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Must-visit attractions in hoi an, the 15 best attractions in dalat, 10 days in vietnam, 2 weeks in vietnam, 5 must-try foods in ha long, sapa at a glance.

Located in the Northwest of Vietnam, Sapa contains many wonders of the natural scenery and people. Sapa is known with the name “the town of cloud”, which attracts visitors with majestic mountain views and many unique experiences exploring the lives of ethnic minorities. Let’s watch the panoramic video of Sapa!

Located in the Northwest of Vietnam, which is 38 km from the center of Lao Cai City and 376 km from  Hanoi . Besides the main road from Lao Cai City, there is another route to Sapa, the National Highway 4D connects from Binh Lu, Tam Duong, and Lai Chau communes. Although the majority of Sapa residents are ethnic minorities, the town is home to the majority of the Kinh people living on tourism.

SAPA WEATHER

Blessed with a cool climate all year round, Sapa attracts many tourists to this beautiful land. Located at an average height of 1.500m – 1.800m, Sapa is effected by temperate climate, with an average temperature of 15 °C to 18 °C. From May to August, Sapa has a lot of rain. At the end of the year, when winter comes, the temperature in Sapa can drop below 0 degrees, sometimes it snows.

THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO SAPA

You can go to Sapa at any time of the year, but the most suitable time to go to Sapa is from March to May or from September to November. During these times, the Sapa weather is good to visit, relatively mild, sunny in the day time, and cold at night.

From March to May: the blooming flowers season 

Thousands of flowers bloom all over the hillsides, halfway up the slopes, valleys, mountain slopes, or roads on the town. All blends together to create the most beautiful, colorful picture you can see when traveling to Sapa.

From September to November: the rice season

At this time, the rice begins to ripen, the scenery of Sapa turns to the brilliant golden color of the rice, embracing the northwestern mountains, which is from September to October. From October to December, the weather may have turned cold and foggy, which is also the season of water in Sapa.

Besides these two wonderful times, visitors can also consider going to Sapa in December when Sapa is very cold, especially at night, and sometimes it snows. At this time, many young couples want to enjoy the romance of the snowy scenery, watch the peach blossom trees in the breeze, as well as the sunrise in the high valley in the early morning. It will be an experience that is hard to find anywhere else in Vietnam.

The best time to come to Sapa is from November to December when the rice fields are ripe

Sapa tourist map

Sapa Vietnam map - Map of Sapa - Vietnamnomad

Sapa is a beautiful town with many attractive destinations. Still, the attractions here are far from each other and relatively difficult to travel, so we recommend a Sapa travel map, you can rely on it to find a suitable schedule.

How to get to Sapa

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As one of the best destinations in Vietnam, traveling to Sapa is extremely easy and has many different options, such as cars, limousines, and trains. We will guide you on how to go from  Hanoi  to Sapa in detail. 

FROM HANOI TO SAPA

Currently, many bus companies run Hanoi to Sapa with very affordable fares, ranging from 180.000 – 200.000 VND/person/way, which have 2 times of travel: early in the morning from 6:30 am or late in the evening from 10 pm.

2. By Train

If you go to Sapa from Hanoi, you have to move to Tran Quy Cap station. Although the roads are convenient today, the train only stops at Lao Cai station; you have to take the bus to move up to Sapa. But going by train is also one of the exciting experiences that you must try once.

There are two options for you, one is the soft seat, the other and air-conditioned bed. The train starts at 9 or 10 pm and arrives early in the morning. The fare is around 200.000 – 600.000 VND/ passenger depending on the cabin class.

3. By Limousine

Besides the above choices, you also can go to Sapa from Hanoi by Limousine. It is an entirely new design with nine seats, ensuring comfort and convenience. Limousine prices are not too high, ranging from 300.000 to 600.000 VND/one depending on the company and seat class, travel time of 4 – 5 hours.

GETTING AROUND SAPA

To get around Sapa town, you have three options: rent a motorcycle and go by yourself, hire a motorbike driver, take a taxi.

1. Rent a motorcycle

With prices ranging from 120.000 to 180.000 VND/one, you can explore this land on your own. Remember, the above prices are applied in 1 day (from 6 am to 6 pm). Whether you rent morning or night, the same rate applies.

2. Hire a motorbike tour guide

For those traveling alone, hiring a motorbike driver is probably the best choice. Price range from 100.000 – 150.000 VND for 4-5 famous places near each other.

3. Take a Taxi

Besides the above options, you can also hire a taxi to move around Sapa town. However, ethnic minority villages are often located deep in small alleys. Therefore, you should consider this option, which will be quite expensive!

Where to stay in Sapa

As the leading tourist destination in Vietnam, there are many accommodation options in Sapa.

There are two areas with cheap accommodations in Sapa: Xuan Vien and Fansipan Street, the average price is from 200.000 VND – 400.000 VND/night for two people room. On weekends and public holidays, the price may be higher.

If you want to be in a quiet space, close to nature, you should stay at a homestay. When staying at a homestay, visitors also discover a lot of new and exciting things about the lifestyle and traditional culture of the people here.

Nowadays, there are some homestay villages such as Ban Ho, Lao Chai, Ta Phin, and Ta Van. If you are a little bit more condition, you can choose the villas or resorts with beautiful views and luxurious services.

Here are some recommendations for accommodation in Sapa, which are excerpted from the  Vietnam travel guide book .

Recommend places to stay in Sapa | Vietnam travel guide book

The most attractive destinations in Sapa

Sapa is famous for its many marvelous mountains and beautiful terraced fields. There are destinations you cannot miss when traveling to this town.

DESTINATIONS IN THE SAPA CENTER

Sapa Center - Vietnamnomad

1. Sapa stone church

Built in 1895, it is considered as an ancient architectural imprint of the French left. The church has been renovated and preserved, becoming an indispensable place when mentioning the Sapa town.

