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• Sapa Hiking Tour
• Sapa Trekking Tour
• Sapa Market Tour
• Sapa Motorbike Tour

• Sapa – Ninh Binh
• Sapa – Ha Giang
• Sapa – Halong Bay
• Hanoi – Halong Bay
• Hanoi – Ha Giang
• Bus Hanoi to Sapa
• Train Hanoi to Sapa
• Hanoi to Sapa Limousine

The Real Sapa

The most interesting things about sapa vietnam.

Train Hanoi Sapa

Bus Hanoi Sapa

Limousine 9 Seats

Bus to sapa & from sapa to other.

Transportation options include trains , buses , and limousine for the 320km journey from Hanoi to Sapa, Vietnam

G8 Sapa Open Tour: VIP Cabin Bus from Hanoi to Sapa

HK Open Tour: Hanoi – Sapa Bus VIP Cabin

Eco Sapa Limousine: 9 Seats from Hanoi to Sapa

Sapa to Ninh Binh Bus

Royal Cabin Sapa to Ninh Binh Bus

Sapa - Ninh Binh

HK Open Tour: Sapa – Ninh Binh VIP Cabin Bus

Sapa - Halong Bay

Sapa to Halong Bay Bus

Private Car

Hanoi to Sapa Private Car

Sao Viet Bus: Hanoi Sapa Private Cabin Sleeper Bus

Kadham Bus Sapa: VIP Sleeper Bus from Hanoi to Sapa

Trains Hanoi - Sapa

Family Express Train: From 29$ Hanoi to Sapa

Sapaly Express Train: From 35 USD Hanoi to Sapa

Chapa Express Train: Unwind on the Hanoi to Sapa Rail Adventure

Lotus Train Vietnam: from Hanoi to Sapa 2024

Must-try Tours in Sapa

Experience the best of Sapa’s nature and culture with Sapa Nomad . Options include trekking , hiking , and visiting local market .

[1 Day] Sunday Bac Ha Market Tour from Sapa

[1 Day] Easy Trekking in Sapa through Muong Hoa valley

[1 Day] Hard Trekking in Sapa through Muong Hoa Valley with Local Expert

[1 Day] Hike Fansipan Mountain from Sapa with Local Expert

[1 Day] Moderate Trekking in Sapa through highest Village

[2 Days 1 Night] Easy Trekking in Sapa with Homestay in Village

[2 Days 1 Night] Moderate Sapa Trekking Tour with Local Guide

[2 Days 1 Night] Hike Fansipan mountain from Sapa

2-Days Hiking in Sapa Lao Than Mountain (2860m)

[1 Day] Loop Sapa Motorbike Tour with Local Expert

Attractions in Sapa

• Fansipan Mountain
• Cat Cat Village
• Silver Waterfall
• Love Waterfall
• Ham Rong Mountain
• Muong Hoa Valley
• Ta Phin Village
• Ta Van Village
• Lao Chai Village
• O Quy Ho Pass

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Sapa

Sapa is a town located in the Lao Cai province in the northwest Vietnam at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level. Sapa is about 38 km from Lao Cai and 376 km from Hanoi.

Sapa is famous for its stunning landscapes, terraced rice fields, ethnic minorities with colorful culture, and Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. Sapa has beautiful natural scenery; and a pleasant, humid, temperate, and subtropical climate. This is known as the place where heaven and the earth meet.

The above factors have made Sapa attractive to many tourists. They come to rest and relax at this famous tourist destination in North Vietnam

1 – By Train

Traveling by train takes about 8-9 hours and the train only stops in Lao Cai, the province which Sapa belongs to. It then takes another hour to get to Sapa from Lao Cai station by minivan.

2 – By Bus Traveling by bus is both fast and it goes directly to Sapa town without stopping in Lao Cai as by train. If you take a private car ride, you can even reach Sapa in 5 hours.

3 – By Limousine This way is fastest way and more private space.

The best time to visit is from April to September. Although, each season has its own special qualities and surprises.

During this period the temperature is ranging from 15 – 25 Degree Celsius, it is not a rainy season in Sapa so the trekking routes are dry and bear great opportunity to do longer treks and to conquer Mt Fansipan .

Yes! Sapa offers numerous trekking opportunities. You can explore the surrounding villages, visit local markets , and hike to beautiful viewpoints . Trekking is a famous activity in Sapa, with so many roads for visitors to discover.

The main ethnic minority groups in Sapa are the Hmong, Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho. Each group has its distinct culture, traditions, and clothing.

Yes, there are homestay options available in Sapa, where you can stay with local families from the ethnic minority tribes and experience their way of life.

The destinations include Ham Rong mountain, Sapa Church, Cat Cat Village, Ta Phin Village, Muong Hoa valley, Ta Van and Lao Chai village, Silver Waterfall, Love Waterfall, O Quy Ho pass and the Fansipan Cable Car.

Yes, Sapa has several hot springs where you can relax and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters, such as the Sapa Eden Hot Springs.

Yes, you can climb Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, for hiking this mountain, you need permission from Sapa local government and go with the local guide, either by trekking or taking the Fansipan Cable Car for a more accessible option.

Sapa Travel Guide

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Sapa Tour Companies

List of sapa travel companies & tour operators with 45739 reviews.

Legend Travel Group

• Excellent - 956 reviews for Sapa tours

Tour was well organised. Danny had very good communication through-out our tour and all the other tour guides spoke very good English. Would recommend

I had the best time traveling solo through Northern Vietnam! From start to finish, the tour was well organized and I was taken care of during the entire trip. Loved my hotel in Hanoi, enjoyed some amazing food, and met people from all over the world. Highly recommend the trip!

• Excellent - 134 reviews for Sapa tours

I liked this tour so very much! I only had 8 days off work so this was perfect..! The North of Vietnam is beautiful..! My highlight was kayaking in Halong Bay-one of the 7 wonders of the world..! Jenny did an excellent job organising this for a solo traveller like me..! I was very happy with everything!!😊

ucky our Tour operator was very passionate. Goes above and beyond to help our trip enjoyable. She is very knowledgeable. This itinerary though short still allows you to visit and experience almost Vietnam greatly. A very memorable journey

Realistic Asia

• Excellent - 935 reviews for Sapa tours

A well planned itinerary for this tour. So many highlights included. Gave a very informative view of northern Vietnam culture and its beautiful people. Excellent guide and driver. So supportive of all of our needs; strongly recommend this tour and this company.

It was our third trip to Vietnam, before we were visiting it for a beach break, but for this time we decided to take and adventure trip in the mountains. We have heard a lot from other travelers about Sapa and Ha Long Bay and wanted to visit it. We were unconfident to arrange this trip by ourselves and decided to book it with Realistc Asia. It was a great decision for us. Our travel advisor Hien has recommended us this trip as we wanted to get a full insight into Northern Vietnam. We couldn’t expect more! We visited local villages, and the market in the mountains, met many interesting people. Personally I was blown away with the views in Mu Cang Chai, it is probably one of the most beautiful places I ever visited. For those who want to see rice terraces I recommend to go there. We got all what we wanted: adventures, less visited areas, beautiful sceneries and authentic experience. Hien, thank you so much for organizing everything! You are the best!

PrestiGo Asia

• Excellent - 194 reviews for Sapa tours

I had an incredible experience with Prestigo Asia! They personalized my itinerary to match my interests, and I gained a deep understanding of the culture and history of each place I visited. The booking process via Tourradar was smooth, and my lovely consultant, Sandra, was fantastic, checking in regularly to ensure everything was perfect. I appreciated the extra days I added for relaxation, allowing me to enjoy the wonderful hometays in the north of Vietnam and connect with friendly locals. I highly recommend Prestigo Asia for a great travel experience.

When searching for potential options for Vietnam travel, I chose Halong Bay because it's famous and came to mind. among the results, I was impressed with this tour because Sapa villages were interesting to discover. Hoi An was also a must-see destination. I am happy to choose this option. But more than that, it's a great choice to travel with Prestigo Asia. The team was professional. They knew what to do with running tour. hotels and services were excellent. Our main guide, Dat, cared about all the details we discussed and was responsive whenever needed. And the level of trekking was moderate. We felt comfortable during the 12 days. Highly recommend them!

INTRO Travel

• Excellent - 14,936 reviews for Sapa tours

Unbelievable experience! Had a great group and was very luck to have Bobby as a group leader! He is a nice and fun dude who represents Vietnamese people so well if you get him as your tour leader you are blessed!

Amazing time! Bobby was a fantastic group leader . Highly recommended tour

Swallow Travel

• Excellent - 105 reviews for Sapa tours

Good tour guide with local knowledge. Helped us organize additional activities outside of the tour.

The trekking through the villages was great and the hotel was really nice. Just be aware that it's not a tour as such they have just booked every separate element for you, some more information prior to the experience would have been reassuring.

Vietnam Travel Top

• Excellent - 126 reviews for Sapa tours

The tour was brilliant, our tour guide, was able to tell us a lot. She educated us about the local traditions and culture which was very fascinating. The trek was not the easiest but it seems that the guide adapted the path based on the group level and weather.

The tour was designed neatly. The staffs and tour guides are very nice. Foods are good. Only thing we are not familiar with is the bus with "giường nằm" which is very uncomfortable and not clean. Any other things are good. Thanks for the services.

Vietnam Tour Fun

• Excellent - 115 reviews for Sapa tours

The tour was perfectly planned, even though I booked it at very short notice. I made a mistake by choosing the wrong arrival date, yet the perfect solution was still found for me. I could ask questions continuously, and Ha (Evelyn) was able to answer all of them - thank you very much for that. Every day was well-organized, and the journeys from one place to another were very pleasant and comfortable. Dear Ha, thank you for the enjoyable time and your dedication during my trip. I would recommend this tour to anyone planning a group trip through Northern Vietnam.

Vietnam Tour Fun had been providing excellent service and support throughout our trip. Ms Mai Hoa started to connect with us a few days before we arrived Vietnam. She was contactable throughout the whole trip. We scheduled to have Halong Bay cruise in the last 2 days in our itinerary. However a typhoon was approaching Vietnam and the government announced no cruise was allowed to set sail for safety reason. Ms Mai Hoa immediately contacted us and offered alternative trips for choosing. The difference in the tour fee was refunded to us after our trip finished. We were very happy with the services of Vietnam Tour Fun and Ms Mai Hoa. We had a great time there.

BestPrice Travel

• Excellent - 58 reviews for Sapa tours

The tour was very good. Our guide Li in Sapa was excellent. She was extremely knowledgeable and was from one of the local villages in the area. Fabulous couple of days. Swan cruises on Halong Bay was also very good. The staff were excellent and we went to a quiet part of the Bay. Best price Tour staff were very responsive and we would recommend their company.

Hannah, the Hanoi rep did an excellent job coordinating all aspects to the tours. The guides were all excellent & knowledgeable. Accommodations in Sapa & Halong boat exceeded expectations. Meals were delicious & plentiful

Crossing Vietnam Tour

• Excellent - 727 reviews for Sapa tours

Had a wonderful time touring the villages and bamboo forests, it was all very beautiful!! Sarah was a great tour guide, she was very friendly and added a lot of character to the trip! Highly recommend anyone takes to you experience the local atmosphere.

The Sapa tour was a very special experience! When we arrived, we hiked to the accommodation with a tour guide and a great group. The hike was quite challenging and took more than three hours. You had a beautiful view and could see the rice fields and surrounding villages. Thanks to the great group and our guide for the lovely three days!

Nhat Long Travel Company

• Excellent - 10 reviews for Sapa tours

Firstly, I want to express gratitude to the operator who was always helpful with her consistent assistance. It was enjoyable to experience 3-day trek across the northern region if Sapa and eat the beautiful food provided for breakfast, lunch and dinner. However, the reason I gave 3 starts is because there are some areas a for improvement: providing a detailed daily schedule so the customer does not need to ask the operator for important information, adjusting activities based on the season, and enhancing guides' English proficiency so as a customer you can get a better insight of the extraordinary uniqueness of the region and their people. Overall, it was a great experience and the two homestays with warm and friendly families were priceless ♥️

Amazing trip. Even with multiple flight cancellations, Cathy found ways to get me out to Sapa and then back to Hanoi. My guide Chay got me up and down the mountain safely and quickly despite the intense rain which made the trek even more rewarding. I definitely recommend this trip.

Mr Linh's Adventures

• Excellent - 25 reviews for Sapa tours

Good short trip. Lovely walk over 2 days seeing different areas of Sapa and villages. Enjoyed the homestay

Wonderscape Travel

• Excellent - 11 reviews for Sapa tours
• This operator has no Sapa reviews

Intrepid Travel

• Excellent - 11,755 reviews for Sapa tours

Hotel was very good, home stay was a good standard, meals were a good standard, helpful host. A really good experience.

Old Quarter Travel

• Excellent - 28 reviews for Sapa tours

Homestay was beautiful. Food was very generic. Tour guides don’t give you much insight into their culture unless you ask. They also hustle you to the give them good reviews on the spot, when you’re trying to relax. With Sapa tours in particular, a few people from the tour guide’s tribe/friends will join. They will offer to help you walk through tricky/slippery parts of the hike, then ask you for money at the end. I quote “I help you, you help me”. Sapa is a beautiful place and I still recommend going regardless. I do think all tours in this area have the same issues, which is disappointing.

It was really fun. The only negative thing were many locals who tried to sell us stuff!

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Sapa travel guide & best things to do

Sapa is a small village, 350 km north of Hanoi, near the Chinese border. Sapa is known for having spectacular views of a valley with rice field fields that can be seen on clear days, with mountains towering on all sides from above. The view of this epic landscape is often tempered by dense fog that rolls over the tops, but even when it is cloudy, the local hill tribes fill the city with color.

5 reasons to visit Sapa

• Make a trekking through the green rice terraces of the Muong Hoa Valley.
• Learn more about the culture and traditions of the local hill tribes.
• Climb or take the cable car to the highest mountain in Indochina: Fansipan.
• Explore the area by motorbike and drive over Vietnam’s highest pass: Tram Ton Pass.
• Visit a local colorful market.

What is in this Sapa travel guide

Practical information, best time to visit.

• 10 best things to do
• Best hotels & hostels

Food & drinking

How to get there, how to get around, book your local sapa experience, recommended days to stay.

It is best to stay from 2 to 4 days in Sapa. A minimum of three days is the best if you want to visit some sights, make a trekking and visit a local minority market.

ATM's & money exchange

There are ATMs in Sapa. Many hotels and travel agents can exchange euros and US dollars.

• The best time to visit Sapa is from March to May and from September to November. During these times the weather is relatively stable with sunny days and cool nights. The first period is the autumn time. At this time of the year the weather is very comfortable. It is dry, clear with a lot of sunshine. The view of the terraces of Sapa is at its best between
• September and October. The cool and dry weather with the stable temperature makes it the perfect time for trekking and photos.
• In the summer, although it is quite warm, it is not as hot as other regions of Vietnam.
• If you spend time in this city between April and May, you have the chance to see the beautiful landscapes of many colorful flowers and green fields.
• In winter, from December to February, the weather in Sapa becomes very cold, especially at night. In return, however, you get the chance to watch the sunrise over the valley in the morning. Snow has also fallen in Sapa in recent years.

10 best things to do in Sapa

This town and the area around it has been very developed over the years, so there are many things to do in Sapa. You can choose to da 

1. Trekking

• Tip: Interested to do a trekking in Sapa? Check out our Sapa tours . Also options to combine a trekking tour with sightseeing or a visit to a local market.

2. View the terraced rice fields

The main reason for most travelers to visit this mountain town are the stunning Sapa rice fields . It is for a reason that it is considered one of the most beautiful landscapes in Vietnam. These impressive terraced fields are spread all over the Muong Hoa valley from the bottom all the way to the top of the mountains.

The locals grow rice here and settle around the rice fields, often at the foot of the mountains. The rice terraces look like straight out of a travel brochure. It is best to discover them by a trekking tour, but you can also drive around by car or motorbike.

3. Visit minority villages

The second reason to visit Sapa is the unique culture of the mountain tribes. These ethnic minorities live in the mountains and live from the land for many generations. There are different kind of minority groups to be found in this area, including the HMong, the Dao, the Tày and Giay.

Each group has their own language, traditional clothing and culture. The best way to discover this unique culture is by visiting the local villages outside of Sapa. Walk around the village to discover their daily life and unique way of living in the mountains.

Again, the best way is to do this by trekking tour, but you can also drive by car or motorbike.

4. Stay overnight in a homestay

Complete your unique local minority adventure by staying in a homestay. There are several homestays in Sapa and in the villages around it. The most unique experience is of course spending the night in a house of a local hill tribe. The accommodation is often basic and lacks comfort, but the experience is great!

In the evening you can enjoy a family dinner. End your day with a delicious traditional herbal bath or drink rice wine with the family. It will be an experience you will never forget.

The best thing is to combine a homestay overnight stay with a multi-day trek. For example, if you go hiking for two days you will spend the night in a local homestay and the day after you continue walking, going far off the beaten track.

• Tip: Do you want to stay overnight in a local homestay and combine it with a trekking? Check out our Sapa tours .

5. Visit a local market

One of the other best things to do in Sapa is visit a mountain market. There are several markets in Sapa and beyond that you can visit. These markets are used by the local hill tribes to trade their locally grown food. But you will find much more here.

Think of clothing, pieces of cloth, brocade, jewelry and even telephones and chargers. One of the most fascinating parts of the market is the livestock section. Here you can see traders checking every part of the animal before making a trade.

It is an incredibly unique experience to visit an ethnic minority market. The colors of all the traditional clothing, the animals and the crowds make it seem like chaos. But this chaos is surprisingly cozy with a good atmosphere.

The most popular market around Sapa is the Bac Ha market (held every Sunday), but there are many other markets you can visit.

6. Fansipan mountain

Fansipan is the highest mountain in Vietnam and for that reason also quite literally the biggest highlight. In the past, you could only get to the top by climbing for 2 or 3 days. And although this is still possible, today there is a cable car that takes you from the cable car station in Sapa to the top of Fansipan in 15 minutes.

A number of temples and pagodas that you can visit have now also been built around the top of the mountain. On clear days you have a great view of the mountains in the area.

7. Tram Ton Pass

Next to Fansipan and on the other side of Sapa you will find the highest mountain pass in Vietnam . Enjoy a trip by car or motorcycle on the Tram Ton Pass  with panoramic views. At the top there is a viewpoint where you should definitely stop.

Many travelers return directly to Sapa at the top of the mountain pass, but if you have more time, continue all the way to Lai Chau. Along the way you will have many more views of some of the most impressive mountains in this country.

8. Waterfalls

Combine a drive over the Tram Ton Pass with a visit to some local waterfalls in Sapa and along the same road as the pass. The Silver Waterfall is right next to the road. To get to the Silver Waterfall you have to hike for 30 minutes, but for that reason a lot less visited and special.

