should avoid going during strong monsoons or after the Lunar New Year due to drizzle and cold. Note that the temperature on the mountain can be about 10 degrees Celsius lower than at the foot of the mountain.

Preparing for the first journey

For first-time climbers, mental and physical preparation are decisive factors.

Fitness: Train regularly for 10-15 days before the trip by climbing 20 flights of stairs every day. Take the last 2-3 days to rest completely to help your muscles recover.
Gear: The most important item is a pair of good-grip hiking shoes. For clothing, prioritize comfort with breathable layers, a light jacket, and quick-drying pants. Don’t forget accessories like hats, gloves, and knee pads.
Winter: Need to add thermal shirt, sweater, warm hat and heat patch. Always carry at least two pairs of socks and personal medicine bag.

Tourists should equip themselves with knowledge before climbing the mountain. Photo: Lekima Hung

Safety tips for women

Due to the nature of shared activities in mountain huts, female tourists should minimize the use of alcoholic beverages to avoid risky situations and loss of control of behavior. Drinking too much alcohol not only affects alertness but also negatively impacts physical strength, possibly leading to exhaustion or stroke the next day of climbing. Safety must always be the top priority on every trip.

Source: https://baolamdong.vn/leo-nui-mien-bac-cam-nang-chinh-phuc-cac-dinh-cao-mua-cuoi-nam-409018.html