2. Ham Rong Mountain

Standing on the top of Ham Rong Mountain, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sapa, Muong Hoa valley, Ta Phin hidden in the clouds. Visiting Ham Rong, tourists seem to be lost in the fairy garden with clouds and colorful flowers on the ground.

3. Cat Cat village

From the town center, following the way towards Fansipan mountain about 4km, visitors will come to Cat Cat village. This is the gathering place of H’mong ethnic people.

Owning a beautiful location right at the down of Hoang Lien Son mountain, Cat Cat is a lovely village with the simple and beautiful natural scenery of terraced rice fields and small stilt houses in Northwestern Vietnam.

Location: about 4km from the center of Sapa

4. Ta Van village 

Follow 4D Highway to the Southeast, about 8 km from Sapa town to Ta Van Giay village. Coming here, visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the lifestyle of the Giay’s ethnic. The road to Ta Van Giay village is small and narrow, both sides of the road are fertile terraced fields adorned with the green of corn and young rice.

Location: about 8 km from the center of Sapa

5. Sin Chai village

Sin Chai village, in San Sa Ho Ward, is a village that retains its untouched. This is a village of Black Hmong ethnic with a population of about 1.400 people. Besides planting rice and hybrid maize, Sin Chai villagers also grow cardamom that creates significant income for people in this ancient valley.

Location: about 5 km from the center of Sapa

6. Muong Hoa valley

The special thing in this valley is the ancient rock with many different shapes, interspersed between grasses and terraced fields of ethnic minorities. Hundreds of sandstones with engraved drawings and strange characters have not been identified yet, which has been recognized as a national heritage. In Muong Hoa valley, there is also a beautiful stream stretching about 15 km, passing through Lao Chai, Ta Van, Hau Thao communes, and ending at Ban Ho.

Location: Hau Hao Commune, 8 km to the South of Sapa

DESTINATIONS FAR FROM THE CENTER OF SAPA

Sapa Villages

1. O Quy Ho mountain pass

Dubbed as one of the four high peaks of the Northwest Pass, O Quy Ho is a destination that any backpacker wants to conquer. O Quy Ho mountain pass with a length of more than 40km, is located at an altitude of over 2.000 meters, on 4D National Highway crossing Hoang Lien Son range. The top of the pass is between two provinces of Lai Chau and Lao Cai. The beauty of O Quy Ho Pass is always changing: Lao Cai province side is foggy while Lai Chau province side is sunny, which creates a beautiful landscape picture that attracts both domestic and foreign visitors.

Location: about 15 km from the center of Sapa

2. Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall

From Sapa town, going to the West for about 11km on the way to Lai Chau Province, you will encounter rushing Silver Falls flowing down from an altitude of over 100m into a stream under the O Quy Ho valley, creating an impressive sound of mountains and forests. However, during the dry season, you should consider when visiting Silver Falls because then the waterfall has very little water. A further 3 km from Silver Falls is to Heaven Gate to look down on Lai Chau valley and the majestic Fansipan peak. If you like to walk, you can stop at Tram Ton and go through Hoang Lien National Park about 1 km more to explore Love Waterfall.

Location: about 11 km to the West of Sapa

3. Ta Phin village

This village owns a beautiful natural landscape along with the precious cultural traits of the Red Dao ethnic people. Coming to Ta Phin village, you can also visit the nearby Ta Phin cave. In this cave, there are many exciting stalactites shaped like fairy dancing, a party fairy sitting, distant fields, sparkling forests.

Location: about 15 km from the Sapa

4. Fansipan peak

The experience when visiting Sapa that you cannot miss is conquering Fansipan Peak – the highest mountain in Vietnam and Indochina Peninsula (3.143 m), located in the center of Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Currently, there are two options for you if you want to conquer Fansipan peak. First, you can go trekking Fansipan by following the tour of travel agencies or by yourself with the guidance of local people.

Secondly, you can also choose to go by cable car. Fansipan cable car route helped over ten thousand visitors who arrived at Fansipan Peak to admire, explore, and conquer the highest roof in Indochina. This is also the cable car with 2 Guinness records: the three-wire cable car with the most significant difference between the world’s departure and arrival station, about 141m and the longest three-cable cable car in the world, about 6292.5m. The time to travel to the Fansipan Peak is now shortened from 2 days to only 15 minutes.

Location: about 9 km to the Southwest of Sapa

Fansipan - the highest mountain in Vietnam

5. Tien Cave

Upstream of Chay River about 6 km, from the center of Bao Nhai commune (Bac Ha District), the boat will take you through the ancient city of Trung Do with many legends. Chay River constricted to create a deep, gentle stream, weaving between the two vertical cliffs. Tien Cave is a miniature Ha Long Bay, associated with the legend of Ba Co temple in Bao Nhai commune. Many tourists come here to enjoy the scenery, take a bath in the Tien stream, bask in the morning light on the flower island, pray for the beauty, health and wealth.

Location: 6km from the center of Bao Nhai commune, Bac Ha District

6. Coc San waterfall

Coc San is a system of waterfalls and caves with many various sizes. From 4D National Highway, there is a small dirt road about 1km long that is leading to Coc San. The way to Coc San is very twisted, dark, and filled with rocks. The beauty of Coc San is still completely natural and wild. Coc San landscape is harmonious and spacious. Everyone who comes here feels the miraculous mystery emanating from the waterfalls, rocks, and caves.

Location: Coc San, Bat Xat District, 7 km from Lao Cai Province

7. Hoang A Tuong Palace

Hoang A Tuong Palace, also known as the Northern Cat King Palace, is a tourist destination that many people choose when traveling to Sapa because of the majestic architecture after nearly 100 years of existence.