9. Sapa by (motor)bike tour

An alternative to trekking in Sapa, you can also take a motorbike or mountain bike to explore the landscapes. Riding a mountain bike is diffidently exciting and enjoyable at the same time.

A motorbike can bring you a lot further than hiking, giving you the opportunity to go even more off the beaten track and away from the crowds in Sapa. There are some scenic roads, but if you are not confident in driving or not a lot of experienced, it is best to go on the back of a motorbike with a local guide.

10. Explore Sapa town

As all the best things to do in Sapa are actually outside Sapa, but you can still choose to wander around this town. Even though it lost its cozy picturesque feeling, there are some sights you can visit. 

It the city center you find an old stone church and the local market. The market can be fun to visit in the weekend, when it is getting quite busy with local minorities. There is also a museum you can visit about the different ethnic groups. Finally, you can also walk around the lake or enjoy the view of the city on Ham Ruong Mountain.

Best hotels & hostels in Sapa

Where to stay.

Hotels around the lake  – the cheapest place to book a room compared to the same quality rooms in the rest of the city.

Hotels in Cau May – Muong Hoa  – more expensive than the other areas because the view is very beautiful, including views of the Fansipan and Hoang Lien Son mountains.

Hotels in center of Sapa  – full of tourists and many options of quality hotels, from affordable to expensive luxury hotels.

Homestay in Sapa  – An overnight stay in a homestay is a great alternative to a hotel in the city itself, if you don’t mind staying in a more basic accommodation.

Budget hotels & hostels

• Mountain View Hostel
• Go Sapa Hostel
• Sapa Capsule

Mid range  hotel

• Sapa Elite Hotel
• Praha Hotel Sapa
• Sapa Diamond Hotel
• Sapa Eden Hotel

High end hotel & resort

• Sapa Legend Hotel & Spa
• Sapa Freesia Hotel
• Pao’s Sapa Leisure Hotel

Restaurants

There are many restaurant in Sapa, including both local dishes as western dishes as pizza, pasta and hamburgers. Try the specialities of the local hill tribes, often with wild mushrooms, herbs and local fish.

• Good Morning Vietnam Restaurant
• Sapa Natureview
• Little Vietnam Restaurant
• Moment Romantic Restaurant
• Good Morning View Restaurant
• Hill Station Signature Restaurant

Sapa is not known for its hectic nightlife. There are a few bars that offer a place to meet fellow travelers, drink a few beers and play a game of pool. Most restaurants that sell beer and other beverages tend to close early in the evening.

• Mountain Bar & Pub: Cocktails, cold beer and games, this is the to-go bar for an evening out.
• Hmong Sisters: A spacious bar with pool tables and a fireplace with great music.

Sapa does not have a airport, but there are direct buses from Hanoi and there is a train station not too far from Sapa town.

Buses to Sapa

The bus from Hanoi to Sapa is the cheapest option. The advantage of a bus connection is that it goes directly to the city of Sapa, without stopping anywhere and the bus also runs at night, just like the trains. The bus trip from Hanoi to Sapa takes around 5 to 6 hours..

Trains to Hanoi

Many people who travel to Sapa choose the train because it is safe, comfortable, convenient and time-saving. The disadvantage is that the train only takes you to Lao Cai station, from there you have to take a bus, minibus or taxi to Sapa.

Hiking – Places in the city of Sapa are easily reached on foot, because Sapa is small enough. Hiking is also the best way to explore the area around Sapa. However, if you choose this form of travel, you must also provide yourself with good shoes, drinking water and good endurance. There are a few small day walks that you can do alone. It is recommended to do a multi-day trek through the area with a guide who can show you the way.

Cab – The price for a taxi in Sapa is almost the same as in Hanoi. You can often choose between taxis with 5 to 8 seats, depending on the number of people you are with. Some reliable taxi companies are: Sapa Green Taxi, Phan-xi-pang taxi, Northwest taxi. You pay per kilometer from 9,000 to 12,000.

Motorbike – You can rent a motorbike in Sapa from 100,000 VND a day. Keep in mind that driving through the mountains of north Vietnam is not without danger and only meant for people with experience. An alternative is to go on the back of a motorbike with an experienced guide.

Per tour – A comfortable way of traveling in Sapa is per tour. No danger of driving a motorcycle on difficult roads and no stress of getting lost. A simple way to view the highlights and a local guide who can show you things about the area and tell them.

Itinerary 2 days in Sapa

• Start a 2 day 1 night trekking
• Stay overnight in a homestay
• Get back in early afternoon from the trekking
• Choose to go to Fansipan by cable car or Tram Ton Pass by taxi/scooter

More tips for traveling in Sapa

Where to go next.

A cruise in Halong Bay or cycling between the rice fields of  Ninh Binh are often combined with Sapa. Though, there are no direct buses or trains to these destinations. You would always need to travel back to Hanoi. There are however direct connections with Ha Giang and Mu Cang Chai. Ha Giang is great if you want to explore some of the most stunning mountains of north Vietnam. Mu Cang Chai is the place where you can find the most beautiful rice fields in Vietnam . It might better to choose either between Sapa and Mu Cang Chai, as both destinations are famous for trekking tours between the rice fields.

Sapa with kids

Sapa is a great place to bring children. Depending on their age and stamina, you can choose to make a trekking with them for half a day, full day or multiple day. It is also great to let them learn about the different minority cultures. You can also choose to go to Fansipan, by mountain train and cable car.

Sapa is a quite developed in tourism, so a large number of people working in the hotels and restaurants can speak a fairly amount of English. When you visit the minority villages and want to stay overnight in a local homestay, there is less chance to be able to communicate with them easily. It is wise to do this kind of activities with a guide.

What to bring

Make sure to bring warm clothes when you visit Sapa in the winter months. During summer it will be very hot, but bring with rain. Make sure to bring sunscreen, hat and a raincoat. 

It is also smart to bring a comfortable daypack if you are planning to do a trekking. Read here more for a full list of what to bring during a trekking in Sapa .

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Sa Pa Travel Guide

All things need to know before travelling to sa pa.

Sapa has long become an attractive destination for tourists from near and far. With majestic natural scenery, endless green mountains and unique culture of indigenous ethnic minorities, Sapa will never disappoint you. Let’s explore this beautiful land with Origin Vietnam.

1. Where is Sa Pa?

Sa Pa is a mountainous district in Lao Cai province in the Northwest region of Vietnam. About 30 km southwest of Lao Cai city and about 310 km northwest of Hanoi capital. With geographical location:

• The East borders Lao Cai city and Bao Thang district.
• The West borders Tam Duong district and Tan Uyen district of Lai Chau province.
• The south borders Van Ban district.
• The north borders Bat Xat district.

2. How is Sa Pa unique?

Located on a mountainside 1,500 – 1,600 meters above sea level. Sapa has a tropical climate with four diverse seasons, and is especially one of the rare places in Vietnam with snowfall in winter.

Sapa with an area of about 678.6 km2 is inhabited mainly by the H’Mong, Dao, Tay, Giay, Xa Pho, Kinh, and Hoa ethnic groups. This is a famous tourist land in Lao Cai because it contains many wonders of natural scenery. Sa Pa’s natural landscape is combined with human creativity along with the topography of the mountains and the green of the forest, like a picture arranged in a harmonious layout, creating a region with many landscapes. Attractive poetic color. Sapa tours is a journey which gives visitors a contrast about the north highland of Vietnam. It is the spectacular rice terraces appearing which is described as waterfalls.

Immersed in floating clouds, Sa Pa seems to be immersed in magical mist, making visitors feel like they are lost in a fairyland. Here, there is an invaluable resource that is a cool, fresh climate with many diverse nuances. Sa Pa is not only a wonderful destination in Vietnam for unique culture, cuisine, and local minority people groups. But also unique architectural buildings. Its speciality is divided into two main types. The first is the tradition of local minority groups with stilt houses and the last is French architectural buildings.

The traditional style of Sa Pa

The traditional style of Sa Pa is expressed through houses of local ethnic people clearly. Some of them are Tay, Nung, and H’Mong people. Each stilt house in each ethnic nation designs differently, however, all ethnic stilt houses are made in wood in general. Visitors can visit ethnic villages and see their stilt houses in Cat Cat, Lao Chai, Ta Van, Ta Phin, Giang Ta Chai, Y Linh Ho villages, etc. While French constructions you can see mainly in Sapa town center or surrounding such as Stone Church, villa, ect.

Combined with majestic, lyrical natural scenery, diverse ethnic cultures, sincere and hospitable people, Sa Pa is a great destination whether you are a tourist who loves to explore or are looking for a perfect vacation spot.

3. When is the best time to visit Sapa?

Although the climate is divided into four distinct seasons, Sapa’s average temperature rarely exceeds 25 degrees Celsius, even in summer. Coming to Sapa in any season of the year, you can enjoy a unique scenery, each season has its own beauty, and will easily “captivate” any visitor.

From the end of December, peach blossoms in Sapa have bloomed, lasting until February, covering this place in brilliant pink. From February to March, you will admire the forests of apricot and plum flowers blooming white on the horizon.

Continuing until March – April is the time when all kinds of flowers bloom, when the weather is warm in spring. This is the time when the whole town is filled with white flowers.

It is also the rainy season in Sapa, but we don’t think summer is not suitable for traveling to Sa Pa. Early summer and late summer are two great times for you to make a self-sufficient trip to Sapa, if you have always been fascinated with the majestic terraced rice fields.

April – May is rice planting season, also known as pouring water season. This is the time when people start the new crop season, Sapa is immersed in the green of young rice fields. But the most beautiful moment is the moment of sunrise or sunset, when the orange-yellow sunlight spills over the fields, reflecting sparklingly on the water surface.

Late August – September is the season of ripe rice. Coming to Sapa at this time, you will have the opportunity to watch the golden rice season on winding terraced fields meandering in the cool air of late summer and early autumn.

Fall is a favorite time for self-guided trips to Sapa, because this is the famous buckwheat flower season. Starting from mid-October to the end of November, the entire Northwest mountainous region is immersed in the pink color of buckwheat flower fields.

In particular, the last two weeks of October is also the time to organize the Buckwheat Flower Festival with many interesting cultural discovery activities.

Sapa is one of the rare regions in Vietnam that gives you the opportunity to watch snow fall. If you want to experience the cold of the high mountains, and admire the scenery of white snow covering this small town, do not hesitate to come to Sapa in the winter months. Besides, from the end of November to the beginning of the new year is when the canola flower fields in Sapa bloom, welcoming tourists.

One point to note is that although winter in Sapa is charming, the weather is also very harsh, the temperature can drop below 0 degrees, and the sky is cloudy. Therefore, when traveling to Sapa during this time, you need to equip yourself with warm clothes and necessary items to ensure your health for the trip.

4. How to get to Sa Pa?

Only 310 km from Hanoi, visitors have many options for transportation to get to Sapa. However, visitors from far away will often have to go to Hanoi first before starting their Sapa trip, so they can explore both places to their heart’s content.

4.1 From Hanoi go straight to Sa Pa

Passenger car: Is the simplest and most economical means of transport for self-sufficient tours of Sapa. Companies such as Sao Viet, Sapa Express, Inter Bus Line all have sleeper buses.

4.2 From Lao Cai city to Sapa

Train: If you choose Lao Cai city as your destination, the most convenient means of transportation is the train. Trains running directly from Hanoi to Lao Cai have popular brands such as Sapaly, Chapa, King Express, Victoria Express,… with different seat classes and cabin types.

The ideal departure time is the night train; you will arrive in Lao Cai early in the morning. After that, you can continue to catch a bus, bus, shuttle bus or rent a motorbike to get to Sapa. Travel time from Lao Cai city to Sa Pa is only about 45 minutes.

4.3 Traveling to Sapa by motorbike

For those who love adventure, traveling to Sapa by motorbike is also an interesting choice to experience the beauty of the rugged but equally beautiful and romantic roads of Northwest Vietnam.

However, you need to ensure your safety when driving, because these roads have many steep and dangerous passes. In addition, traveling by motorbike also helps save you a lot of money going to Sapa.

4.4 Means of transportation in Sa Pa

By motorbike: The most convenient means of exploring Sapa is definitely a motorbike. You can easily rent a car in the central area of Sa Pa town for about 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day.

By taxi: For those traveling to Sapa with family or large groups, you can choose a taxi to explore the town. Some popular taxi companies here are Sapa Xanh Taxi (Phone number: 0203.63.63.63), Phan Xi Pang Taxi (Phone number: 0203.62.62.62),…

5. Sightseeings & things to do in Sa Pa

5.1 area near sapa town center, 5.1.1 stone church.

Located in the center of Sapa town, Stone Church (or Church of Our Lady of the Rosary) is one of the great symbols of Sapa. Built in the early 20th century in French Gothic architecture, the church is preserved almost intact until today.

5.1.2 Love market

This is the market of the Dao people, only opened once a week on Sunday, but the night before, many couples came to exchange love and confide in each other. Today, the market is an interesting place for visitors to explore the culture of highland ethnic groups, as well as enjoy attractive local products.

5.1.3 Sapa Lake

Sapa Lake is located in the center of Sapa town, is one of the attractive and interesting tourist destinations for many tourists. Coming here, visitors will admire the poetic and charming natural scenery and also have the opportunity to participate in unique and meaningful festivals.

5.1.4 Sapa Night Market

Coming to Sapa, you should not miss the bustling night market here. Coming to Sapa night market, you will have the opportunity to enjoy attractive cuisine along with entertainment activities, or interact, meet and chat with the people here who are equally interesting.

5.1.5 Ham Rong Mountain

Ham Rong Mountain is about 3 km from Sapa town, located at an altitude of nearly 2,000 meters above sea level. From the top of Ham Rong, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Sapa and the surrounding beautiful valleys. On foggy days, the clouds playing around the mountain are extremely magical, making this place known as the “Cloud Yard” of the foggy town.

5.1.6 Muong Hoa Valley – Ancient stone field

About 8 km from Sapa, this beautiful valley retains many ancient traces, typically ancient rocks of unknown date and origin.

Muong Hoa Valley will bring you a satisfying experience of viewing nature with gradually rising terraced fields leading up to the sky. Besides, this place is also considered a convergence of precious cultural and profound historical values of the nation.

5.1.7 Ta Phin village

The main residents of Ta Phin village are Red Dao people, with a small number of H’Mong people. Coming to Ta Phin, you will see with your own eyes ethnic girls weaving brocade on wooden looms. Near Ta Phin village is Ta Phin cave – a wonder of nature with a massive stalactite system.

5.1.8 Ta Van Village

Ta Van village is located in Ta Van commune, Sapa district, Lao Cai province, only about 12 km from Sapa town. Ta Van in the H’Mong ethnic language means large arc. The village has its back against the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and the front is the winding Muong Hoa stream.

5.1.9 Cat Cat village

Located at the foot of Hoang Lien Son mountain, Cat Cat village is where the H’Mong community lives. People here still live mainly by farming, weaving, and silver carving – traditional jewelry design.

5.1.10 Y Linh Ho

Y Linh Ho village is a village of the Black H’mong people, located in San Sa Ho commune, Sapa town and surrounded by the majestic Hoang Lien Son range.

Coming here, visitors will be immersed in the poetic and beautiful natural scenery and enjoy specialties of the mountains and forests prepared by the people here.

5.1.11 Lao Chai village

Nestled in the middle of Muong Hoa Valley, Lao Chai village is loved by many travelers as the “Muse of the Northwest”. The best time to travel to Lao Chai, Sapa is from April to June (falling water season) or from September to October (ripe rice season).

In the last months of the year, nature in Lao Chai is dyed a brilliant yellow color – combined with the rolling mountain and forest landscape and hazy white mist, creating an unreal splendor.

5.1.12 Fansipan Peak

Referring to Sapa, it is impossible not to mention Fansipan – the “roof” of Indochina, more than 3,000 meters above sea level. There are two ways to conquer Fansipan: a 2-3 day climbing journey, or by cable car. For who love adventure Sapa is a wonderful place for trekking , climbing the mountain and conquer Fansipan Mountain.

5.2 Sa Pa central periphery area

5.2.1 o quy ho pass.

O Quy Ho is known as one of the “four great passes” of Vietnam, and is one of the most dangerous roads, challenging the passion of many tourists to conquer. O Quy Ho Pass is also known by other names such as Tram Ton Pass, Hoang Lien Son Pass.

5.2.2 Sa Pa Heaven Gate

Weaving between the winding Hoang Lien Son range is Sapa’s heaven gate – where you can have a panoramic view of the valley, fields, and corn fields.

5.2.3 Love Falls

Also originating from Fansipan, Love Waterfall has a height of nearly 100 meters, falling majestically all day and night. The waterfall belongs to Hoang Lien National Park, surrounded by green forests and diverse vegetation.

5.2.4 Thac Bac Waterfall

Near Love Waterfall is Thac Bac Waterfall. The waterfall is more than 200 meters high and is upstream of the Muong Hoa stream. Standing at Ham Rong peak, you will be able to see the majestic waterfall, pouring from this strong, white stream.

5.3 Activities and experiences in Sa Pa

5.3.1 fansipan trekking.

Fansipan Mountain or the Roof of Indochina with a height of 3143m, this place is a good choice for visitors who love trekking mountains. I was proud when I made the conquer Fansipan Mountain trip. You definitely should have a travel company to help and organize your trip so that you can enjoy this beautiful mountain in Vietnam safely and on the best route. The best time to conquer Fansipan Mountain is from mid October to mid November and in March again.

5.3.2 Rice Terrace Fields Enjoyment And Shooting Photograph

How beautiful it is once you see it in your eyes? Your tour Vietnam is not really perfect if not have a trekking time through village and see beautiful rice terrace fields. There are many villages to experience and shoot wonderful photos such as Lao Chai, Ta Van, Ta Phin, Y Ty, etc

Local ethnic people here often grow rice and establish next terrace rice fields from the foot to nearly top mountains. It is passed on from generations to generations without selling because these are the most valuable for them. Visit the Thac Bac waterfall.

Silver waterfall is about 12 km from Sapa town center. It is one of the places for discovering its beautiful waterfall. Like a white dragon looking down from the sky. It’s easy to travel to this fall by motorbike or car within 30 minutes. All of the above factors have created a special attraction for travelers who want to explore this land and book a tours in Sapa from Hanoi right now.

6. Specialties when traveling to Sapa

Sapa in particular and the mountainous provinces of Northwest Vietnam in general possess extremely unique specialties. Let’s take a look at the list of dishes you cannot miss when coming to Sapa.

6.1 Thang Co

The most famous dish in the Northwest that every tourist definitely wants to “try” when traveling to Sapa is thang co. Thang co is cooked from various types of meat and animal organs in a large pan, simmered on a charcoal stove for many hours until tender and the spices are absorbed evenly.