Hoang A Tuong Palace was built in a combination of Asian and European architecture, which was designed and constructed by French and Chinese architects.

Built in a closed rectangular layout on a total area of about 4.000 m2, the palace was both a workplace and living for the Hoang family. At the same time, there was a guard tower protruding on the four sides of the wall, no different from the fortresses in Europe. It can be said Hoang A Tuong Palace is a unique and majestic wonder in Bac Ha plateau and a destination you cannot ignore in Sapa.

Location: Bac Ha District

8. Bac Ha fair market

Bac Ha is the largest fair in the highland border area. The market meets on Sunday every week, attracting a large number of people around the region to trade and have fun. It is still a place to exchange and trade of ethnic minorities, mainly ethnic people from all surrounding villages. The stalls displayed all the essentials, such as clothes, shovels, and household items.

Top 7 must-try dishes in Sapa

Not only famous for its majestic natural scenery, but Sapa also has a unique cuisine, which is bold flavors of the Northwest mountains area. Here are the dishes you cannot ignore when coming to Sapa.

1. Bamboo-tube rice

Bamboo-tube rice - Sapa Vietnam Food - Vietnamnomad

After grilling, splitting the burnt bamboo outside, leaving a thin layer of bamboo, and enjoy. Bamboo-tube rice (Com Lam) is popular and loved thanks to the richness of the sticky rice, and the soft fragrance of bamboo.

Address: 

  • Along Cau May Street

2. Barbecue 

Barbecue Sapa Vietnam

Referring to Sapa, you cannot help mention barbecue here. Sapa barbecue is diverse with pork skewers, whole pieces of bacon, chicken wings, quails, hearts, beef rolls with cats, and mushrooms. All you have to do is take a plate, choose the skewers you like, and wait for the owner to grill them on charcoal.

  • Hoang Luc Xoi Restaurant – Ngu Chi Son Road
  • Hoang Lien Restaurant – 4 Hoang Lien Road
  • Mrs. Lich’s Restaurant – 1 Fansipan

3. Salmon hotpot

Salmon hotpot Sapa - Vietnamnomad

Coming to Sapa without enjoying the salmon hotpot, it is indeed deplorable. Unlike imported salmon, salmon in Sapa has a sweet taste, each piece of fish is firm, fresh, beautiful orange-pink color combined with sour bamboo shoots, pumpkin buds, and banana flowers create a delicious hotpot dish. In addition to hotpot, salmon can also be processed into grilled dishes, salads, curries. Besides, you can also try dishes made from sturgeon.

  • Hoa Phuong Restaurant – Tier Union Street, group 7C, Ham Rong
  • A Phu Restaurant – 15 Fansipan Street
  • Hoa Dao – 48 Le Van Tam Street
  • Thac Bac Restaurant – Thac Bac

4. Dried meat 

Dried meat - Sapa Food Vietnamnomad

Meat of buffaloes, cows, horses, and pigs are usually hung on the kitchen floor by the Mong people for drying. Buffalos and cows are sliced along longitudinally into pieces of about 2 – 3kg threaded up and hung on the kitchen floor to serve as reserve food. These meats, when hanging up in the kitchen, will dry and leave for years. When eating, scrub the soot and dust, then fry it with tomatoes, bamboo shoots. The meat is fragrant and fleshy.

  • Viet’s Farm – 26 Dong Loi Street
  • Sapa Night Market – Dien Bien Phu Street

5. Lon Cap Nach

Pork stealing armpits Sapa Food - Vietnamnomad

Lon Cap Nach is a specialty of Sapa. The name “ stolen armpit” stems from the local people carrying black armpits to seal at the markets. Pigs are left to roam freely and feed on the mountain slopes, so the meat is fragrant. The stolen armpit is very famous in Sapa and used for processing many special dishes. Its price is about 100.000 – 200.000 VND/kg. They are sold at markets in Sapa to serve tourists.

  • Dung Trau Restaurant – 85 Street
  • Gerbera Restaurant – 29 Cau May Street

6. Thang Co

Thang Co - Sapa Food Vietnamnomad

Thang Co is one of the specialties of the Mong people, which is made mainly from horse organs. A pot of brakes consists of meat, heart, liver, heart, horse blood, and 12 spices: cardamom, cinnamon, lemongrass, ginger, and many other heirloom spices.

Thang Co often served with vegetables dipped in mustard greens, kohlrabi, and cabbage. Eating Thang Co must be accompanied by drinking warm, aromatic corn wine.

  • Anh Quynh Restaurant, 15 Thach Son Street

7. Sapa Fish

Sapa Fish - Vietnamnomad

Sapa stream fish fried or grilled are also must-try dishes. Stream fishes are about 2-3 fingers long, often blue. Especially, Sapa stream fish has no fishy taste. The fish is fleshy, aromatic, and sweet, and the bones are crispy.

  • Grilled stream fish restaurant – 15 Fansipan Street
  • Delicious fish restaurant – 29 Cau May Street
  • Chapa Restaurant – 40 Cau May Street

Festivals in Sapa

Sapa has six ethnic groups living together: Kinh, H’Mong, Red Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho. Each ethnic group has its unique cultural features, so it’s formed many unique traditional festivals in Sapa.

1. Roong Pooc Festival

Every year in January of the lunar calendar, the Giay people in Ta Van village organize Roong Pooc festival to pray for good harvest crops, favorable rain, and wind. Although still a traditional ethnic festival of the Giay people, in recent years, it has become a typical festival of the whole Muong Hoa valley. Besides the unique rituals, there are many games, dancing, and performing of gong drum and gong drum music in this festival.

2. Nao Cong Festival

Every year in June of the lunar calendar, Mong, Dao, and Giay people gather to worship at a temple in Ta Van village to celebrate Nao Cong. Each family appoints a representative, irrespective of male, female, old, and young. Nao Cong ceremony is held to pray for the blessing of the prosperous people, abundant crops. Also, during the festival, the leader will announce the typical conventions and end with a happy party.

3. Tet Dances Festival

Tet Dances is an important and well-prepared festival of the Dao Ta Van people, usually held on the 1st or 2nd of the Lunar New Year. The main content of the ceremony is to pray for the peaceful and prosperous people. The ritual activities during the Tet Holiday are very special.

4. Village sweeping ceremony of the Xa Pho

Every year, the Xa Pho people hold a sweeping village ceremony in February of the lunar calendar with the purpose of keeping people happy in the new year, good crops and healthy animals. During the sweeping village ceremony, each person contributes goats, pigs, chickens, and rice to make offerings to ghosts, worshiping masters. Villagers draw on their faces and dance to pray for peace. At the end of the ceremony, everyone enjoyed eating and drinking together. All food that is offered to the ghosts must not be brought into the village.

5. Gau Tao Festival of Mong people

The festival opens only for two purposes: to pray for a baby or to for health. One who does not have a child will make a ceremony to ask the fortune teller to open the Gau Tao festival to pray for him. Another who often got sick or have weak children, even had children died, crops, and animals gradually faded, he also asked a fortune teller to ask for the Gau Tao festival. The festival is also usually held at the beginning of the year.

6. Xuong Dong Festival of Sapa

The festival in the early spring of the Tay and Dao people in Ban Ho commune (Sapa) opens on the morning of the 8th day of Tet every year. The ceremony starts with soil and water procession, and then the worshiping ceremony with spirits. The festival starts with the unique dances and folk performances of the Tay and the Dao.

But the most outstanding, the funniest part is the show when the trumpet sound rang for the Tay girls to start the show with graceful biting moves. When the show ends, everyone goes to the game area. The games here are mostly folk games such as throwing longer, pushing sticks, spinning, hitting balls, blindfold, and catching.

7. Sapa Love market

Sapa Love Market takes place regularly every Saturday night with many special activities. Love Market is a dating place, expressing the feeling of lovers.

At Sa Pa love market, young men and women in villages in the Northwestern region will come here to meet, talk, and participate in many extremely bustling activities such as blowing aloes, singing love songs, etc. After this night market, many couples have become closer; even some of them become husband and wife. Coming to Sapa on the weekend, visitors should not miss this unique love market!

Above are the detailed Sapa travel guide. Hopefully, with this guide, you will have a memorable trip to this beautiful town!

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14 Rewarding Things to Do in Sapa for First-Timers

14 Rewarding Things to Do in Sapa for First-Timers

What to See and Do in Sapa, Vietnam

Jane Pham

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

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

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 brocade shop

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

Trekking 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 . 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 

Ham Rong mountain in Spring

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

Silver Waterfall in Sapa

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

Cat Cat 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

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

Seven color 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

Food court Sapa central market

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

Spectacular 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

Cafe 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

Hmong sewing products

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

Ta Phin village

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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sapa vietnam

A comprehensive Sapa Vietnam travel guide by a local !

Sapa is known as one of the most famous trekking destination in Vietnam. Sapa Vietnam is indeed an ideal place to escape from bustling city for a peaceful and fabulous nature. My comprehensive Sapa travel guide filled with things to do, transportation, local guide …will help you fully explore this charming highland.

1. Sapa Vietnam Travel guide introduction

2. sapa vietnam weather, 3. is it worth visiting sapa vietnam , 4.1 train trips from ha noi to sapa:, 4.2 direct bus from ha noi to sapa, 5. transportation in sapa- sapa travel guide, 6. local guides sapa vietnam, 7. how many days in sapa is enough , 8. sapa viet nam hotels, 9.1 cat cat village- sapa travel guide, 9.2 sapa stone church, 9.3.1 how to get to fansipan peak from sapa , 9.3.2 what to do in fansipan peak, 9.3.4 things to know before visiting fansipan peak, 9.4 ta phin village, 9.5 o quy ho pass, 9.6 ta van village, 9.7 muong hoa valley, 10. sapa trekking routes (trekking in sapa without a guides), day 1: sapa – cat cat- muong hoa- ham rong moutain, day 2 : sapa – fansipan peak- siver waterfall- love waterfall- o quy ho pass.

  • Day 3 : Sapa – Ta Phin– Lao chai- Ta van

13.1 What to eat in Sapa on chilly nights ? Hotpot.

13.2 grilled food in sapa, 13.3 what to eat in sapa for breakfast pho noodle, 13.4 specialities in sapa, 13.5. cafe & bar/pub in sapa vietnam, 14. do and dont in sapa vietnam, 16. travel expenses in sapa vietnam.

  • Sapa is a small town in Lao Cai Province located about 350 km northwest of Hanoi. Sapa is well-known for Hoang Lien Son mountain range and Fan Si Pan—Vietnam’s highest peak and the roof of Indochina (3143m).
  • Sa Pa Vietnam has a great diversity of ethnic minority peoples . However there are five main ethnic groups living there: the Hmong, Dao, Tay, Giay and Xa Pho.

Sapa travel guide in weather:

There are two season in Sapa Vietnam : dry and rain season. January and February are the coldest and foggiest months of the year and it will be hard for visitor to explore Sapa in thick foggy weather.

The best time to visit Sa pa Vietnam is from September to November or from March to May. At this time Sapa weather is quite stable. It is often cool during the day, chilly at night and misty in the early morning.

sapa travel videos

From March to May, Sapa is full of blooming flowers and green fields. The town is covered with various colourful flowers such as Cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, orchids …together with a new bright and radiant green colour of terrace rice fields.