6.2 Indigenous chickens

Native chicken is famous for its medicinal and nutritious values. In the cold weather of Sapa, there is nothing better than a bowl of chicken marinated with herbs, or hot grilled chicken with honey.

6.3 Indigenous pigs

The native pig is a small type of pig that can be carried under the armpit or put in a basket for convenient carrying. Armpit pork is firmer than conventionally raised pigs, so it can be processed into attractive roasted, grilled, and boiled dishes.

6.4 Barbecue meat

Grilled skewers are a great snack on cold days in Sapa. The choices are also extremely diverse from meat, sausages, chicken feet, vegetables, etc. Most especially, when eating grilled food, it is indispensable to have a tube of fragrant bamboo rice and a cup of sesame salt somewhere.

6.5 Sa Pa salmon

Salmon is no longer a “rare thing” in temperate lands but is now raised in Sapa. If you are a salmon enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy an attractive menu including: sashimi, salmon hotpot, or grilled salmon.

7. Accommodation when traveling to Sa Pa

When traveling to Sa Pa, visitors can refer to some of the accommodation facilities below:

7.1 Hotels:

As for hotels in Sapa, there are many segments for you to choose from. Focusing on design, investing in space and service quality, reasonable costs, suitable for those who travel to Sapa, we must mention names such as Sapa Hills Hotel, Golden Villa Hotel, Sapa Odyssey Hotel will surely make you satisfied.

• KK Sapa Hotel . Address: 25 Violet, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lao Cai.
• DeLaSol Phat Linh Sapa. Address: 16 Muong Hoa Street, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lao Cai.
• Pao’s Sapa Leisure Hotel . Address: Muong Hoa, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lao Cai.

7.2 Resorts:

If you want to enjoy the most complete vacation feeling amidst vast mountains and forests with chilly weather, Sapa resort is a choice that is hard to refuse. Choose hot addresses such as: Sapa Jade Hill Resort And Spa, Topas Ecolodge, Aira Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa, Pao’s Sapa Leisure Hotel, Golden Town Hotel, Nomad Trails Boutique Hotel or Freesia Hotel to “reward” yourself with a vacation Warm and relaxing.

7.3 Homestays:

If you both want to see the wild and majestic natural scenery and experience the daily life of ethnic minorities here, staying at homestay  is the ideal choice. Famous Sapa homestays with the backpacking community include Sapa Capsule Hotel, Phori’s House, Little Sapa, Po Homestay,. ..

8. Some important notes when traveling to Sa Pa

• Sapa is always crowded with tourists, especially during the flower seasons, or the winter-spring tourist peak. You should book your hotel in advance to avoid price increases and lack of rooms during this occasion.
• Before buying goods or using travel services, you need to ask the price first, and pay the price to avoid being challenged.
• You should prepare in advance if you want to buy souvenirs and small-value decorations. If you give even money, the seller may offer to exchange the change for goods.
• Sapa tourist destinations often have many steep hills and require a lot of walking. You should choose comfortable clothes, sports shoes or soft-soled shoes.
• If you see ethnic girls and want to take pictures with them, you should ask in advance because sometimes you will have to pay a fee.
• The average temperature in Sapa is quite low, especially at night, so you need to prepare enough coats, scarves, socks, gloves, and wool hats to keep warm.
• Bring necessary medication, such as fever, headache, allergies, digestive medicine, etc. to prevent illness.
• Please respect local culture, avoid unintentionally causing disrespectful behavior. You should not give money or gifts to local children to avoid setting a bad precedent.
• Please maintain environmental hygiene and do not litter – preserving natural resources and cultural heritage should be a top priority.
• Coming to Sapa, visitors need to prepare cash and bank cards in advance. Currently, Sapa also has many ATM locations, so you don’t have to worry about withdrawing money. However, you also need to prepare cash in case you need to use it immediately.

Is Sapa Worth Visiting?

Above are Sa Pa travel experiences that you should not miss when coming to misty and beautiful Sa Pa amidst the mountains and forests of Northwest Vietnam. Possesses beautiful natural landscapes and unique culture of indigenous people. This is the ideal choice for those who want to find a place to “escape” from the noise, hustle and bustle of everyday bustling life. Coming here, you will be immersed in the majestic and beautiful nature, feeling a slow and peaceful life.

Are you planning your upcoming trip to Sa Pa but don’t know which destination to go first and which destination next? Don’t know where to book reputable travel services? Please contact Origin Vietnam immediately – a professional tour operator in Sapa , we are always ready to support you with useful and necessary information for your trip. And we are very pleased to accompany tourists on their journey to explore the travel beauty of  Lao Cai and commit to bringing you interesting activities and unforgettable experiences.

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14 Rewarding Things to Do in Sapa for First-Timers

What to See and Do in Sapa, Vietnam

Located in Lao Cai, a province in the Northwestern region of Vietnam, Sapa is a small town but offers plenty of interesting things to do and places to see. Spectacular mountain landscapes, verdant rice terraces and unique ethnic minorities’ villages, all of them can be found in Sapa. To make the most of your Sapa experience, we have created an extensive of best things to do in Sapa for you. Let’s check it out.

1. Ride a Bike to Muong Hoa Valley

Highlights:

A stunning stretch of land at the bottom of Fansipan’s flank, Muong Hoa Valley is one of the most famous destinations for motorbike riders. 14 km far from the town, it lies between 2 high ranges of mountains. The place is a great place to learn about rice cultivating for those who want to understand more about local life. Driving from the town to Muong Hoa will be an amazing experience in your life. You have a chance to go through the highest mountain range to dozens of streams downhill, cross small villages and rice fields of ethnic minority people and watch how people do farming works. Besides, there are many photo opportunities of great views for you.

• The color of the terraced rice fields are the most attractive during September.
• The motorbike can be rent in Sapa town with just around USD 5

2. Conquer Fansipan – Roof of Indochina

For those who truly love adventurous experiences , conquering Fansipan should be on top of your bucket list immediately. Regarded as the highest peak in Vietnam, it is located over Hoang Lien range, offering opportunities of discovering and enjoying many stunning scenery. It could be bamboo woods, rice terraces, or hospitable tribal people. And, a wonderful thing is that it doesn’t need any technical skill to conquer the Roof of Indochina . There are 3 different routes to climb to the peak. So, you should choose the most suitable one with your skill level and the time you have.

• You should prepare some sturdy and no-slip boots because the hike can be wet and slippery. 
• Make sure you bring bottled water, dry food, and a flashlight.
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3. Shop for Trekking Gear and Local Handicrafts

Sapa and the surrounding areas have a number of local markets where you can buy both handicrafts and anything you need for your trek. In the city center, you can find the main market which is close to most hotels and hostels. It sells everything like clothing items, food, souvenirs, and hiking gear. 

Spread around the town, there will be many more small shops providing handmade items like musical instruments, leather bags, or locally designed items. However, the price of these items are a bit higher than the markets outside the city.

The best place to buy these nice things is at truly local markets in small villages. Here, you can get the most original and beautiful products at reasonable prices. You will also have a chance to meet the artisans and support them at the same time.

• Many items are counterfeit brands like the North Face, Nike, or Adidas. So you should consider what to buy as trekking clothes.

4. Trek in Sapa

With dramatic landscapes, Sapa has been attracting trekkers for more than 30 years. As an undiscovered paradise for intrepid explorers, trekking in Sapa is a must-do activity when you visit this mountainous area. It is a challenging but incredible experience when you trek through the green paddy field and the world of minority villages around the town. You can choose to do it with or without a local guide. However, we highly recommend hiring a local guide to save your time and energy. They are also familiar with the weather, terrain, and tourist destinations so they can help you with a safer and more enjoyable trip. 

• For a long trek in Sapa, it is better to stay at a local homestay , and the cozy but luxurious Ta Phin Cottage is a highly recommended option. It will give you a deeper insight into the local lifestyle and join the daily works or prepare some tasty dishes.
• Before going trekking in Sapa, you should check the destination you will visit carefully and search for the weather forecast also.

5. Climb to Ham Rong Mountain 

As the most spectacular mountain park, Ham Rong Mountain is a popular tourist area built on an area of around 150 ha. The more steps that you climb, the more breathtaking scenes you can discover such as orchid garden, cloud yard, heaven gate, and peach garden. Visit Ham Rong mountain , you can also explore a wide variety of plants and see a large number of rocks in different shapes. The place has its own distinct color at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit is spring when plenty of flowers are blooming, showing their sweetness and fragrance.

• Ham Rong mountain is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. So, you should consider this when planning your itinerary.
• Before exploring the mountain, you should buy the ticket at VND 70.000 right in front of its main entrance.

6. Explore Silver Waterfall and be Amazed at Sky Gate

Waterfall has been famous as a land of Sapa which is about 200 meters high. Located at the foot of O Quy Ho pass , you can travel to this place by motorbike or bus. Most tourists to Sapa never miss the chance to get here because it is the most beautiful waterfall in Sapa. standing at the foot of the waterfall, you will see the sparkling water flowing down. It looks like a spectacular mountain scenery from afar, creating a wild and mysterious feeling. The Sky Gate is the place to admire the majestic beauty of Northwestern mountains and forests and the spectacular natural scenery. From here, you can see huge valleys with green terraced fields, the long road connecting Lai Chau and Lao Cai provinces, and the Silver Waterfall ( Thac Bac ). 

• You should bring warm clothes because the weather can be quite cold and foggy even if it’s summer.
• There might be mosquitos and insects around, so it’s better to have an insect sprayer with you. 

7. Visit Cat Cat, Ta Phin and Lao Chai Village

The villages in Sapa are an indispensable part of every Sapa tour. With beautiful and unique scenery, these villages attract large numbers of visitors to Sapa. Among them, Cat Cat , Ta Phin and Lao Chai villages are the most visited tourists. Cat Cat is home to Black H’Mong while Ta Phin is home to Dao ethnic people and Lao Chai is the village where H’Mong people live. These villages are all located in a four-sided wide and flat valleys. Coming here, you can get to know special features of different Vietnamese ethnic minority groups . Especially, it would be a great experience to try the bath medicine leaf Red Dao in Ta Phin village and buy local handicrafts in Cat Cat and Ta Phin villages.

• During your visit to any ethnic villages, please ask for permission first before taking photos. Some of ethnic people are not comfortable with this.

8. See the Ancient Rock Field

Ancient rock field is a unique spot that is located in Muong Hoa valley . The rock field is a good place to explore interesting history and take photos with its motifs. Located on the steep mountain road, the ancient rock field consists of more than 150 small and large boulders near the rice fields. Though it doesn’t look impressive at all from afar, you will be amazed to hear the introduction and examine the rocks after getting off the bus. Covering an area of 8 square km , most big rocks with strange and beautiful carvings are in Pho village. The carvings feature 11 styles of strange human images and the scientists consumes this was a big heritage of mankind.

• Each carving is believed to store a story about ancient people’s life, living and culture. So, let’s see and guess what they want to say.

9. Enjoy the Seven-color Steamed Glutinous Rice of Nung Dinh People

The seven-color steamed glutinous rice is a specialty of Nung Dinh people . The dish was initially invented to present to their ancestors to wish for an abundant harvest and a comfortable life. Each color of glutinous rice presents a special meaning. For example, the green is the color of spring, the dark red is the color of patriotic martyrs who sacrificed their life in the war, and the yellow presents the color of the scatter and heart-break. The dish is a great combination of seven colors without using chemical colors. The clever local woman creates the color by using many kinds of forest leaves and herbs and some of their traditional secrets. Nung Dinh people believe that eating this dish will bring luck to you. With an attractive appearance and special taste, it is prefered by many tourists.

• The original dish is in Muong Khuong, Lao Cai. However, you can find this dish in the morning market in Sapa town. 

10. Enjoy Sapa Specialties at Sapa Food Court

Every trip will not be complete without sampling the best local cuisine . As a culinary paradise with a diversity of food and flavors, Sapa food court is a great place to enjoy the most various culinary experiences. The place is very bustling and offers many delicious food stalls at reasonable prices. Eggs, grilled sweet potatoes, grilled meat,… all of these foods will surely fill your tummy before leaving. To make your eating experience in Sapa more enjoyable, it is advisable to go with your friends.

Tips: 

• The snacks area in Ham Rong street will be open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. So if you wish to find something to eat in the evening, you can head to the BBQ area in Cau May street .

11. Admire Terraced Rice Fields

Highlights:  

Sapa is not only a best choice for summer escape but it also attracts tourists to admire its stunning beauty of terraced rice fields on the hilly slopes. Due to steep features and fertile soil, local ethnic minority people grow their rice and establish beautiful terraced rice fields. We highly recommend trekking these rice fields where you can both understand about local cultures and admire the beautiful and spectacular scenery and have nice photos. Seen from afar, these terraced rice fields are a great picture of nature with heart-catching beauty that makes tourists stay for a while. The color changes seasonally with alluring charm in the beginning of new crops and yellow ripening rice when it is about harvested.

• If you visit the terraced rice fields in the harvesting crop, you can ask the local farmer and join them in harvesting rice. It would be a brand new experience in your whole life.

12. Have a Drink at Café in The Clouds

One of the great highlights of a trip to Sapa is having a drink at a cafe in the clouds where you can take in the lush beautiful views and enjoy a local drink. Most of these cafes can be found in Fansipan and Cau May streets. To name an outstanding cafe shop, it would be Cafe in the Clouds where you can spend time enjoying the eerie landscape and admiring the vistas over the green valley below. The cafe also offers a wide range of drinks and both local and international dishes. This could be a great experience to try in Sapa.

• To get the best view over the mountain and terraced rice fields, it is recommended to check the weather before visiting Cafe in the Clouds. In the early morning, it is likely to have fog so you could not see anything clearly.

13. Take Part in H’mong Sewing Class

H’Mong ethnic minority counts a large population in this mountainous town. Their weaving technique is so unique and famous here. If you are curious about how they sew and make the products, just head to Indigo Cat where you can take the sewing class. An experienced local H’Mong person will teach you every step from picking the leaves, putting these leaves in the barrels, taking out, adding the lime,… to the final product. After that, you can try to practice and make your own product. The HMong are really good at English so they can explain to you carefully about the details. Besides, you can buy authentic weaving products for your family and friends here.

• If you are looking for some H’Mong clothing items different to the shops on the main street, this is the place to find some.

14. Watch The Ta Phin Commune Church Singing

If you visit Ta Phin village during the very first weeks of spring, there will be a chance to witness one of the most beautiful traditions of the ethnic people called “church singing”. On this occasion, local people and visitors in the area will flock to the Ta Phin commune to watch this wedding tradition and listen to the beautiful singing . For most of ethnic minorities in Lao Cai province, marriages are still pre-arranged. During the church singing, the grooms and brides-to-be will participate in the procession to the village. The young men and women sing and dance in a competition to fulfill spiritual needs. The most exciting thing about this occasion is that you will see ethnic clothes in different styles and colors, creating a beautiful and unforgettable picture.

• You should come to the church early because there will be so many people attending this event.

So, there are many activities to try in the town. Above is our recommended list of best things to do in Sapa . If you have any other more interesting idea, please let us know so we can share with other travelers. 

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Trekking In Sapa: How To Book A Guided Hiking Tour In Vietnam

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: March 16, 2020

UPDATED: October 20, 2023

Picture this as you are trekking through golden yellow and emerald green rice paddy terraces surrounded by beautiful valleys as far as the eye can see in Sapa, Vietnam. Sounds incredible right? Well, that’s exactly what you will get when visiting the Muong Hoa Valley.

Vietnam’s Northern mountain town of Sapa is close to the border with China. This town has emerged over the last decade as a must visit tourist destination on the typical Vietnam itinerary and hiking is by far the best way to see the beauty of this gorgeous area.

But if visiting Sapa seems a little overwhelming as you plan your Vietnam adventure, don’t worry because we are here to guide you every step of the way. Our main goal is to help you successfully plan a trek in Sapa.

Since we have completed a guided Sapa trekking tour ourselves, we will show you:

• How to get to Sapa, Vietnam
• Options for booking a Sapa hiking tour
• Best time to visit Northern Vietnam
• Photo walkthrough of our hiking tour
• Where to stay in Sapa
• How to book a homestay yourself

Now, let’s begin trekking in Sapa, Vietnam!

What Is Sapa, Vietnam?

Sapa is a small town in Northwest Vietnam located on the slopes of the Hong Lien Son Mountains. However, mountain towns usually mean long winding roads. And trust us, Sapa is no exception.

This tiny mountain town has been attracting trekkers for a hundred years, since the French developed the town as a weekend retreat from the humidity of Hanoi.

We believe trekking in Sapa, Vietnam should be on everyone’s bucket list. After reading this detailed guide about hiking in Sapa, you will completely understand why we feel this way.

Trekking in the stunning Muong Hoa Valley and spending a night at a homestay is the most popular “thing” to do in Sapa. But you will need at least one more day for Fansipan and Cat Cat village.

Another one of the major highlights for Sapa hikers is Fan Si Pan (Fansipan), the tallest mountain in the Indochinese Peninsula.

This Sapa trekking guide will cover everything you want to know about finding and booking a guided hiking tour in Sapa.

Heading to Sapa? Don’t miss our popular guide featuring the best things to do in Sapa .

How To Get To Sapa, Vietnam

The route from Hanoi to Sapa by bus and train are very similar. Both routes meet in a town on the border with China called Lao Cai. From Lao Cai, there is only one road up and down the mountain to Sapa.

See the winding road up the mountain… This road bends, curves and meanders its way up the mountain for what feels like an eternity.

Let’s just leave it at the fact you will be given paper bags in case of emergency on the bus.

The interactive map above shows the location of the Sapa Express Bus departure in old quarter Hanoi, Lao Cai and Hanoi train stations. We have also marked the Sapa drop off point.

Your decision to travel by train or bus could be based on budget, convenience or availability. 

Check prices on 12Go Asia to see whether the train or Sapa Express is a better fit for your budget and schedule.

Both the bus and train were priced at US$12 per person when we visited Sapa, but remember you will pay for a bus connection after the train.

Our recommendation is to travel with Sapa Express. Ironically, despite the barf inducing roads up the mountain, this was the best sleeper bus we took in Vietnam.

Personally, we didn’t see the benefit to traveling by train and changing in Lao Cai. Especially when the bus was cheaper. Plus, the bus left Hanoi closer to where we were staying in the old quarter.

Interested in a Vietnam sleeper bus? Don’t miss our popular guide to surviving the Sleeper Bus in Vietnam .

Best Time For Trekking In Sapa, Vietnam

Vietnam is a whirlwind of varying climates. Sapa has a unique subtropical highland climate. There is no way you can plan your entire Vietnam trip based around perfect weather conditions in each city.