From September to November, Sapa weather is quite pleasant. This is also the season of ripe rice fields in Sapa. During that time, the terraced rice fields look like golden silk scarves flying in the wind above green mountain slopes, making the mountainous landscape astonishingly beautiful. The best time to enjoy this amazing view is from middle September to the end of September.

Around 15 years ago,  Sapa  was as off the beaten track as you might want to go in  Vietnam . However nowadays Sapa is considered so too touristy by many people. As a Vietnamese, I think that Sapa is still  worth visiting as it still less crowded than many other tourists places in Vietnam like Ha long Bay, Hoi an… It is one of  Vietnam’s  top tourist destinations for a trek lover. A good alternative option might be Ha giang if you dont want to visit Sapa . This mountainous province is still a hidden gem in Vietnam and I am sure it will become like Sapa 10 years later.

See more: A detailed Ha giang travel guide in 4D3N !

4. How to get to Sapa vietnam

Sapa travel guide in transportation:

From Hanoi, you have two ways to move to Sapa (370km). You can take the train from Hanoi to Lao Cai and then take a mini bus to Sapa . The other option is taking a bus directly from Hanoi to Sapa . Vietnamese often take the sleeper bus to go directly to Sapa cause this way is much less tired than train trip from Ha noi to Sapa plus mini bus.

  • Vietnam Railways operates 3 services everyday: 2 express trains SP1/SP2, SP2/SP3 and 1 local train LC1/LC2. The train will depart from Tran Quy Cap station in Ha noi and its destination is Lao cai ( 25km from Sapa). It will take around 7-8 hours from Ha noi to Lao cai and i would prefer you to come to the train station 1 hour earlier. Normally the train will depart at night around 9-10pm and arrive in Lao cai 5 AM.
  • Ticket price is from 7$ to 16 $ ( hard seat, soft seat, bed in cabin…).
  • Local minibuses leave from in front of the Lao Cai train station (there’s a big blue sign saying Bus Station Lao Cai – Sa Pa) at 5:40, 6:00, 7:00, and every 30/60 minutes until 18:00. The bus from Lao cai to Sapa is around 1.5$ or taxi costs 15$. This is just a short distance however the road is really winding and you may get car sickness.
  • Train trips from Ha noi to Sapa will takes around 9-10 hours in total. The best way is making reservation via your hotel in Ha noi. They can help you to book the ticket. As i have mentioned before in Sapa travel guide, i will not recommend going to Sapa by trains because this way is much more expensive and inconvenient than sleeper bus.
  • Direct sleeper bus from Ha noi to Sapa Vietnam is around 5-6 hours.
  • Ticket price is from 10$ to 16$.
  • you can book online bus ticket from ha noi to Sapa here . with price of 10USD or make a reservation via your hotel in Ha noi.
  • If you travel to Sapa on peak season, dont forget to reserve the ticket as soon as possible. Last time, i also go by direct bus to Sapa, just take a sleeper bus at night and sleep until morning when it arrives Sapa. Very cost saving and comfortable.

The best way to explore Sapa Vietnam is hiring a motorbike here. It will cost around 5- 10$ for one day.

  • If you rent a motorbike in Sapa in peak season like weekends and holidays, you should contact a few days before traveling to avoid the situation of running out of motorbike.
  • Ask the rental service if you can use a motorbike to outside Sapa or just only in Sapa Vietnam . Normally, the rental time for one day in Sapa is only from 8:00 – 17:00. So do not forget to ask their rental time policy and how is the price for overnight.
  • Note to check the motorbike carefully before taking it.
  • After renting a motorbike, ask the nearest gas station to refuel, since the gas station in Sapa usually opens late after 7am and quite far away.

Address: Sapa tourist information center- 2 Fansipan , Sapa district, Lao Cai province.

If you do not have good driving experience and want to explore Sapa with local guides, you should contact and book service in Sapa trekking. Honestly i havent use their service due to the fact that i always rent a motorbike when travelling to Sapa Vietnam . However I have recommend this service to many of my foreign friends and all say that they are very satisfied with Sapa trekking. They are very hospitable and professional. The price is around 60€ for Sapa 1 day, 85€ for Sapa 2 days tour and 130€ for Sapa 3 days tour.

If you want to find a comfortable tour depart from Ha noi, then this tour may be suitable for you. Some of my foreigner friends also take this tour as an easy way to explore Sapa Vietnam without any difficulty. The 2D1N tour already includes various things such as:

  • Round trip by bus from Hanoi to Sapa
  • An experienced English speaking guide
  • Meals indicated on the sample menu
  • Homestay accommodation (Double Bed Room with shared bathroom)
  • One mineral water per day
  • Entrance fees and sightseeing tickets (VND145,000/pax)
  • Free hotel pick up and drop off in Hanoi Old Quarter
  • Insurance provided by the operator

Price: 65 USD. Book Sapa tour online here.

For travellers departing from Hanoi , the best time to travel to Sapa is 3 days 2 nights. For those who depart from Ho Chi Minh City, they can choose to travel to Sapa 4 days 3 nights.

I have booked a room with mountain view( 17€/night/2 people) in Liitle view Homestay Sapa for my trip and I am totally satisfied with the service there. The hosts are very friendly and helpful. Staff can assist us with luggage storage, valet parking. Highly recommend !

9. Things to do in Sapa Vietnam – sapa vietnam sightseeing

Cat Cat village- sapa travel guide

Cat Cat village is located in Muong Hoa Valley, Sapa Vietnam which is the home of the H’Mong hill tribe . Cat Cat village is quite beautiful with peacefully picturesque scenery of terraced fields, waterfall and small houses in the mountains. The village is on the slope of the hill and easy walking. The entrance fee is 70.000 VND and I feel like this village is so touristy. There is a lot of small stalls through the valley selling souvenir and handicraft. This place is only within 20-30 minutes walking from Sapa center.

sapa travel videos

Sapa stone church is located in the center Sa pa Vietnam built during the French colonial period in 1935. Nowadays, It is considered as the only remaining mark of the French in Sapa. Every Saturday evening, in the courtyard of the church, some unique cultural activities of the ethnic minorities take place. The atmosphere is very joyful and exciting.