That being said, if Sapa is the one place you want the best chance of perfect trekking conditions, September is the month you need to plan for. Let’s take a look at the seasons:

Winter: December, January and February (Not Recommended)

During Winter in Sapa, temperatures plummet and fog moves in across the mountains. Snow can often fall on the highest peaks and in general, average temperatures are not ideal for trekking. 

Spring: March, April and May

Trekking in Spring is perfect for those who enjoy warm, dry weather and fewer tourists (both international and domestic).

But you will not see the picturesque golden or abundant green rice terraces in Spring. That’s the main trade off for visiting in this time of year.

Summer: June, July and August

Summer is a time for domestic tourism in Sapa. It’s also extremely humid, hot and wet. This is the time of year when rice terraces are lush green, but you will probably spend your whole visit being rained on.

Fall: September, October and November (Recommended)

September is the ideal time to visit . It might still be on the back end of heavy rainfall, but this is the only time of the year you will see the famous and sought after golden rice fields.

By October, most of the harvest has been collected. Fall is fantastic for hiking through Sapa valley as it brings ideal trekking temperatures and clear blue skies.

When we visited in October, we had a mix of beautiful blue skies and rain. By November, it begins to get colder and rice fields are significantly less beautiful. 

Planning to visit Vietnam? You might want to read our guide featuring important things to know about Vietnam before visiting.

Self Guided Or Local Guided Sapa Trekking Tour

The first thing you need to decide is how you want to explore Sapa. The main point we want to get across to you is not to worry about organizing everything before you arrive. You will not be short of options.

There are a number of ethnic minorities in the Muong Hoa Valley region, namely the H’Mong, the Dao and the Dai so there are numerous homestays available.

Staying with a family in Sapa is likely to be the main reason you’re visiting and you can do this in three different ways:

• Book a homestay before you arrive (Self Guided)
• Book a hotel in downtown Sapa (Local Guide)
• Book a Sapa trekking tour (Local Guide)

There is no right or wrong way to experience Sapa. These options will depend on your preferences and travel style.

1. Book A Homestay Before You Arrive Into Sapa (Self Guided)

This is the best option for independent travelers who want to experience a more rural, isolated Sapa with fewer tourists.

With this first option, you will stay with a local family, but you will not trek with a guide and you will be responsible for finding your own way to the homestay.

When you get dropped off in Sapa town near the Sun Plaza, you will need to hire a motorbike, take a taxi or walk to the homestay of your choice.

Many of these homestay options are located down in the Muong Hoa Valley where many of the trekking tours go.

You will be able to independently trek around the valley, but be warned, without a local guide, it will be harder to deflect vendors trying to sell their products.

Here are top rated homestays in Sapa (ratings are out of 10):

• Eco Hills Homestay – 3.6 miles from center (9.3 rating)
• Hmong Sister House and Trekking – 4.1 miles from center (9.1 rating)
• Hoa’s Homestay Sapa – 4.3 miles from center (9.4 rating)
• La Beauté Sa Pa – 5.1 miles from center (9.7 rating)
• My’s Homestay – 6.6 miles from center (9.7 rating)
• Sapa’s Soul – 5.0 miles from center (9.6 rating)

Travel Tip : For more homestay options, use booking.com . Filter by ‘homestay’ and look on the map to the South East of Sapa town for homestays.

2. Book A Hotel In Downtown Sapa (Local Guide)

The second option involves spending a night in a hotel before your trekking tour begins. We chose this option and it’s our recommended way of traveling to Sapa because you will be able to explore the region thoroughly.

Keep in mind there is more to Sapa than just trekking so we encourage travelers to spend additional time in town if possible. Check out Fansipan and Cat Cat Village then complete your Vietnam Sapa hiking experience with a homestay.

Later in this guide, we will show you some of the best hotels in Sapa as well as how to find a guided hiking tour once you arrive in Sapa town.

Hiking Tip : If you stay at a hotel before trekking, you can usually leave things you don’t want to bring on your hike at the hotel for safe keeping free of charge. Just be sure to confirm before booking your hotel.

3. Book A Sapa Trekking Tour (Local Guide)

If all of this seems like a lot to think about and you would rather someone else handle the logistics, you can book a Sapa trekking tour.

Many of these tour options include transport to Sapa as well as a Muong Hoa Valley Trek and a local ethnic village tour.

The convenience factor here is huge and is perfect for those with only a few days spare. Unfortunately, this means you probably won’t be able to do Fansipan and Cat Cat village.

But if you are short on time and still want to experience the beauty of Sapa, we would recommend booking a tour.

Here are top rated Sapa Valley trekking tours :

• 5 Hour Muong Hoa Valley Trek – This shortened hike is perfect for those with limited time.
• 2-Day Sapa Trekking Tour w/ Limo Transfer – Get to Sapa in style with this 2 day hiking tour.
• 2-Day Sapa Ethnic Homestay – This two day hike will stopover in beautiful Ta Van Village.
• Sapa Full Day Motorbike Tour – Skip the hiking and see Sapa by motorbike with this option.

How To Book A Guided Sapa Trekking Tour

Personally, we found it difficult to gather information about whether we should pre-book a trekking tour with a local guide or wait until we arrived in Sapa.

We decided to wait until we arrived in town to make a better judgement call and we’re glad we did.

You absolutely do not have to book a trekking tour and homestay with a local guide before you arrive. But if you would feel more comfortable having the arrangements in place, book in advance.

We visited Sapa in October when it was still relatively busy. If you are planning to visit during the peak month of September, you may want to book a tour in advance just to secure a spot.

It’s entirely up to how you prefer to travel. Prices will be similar whether booked online or in town. But if demand is up in town, you might be able to find a good deal online compared to bartering for a price in person.

Finding The Perfect Tour Guide

As your bus pulls up in Sapa, there will be a sea of Hmong women dressed in bright vibrant clothing waiting to inundate you with offers of trekking tours.

You can talk to as many guides as you like to discuss hiking options. But be warned, you may need do your best Moses impression to part the sea of women before moving on to your hotel.

In all honesty, it was very overwhelming and you will need to be prepared. Have a price point in mind and go with your gut feeling if this is how you choose to book your tour.

Trekking in Sapa has become so popular there are an increasing amount of options. There are also local travel agencies in town where you can book your trekking tour if that makes you more comfortable.

Alternatively, you might be able to book with your hotel owners who will be more than happy to help. Yes, they will take a small cut for themselves but it means you get a highly recommended guide.

This is how we booked our trekking tour on our Sapa itinerary and it worked out perfectly for us. Our Hmong guide was amazing, the mother of all the Mama’s!

We stayed at the Olympia Hotel and paid 1,600,000 VND (about US$ 70) total for both of us to experience a 2 day Sapa trekking tour.

New to trekking? Don’t miss our beginner hiking tips to get ready for your hike!

What To Expect On A Sapa Trekking Tour With Hmong Guide

In this next section of our guide, we will walk you through exactly what to expect when hiking in beautiful Sapa, Vietnam.

Sapa Hiking Day 1 Morning

The best part about booking the homestay through your hotel (like we did) is that you should be able to leave your backpack or luggage at the hotel. All we carried was our day pack for the overnight.

We were met by our Hmong trekking guide Mama Sung right in our hotel lobby the following morning. Once the introductions were over, we began our hike.

We left town heading East and made our way along dirt paths around mountain sides, passing houses and tons of animals. Heat and humidity took their toll immediately after we began to climb.

There are several viewpoints along the route affording spectacular views over valleys and rice terraces. We were a little unfortunate on our first day as the air was thick with a dense fog.

Lunch Break In Sapa Valley

We were literally in a cloud, all day. Don’t be surprised if that happens to you too, the climate can be quite changeable in Sapa and the surrounding Muong Hoa Valley.

We met several other tourists trekking with their guides along the same route. It’s a great place to meet like minded people. But it is touristy, so don’t expect to be out there alone.

There was a stop for lunch in a busy canteen that seemed to appear out of nowhere, probably because it was raining so heavily and we couldn’t see. We chose the vegetarian rice option but there were meat options available too.

We were also provided a drink and a banana. Beer and other foods were available for an additional charge. The meal wasn’t steller, but it was fuel for our bellies.

Our guide Mama Sung was absolutely brilliant! She taught herself to speak English and loved to practice with us. Mama Sung also showed us how to recognize an indigo plant.

This indigo is important to the Hmong tribe because they use it dye their clothing. You can see some indigo on Kristen’s hand in the photo above.

After about 6 hours of trekking, we eventually arrived into the village where we were shown to our accommodation for the night.

Overnight Homestay Accommodation

Once we arrived in the village area, we learned how the houses were built specifically around the rice terraces. These narrow paths were just wide enough for one person and one motorbike.

We walked through the skinny maze to find our accommodation for the night. The set up for each homestay will be a bit different. Mama Sung first showed us around her house and we met her husband.

She had a huge chart on the wall with pictures and the English word underneath. This was how she taught herself to speak English.

We were told we wouldn’t be staying at Mama Sung’s house, but at her cousin’s house with several other tourists.

Next, we were led to another building and shown where we would be sleeping. We shared the house with 4 other tourists.

At first we were disappointed not to be staying in Mama Sung’s house as we thought that was the point. But the other tourists staying in the house with us were great and we all ate dinner together with some of the other locals.

Dinner for us was at 6pm and it was truly superb. The homemade spring rolls we had that night were some of the best we tried in Vietnam.

Our wonderful meal also included morning glory, delicious chicken and vegetables with rice. This was such a drastic improvement over the lunch.

Happy Water Aka Rice Wine

After dinner, we all had a few beers (paid for of course!) and then Mama Sung brought out a clear plastic bottle that looked like it was the prototype of plastic bottles.

She had been talking about something called Happy Water all day, singing it to us and laughing. When she took the lid off, we understood. Wow. Is this the stuff they had in the tank of Apollo 11?

Happy water is also known as Vietnamese rice wine. It’s Vietnam’s most popular liquor made from distilled fermented rice.

This rice wine typically has a higher than 40% alcohol by volume and is often brewed by families at home. So if the happy water comes out during your homestay, get ready for it!

Needless to say, we all felt a little rough the next morning.

Sapa Hiking Day 2

Personally, we preferred the second day of hiking. The weather was beautiful, the sky was clear and the sun was beaming which was a complete contrast to the day before.

We found the scenery and actual trekking to be more enjoyable too. We ventured through the beautiful rice terraces, even though they were waterlogged and no longer golden.

It’s a mighty spectacle to look upon 90 degree angled soil and grass spread out for miles, like endless one sided green pyramids.

We walked over a dam in progress, through numerous terraces and stopped for lunch in a more hospitable wooden log cabin type canteen.

The spot was right next to a waterfall and the sun was beaming down on us. There were a few groups all trekking together on the second day. 

The route became a big happy family with many tourists and locals interacting!

Following another 6 hours of hiking, we were ready to head back to town for our transfer to Halong Bay. We said goodbye to Mama Sung along with the other fabulous guides and got picked up by a minibus.

Unfortunately, our bus got stuck for 1 hour when a huge truck was offloading material on the only through road. Definitely not what you wanted after a long day of trekking.

But we finally got back to Sapa in the early evening.

Where To Stay In Sapa Valley (Before And After Trekking)

You will most likely need to find a hotel to stay in both before and after your guided tour in the Sapa Valley.

Our recommendation would be to book a hotel centrally located near Sap Pa Lake in the middle of downtown. This location will be in close proximity to restaurants as well as where you will meet your guide.

One of our favorite restaurants in Sapa town was Le Gecko which has an extensive menu and the service is excellent. Many travelers congregate here so it’s also a great place to meet others.

If you are booking your homestay online, use our recommendations from above to find the perfect place. Keep in mind you should search for homestays to the South East of Sapa town.

We mentioned earlier we stayed at Olympia Hotel , but if we ever return to Sapa we will certainly book at one of these locations we have listed below. The views look stunning and we were on a very tight budget the first time we visited Sapa.

If you are looking for a hotel in town, here are top rated lodging options for your visit to Sapa, Vietnam:

Heart Of Sapa Hotel (Budget)

If you are looking for a budget hotel in Sapa, look no farther than the Heart of Sapa Hotel. Located just a few minutes away from Sun Plaza and many of the best restaurants in town, plus it has a 9.4 rating.

Rooms at Heart of Sapa Hotel are typically US$ 15-20 per night depending on the time of year.

>> Book the Heart of Sapa Hotel here <<

Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa (Mid-Range)

Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa has stunning views of the rice terraces and travelers always rave about the gorgeous views in the reviews.

In shoulder season, superior rooms are around US$25 while executive rooms with mountain views are US$40. For those beautiful views, we think it’s worth the upgrade.

>> Book Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa here <<

Hotel De La Coupole (Luxury)

As one of the top rated hotels in Sapa, Hotel de la Coupole is a fabulous option with an indoor swimming pool, spa, fitness center, sauna and hammam.

Inspired by the minority tribes in Sapa as well as French Haute Couture, this hotel brings a unique perspective and offers a continental or buffet breakfast.

>> Book Hotel De La Coupole here <<

Want more hotel options? Search top rated hotels or homestays in Sapa for yourself.

Tips For Trekking In Sapa, Vietnam

No matter how you book your Sapa trek, here are a few important tips for you to consider before you hike:

• The weather in Sapa is extremely changeable due to the proximity of the mountains. One day could be beautiful clear blue skies with sun and during the next day, Sapa will disappear in a cold cloud of water vapor. It is worth considering adding a ‘fudge’ day just in case you need it for weather.
• Do not worry about booking a trekking tour in advance. There will be plenty of opportunity to book a tour once you arrive in town. But if you are traveling during peak season, you may want to book online to secure a spot.
• You will need robust footwear, a raincoat or poncho and a compact daypack for trekking. We also recommend taking a few extra layers and extra socks in case you get wet.
• You will be expose for most of this hike around 6-8 hours per day so you will need sunscreen .
• Leeches will be a real problem and they will be more active after rainfall. We both wished we had hiking bottoms that covered our entire legs when we trekked in Sapa. Check for leeches regularly during your hike.
• Don’t forget your bug spray because the last thing you want is to be eaten alive in the Vietnamese mountains. We bought lots of bug spray and ended up sharing with the entire group.

Sapa Trekking FAQ’s

Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about hiking in the Muong Hoa Valley in Northern Vietnam.

Trekking in Sapa is moderately difficult because you will hike about 7-10 miles per day which will take somewhere between 6 and 8 hours. However, most of the treks in Sapa follow the roads with steady elevation changes so this does not compare to climbing a mountain with lots of elevation gain or loss. The hardest part about trekking in Sapa is the distance.

Yes, you can trek in Sapa without a guide because you can book homestays in the valley and just walk to it yourself. However, we would recommend booking with a guide for the full experience.

Most treks in Sapa typically last about 2 days. While you will be hiking all day, you will be able to get a good feel for the area and experience the gorgeous views Sapa Valley has to offer.

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We hope this guide to Sapa trekking helps you plan your own successful tour in the Muong Hoa Valley!

Please let us know if you have any questions about trekking in Sapa or hiking in Vietnam below in the comments.

Happy Hiking ,

Mark and Kristen

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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A First-Timer’s Guide to Trekking in Sapa

• Last Updated: January 23, 2024

Trekking is a must when you visit Sapa – here are some tips for first-timers so you know what to expect when trekking in Sapa, Vietnam!

When I first came to Northern Vietnam a few years ago, I rode my bicycle across the border from China (with my husband, Stephen). We had heard great things about trekking in Sapa , Vietnam , which was only a short way to the west, but it was a damp, cold February.

The air was filled with mist so thick that we may as well have been cycling through cold soup.

“Next time…” we said, not wanting to climb mountains in those conditions.

This year, I’m spending a couple of months housesitting in Hanoi while Stephen travels to teach yoga. “Next time” is officially here and I knew I couldn’t miss trekking in Sapa, Vietnam again.

Don’t miss our new guide to  Travel to Vietnam.

Table of Contents

The Rocky Past of Sapa, Vietnam

Don’t miss our tips and advice for trekking in sapa below, don’t miss my complete guide to finding vegetarian food in hanoi →, go with the flow, more, more, more, life on the road, back to tourist town, how much does trekking in sapa cost, which travel agency is best for a sapa trekking tour, homestay or sapa hotel stay with day treks, how many nights should you stay in sapa, vietnam, overnight train, sleeper bus, what should you pack for trekking in sapa, vietnam.

Sapa is home to Vietnam’s highest peak, Fan Si Pan, which tickles the clouds 3143m above sea level, keeping watch over the terraced rice paddies that line Sapa’s steep valley walls.

Home to several ethnic minorities, chiefly the H’Mong, the Dao, and the Dai, Sapa has been attracting trekkers since the early 1900s.

The French first developed Sapa town, the gateway to the region, as a hill station and cool summer escape from Hanoi’s oppressive heat.

Their dominance in the area didn’t last long, though. During the 1940s, Vietnamese independence fighters drove the colonists from the region, but not before the French bombed Sapa town, leaving nothing but ruins behind them.

It wasn’t until the 1990s that redevelopment began in earnest and tourists started to flock back to the region. Now, trekking in Sapa is one of the biggest tourist activities in Vietnam.

Is Getting To Sapa, Vietnam Half the Fun?

Hundreds of signs advertising Sapa trekking tours embellish every available space in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Though I usually travel independently, I soon found that organizing a trekking tour is the cheapest and most hassle-free option to go trekking to Sapa.

So with a little reticence about this whole “organized tour” thing, I started visiting travel agents to book a Sapa trekking tour.

A couple of days later and $100 lighter, I await my ride to the train station to begin my trekking tour of Sapa, Vietnam.

A man on a motorbike pulls up precisely at 8:30pm to whisk me to the Hanoi train station, where we are met by a woman who hands me my ticket and points me to the right carriage on the correct platform.

I can’t say I miss the fuss and hassle of haggling with taxi drivers and trying to negotiate the confusion of a strange train station on my own.

On the train, I am blessed with quiet cabin mates who flick off their reading lights and go to sleep just moments after the train creaks out of Hanoi.

Despite my excitement and the endless mini earthquakes from the uneven train tracks, I manage to squeak out a few hours of decent sleep before morning.

As the sun starts to rise, the train loudspeakers come on at full blast, playing ear-splitting Vietnamese pop to announce our imminent arrival in Lào Cai.

As much as I love to fully experience a culture when I travel, I’d be happy to never hear the shrill strains of Vietnamese pop again. Especially at 6 in the morning.

The train pulls into the station and a sea of tourists, both foreign and Vietnamese, pour out onto the platform. It’s totally chaotic and I am once again relieved to be on a Sapa trekking tour.

A driver with a sign bearing my name waits for me just outside the doors. I am so glad I don’t have to negotiate with a taxi driver while suffering from early morning brain haze.