Sapa travel guide in stone church: Do not forget to eat hotpot and grilled food at night market near stone church.

9.3 Fansipan peak

Fansipan peak

As the highest peak in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, Fansipan peak is known as the roof of Indochina and it has one of the most beautiful view in Sa pa Vietnam . Fansipan can be climbed in a steep and fairly strenuous hike. Nowadays, in order to reach Fansipan peak without funicular and cable car, you will need at least 1-2 days to complete it. Conquering Fansipan peak is definitely the must things to do in Sapa vietnam nowadays.

It usually takes one or three days of trekking to Fansipan peak, thanks to the Fansipan cable car system, it is easier to reach Fansipan’s highest mountain within 15-20 minutes. This article will guide you how to ride the cable car, what to play at Fansipan Legend, which is extremely detailed.

In order to reach Fansipan peak, you will need to go by cable car first and then walk or go funicular to Fansipan peak. At first, you will need to find a way to Fansipan cable car station. There are 3 ways to reach there.

– From Sapa to Fansipan cable car station:

Located in Fansipan Legend tourist area, Fansipan cable car station is 3 km from Stone church – Sapa town center. There are many options to go to the cable car station such as a taxi, a trekking train or a walk.

  • By taxi With only 10 minutes by taxi and about 40,000 VND, this is the fastest way to go there.
  • Walking If you want to walk , you can start from Stone Church to Thac Bac crossroad, turn left onto Nguyen Chi Thanh street and go straight to Fansipan Legend (about 1 ,7 km). There are many signs along the road so that you can easily find the way to reach the cable car station.
  • By train climbing Muong Hoa Since March 2018, the train route of Muong Hoa mountain linking Sapa town center to Fansipan cable car station has come into cooperation . With a total length of about 2 km, this is the longest and most impressive mountain railway in Vietnam. The train departs from the MGallery Hotel in Sapa and ends the journey on the Fansipan cable car station. It passes through several tunnels, crosses the viaduct and you will have chance to gaze in majestic natural beauty of Muong Hoa valley and various peaceful villages.

– Fansipan cable car

Tickets are sold at the station, adult fare is VND 700,000 and the fare for children is VND 400,000. Children under 1 meter tall are free tickets. The journey is about 15 minutes and you still have to pass another 600 steps to reach the highest mountain. If you are worried about how to buy directly or wait for a long queue , just click on the link below to buy online :

– Funicular in Do Quyen Mountain

For those have good health condition, climbing 600 steps from the Fansipan cable car station to Fansipan peak will not be a problem. However if you go with elder or kids, you should choose funicular in Do Quyen mountain to continue to Fansipan peak.

Located at an altitude of 3,000 meters, The spiritual and cultural complex was inaugurated just before Mau Tuat New Year on January 30, 2018. The Fansipan Legend spiritual cultural complex includes clusters of buildings stretching from an altitude of over 1,600 m to the tip of 3,143 m tower known as the “roof of Indochina” . Spiritual culture was built in the style of ancient Vietnamese pagoda architecture including :

  • Bao An Thien Tu pagoda
  • Bich Van Thien Tu
  • Kim Son Bao Thang Tu.
  • Thanh Van Dac Lo
  • Dai Hong Chung
  • Amitabha Buddha statue.

Kim Son Bao Thang Tu is located near Fansipan peak, built from the end of 2015 and officially completed after two years of construction.

sapa travel videos

Great Amitabha Buddha statue is the highest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam until now.

In addition to Kim Son Bao Thang and the Great Amitabha Buddha statue, the spiritual and cultural complex in Fansipan also has many typical Buddhist works such as Bich Van Thien Tu , Quan Am Bodhisattva statue. , bell tower – Vong Linh Cao Dai, Son Than temple…

  • Tourists with a history of cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases are not recommended to visit Fansipan peak.
  • Bring snacks, drinks when you go to Fansipan peak because the food service here is quite expensive.
  • Dont bring bulky and unnecessary items.
  • Dress neatly, warm enough to climb. Whether you take the cable car in the morning or in the afternoon, remember to bring gloves, scarves and wool hats because the temperature on the top of the mountain is quite cold.
  • Climb slowly to avoid low blood pressure and shortness of breath.
  • Do not smoke or litter on the way.

Ta Phin village in Ha giang Vietnam

Ta Phin is a highland village of two ethnic tribe: Red Dao and black H ’Mong. The village has 13 hamlets and many small communes scattered throughout these hamlets. The road to Ta Phin village follows the winding mountain with picturesque landscape of spectacular rice fields, mountains, and streams. This village attracts tourists not only by its peaceful scenery but also by the unique cultural features of the local there.

Sapa travel guide in Ta phin village : Do not forget to take Massage and Red Dao Herbal Bath. A must things to do in Sapa Vietnam !

O Quy Ho Pass

O Quy Ho mountain pass is located on Highway 4D cross Hoang Lien Son mountain range. It is considered as one of the four greatest peaks of Vietnam’s Northwest. O Quy Ho is a destination that any backpacker wants to conquer when travelling to Sapa Vietnam. Viewed from above down, the mountain pass is winding like the silk. Very majestic and fabulous !

Follow Highway 4D , Ta van village is about 8 km from Sapa town. The narrow road leads to the village is a great trek amongst beautiful rice fields and corn terrace fields. The complete Ta Van trek i s  about 3.5 hours but it is an enjoyable trek that definitely worths your time.

Unlike  Cat Cat village, Ta Van still is untouched and not touristy. The fresh air, quietness, and peaceful scenery make any visitors who come to Ta Van Village would treasure the time being here.

Sapa travel guide in Ta van village: If you go there in rainy season, It’s almost impossible to go there with a motorbike if you do not have excellent driving skills. Riding a scooter on the slippery muddy narrow road is very dangerous to a certain extent. So i would recommend you to hire a local guide to go to Ta van village if you travel in rainy season !

Ta Van village

Muong Hoa valley is located about 8km southeast of Sapa town. This is one of the most famous tourist destination in Sapa vietnam for breathtaking scenery . The valley has various beautiful terraced fields, poetic driver together with diversified cultural activities of ethnic group.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Sapa Vietnam for tourists. The most prominent attraction in the area is Fan Si Pan peak. It’s only 19km from town. This may seem like a short distance, but the trek is not easy at all. Technical climbing skills are not necessary, but endurance is a must. Other Sapa trekking routes are Cat Cat Village and the Ta Phin Village.

Four popular Sapa trekking routes:

  • Cat Cat – Y linh Ho
  • Lao Chai – Ta Van
  • Ta Phin – Ma Tra
  • Fansipan peak

12. Sapa itinerary – Sapa travel guide

Sapa 3 days itinerary

Sapa 3 days itinerary day 1- sapa travel guide

Morning: After arriving in Sapa (around 6-7am), you leave your luggage at the accommodation and start exploring Sapa. From there, go to Cat cat village by taxi or by foot.

Noon: Come back to Sapa to check in hotel, take a bath and rest. Then go for lunch.

Afternoon & evening: Go to Muong Hoa valley and Ham Rong mountain ( tciket 70.000VND). Buy the ticket first and then start climbing to the mountain.

Things to do in Sapa- Ham Rong mountain : Walk around flower gardens and climb to the top of the mountain to enjoy Cloudy yard and the panoramic view of Sapa city. For dinner, go around the center and try some Sapa specialties .

Sapa 3 days itinerary day 2

Morning: take a taxi or go by motorbike to Fansipan cable car station and start the journey.

Noon: Silver waterfall- Love waterfall- O quy ho pass.

  • Silver waterfall is 13km from Sapa town and ticket price is 20.000 VND.
  • The next destination is Suoi Vang eco-tourism site and love waterfall . The ticket price is 70.000 per person.
  • The final destination of this route is O Quy Ho pass. This is also an ideal place to watch the sunset . While waiting for sunset people can enjoy grilled foods such as corn, sweet potatoes, meat made by ethnic women. Finally return to Sapa town before it gets dark.

Evening: Try some hotpot and grilled food at night market. The must things to do in Sapa travel guide at night.

Day 3 : Sapa – Ta Phin – Lao chai- Ta van

Sapa 3 days itinerary day 3

Morning: After breakfast, depart to visit Ta Phin village – a Dao ethnic group.

Afternoon: Lao chai and Ta Van village

Night: depart to Hanoi.

The Sapa 3 days itinerary in this Sapa travel guide is often used by many Vietnamese for a short escape from bustling cities. We often take a sleeper bus on friday night to Sapa. Stay there until Monday and come back to working life on Tuesday. Just a way to recharge batteries !!

13. What to eat in Sapa Vietnam ?

What to eat in Sapa Vietnam ? Fortunately, the majority of the food in Sapa is produced by local agriculture and they are very fresh with unique local cuisine. Lets check the list below to fully explore Sapa cuisine without missing any delicious foods there. Thanks to my friend who had recommended those places so that I can have a wonderful experience in this charming town.

what to eat in sapa- hotpot

Hot pot, also known as ‘steamboat’ in many asia countries originated over 1,000 years ago in Mongolia during the Jin Dynasty.

A simple metal pot of various ingredients is included such as seafood, thinly sliced beef, assorted leaves and vegetables, mushrooms, beef balls, fish balls, tofu. Everything is cooked at the table in the broth. The pot is always being heated by a small burner underneath it. Egg noodles or vermicelli are commonly served with the hot pot and, of course, a nice dipping sauce. Sapa  is best known for Salmon  hot pot . This is one of the must eat food that every travellers should try when visiting Sapa on chilly nights.

Restaurant A Phu : 15 Fansipan , Sapa district.

A Phu is one of the famous restaurants in Sapa. The restaurant mainly serves traditional dishes such as grilled pork, chicken grilled charcoal, Thang Co, silkworm hotpot, salmon salad … The price of dishes ranges from 40,000 – 800,000 VND. In addition to delicious food, the restaurant is also appreciated for the professional attitude of the staff.

sapa travel videos

Due to the cold climate, grilled foods are very popular in Sapa Vietnam . It is always a good idea for tourists to warm up with those delicious grilled food. The ingredients are very abundant including vegetable, mushroom, meat, seafoods. And all kinds of food are grilled over hot coals. Apart from cassava, mushroom, corn and sweet potato, visitors are recommended to eat with pork, beef, chicken or salmon, and especially, the grilled-heo cap nach, a kind of tender, lean and less fat meat from small local pigs.

  • 24 Cau May, Sapa district.
  • Night Market in Sapa ( Ham rong street )

 Pho is one of the most popular food in Vietnam nowadays. Pho is a soup consisting of broth of Beef or Chicken, Rice noodle , slice of Beef or chop chicken. If you are still wondering what to eat in Sapa for breakfast. Those restaurants will be a good choice.