Alternatively you can look at various online options at transport, such as Bookaway or doing a quick Google search.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our guide on the best  things to do in Vietnam.

Into the Clouds

My driver dropped me off at the Sapa market, where a tiny H’Mong woman dressed in traditional clothing was waiting for me.

I soon learned she was our local tour guide and trekking guide, also named Jane (though presumably, that’s not what her parents call her).

In the market food court, I was given a bowl of tofu noodle soup for breakfast. It was possibly vegetarian, though the piles of mystery meat on every table in the market did make me wonder.

Nourishment being the priority, I slurped up the salty sour soup while my trekking tour companions arrived in small, yawning groups.

After breakfast, the gang of 15 who had gathered to go trekking in Sapa split into two groups and we set off up the backstreets and alleyways rising out of Sapa town.

After 5 minutes of hill climbing in the searing heat, we were all drenched in sweat and panting hard. After half an hour, I was questioning most of my life choices.

Why the hell did I decide to go trekking in Sapa? Will I make it over the mountain?

Is this what a heart attack feels like?

To give our guide her credit, she knew exactly when to stop to prevent fainting or major heart trauma.

As we reached the day’s first real rest break, exposing a dramatic view of Sapa town far below, the clouds rolled in and rain started to drip out of the sky.

Nobody minded. We were all hot and sticky and happy for the “free shower”, as Jane called it.

When the shower turned into a proper rainstorm, I was relieved to discover that the rain jacket I had quickly bought in the Sapa market that morning was actually waterproof as advertised.

Though we’d expected to trek all day with our group of seven, we kept crossing paths with the other trekkers we’d met at breakfast.

In contrast to the introspective vibe that had been developing in our group, the others were mostly laddish blokes on holiday from England, with posh voices and an Inbetweeners sense of humour (think sexual innuendo and fart jokes).

What had been a contemplative, cultural walk turned into a party.

On a tour, you don’t get to choose your companions. On a tour, it’s best to leave your preconceptions behind and pack a “go with the flow” attitude instead.

“More rice? More rice? Have more rice? Have more rice!” It wasn’t a question so much as a command — a very forceful command from our homestay host, Mao.

She had been around the entire table of 15 trekkers twice already, wielding her plastic rice paddle like a sword.

After a meal that had consisted of great mountains of tofu, pumpkin, green beans, bean sprouts, mushroom stir fry and, for the carnivores in the group, fried pork, more rice was exactly what we didn’t want.

When it was my turn to get third helpings, I stretched my considerably long arms as far away from the tiny Mao and her plastic rice paddle as I could get.

“No,” I laughed. “No, I won’t eat it!!” A minute later, after I thought I’d escaped, Mao scooped up another half-cup of rice and plopped it into my bowl.

Once the rice was finally eaten, the rice wine came out, in a much-used plastic 1.5L water bottle. Once again, Mao could not be denied.

The 15 trekkers and our enthusiastic host downed shot after shot of the fiery clear liquid, each drink being preceded by a group chant of “Một hai ba, yo!!!” or “One, two, three, cheers”.

A messy, drunken evening ensued. But the thing about messy drunken evenings at the end of a full day of trekking is that they invariably end early.

Most of us were snugly encamped under our mosquito nets by 8:30pm. Before 11pm, even the most foolhardy drinkers among us had turned out the lights and snored themselves to sleep.

Not so early the next morning, we gather for a breakfast of thin pancakes with fresh local honey, bananas, and fried eggs. I eat as much as my stomach can hold, knowing we have another day of heavy exertion ahead.

The large group sets off together, winding our way down through the village and out along a narrow muddy track onto the sparsely forested slopes of the mountain.

We pass rice terraces and tiny wooden houses where piglets, baby chicks, and puppies play in the dirt. There are plenty of village children to meet, too.

Some kids are shy or indifferent to our passing. Others shout “Hello!” or come running out for a high five.

Slightly ahead of the group, I spot an adorable girl. “Xin chao!” I shout with a grin. She returns my smile and my greeting.

With her mother and brother watching over her, I bend down to say hello again and ask to take her picture. She strikes a perfect pose.

Just before lunch, we part ways with the one-day trekkers. Suddenly, I feel less like a tacky tourist and more like the responsible traveller I aim to be .

Our streamlined group of five long-term travellers falls into an easy rhythm as the rice fields and endless purple mountains spread out before us.

Today’s trek is much less hilly and far more satisfying than yesterday’s. For a start, the clouds have rolled away and we can enjoy spectacular views of the rice terraces and orchards along the mountainside.

We are also further from Sapa town, meaning that we meet more locals and fewer tourists. Finally, without the boisterousness of the lads, we manage to have a real conversation.

Between the quiet minutes of meditative walking, we share our most remarkable travel experiences, our embarrassing moments, our favourite music and our best travel photography tips.

We chat about the various study- and volunteer-abroad experiences each of us have had, how we handle pressures from family and friends back home, and our plans (or lack thereof) for the future.

Though I enjoy the occasional party, this is what I was looking for on a group tour: meeting like-minded people with interesting observations about the world and our unceasing desire to explore it.

The final day’s trek is all about making fast tracks back to Sapa town. We follow a steep road that winds up out of the valley floor, taking us back the way we came.

Being on the road in a small group means we make quick time, though we still take plenty of breaks to high five the local kids, check out the views of the rice terraces. and have at least one close encounter with a buffalo.

Once again, we are under the blistering sun for our climb and a sticky layer of sunscreen, sweat, and rich red dirt envelops us all. I create a makeshift hat from my t-shirt to keep the sun at bay.

Clouds eventually roll in, threatening more rain, but doing little to cool us off.

We stop in a village cafe near our first night’s homestay for our final lunch of the trip. It’s a hub for people coming and going from Sapa, so we are once again part of a noisy gang of tourists.

Mao shows up to herd the entire cafe full of trekkers to our various destinations — some of us are getting the 4pm bus to Hanoi, others are taking the sleeper bus or the train, still others are hopping on a bus to Lao, while some are staying another night at the homestay.

The efficiency and humour Mao displays while arranging this frenzy of activity is a minor miracle.

Our shuttle bus into Sapa town gives us our first glimpse of the city itself. It is the very definition of “tacky tourist town”, with hotels, happy hour signs and souvenir shops obliterating anything real.

I’m relieved that I’ll only have to spend a few minutes here.

Still, it’s bittersweet to get on the bus back to the big city. I’m looking forward to 6 hours of napping and watching the world go by, but part of me would like to wake up every morning to the quiet beauty of Sapa.

Plus, I know that nobody will ply me with free-flowing rice wine tonight.

Tips and Advice for Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam

Trekking is one of the most popular things to do when you visit Sapa, Vietnam. Here are some helpful tips.

The tour. For three days of trekking and two nights in a homestay, the lowest price I was quoted without bargaining was $65 US including sleeper bus to and from Sapa, Vietnam. The highest price for Sapa trekking tours was $117 US, including sleeper train both ways.

Food and drinks. Three breakfasts, three lunches, and two dinners are also included, as is all the rice wine you can drink. Water, coffee, beer, and soft drinks are extra. Coffee and soft drinks are universally 20,000 VND each when visiting Sapa. Beer is approximately 30,000 VND for a bottle. Water is 20,000 VND for a 1.5L bottle. Altogether, I spent around 250,000 VND / $10 USD on drinks.

Tipping. Though I had read that tips are sometimes demanded on other tours, our guides never gave the slightest indication they expected a tip and to my knowledge, no one tipped them. That said, if you want to tip, I’m sure it would be welcome.

Local goods. At each meal, local women will come around to sell you their handmade bags, scarves, and jewelry. Even, if you aren’t interested, it doesn’t hurt to be friendly, make eye contact, and smile. They will persist in showing you each item they have in their bags, whether you are friendly or not — so you might as well make it a pleasant experience for everyone involved.

After searching for recommendations online, I found that only one travel agency stood out: Lily’s Travel Agency at 16 Ngo Huyen, just west of Hoan Kiem Lake.

I visited Lily’s and two other agencies in town. Lily’s gave me far more information than the other agencies and they also quoted me the lowest prices.

Also, Lily’s was the only one to offer me an alternative trekking route that they say avoids the most touristy stops.

Your hostel or hotel will also happily arrange a tour for you but be aware that they get a commission and you will likely eat the extra cost.

If you would rather book your Sapa trekking adventure before you arrive in Hanoi or Sapa Vietnam, then check out these excellent tours with GetYourGuide .

Sapa town is a crazy tourist trap with hundreds of guest houses offering happy hour cocktails and $5 beds.

I would highly recommend trekking to a homestay unless drinking cheap cocktails with hordes of other tourists is your idea of a good time. A homestay is an awesome way to learn about the local culture while trekking in Sapa, Vietnam.

At a homestay, everything is taken care of for you. This can be good or bad. You don’t get a choice of food or drink, and you don’t decide who your roommates are, so a go-with-the-flow attitude is a must.

Tell your Sapa trekking tour operator ahead of time if you want a private or quiet stay — they should be able to arrange that for you.

If you do want to stay in a hostel or guesthouse while trekking in Sapa, Vietnam, then check out the options on Hostelworld .

The most common tours for Sapa trekking allow you to spend one or two nights in a homestay. You can request more, but the tour leaders may not know what to do with you on the third night.

On my Sapa trekking tour, the second day was better than the first: the views were more dramatic, the routes were not as touristy, and the homestay hosted only five of us (as opposed to 15 on the first night).

By the end of the third day’s trek, I was ready to get on a bus back to civilisation.

Train or Bus to Sapa?

You can choose the overnight train or a sleeper bus from Sapa to Hanoi. I took the overnight train to Sapa and took the evening bus coming back to Hanoi (which arrives in Hanoi at 10pm).

• Significantly more expensive than the bus.
• Clean and quiet compared to other sleeper trains I’ve taken.
• More comfortable than the bus, making it easier to sleep.
• The rattle and bounce along the tracks will shake you awake at night.
• Takes 9 hours.
• Requires an hour-long mini-bus ride from Lào Cai train station to Sapa town.
• Train station is farther from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, so when you return, you’ll need to find a motorbike or taxi back into town.
• Much cheaper than the train.
• More efficient. It only takes 6 hours and goes all the way to Sapa.
• The reclining seats are “not designed for tall people”, according to a 6’2″ Slovenian I met.
• You can’t lie completely flat, so it’s harder to sleep on the bus.
• There’s no toilet, so the bus makes toilet stops, which means major disruption in the middle of the night.
• My Sapa trekking companions who took the train slept better than those who took the bus.

Here are some helpful items that you can bring for your trekking in Sapa Vietnam adventure.

• Bring one day pack plus a small bag. Some homestays will transport your gear while you trek, so you’ll need a bag to carry with you during the day and another for the items you don’t need until the evening.
• Leave any big luggage in Hanoi at your guesthouse or at the tour office.
• Lightweight rain jacket. You can buy a half-decent North Face knock-off in the Sapa market for 100,000-300,000 VND, depending on which one you choose and your bargaining skills.
• Winter jacket. If you’re in Sapa during the winter, it can get cold and might even snow. The Sapa market sells warm North Face knock-offs, as well as scarves, gloves and other winter gear.
• Earplugs. You don’t get to choose your housemates for the night and the rice wine flows freely, so earplugs are vital unless you’re a champion sleeper.
• Extra shorts and t-shirts. It gets hot and sweaty in while trekking Sapa, Vietnam (except in winter, when you’ll need warm layers), so it’s nice to have some clean clothes on hand.
• Sunscreen. Because of the high altitude, the UV index in the mountains can be especially high, so wear sunscreen for your trek in Sapa, even if it is cloudy.
• Bug spray. Depending on the time of year, you’ll need protection from mosquitos and other flying insects during your Sapa trekking.
• Bandaids. There’s a lot of uphill and downhill work to be done in Sa Pa, so be prepared for blisters.
• Good hiking shoes. Many of my fellow trekkers in Sa Pa wore trainers which led to lots of slipping and sliding on the muddy paths. I was happy to have my waterproof hiking shoes for better grip on the trails and an easier time crossing streams while Sapa trekking.

Thanks for reading our first-timers guide to trekking in Sapa, Vietnam! If you have any other tips or experiences from Sapa trekking, let us know in the comments!

Jane And Stephen

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Tu lan cave trekking tour photo essay, cuc phuong national park’s wasted problems, the mongol rally stories – close encounters with the law, the perfect 3 days in hanoi itinerary [2024 guide], 52 thoughts on “a first-timer’s guide to trekking in sapa”.

Sapa is amazing. We were there a year ago. The prices mentioned in your article are very accurate. Good job! We also stayed with a Hmong guide called Mao in Hau Thao Village, just above Ta Van. Could it be the same person? rik aka tapir tales

Thank you so much. Jane just went here recently. She wrote a great guide or us. Maybe it might be the same person, but we are not too sure. 🙂

Very complete guide for your travels to Sapa! Just one small remark about bus travel. Be aware that the night buses only arrive in the middle of the night. This means you sitll need to book an accommodation for the night you arrive. If you choose the travel by night it’s therefore cheaper at the end to book a night train.

Thank you for your tip Maarten. Happy travels

I’m glad you guys had such a great experience trekking in Sapa. My wife and I also have such an amazing time. Northern Vietnam is absolutely beautiful. I would also encourage anyone going north to visit Bac Ha, Vietnam which has one of the most interesting markets I’ve ever been to (and we’ve been to more than 70 countries).

Hi Scott, 100% Northern Vietnam is so beautiful. We motorbiked that area for about 3 weeks. That’s great you got there for the markets. Happy travels

Hello we are planning on a trip to Sapa this September and doing a 14 Km trek to a home stay – could you give me some idea of the altitude impact when hiking – I know Sapa is at 15 00 m which is the start of intermediate altitude – we have a 13 year old with us thank you

Hi Ruth, With the altitude everyone is effected differently. Sapa is at 1500m, so maybe getting there a couple days early to adapt (if you live a very low altitude) would be a great idea. Have a great trip.

What time of year did Jane do her trek? Was it in january when this was posted or did it take place months previously? Just curious because we’renplanning A trip for December 2019. Thanks so much in advance.

Hi Jaecy, We are not too sure what time of year Jane went on her trip. December in Sapa will be cold so bring layers. Do not forget the rain jacket either. Sometimes it can be really foggy but this will be great for photos. Have a great time and definitely make sure your hotel has heating. Happy travels

Such a nice blog with video guide of Sapa, Vietnam. where people understand all things very clear with the picture…

Thank you so much for reading. Glad you enjoyed it.

Great and informative post!! I found this when looking for info on what to do with my not needed items while on a two day trek in Sa Pa. You mentioned leaving excess luggage with travel agency. What about electronics? iPad, camera accessories and so on? Just trying to plan ahead.

Hi Lori, our other recommendation is to bring a lock and lock your items in your bag, We do this a lot when we go trekking or on a multiple day tour. The bag is then in the travel agent locked up at night. If you are worried about the valuable items definitely take them with you. All the best

Hi Jane, It’s a good read. When was your trip exactly? I plan to trek in Sa Pa sometime between Nov 18 to Nov 24.

Glad you enjoyed the article. Not too sure when Jane was trekking in Sapa. Have a great time in November. You will love the area.

I am Vietnamese. And I am very thankful to Jane and Stephen for sharing one of Vietnam’s locations to everyone. And hope you have a great experience when it comes to sapa

Thank you for reading and we are glad you enjoyed it. 🙂

Hi, Thanks for sharing your experience, Sapa really seems to be worth a visit. In fact we will spend three days there next week and I am quite excited 🙂 However after having done some research I have some doubts: Did you take any malaria Prophylaxe and a vaccination for the Japanese encephalitits disease? For us it is too late to get a vaccination as we fly tomorrow and now I am note quite sure if its safe to trip since we also have rain season. Did you take any precaution besides long clothes and repellent? Would you still recommend us to go? Thanks for your support 🙂 Nik

Thank you for reading Niklas. You are so right, Sapa is definitely worth a visit. We were not taking maleria tablets at all in Vietnam. And we did not have a vaccination against Japanese encephalitits as we felt it was not needed. We spent 7 months travelling all over Vietnam and personally didn’t feel these were needed. Do what you think as we are not doctors. Definitely do take insect repellent as you will need that. Have a great time Nik

Hello! Your experiences are very helpful and informative; thank you! I tried the link to get your guide and it says an error occurred and will not go any further. Any suggestions on how to arrange a trek and transportation ahead of time? We will only be in Sapa for 2 days and 1 night, arriving early in the morning and back to Hanoi late at night, so do not want to waste time looking at the last minute.

Hi Pamela, thanks for dropping by. Thank you for letting us know about the link. We will fix that. We totally understand when you are on limited time. You can book some tours for 2 days through Get Your Guide. Check them out and see what you think.

https://www.getyourguide.com/sa-pa-l1049/sapa-2-day-trekking-tour-with-minority-village-homestay-t130953/ https://www.getyourguide.com/sa-pa-l1049/sa-pa-2-day-trekking-night-market-and-cooking-class-tour-t147993/

There are day tours if the 2 day tours do not work out. Have a great time. It really is a beautiful area up there. Happy travels

That was an awesome and detail guide of yours. Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Sapa is indeed beautiful and one of the best sites for solo travelers. Did you come back the second time?

Thank you so much. Jane wrote a great article for us. We loved visiting Sapa. We will definitely return one day.

Hi Jane And Stephen. That’s a great trekking trip. I haven’t been to Vietnam, I think it would be my next visit. Thank you for sharing What Should You Pack for Trekking in Sapa? so I can prepare in advance. I agree that Good hiking shoes is very important, I am a sneaker lover. Thank you for your suggestions.

Thank you for your comment Issie. Jane wrote a great article. Glad it was helpful.

Hi guys – i loved your article and have noted a few things down for our trip to sapa! We are travelling with 2 children, ages 10 and 12 who are good walkers and love a bit of adventure. Did you see any other children (aside from locals) on your trek and would you recommend that they will be able to do the trek in the terrain of Sapa and surrounds? We have done a homestay on the mekong before and they enjoyed it so i think they will like a homestay in Sapa. We plan to visit in April 2019- Thanks again, Gen

Thanks so much. Have your kids hiked before? When you get there talk to the company and guide and see what they think. Maybe they can customise a trek for you all when the distances are not too far everyday. Have a great time.

Fantastic review. We are in the process of booking a 3 day/2 night trek. We are quoted about $150 each person ( 2 people ) . I am still in my home country, do you advise me to wait till Hanoi to check out the options? Like wise with buses, book once in Hanoi?

Hi Garry, it all depends on your schedule. You can definitely book it all when you get to Hanoi and Sapa. You can shop around when you get to Sapa for a trek and your accommodation in Hanoi can help you with the bus or train to Sapa.

If you are tight on time we recommend booking it so you are not delayed or miss out on a tour you would like. Check out these treks and transport to Sapa. https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Sapa%2C%20Vietnam&customerSearch=true&p=2

(NOTE: This is an affiliate link but you pay no more. We get a tiny commission from the company).

If you have anymore question Garry. Let us know. Have a great trip.

Thank you for the great content!

Would you recommend booking a tour online, in Hanoi, or upon arrival in Sa Pa?

Hi Pat, how exciting. Bet you are excited about your up coming trip. It is totally up to you when it comes to booking, If you have some time, shop around and get a feel and book in Sapa or if you are short on time you can book online. We hope you have a great time. 🙂

Thanks for sharing. Im going to Vietnam in early April and I definetly would like to do the 3 day treeking to Sapa. What month did you so your trip to Sapa? I’ve read mixed reviews about when is the best time to go. I was going to ask about Lily’s agency but I’ve read your advice to shop around when i get there. Thanks

Glad Jane’s article could help. Sorry about the late reply. As you already know April would be a great time to go. We hope you had a great trip and loved the area as much as we did. The best time to visit Sapa is from March to May and from September to November. During this time the weather is stable with beautiful sunny days and cooler nights. Happy travels

I will be traveling to Vietnam on Feb 28th, cant wait. Sapa is on top of my list along with halong and ninh binh

1) Do u really think that its safe to motorbike around villages in sapa without a guide tour? not sure if the path will be all muddly and narrow to do it by motoribike?

2) U said that the train station in hanoi is far away from old quarter area? i was told that its just 15 min walk from old quarter area, I asked because I booked the train ticket from hanoi to lao cai since I want to visit Bac Ha first before going to sapa.

Any feedback would be more than appreciated and thanks again

Hi Sebastian,

Thank you for your message.

1. It is definitely safe riding around. Do take precaution and ride with a helmet, slow and eyes in the back of your head. We rode motorbikes around Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam for 7 months and loved it. Hire your bike at a respectable rental company. Some of the rental companies will give you a little lesson if you ask. If you are still not confident, don’t do it. You can rent a driver for the day and feel safe on the back of the bike. If you do rent a scooter, never leave your passport with them. Leave a photocopy. Here is our motorbike article in Northern Vietnam where we travel through Sapa. https://www.nomadasaurus.com/northern-vietnam-motorcycle-adventure/

Here are some tips for renting too https://www.nomadasaurus.com/tips-renting-a-scooter-or-motorbike-for-first-timers/

2. It depends where you stay in the old quarters. It can be a 15 minute walk or a 15 minute drive. A taxi is pretty cheap or your accommodation might offer you a lift.

Have a great trip and definitely do some hiking in the area of Sapa. Happy travels.

Sapa is one of the best places to trekking in Vietnam. Great post! I really love North Vietnam, beside Sapa, we can travel to Ha Giang, Mai Chau, Moc Chau… Thank you for sharing

Thank you so much for your comment. We loved travelling northern Vietnam . We loved exploring it with a motorbike and visited Ha Giang, Mai Chau and more. Definitely don’t miss these places in Vietnam.

Hi, will you recommend trekking SAPA free&easy? Also is it ok to bike to SAPA?

Hi Bennett, Jane wrote this article for us and she said she had a great time. Our recommendations is to shop around when you get there and see which agent you feel more comfortable with. Biking to Sapa will be hilly but the roads are paved. Do take care. All the best

I’m heading to Sapa in September – would you recommend Lilys agency/ treks?

I’m going from Cat Ba so would have to book online. Does Lily’s have a website do you know please?

Thanks Tanya

Jane and Stephen looked like they had a great time. Sorry we are not too sure on the website. Our recommendation is to shop around and see which agent you get the best feel from. You can usually book the day before. All the best and have a great time.

Hi, Thank you very for the post. We will take your tips counted for our trip next week. I wonder if there is direct to Ha Giang from Sapa without going back to Hanoi as usual. I would be more appreciated your advice!

Hi Rosie, Sorry about the late reply. We hope you had a great trip. How did you go with the transfer? Hope you got to Ha Giang and had a great time. Happy travels

(for other travellers wondering) We did it on motorbike ourselves but I am sure you can ask around at travel agents when you get there.

Am about to head up to Sa Pa and this has been the best guide I’ve read for people looking to escape the cookie cutter pseudo ‘hike’ some travel agencies try and sell. Will head to Lily’s immediately!

Thank you so much Fiona. So happy we could help. Jane wrote a great article for us. We also loved that area too. Have a great time. 🙂

Thanks for the guidance…

Glad we could help 🙂

Thank you for that very helpful article! I was wandering when you went the second time? Was it in summer? Thanks 🙂

Thank you so much for reading Dominique. Jane wrote a great article for us. In the winter it gets really cold, rainy and foggy up there so not the best time for trekking. We’d recommend going between March to May or between September to November. All the best

Sapa is really nice. I went to there in last year. The atmosphere at here is great. Today, glad to hear your sharing! I like….

It really is, isn’t it Vicky. We loved it there. Jane wrote a great article for us. Makes us want to go back and do some more trekking. Thank you 🙂

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Things To Do in Sapa Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on May 17th, 2024

Are you planning a Sapa itinerary? In this Sapa travel guide blog, we will tell you where to go and what to do in Sapa, and what you should know when it comes to visiting the hillside region.

Sapa is fantastic and it is more impressive than what we expected. In Sapa, you will find misty lush green scenery, rice terraces, and charming hill-tribe villages in this hilly region. This place blows us away with its nature and unique culture.

During our trip to Sapa, we visited the local market and have great hiking through the local villages where the tribal people that live here. Meeting the minority ethnic groups in remote mountainous areas just amazed us.

In this Sapa travel guide blog , we will share with you our itinerary when visiting the region. We’ve packed all of our travel guides and tips to help you plan and prepare your Sapa trip. Let’s check it out!

Table of Contents

Sapa Travel Guide

Personally, we found it was quite hard to plan for the Sapa itinerary. Most of the attractions are in the hilly region and traveling time is long and exhausted from one place to another place. Plus, transportation is not very well connected. Therefore, there are many local tours to help you plan for your 1 day, 2 to 3 days of Sapa itinerary.

You can pre-book ahead before your trip or find it once arrived at Sapa. Either way is good and each has its benefit. Our advice is to know what is your interest and have an idea of where you want to go. Most tours included the transportation option. It is best to pre-book it ahead for hassle-free. Else you might need to find time to wander around.

Be prepared that you’ll need to spend time on the long-haul journey to visit the hilly tribe village in the mountainous area of Sapa. Besides, the weather is unpredictable and can turn moist and bad very quickly. An early start to kick start your day to explore the beautiful scenery is always recommended.

How To Get to Sapa From Hanoi

From Hanoi to Sapa , you can either take a bus or train which takes you around 5 to 6 hours. Here is the transportation option:

• Shared Limo Transfers between Hanoi and Sapa – For smooth and hassle-free arrangement
• Shared Shuttle Bus between Hanoi and Sapa by Interbus Lines – more economic but takes longer time.
• Over-night Train – The best budget option for those with limited time as you will arrive in Sapa in the early morning to kick start the Sapa itinerary.

Get a full view on transportation option from Hanoi to Sapa

I would suggest you catch a night train from Hanoi to Sapa as it will save you the traveling time and accommodation costs. Tiring but pretty convenient. Plus the train is pretty clean.

Alternatively, you can also join the tour with transport included , which is a lot more convenient. So basically you can rest along the trip and travel to Sapa hassle-free.

Accommodation in Sapa

Most of Sapa’s accommodation are mid-range and budget. There is a large selection of hotel options in the town and there you can find suitable accommodation for every travel budget.

We can recommend Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa which is probably one of the best hotels in Sapa. The room is clean with fantastic views and good facilities. The staff are so friendly and helpful. Most important, the price is very reasonable and worth it.

A few more Sapa accommodation at different budget for your selection:

• Hotel de la Coupole – MGallery – Enjoy the most luxury stay in a great location in Sapa. Your stay is featured an amazing view overlooking the valley and an incredible rooftop bar and heated pool.
• Pistachio Hotel Sapa – Affordable luxury hotel boasts comfortable rooms and incredible rooftop infinity pool.
• Phuong Nam Hotel – Best budget stay in Sapa. The location is convenient and close to the Sun Plaza with the railway to Fansipan and with numerous restaurants around.

For more options, feel free to check out the accommodation guide: Where to Stay in Sapa .

Recommendation Sapa Tour

The distances to each attraction in Sapa are much further than you initially think. Plus, it is very hard to plan for the self-DIY Sapa itinerary. Perhaps you might want to consider joining a tour to reach certain destinations.

You can visit Sapa alone or together that coupling the Northen Vietnam attraction such as Sapa, Hanoi, and Ha Long Bay without grappling with public transport. There are multi-day tours option depending on how many days you plan to spend on your Sapa itinerary.

Here is the recommended Sapa Tour from Hanoi:

• 3D2N Sapa Tour from Hanoi with Dcar Bus Transfers
• 2D1N Sapa Tour by Bus from Hanoi with optional to Visit Fansipan Cable Car

For Sapa trekking tour to the local village:

• Cat Cat Village Trekking Tour from Sapa
• Ma Tra and Ta Phin Village Private Trekking Tour from Sapa

Planning on Sapa Itinerary

Due to the long-haul traveling journey, spending at least two days in Sapa is a great option. We started our Sapa itinerary in the early morning after the overnight train from Hanoi. Next, we spent the fulfillment 2 days in Sapa before heading back to our next travel destination.

We had lots of fun time as well as a short trek in Sapa. We didn’t have to organize anything as everything is already pre-booked before our arrival. Take a look on how we plan for the amazing Sapa trip.

Planning on Sapa itinerary :

• Day 1: Arrived in Sapa from Hanoi. Visit Bac Ha Sunday Market.
• Day 2: Sapa – Trekking tour to local Village (Cat Cat Village, Ma Tra, and Ta Phin Village)
• More days in Sapa? A visit to Sun World Fansipan with an exciting cable car ride.

Sapa Itinerary Day 1

One of the best things to do in Sapa is visiting the traditional local market , and glad that we visited the Bac Ha Sunday market. It is truly a memorable experience to enjoy the traditional culture of ethnic groups in the mountainous areas of North Vietnam.

Our Sapa itinerary started with an overnight train from Hanoi to Sapa. We booked a private tour and the tour guide picked us up at the train station. We next headed to Bac Ha weekly market in a minivan. The journey was painful as it took about 2.5 hours to reach the rural area of the village. But once we arrived, we know that it was worth the effort.

Bac Ha Sunday Market

We arrived at Bac Ha Sunday Market at around 10 am and the market is in full swing. The market is bursting with color and life and it is one of the unique Vietnam experiences.

Locals including the minority peoples are gathering here to buy and sell a wide variety of goods. From household goods, clothes, food, vegetable, handicrafts, and even live animals for sale. All the people, especially women and ladies wear their traditional clothes. You can also meet the Flower Hmong people who live in Lao Cai and Ha Giang Provinces. They look so nice in their colorful clothes.

We didn’t buy anything here but if you want don’t forget to barter, but don’t push too hard. Most of the people are having a tough life living in the area. After visiting the market, we will bring to a restaurant where lunch is included in the tour.

All in all, Bac Hac Sunday Market is a lively and colorful tribes market. It was a lot of fun and you’ll be delighted with the authenticity of this Sunday market. Like much of traditional Vietnam it is a disappearing lifestyle in Bac Ha. It is getting more and more touristy and please visit Bac Ha market when this kind of place still exists.

Sapa Travel Tip : Bac Hac Market is only held at Sunday. If possible, overnight at a nearby village one day before and try to get there early to beat the crowd. Most tour buses on a day trip from Sapa will arrive at around 10 am and the market is packed with tourist.

Sapa Itinerary Day 2

A good trekking tour to explore the local village and learn about the culture and history of the people in Sapa.

There are few local villages to choose from. Cat Cat village is probably the most popular destination on the Sapa trekking tour. This is probably because the village itself is fairly easily accessible compared to the other villages in Sapa. But this also makes it very touristy with lines of souvenir shops.

If you are planning to witness the settlement of the local’s life I would suggest visiting others villages such as Ma Tra and Ta Phin Village.

Sapa Trekking Tour

We started our trekking journey early in the morning. There is approximately a 3 km downhill walk toward the village from Sapa town. The trek was easy and more of a stroll although with uneven stairs. But, this is not recommended for people with health conditions.

The trek journey is about 5 to 6km from our starting point. Alternatively, you can even get a taxi from Sapa to Cat Cat Village.

Our tour guide is a very nice lady from Black Hmong. She can speak good English and is knowledgeable about the area. We have ample rest and take to take photo along the trek. The walk to the village could be tiring but it was worth it.

Cat Cat Village

Cat Cat Village is a picturesque local village in a stunning mountain range with a beautiful natural landscape. It is also home to the Hmong people who emigrated from China 300 years ago. The village itself is gorgeous and it was really interesting to walk around the Cat Cat village to learn about the tribe in the village. There is a small admission fee to enter the village.

Once in Cat Cat Village, there are loads of craft stalls, shops, little cafes, and local houses. Most local people no longer live in this village but those houses are still maintained to showcase their local village life .

We have the chance to visit the local houses demonstrating the local crafts and have a glimpse into the daily life of local ethnic people. It is truly impressive to see the craftsmanship such as weaving fabric.

But be prepared to be asked for buying the handicraft. Some can be pushing but gentle no is recommended.

You can also walk to the waterfalls downhill and terraces is breathtaking. Lots of great photo opportunities and many local tourists are renting traditional costumes to take photos in the village.

After the walking tour, we were picked up by the van and brought back to the town for a nice simple Vietnamese lunch that was included as part of the tour. We have a great time in Cat Cat Village and are recommended for those who want a glimpse of a local village.

More Attractions in Sapa

As we only have a limited 2 days in Sapa, so we have to skip some of the attractions. We choose to visit the Ba Hac Market and trekking tour to the local village as we prefer a more cultural visit. There is much more attractive that can be coupled together on the Sapa itinerary.

If you have more days in Sapa, consider visiting below attractions on your visit to Sapa.

Sun World Fansipan

The Sun World Fansipan turn out to be one of the popular attractions in Sapa. Take a scenic cable car ride up 3,143 meters above sea level to the peak of Fansipan Mountain. It is the longest and highest cable ride in Vietnam. The ride up to the top of the mountain top is very picturesque. Every different minute you’ll be mesmerized by the beauty of nature.

Discounted Ticket for Sun World Fansipan from Klook

At the summit, it is a fantastic picturesque destination with Buddhist temples, shrines, and breathtaking views. Amazing place and cold weather for an epic experience in Sapa. The highest point in Indochina on countries like Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Make sure to visit Sun World Fansipan in good weather!

The cost is relatively high for a cable car ride to the peak. Get the discounted Sun World Fansipan Legend Admission Ticket with a different package option from Klook. Easy to use and cheaper than buying tickets at the counter!

Final Tips for Sapa Travel Guide

Here is a few more handy tips for this Sapa Travel Guide Blog:

Definitely worth it! There are many cultural villages in Sapa where you can experience authentic Vietnamese village experience.

Three days in Sapa is the perfect amount of time to spend in Sapa. You can explore the main sightseeing and have an easy trek into the northern mountains.

Planning a Sapa trip can be a difficult task due to the long traveling journey and transportation arrangements. Joining a tour with transport included is recommended but not compulsory.

Overview: A Visit to Sapa

All in all, you should plan at least 2 days for your Sapa itinerary. The landscape here is so breathtakingly beautiful and a visit to Sapa is definitely worthwhile.

The traveling might take times that leads you through the beautiful landscape of the local village. But you are rewarded with beautiful views of the lush green nature in all directions. You can see the local life as is it although a bit touristic still simple and genuine countryside. Whether you’re looking for a rad solo trip or an all-inclusive family holiday, Sapa is highly recommended.

Related Sapa travel information:

Where To Stay in Sapa: Best Hotels and Homestays

Traveling to Northern Vietnam and looking for more inspiration for the trip? Here is our Northern Vietnam travel stories.

Things To Do in Hanoi Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

• A Trip To Halong Bay: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
• Where To Stay in Hanoi: Best Areas and Hotels
• Hanoi Food Guide: Where and What To Eat

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A Guide to Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam

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Sapa is located in the Lào Cai Province of Vietnam and is a region that draws visitors from across the world. The town is situated on the side of one of the many mountains in the massive Hoàng Liên Son mountain range. It overlooks the valley below. The valley floor is filled with rice terraces that change from bright green to yellow depending on the time of year that you visit.

Most people visit Sapa to immerse themselves in the gorgeous landscape through trekking expeditions as the roads aren’t great and there are well-maintained footpaths. Trekking is definitely the best way to explore the region of Sapa, Vietnam.

Read on to learn all about what to do, where to stay, and how to book with this guide to trekking in Sapa!

Trekking in Sapa Guide

If you want to go trekking in Sapa with a local Hmong guide, we highly recommend our good friend A Hang Thi.

You can message her on Facebook or on WhatsApp at +84 94 736 0557 (once you arrive in Vietnam you can also call or text her at +84 38 886 5878 once you have a local Vietnamese SIM card ).

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Sapa Travel Basics

Getting to sapa.

The town of Sapa is about 200 miles north of Hanoi . You can either hire a driver, which will be pricey, take a bus (which we recommend), or take a sleeper train.  Sapa Express  is by far the best bus operator as it has clean, comfortable buses with safe drivers. They generally leave right on time. It’s super easy to book your bus or train tickets ahead of time on Bookaway !

You can choose the 7 am bus with spacious seats (called the “Limousine Bus”) or the later times that offer beds. We found the seated option to be far more comfortable than the beds, especially for people who are tall or who have mobility issues.

As soon as you get off the bus in the center of town, you will be bombarded by Hmong women wanting to sell you their wares or offer you a trekking tour to their village. So you don’t necessarily need to book a trekking tour ahead of time unless you really want to.

Weather in Sapa

The weather in the Sapa region varies widely by season. In the summer months, it is considered subtropical and often experiences heavy rainfall. The weather in the winter is moderate, even chilly, and can even snow high in the mountains. July and August are the warmest months, and also the rainiest. The coldest months are December and January.

The wet season is from May to September, and although it can be rainy and miserable at times. This is when the rice paddies are their brightest green.

Planning Your Visit to Sapa

Depending on your preference, you can either plan your entire trekking in Sapa trip ahead of time. Or, you can get on the bus and wing it once you get there. Either is completely doable, it just depends on your preference and how much flexibility you have in your Vietnam itinerary .

There is no real need to book a trekking tour in advance as you’ll be approached by Hmong ladies as soon as you arrive, offering to guide you on a trek. You can choose to do a day trip or a multi-day trip in which case your homestays will be included in the tour.

If you have time, we would recommend booking your first or two nights in Sapa town so you can visit Cat Cat village and Fansipan mountain. Then, schedule a 2-day trekking tour with a local guide. Finally, spend a few nights in one of the smaller towns nearby to relax and unwind.

What to Pack for Sapa

There are countless stores in Sapa town (and all over Vietnam) hawking knock-off trekking gear. You can find anything and everything you’ll need for a trekking excursion. The only issue with relying on this gear is that it isn’t necessarily good quality. You don’t want to end up with a soleless hiking boot mid-hike!

If you do decide to pick up a jacket or backpack in Sapa, you’ll find much cheaper prices at the Sapa Market compared to the shops in the center of town. But you’ll need to haggle.

Pack a pair of comfortable hiking shoes that have a lot of traction and will keep your feet dry if you get caught hiking in a downpour. Throw a lightweight, compact, and water-resistant jacket in your bag. If you visit during the winter months, pick up a few pairs of water-resistant, fleece-lined leggings to keep you toasty. Don’t forget a small day-pack if you plan on doing a multi-day trek. You can leave your larger bags at your hotel.

Complete Guide to Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam

Things to do in the town of sapa.

As tourism in the area has increased, so has the infrastructure in the town of Sapa. It is now filled with hotels, shops, restaurants, and bars. It can be difficult to walk around the town as sidewalks are few and far between. But, it’s likely that will change in the coming years.

Sapa town is lively but it is also incredibly touristy. It is filled with backpackers who are being followed by Hmong ladies dressed in traditional attire, trying to get them to purchase their handmade woven treasures. If you are looking for a more tranquil, authentic experience, you may want to stay in one of the nearby villages like Lao Chai or Ta Van.

Hồ Sa Pa Lake

Most foreigners come to Sapa for the sole purpose of trekking. But there are a few things you can do if you have extra time in the town. The first (and free) activity is to have a stroll around Hồ Sa Pa Lake around sunset for beautiful mountain views. It’s also a bustling area in the evenings and a great place to people-watch.

Shopping in Sapa Market

There is no lack of shopping in Sapa and you will be constantly bombarded by locals on the street showing you their wares. For the best selection and prices, you should head to the New Sapa Market (“Cho Sa Pa”) located ~1/2 mile east of  Hồ Sa Pa Lake. On the second floor, you’ll find rows of women selling both new and second-hand textiles from the local communities.

Bac Ha Market is the most popular market in the area as all of the minority groups in the area come together to sell their wares here. It takes place on Sundays and is about a 2.5-hour drive outside of town. Many tourists add this market to their guided tours. Or, you can rent a motorbike and check it out on your own.

Fansipan Mountain

Sun World has constructed a cable car that runs to the very top of Fansipan Mountain . At over 10,000 feet, is the highest mountain in the Indochinese Peninsula. The 15-minute cable car ride provides spectacular views of the lush rice terraces far below. However, this is probably not the best activity for those that are afraid of heights. When you exit the car, you’ll enter a huge restaurant and gift shop with a viewing area.

From the restaurant, you can choose to either climb the 600 or so stairs to the summit or buy an additional ticket to take the Fansipan funicular. It is generally quite cloudy at the top. If you wait a little while and get lucky, the clouds may open up to provide the most amazing views of the valley below.

Only buy a one-way funicular ticket and take the stairs back down. There is a massive Buddha statue, a temple, and several other statues and walkways on the way down.

The Local People in the Sapa Region

The Sapa region is home to several ethnic minority grounds –  Hmong (pronounced “mung”), Dao (pronounced “zow”), Giáy (pronounced “zai”), Pho Lu, and Tay people. They rely on farming and tourism to provide for their large families.

Each group has its own dialect and attire to differentiate themselves. And they don’t just wear the traditional attire for tourism purposes – you’ll see many women doing mundane chores in the countryside while wearing the same thing.

The women and children that sell traditional souvenirs can be quite pushy. They will ask you where you’re from, what your name is, and how long you’ll be in Sapa before asking that you buy something. After a few “no thank yous,” they’ll eventually move on to the next tourist.

Keep in mind that buying something won’t actually make them leave you alone. In fact, it will likely have the opposite effect. If you say “yes” to one, you’ll attract several others also hoping to cash in.

Government Rules

In an effort to protect the Sapa region, the Vietnamese government asks that foreigners follow these rules:

• Do not buy and use the services of the street vendors and beggars
• Do not give children money or presents
• Do not litter on the streets or on the tourist sites
• Do not take photos of the local people without asking

Of course, numbers 3 and 4 are a given. But we would argue that the first two are debatable. It is unclear how much of the money that you spend on entrance tickets actually goes to the local people. Many of them are living in extreme poverty. We did choose to purchase some souvenirs from the street vendors but tried to spread the love to multiple people rather than just buying from one.

Where to Stay in Sapa

Topas Ecolodge

If you really want to treat yourself during your trip to Sapa, consider booking a few nights in the Topas Ecolodge . This stunning and unique resort is outside of the town and offers absolutely breathtaking views of the rice terraces from your comfortable room and from the pristine outdoor pool. It’s a great way to pamper yourself and an experience that you’ll never forget!

Check Prices on Booking.com

Aria Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa

If you’re looking for luxury accommodations, then  Aira Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa  is the perfect getaway during your vacation in Sapa! Featuring spectacular views of the valley, a gorgeous outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art gym, and beautifully decorated rooms – you’ll enjoy all of the comforts of home here.

Sapa Horizon Hotel

If you still crave luxury but want a more modest price point, consider booking a room at the  Sapa Horizon Hotel . You’ll love the ultra-comfortable bed that you can sink into after a long day of trekking. And the delicious breakfast is the perfect way to start every day in Sapa!

Praha Hotel Sapa

An even more budget-friendly accommodation in town is the  Praha Hotel Sapa . You can get really reasonably priced rooms or pay a bit more for a lovely private balcony overlooking the valley. The rooms are spacious and clean and the staff is so friendly!

Where to Eat in Sapa

We found the dining options in Sapa to be, well, pretty much all the same. Most of the restaurants offer similar cuisine options, including typical Vietnamese classics, hamburgers, and pizza. None of them are necessarily bad, but you probably won’t be raving about the food scene in Sapa when you leave. These two were our favorites:

• Fansipan Terrace Cafe offers really beautiful views of the valley, a peaceful garden for relaxing, and yummy, reasonably priced dishes. Spend a few hours here sipping hot wine and enjoying the view!
• La Roma Pizza has mediocre reviews on Tripadvisor which is a mystery to me because the barbeque chicken pizza is surprisingly delicious (especially for Asia). Plus, they offer a free beer and an order of garlic bread with every pizza!

Where to Drink in Sapa

Hot wine is the classic alcoholic beverage in Sapa. You’ll find restaurants serving different variations of it all over town.

• Le Gecko Cafe is a cute little French restaurant with a prime location right on the lake. It’s a lovely place to enjoy a glass of hot wine, a tasty dessert, and watch the sun go down.
• H’mong Sisters is probably the most popular hangout in town. At least, that’s what was recommended to us by the locals.
• The Hill Station is a chain so you might spot them all over Vietnam. You can trust that every location will have a lively atmosphere and really good craft beer.
• Luckydaisy’s Bamboo Bar is actually located down the hill from Sapa in the village of Tả Van. If you happen to be staying in Tả Van, this is the perfect place to relax with a cup of hot chocolate or hot wine.

Villages Near Sapa, Vietnam

If the town of Sapa sounds too touristy for your liking, there are several other smaller villages nearby as well. They are just beginning to build their tourism infrastructure so roads aren’t as good, homestays can be lacking in luxuries, and restaurant options are a bit limited. But you’ll probably feel like you’re having a more “authentic” experience!

Lao Chải Village

Lao Chải village is just about four miles east of Sapa town. The locals here are referred to as “black Hmong” as their traditional clothing is thick jackets that have been dyed black from indigo. Many of the homestays in this village are not yet available to book online. You may want to go without a reservation and check out your options when you get there. If that makes you nervous, Eco Palms House  is a good choice.

Tả Van Village

Tả Van village is about a 45-minute drive from Sapa town and is another more laid-back area to stay in. The Giáy people own most of the restaurants, shops, and homestays, but the Hmong people live further up the mountain and hike down to peddle their wares. We really enjoyed staying at the “Salem Homestay” but the owner doesn’t speak English and the property is not yet online ( but they do have Facebook! ). If you’d prefer to book in advance, Mountain River Homestay is a lovely choice.

The taxi ride to Tả Van village will cost about 200,000 VND for two people or 250,000 VND for four. But keep in mind that the road may be impassable if there have been heavy rains.

Giàng Tả Chải Village

Giàng Tả Chải is the next village down the valley from Tả Van. If you are staying in Tả Van, it’s an easy 2.5-mile walk down to Cau May waterfall situated at the base of Giàng Tả Chải. There are also a few homestays in Giàng Tả Chải but very little else in terms of bars or restaurants.

Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam

Trekking is the number one activity to do while visiting Sapa and there are several areas that you can visit. You can opt for self-guided tours but you risk getting hounded the whole way by Hmong women who will walk alongside you for what feels like forever in the hopes that you eventually relent and browse their goods. A guide will keep them at bay. Plus you’ll get to learn from a local!

Self-Guided Sapa Treks

Trek to cat cat village from sapa town.

If you would prefer to do a self-guided trek, Cat Cat Village is only 1.15 miles from Sapa town and is downhill for most of the way. Your walk will begin on the road but the road ends shortly after the ticket booth (you’ll need to pay 70,000 VND/person) before you begin walking on a well-maintained stone path.

You’ll pass several cute coffee shops and restaurants along the way, perfect to take a break and enjoy the views. When you reach the bottom of the valley, you’ll come across a row of water wheels, two picturesque bridges, and the impressive Cat Cat waterfall.

If you continue on up the stairs across the bridge, you’ll have a steep climb but you can turn the trek into a loop. Shops selling souvenirs line each side of the stone stairs. There are also several motorbikes waiting to take you back up to town if you’d prefer not to walk. Expect to pay around 30,000 VND for a motorbike ride back to Sapa.

Trek to Tả Van Village from Sapa Town

Many people hire a guide to hike to Tả Van village. You can take the main road all the way there (although it won’t be a very nice walk as there the road is heavily trafficked). Another option is to cut off to the pedestrian trail on the side of the mountain. The turnoff to the trail can be hard to spot but dozens of Hmong ladies lead groups that way every morning around 9 am. You can just linger nearby and watch where they go.

You’ll have gorgeous views of the valley and the river below for the entire length of the trek. And once you arrive at the village at the bottom, you can either walk back up or hire a motor taxi to take you back to Sapa.

Guided Treks Around Sapa

How to choose a tour guide.

There is no need to book a tour in Hanoi unless you specifically want to. You will be surrounded by Hmong women offering you their tour guiding services as soon as you get off the bus. As well as daily when you’re wandering around town. Keep in mind that you’ll be spending several hours or days with your guide. Choose someone that is easy to communicate with and not too pushy. Don’t feel pressured to choose a guide on the spot.

If you would prefer to book a guide in advance,  contact our good friend A Hang Thi  via Facebook or on WhatsApp at +84 94 736 0557 (once you arrive in Vietnam you can also call or text her at +84 38 886 5878 once you have a local Vietnamese SIM card ).

A Hang Thi grew up in a Hmong village, speaks perfect English, and is hilariously entertaining!

Get Your Guide also offers tours of the Sapa Region, some including transfers directly from the city of Hanoi. If you’d prefer to have a tour agency take care of all of the logistics for you, it’s a simple and cost-effective way to visit Sapa, Vietnam.

Choosing a Tour of the Sapa Region

Prior to selecting a guide, consider the following:

• How many days would you like to trek?
• How difficult and how long would you like the trek to be?
• Would you like to see waterfalls? Or sweeping views from the top of a mountain? Or both?
• Do you only want to trek or would you like to take a motorbike tour as well?

Once you give your guide the details of the kind of trekking that you’d like to do, they will determine what villages you will visit and where you will stay.

Our Trekking in Sapa Experience: 

Our trekking tour was 2 days/1 night. On the first day, we trekked 12 miles and much of the beginning was uphill so it was quite difficult. We had stunning views from the top and didn’t see any other tourists until we reached a small town where we ate lunch. Then we trekked all the way back down to Giang Ta Chai village where our homestay was right near a beautiful waterfall.

On our second day, we were sore from so much walking the day before, so we took a motorbike tour of the region that lasted about 3.5 hours. Everything was organized by our amazing guide, A Hang Thi .

Cost of Trekking in Sapa

If you book a tour ahead of time, you’ll pay around $25-40 per person per day depending on the length and difficulty. If you go for only one day, that price includes two meals. If you go for two or more days, the price will include the cost of your homestay and meals.

If you book a tour from one of the Hmong ladies around Sapa town, you can negotiate the price but you’ll likely end up paying around $20-30 per person per day. That should also include meals and homestay but you should confirm in advance.

Tipping Your Sapa Tour Guide

Tip (or don’t tip) your guide, it’s up to you. They don’t necessarily expect it but appreciate it of course. The locals in Sapa receive very little help from the government. They rely heavily on tourism to survive so if you can give them a few extra dollars, it goes a long way. A tip of 100,000 VND per person is pretty standard. If you are really happy with your guide, you are always welcome to give more.

We hope this guide helped you to prepare for your trip to the beautiful region of Sapa, Vietnam!

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Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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5 thoughts on “a guide to trekking in sapa, vietnam”.

Nick and Val, My name is Karen and I am planning a trip to Vietnam in the spring and would like to visit Sa pa. I am a professional photographer and am looking the best sites in the area to hike and would like some guidance as to where these may be. My time is unfortunately limited so I don’t have the luxury of wandering for days in search of great locations. Also, I see online that there is a market that has lovely people dressed in their traditional clothing selling their wares in the streets, but I am getting confused with other markets in the region and am not sure if there actually is one in Sa pa, or if I need to travel several hours away to experience this. Finally, I would love a homestay if you have any recommendations. And, your website is fabulous! Did you take the photos, if so, bravo! Thank you so much for your time. Karen

Hi Karen, So exciting that you’re going to Sapa – it’s the best! The market you are likely seeing pictures of is Bac Ha Market. It’s the largest minority market in the region. However, it’s about a 2.5 hour drive away from Sapa and it only happens on Sunday. If you want to see Bac Ha market you’ll need to plan your trip to make sure you’re in Sapa on Sunday. There are lots of tour agencies that can arrange for transportation out there.

If you’re not going to be in town on a Sunday or a 5-hour roundtrip seems like too much don’t worry – there are lots of traditionally dressed women and children around the town of Sapa so you’ll have lots of photo opportunities. In the upstairs of the New Sapa Market there are loads of Dao women dressed traditionally and selling traditional textiles – it’s great for photos. Just don’t be afraid to ask people if they mind having a photo taken and carry lots of small bills. Many people expect you to buy something from them in exchange for a photo – not a bad trade really.

In regards to hikes I would recommend hiring a local guide – our friend A Hang Thi is H’mong and knows the area very well. You might also consider taking a motorbike tour with her. You’ll be able to see more of the valley faster and you’ll have some great photo opportunities. She took us out to the narrow valley out past the Topas Ecolodge which has some of the most beautiful rice paddies I have seen in the area.

How can I contact A Hang Thi, your guide for a Sapa tour?

Thanks Laura

You can send her a Facebook message here: https://www.facebook.com/a.hangthi.50

Or you can call/text her at +84 38 886 5878. Or WhatsApp: +84 94 736 0557.

Have a great time in Sapa!

Very helpful post – thank you. I am definitely going to reach out to A Hang Thi!

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21+ Best Things To Do in Sapa ( Vietnam) For First-Timers

Top 21 best things to do in sapa, viet nam.

As a small town in Lao Cai, the northwest province of Vietnam, but Sapa is full of intriguing places to see and things to do. Here you can find stunning mountain vistas, lush rice terraces, and distinctive ethnic minority villages. To help you get the most out of your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the top best things to do in Sapa.

Let’s take a look at the list below.

>>> You may like to read more: What is the Best Time to Visit Sapa? Recommendation from Local View

Table of Contents

What to SEE & DO in Sapa

Explore local villages

Basically, Sapa consists of a number of small local villages dispersed throughout the mountains. This means that if you want to get away from Vietnam’s cities and experience something a little more rural, this is the place to go.

You can also choose to stay in a local village as a homestay experience allows you to experience local life which has been for hundreds of years.

Although not everyone can enjoy staying in homestays, for those who had the chance to try it, this is undoubtedly the best part of their trip to Vietnam.

>>> Read more: Ta Van Village in Sapa: Get Lost in the Peaceful Village

Suggested tours:

• Sapa 2 Days Tour with Homestay by Motorbike Tour in Sapa

Go on a trek in Sapa

Many trekkers have been drawn to Sapa over the past 30 years by its breathtaking scenery.

Trekking in Sapa, therefore, is a must-do activity when you visit this mountainous area, which is regarded as an undiscovered paradise for adventurous travelers. You can walk through lush rice fields and visit the communities of ethnic minorities around the town, which is a challenging but fascinating experience.

You have the option of doing it with or without a local guide. However, to save you time and effort, we suggest getting a local guide. The local guides can assist you in having a safer and more enjoyable journey because they have knowledge of the weather, terrain, and popular tourist spots.

• Read more: A Guide to Sapa Trekking – All You Need To Know Before Travelling

>>> Get your own Customized Itinerary for FREE <<<

Trekking to Fansipan Mountain

Fansipan, located in Vietnam, is the largest peak in the Indochina region (Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos), and is often referred to as the “Roof of Indochina.” This peak, which belongs to the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and rises to a height of more than 3 kilometers (3147 ft), draws a lot of tourists and trekkers. A medium-difficulty path requires 3-5 days to get to the top. These treks, which are planned by travel agencies, include overnight stops both close to the summit and along the way.

There is a complex garden with bronze sculptures, stone walkways, ancient rhododendron trees and the 20-meter high Buddha statue – the largest statue in Vietnam. In addition, after climbing up a series of steps to the top of Mount Fansipan, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the cloud-covered peaks.

Take the Fansipan cable car

Those who can’t handle the challenge of trekking across rugged terrain can view some of the stunning rice terraces and mountainous landscape by riding the cable car on Fanxipan Road.

Fanxipan Road is a lengthy, curving road with a steep incline. After the extended row of shops, the view of the surrounding mountains and valley, along with some terraced crops becomes more prominent. Therefore, taking a cable car to Fansipan and admiring the stunning scenery is one of the best things to do in Sapa besides trekking and visiting the villages

Visit Cat Cat Village

Cat Cat village is one of the oldest villages in the Sapa region and also known as the homeland of the H’mong ethnic group.

There is a long tradition of weaving in the village and it is also well-known for its traditional practices including linen and cotton production.

Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about these traditional techniques and engage in H’mong culture.

>>> Read more detailed: Cat Cat Village Sapa – The most beautiful village in the Northwest Vietnam

Climb to Ham Rong Mountain

Ham Rong Mountain is a well-known tourist destination covering an area of around 150 hectares and is regarded as the most spectacular mountain park in Sapa. As you ascend the higher stairs, you’ll find more breathtaking views, including the peach garden, orchid garden, cloud yard and heaven gate.

Aside from seeing innumerable rocks with unique shapes, Ham Rong Mountain also offers the chance to discover a diversity of vegetation. Every season of the year, this location has a distinctive color but the best season to travel is spring. At that time, a variety of flowers are in full bloom with vibrant hues and enticing scents

>>> More about:   Ham Rong Mountain Sapa: All You Need To Know

Visit Tram Ton Pass

If you want to enjoy more breathtaking landscapes in Sapa, you need to follow the Sapa – Lai Chau road and then turn into Tram Ton pass.

Situated at a height of roughly 1900 meters above sea level, Tram Ton is the highest pass in VietnamHere, there are a number of observation sites with fantastic views of the surroundings, and you can also combine the excursion with a visit to Silver Falls nearby.

Explore Silver Waterfall – Thac Bac Waterfall

Silver Waterfall is one of the famous waterfalls in Sapa. This is a cluster of white water tiers flowing from the height of 200 meters, making it the name “Silver Waterfall”.

• Read more about: Thac Bac Waterfall Sapa: A must-see attraction in Sapa

Right on the road from Silver Waterfall, Love Waterfall is a place linked to a local legend. As you meet the locals, you can hear the legend of fairies who used to bathe there. Even though it takes a while to walk to both waterfalls, the breathtaking scenery is well worth it.

Explore Muong Hoa Valley

The Muong Hoa Valley is one of Sapa’s gems traversed by the Hoa stream, which also passes through the towns of Han Thao and Tan Van.

From Sapa, you can join a tour that will take you through the beautiful valley and let you see the rock drawings, which are thought to be around 3,000 years old.

If you descend to the valley’s floor, you can walk alongside Hoa stream.

>>> You may like to read more about: Muong Hoa Sapa Valley: Explore Hidden Eden in Northwest Vietnam

Hotline/What’s app: + 84 974 805 797

Watch the Ta Phin Commune Church Singing

You will get the chance to witness “church singing,” one of the most interesting traditional beauty of the ethnic people, if you visit Ta Phin village in the first few weeks of spring. On this occasion, locals and visitors to the area will go to Ta Phin commune to witness the region’s traditional wedding ceremony and take in the excellent singing.

In Lao Cai province, marriages are still prearranged for the majority of ethnic minorities. The bride and groom will accompany the procession to the village during church singing. Young men and women will perform certain spiritual rituals while singing and dancing. The most intriguing aspect of this event is the presence of national costumes with a wide variety of patterns and hues, which will create an amazing and beautiful scene

Admire the terraced rice fields

In addition to being a great place to escape the summer, Sapa draws tourists who want to take in the breathtaking beauty of the terraced fields that line the mountainside. Due to its steep characteristics and fertile soil, local ethnic minorities cultivate rice and make beautiful terraced fields.

It is highly recommended that you take a stroll around these rice fields so that you can learn about the local way of life, take in the stunning surroundings, and snap wonderful images.

These terraced fields look like an amazing scene of nature from a distance, with breathtaking beauty that entices people to stay for a while. The colors of rice fields change with the seasons with a fresh green at the beginning of a new crop and golden rice as it nears harvest.

You can book a guided tour from Sapa that will take you to the famous terraced fields. You then just need to admire the landscape and learn how the locals farm and harvest rice.

Explore Sapa by motorbike or bicycle

In addition to trekking in Sapa, it is also fun to explore the area by motorbike or mountain bike. In comparison to trekking, riding a motorbike will allow you to travel considerably further afield and away from Sapa’s touristy spots.

There are some beautiful roads, but it is preferable to ride a motorbike in the back with a local guide if you lack driving confidence or experience.

>>> Suggested tour: Sapa 2 Days Tour by Motorbike: 1Day Trekking & 1Day Motorbike

Visit Sapa Church

In Sapa town, the Holy Rosary Church, also referred to as the Stone Church, is a spectacular landmark. This Catholic Church, which was built by the French in 1930, is still a beautifully designed place of worship.

Tourists can come to take pictures in the church yard and may buy some crafts sold there by ethnic minorities. If you’re a tourist wondering what free activities are available in Sapa Town, visiting the church should be at the top of your list.

Most Interesting Activities in Sapa

Overnight at a homestay.

A homestay will round up your unique local minority adventure. Numerous homestays are available in Sapa and the nearby areas. The most unique experience is undoubtedly spending the night in a native mountain community. Although the lodging is frequently simple and lacking in amenities, the experience is fantastic!

In the evening, you can have dinner with the local family. Then end your day with a wonderful traditional herbal bath or drinking rice wine with them. It will definitely be one of experiences you will never forget.

The ideal option combines a multi-day trip with an overnight homestay. For instance, if you go trekking for two days, you might spend the night at a local homestay before continuing your trip the next day to off-the-beaten-path locations.

Join the H’mong sewing class

The Sapa H’mong ethnic community is well-known for its weaving and needlework. If you want to experience this firsthand, you can visit Indigo Cat, one of the most popular craft shops in town.

You can enroll in a sewing class here, where local H’mong people will instruct you on how to make your own crafts.

In addition, you can also stop by the stores to purchase some of the items on display, such as lovely textiles and other delights like tea and regional spices.

Shop at Sapa Local Market

If you want to experience traditional shopping in Sapa, let’s visit Sapa Market, which is conveniently situated 1 kilometer from the town center and close to the local bus station.

Here you can find a colorful assortment of regional products in addition to a fresh meat court that is undoubtedly not for the weak of heart.

Some crafts made by ethnic people who reside in the areas around Sapa are also available here. All visitors should include a tour of the market on their bucket list of things to do in Sapa.

Take a cooking class

You will have the chance to learn from a H’mong chef who will accompany you to the local market. It will be great because you can learn everything about the traditional ingredients used in Vietnamese cuisine when going with him.

The majority of classes include learning how to prepare five regional dishes. Then you can enjoy your food with some regional wine in the dining area.

Enjoy Sapa specialties at Sapa Food Court

Travelling wouldn’t be complete without trying the greatest regional cuisine. The Sapa food court is a terrific place to get the widest range of culinary experiences since it is a gastronomic paradise with a variety of cuisines and flavors.

This area is crowded with booths offering delectable meals at affordable costs. You will undoubtedly feel full after eating eggs, grilled sweet potatoes, grilled meat, etc. before you leave. And to enhance your food experience in Sapa, you should accompany your friends.

Have a Drink at Café in The Clouds

One of the great highlights of a trip to Sapa is the chance to take in the lush scenery surrounding, and there’s no better way to do this than with a drink at one of the mountain bars.

Cafe in the Clouds is one of the most well-known cafes in Sapa. Like its name suggests, you can spend some time here appreciating the views over the emerald green valley below with the mist creeping into the scenery.

Here, you may enjoy a few common local and foreign dishes and drink a range of beverages; Wi-Fi is also available

Enjoy seven-color sticky rice of the Nung Dinh people

Seven-color sticky rice is a specialty of Nung Dinh people. The dish was initially created to be offered to ancestors as a prayer offering for a successful harvest and a prosperous life. Each color of sticky rice has a special meaning.

To make different colors, local women use a range of herbs and leaves from the forest, as well as some of their ancient techniques. Eating this dish, according to the Nung Dinh, will bring you good fortune. Due to its appealing appearance and distinctive flavor, this dish is favored by many tourists.

Enjoy hot pot meals

Due to its high altitude, Sapa’s weather can occasionally be substantially cooler than that of other regions of Vietnam.

So, if you need to warm up yourself, you might go to one of Sapa’s renowned Hot Pot establishments.

Vietnamese people enjoy this and it is regarded as a local delicacy in the town. A straightforward yet nourishing dish, the hot pot consists of stewed meat, then subsequently cooked with regional vegetables like cabbage and mushrooms.

There are still many other exciting things to do in Sapa town but the top things to do in Sapa are highlighted in the list above. Please let us know of any other worthwhile suggestions so that we can share them to other travelers.

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Sapa Self-Guided Tour: Embrace Freedom and Adventure in Vietnam’s Highlands

• Pham Huyen Trang
• July 25, 2023

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Are you tired of following strict tour schedules? Do you crave the freedom to explore at your own pace and experience authentic cultural immersion? Look no further than Sapa , Vietnam for a self-guided tour that will leave you feeling liberated and enriched.

In Sapa , you have the power to plan your itinerary and pack accordingly. Navigate the area at your leisure, interacting with local hill tribes and absorbing the natural beauty of this mountainous region. With endless possibilities for exploration, a self-guided tour in Sapa allows for personalized experiences that cater to your interests and curiosities.

So grab your backpack and get ready for an adventure unlike any other.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Sapa offers personalized experiences and cultural immersion through accommodation options such as hotels, hostels, and homestays, and transportation choices such as hiking, motorbike tours, and walking.
• Visitors should be prepared for the cool and misty climate by bringing warm clothing and layers, as well as comfortable shoes with good traction for navigating the area.
• To fully experience Sapa , visitors may want to rent a motorbike or hire a local guide to help with navigating the area and interacting with hill tribes for cultural exchange and community immersion.
• Responsible and sustainable tourism practices are important in Sapa , such as staying on designated trails, avoiding littering, choosing environmentally friendly accommodations, and supporting local communities.

Plan Your Itinerary

So, you want to plan your itinerary for your self-guided tour of Sapa ? Well, let’s get started! First things first, you need to decide on your accommodation options. Do you want to stay in a hotel or hostel? Or maybe experience the local culture by staying in a homestay with a local family? There are plenty of options available in Sapa to fit any budget and preference.

Next up is transportation choices. Do you prefer hiking or taking a motorbike tour? Or maybe just walking around town suits you best. Whatever your preference may be, make sure to research ahead of time for the best routes and modes of transportation. This will ensure that you have an enjoyable and efficient trip.

Now that you have your accommodation and transportation sorted out, it’s time to pack appropriately. Remember that Sapa can get quite chilly at night, so make sure to bring warm clothes and layers. Comfortable shoes are also a must if you plan on doing any hiking or walking tours. With these essentials packed, you’ll be ready for an unforgettable adventure in Sapa.

With your itinerary planned out and all the necessary preparations made, it’s time to hit the road! Don’t forget to take some breaks along the way and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer. Happy travels!

Pack Appropriately

Make sure you pack everything you need for the trek, or you might find yourself regretting it later.

When packing for a Sapa self-guided tour, consider the weather and terrain. The climate in Sapa is relatively cool and misty, so it’s essential to pack warm clothing such as sweaters, jackets, and pants. Dressing appropriately for the Sapa climate can make or break your trip. It’s advisable to wear layers of clothing as the temperature may fluctuate throughout the day. You’ll also want to bring comfortable shoes with good traction as some parts of the trek can be steep and slippery.

Now that you know what to pack for your Sapa self-guided tour and how to dress appropriately for the climate, it’s time to navigate the area.

Navigate the Area

To successfully navigate the area, you’ll need to keep a keen eye on your surroundings and be observant of the trail markers. As you embark on your self-guided tour in Sapa, it’s important to note that local transportation can be limited and difficult to navigate. However, with the right preparations, getting around won’t be a problem.

Before setting out on your adventure, consider renting a motorbike or hiring a local guide who speaks English fluently to help overcome any language barriers. As you make your way through the lush mountains and valleys of Sapa, don’t forget to take in the breathtaking scenery around you. You might even come across some friendly locals along the way who are more than happy to give directions or share their knowledge about the area.

To help provide context for navigating through Sapa during your self-guided tour, here’s a table outlining some common forms of transportation:

As you continue exploring Sapa’s stunning landscapes, interacting with hill tribes is another exciting aspect of this adventure that awaits you.

Interact with the Hill Tribes

Get ready to immerse yourself in the culture of the hill tribes by interacting with them during your journey through this beautiful region. Traditional customs hold a significant place in their daily lives, and you’ll have the opportunity to witness them firsthand. The hill tribes are proud of their heritage, and they love sharing it with visitors who show an interest.

During your self-guided tour, you’ll have ample opportunities for cultural exchange. Interact with locals as they go about their day-to-day routines or join them for a meal in one of their homes. For an even deeper experience, consider a home stay experience that allows you to live within the community and participate in everyday activities alongside your hosts.

Community immersion is essential if you want to gain a true understanding of the hill tribes’ way of life. By engaging with them on a personal level, you’ll leave Sapa feeling enriched by your experiences and more knowledgeable about these fascinating people.

Now that you’ve had a taste of what awaits, let’s move on to explore the natural beauty of Sapa without delay!

Explore the Natural Beauty of Sapa

Now it’s time to discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Sapa as you explore winding trails through lush forests and picturesque valleys. Hiking trails are one of the top attractions in Sapa’s natural beauty, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the stunning landscape. You’ll find yourself surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant greenery that stretches as far as the eye can see.

As you trek through the forested hillsides, keep an eye out for some of Sapa’s most beautiful waterfalls. These natural wonders are scattered throughout the region and offer a refreshing break from your hike. Take a dip in one of the cool pools or simply sit back and enjoy the view. The sound of rushing water combined with fresh mountain air is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated.

After a day spent exploring Sapa’s natural beauty, it’s time to indulge in some local cuisine. But before we get into that, let’s not forget about all there is still left to see! From rice terraces to traditional villages, there is so much more waiting for you on your self-guided tour of Sapa.

Try Local Cuisine

Indulging in the mouth-watering local cuisine is a must-do experience on your itinerary while exploring the stunning natural beauty of Sapa. The town is home to various food options that reflect the culture and traditions of its people.

To start, you can try pho cuon, a dish made of rice noodles, herbs, pork or beef, and served with dipping sauce. Another popular choice is thang co, a soup made from horse meat and organs. Don’t worry if it sounds strange; it’s a delicacy that locals love.

If you want to fully immerse yourself in the local culture, head over to Sapa Market for some street food adventure. You’ll find stalls selling banh mi sandwiches filled with grilled meats and vegetables or sticky rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves called banh day. And don’t forget to try the famous egg coffee! It may sound weird at first but trust us; one sip will transport you straight to heaven.

By trying the local cuisine, not only do you get to taste unique flavors but also learn more about their history and way of life.

But while enjoying your food journey in Sapa, remember to respect the environment as well. Let’s discuss how we can do this in our next section – ‘Respect the Environment’.

Respect the Environment

While exploring the stunning natural beauty of Sapa, it’s important to be mindful of our impact on the environment and make efforts to respect it. Fortunately, there are many eco-friendly practices that you can adopt during your self-guided tour in Sapa. These practices will allow you to enjoy what Sapa has to offer while minimizing your carbon footprint.

Firstly, when hiking in the mountains, always stay on designated trails. This is not only for your own safety but also for the protection of the flora and fauna that call these mountains home. Avoid trampling on plants and disturbing animals by sticking to established paths.

Secondly, refrain from littering or leaving any trash behind. Bring a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing plastic bottles that often end up polluting the environment. If you do need to dispose of any waste, make sure to do so properly in designated bins or bring them back with you.

Lastly, support sustainable tourism by choosing accommodations that follow environmentally friendly practices such as recycling and conserving energy and water. This not only helps preserve the natural surroundings but also supports local communities who rely on tourism as their livelihoods.

By following these simple eco-friendly practices during your self-guided tour in Sapa, you can help protect this beautiful destination for future generations while still enjoying all it has to offer.

Sapa Self-Guided Tour Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit sapa.

The best time to visit Sapa depends on your interests. If you love trekking, come between September and November for clear skies and lush landscapes. For cozy accommodations, winter is ideal with its charming foggy atmosphere.

Are there any local customs or traditions to be aware of when interacting with the Hill Tribes?

When interacting with hill tribes in Sapa, it’s important to be mindful of cultural sensitivity and observe proper etiquette. This includes dressing modestly, asking permission before taking photos, and not touching people’s heads or pointing with your feet.

What is the most convenient way to get around Sapa?

Exploring Sapa is best done on a motorbike rental, allowing you to easily navigate the winding roads and stunning scenery. Public transportation options are also available, but may limit your freedom to fully experience the beauty of Sapa.

Can you recommend any specific trekking routes or hiking trails in the area?

Looking for some adventure? Sapa offers a range of trekking suggestions with varying trail difficulty levels. From the easy Cat Cat Village trek to the challenging Fansipan peak, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to explore!

What are some lesser-known attractions or activities in Sapa that are worth checking out?

Looking for some off-the-beaten-path options in Sapa? Check out the hidden hiking trails, like Cat Cat or Ta Van. And don’t miss the street food scene – try banh mi and pho from local vendors.

Congratulations! You’re all set to embark on your self-guided tour of Sapa. Remember to plan your itinerary in advance and pack appropriate clothing for the weather.

Use a map to navigate the area and be sure to interact with the friendly Hill Tribes you’ll encounter along the way.

As you explore the natural beauty of Sapa, take time to appreciate the stunning landscapes around you. Marvel at cascading waterfalls, lush rice terraces, and unique flora and fauna.

Don’t forget to try local cuisine – it’s a delicious experience that will help immerse you in the culture.

Finally, remember to respect the environment during your visit by disposing of trash properly and avoiding activities that harm local ecosystems.

By following these tips, you’ll have an unforgettable adventure in Sapa that’s both enjoyable and sustainable. Happy travels!

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Bus From Hanoi to Sapa

Inexpensive, fast, daylight hours, many amenities, partially refundable, breathtaking views.

Bus From Sapa back to Hanoi

Booking chapa express train, way hanoi to sapa.

*SP3 train departs at Hanoi station at 22:00′. These train tickets will take you to arrive in Lao Cai province, then you have to take a taxi (25$ – go whatever you want) OR a local bus ($5 – leave at 5:30) to Sapa. *NOTE all prices will go up 10% during public holidays (pay later) – Holiday price 2023 will apply on the following dates: 20/1 – 26/1, 28/4 – 3/5/, 1/9 – 5/9, 30/12 – 4/1 (2024)

Way Sapa back to Hanoi

SP4 train departs at Lao Cai station at 9:30 pm. From Sapa, you have to take a taxi (25$ – go whatever you want) OR a local bus ($5 – leave at 5:30) to Lao Cai.

Limousine/Minivan From Hanoi to Sapa

Fast, comfortable, flexible pick up, consistent prices, soft seats. Ticket price according to seat position: 02 first seats $18/person/way, 04 holding seats $23/person/way, 3 last seats $21/person/way

Limousine/Minivan From Sapa back to Hanoi