  • Bac Ha noodle restaurant : 53 Le Van Tam street, near Xuan Vien lake.
  • Pho Khuyen at Tue Tinh street, near the police station

sapa travel videos

What to eat in Sapa as local food ? – Hai Lam or a Phu restaurant will be the best option. Those restaurant serves a variety of Sapa local food such as Lam rice, grilled chicken with green pepper… The price here is also very affordable. Highly recommend !

  • A Phu Restaurant: 15 Fansipan, Sapa district.
  • Hai Lam restaurant: 72 Luong Dinh Cua, Sapa district

Hai Lam restaurant serves many specialties such as salmon sturgeon, sturgeon, fried rice and especially indispensable grilled chicken with green pepper . Besides, the restaurant also has many other dishes such as grilled chicken with bamboo, buffalo meat, horse meat, seafood … On average, about 150k / person depending on the dish and the number of people come there. The more you go, the cheaper of the price is.

View from Fansipan terrace cafe. sapa

  • Fansipan terrace CAFE on fansipan street.
  • Cong cafe in 037 Xuan Vien street, Sapa district.
  • Ladybird cafe in 4 Thach Son, Sapa.
  • Bar/pub : Muong Hoa street has quite a lot of Pub.
  • The H’mong Sisters bar: 31 Muong Hoa, Sapa, Viet Nam
  • Wooden Pub: 3 Thac Bac,  Sa Pa, Lao Cai
  • Bamboo Bar: 18 Muong Hoa, Sapa.

Sapa Vietnam travel guide – Things visitors should do:

  • Bring ID card/ passport or original birth certificate (for children) during the trip.
  • Prepare a few coats to avoid cold night and a good quality shoes if you have intention of trekking in Sapa or even rubber boots in rainy weather.
  • Bring some antemetics in case of motion sickness.
  • Should ask for prices of any goods or services in advance to avoid being ripped off.

Sapa Vietnam travel guide – Things visitors should not do:

  • Dont come to the village during their worship. They do not want strangers to attend. Normally, there will be a bunch of green leaves hanging on a high pillar so that everyone could see and avoid coming in.
  • Do not whistle when walking around the village. The local suppose that the catcall is to call the devil to the village.
  • Some of the minorities do not wish to have photos taken of them – ask permission beforehand.

Sapa Vietnam travel guide if you meet Children :

sapa travel videos

  • In Sapa, ethnic children often begin to support their families financially through selling trinkets to tourists. Do not encourage this by buying from children – buy from adults.
  • Children have poor or non-existent dental hygiene.  do not give them candy or sweets  – it will cause dental issues. If you want to give them something, safe toys, book, pencil are highly appreciated.
  • For small children, do not rub their heads. The compatriots think that rubbing their heads will made them panic and children easily get sick.
  • If you want to support the ethnic minorities, try to hire a local tour guide directly instead of doing it through your hotel. Normally hotel get 50% of what you pay for tour guide.

Sapa Vietnam travel guide in expense for 3 days 2 nights trip:

  • Return bus ticket to Sapa: 500.000VND
  • Ticket to tourist places : around 1 million VND ( various villages, waterfalls, Fansipan peak)
  • Renting a motorbike: 400.000 for 3 days
  • fuel cost: 150.000/ 3 days
  • Food: 1 million VND
  • Homestay: 430.000
  • VND for 2 nights
  • Total: 3,5 million VND = 150$
  • Travel expenses in Sapa Vietnam can fluctuate around 100- 150$ depend on each other demand.

I have had a wonderful trip to Sapa Vietnam thanks to my friend who is a local there. He explained and told me everything about their rich cultural diversity, their motherland. I have learned a lot , experienced a lot and know more about this wonderful highland. Hope that this comprehensive Sapa Vietnam travel guide can help you fully explore Sapa in the most convenient way.

Sapa Vietnam travel guide clip by Drone snap:

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The Daily Packers

The finest 4-day sapa travel guide.

AlexOu

  • June 26, 2023

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4-Day SaPa Travel Guide

In April 2023, we travelled 3 weeks in Vietnam. Our original plan was to visit all of Vietnam but as we were planning it, we decided to focus on the north and center of Vietnam. Therefor allowing more time in both those regions.

Our trip started and ended in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. And we also spent an overnight in Hanoi as we travelled back from Sapa to Halong Bay.

Our complete trip included in this order: Hanoi, Sapa, Hanoi, Halong Bay/LanHa Bay, Tam Coc (Ninh Binh), Hue, HoiAn, Hanoi. And as always, we will make a complete itinerary of the trip.

One particular thing is that we travelled Vietnam while Tina was 9 to 12-week Pregnant. So, it wasn’t always easy, yet we enjoyed it!

SaPa was our second stop, directly after Hanoi. Even though it is a bit out of reach, we opted to get there, and it was amazing. No regrets at all.

Sa Pa is famous for its vast terraced rice fields, where ethnic minority groups such as the Hmong, Dao, and Dzay live. The best way to experience this is on a day hike with a local guide. SaPa is definitely oriented toward nature lover.

In this article, we will tell our story going around all the best things to do in SaPa . So, if you too are planning a trip to Vietnam and to SaPa , then let ‘s dive in these SaPa Travel Guide

Here is our complete video from this trip :

Table of Contents

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Getting there.

The best way to get to SaPa is from Hanoi. There are many options:

  • By Van: the most comfortable way: This is the option we chosed. We reserved online on whatsapp a few days before our transfer. We opted for the travel agency A21 as they had clean and clear information. Here is the link to their website . It takes 5-6h to get there.
  • By Bus: On a similar note, and even using the same travel agency, you can also book a bus. The bus journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. There is also different type of buses, but mostly they are sleeper bus. After they either are with private cabin or not.
  • By Train: This is not the easiest as there isn’t a train station in SaPa and you need to take the train to Lao Cai. And from there a taxi to SaPa which is about 38 kilometers away. The journey from Lao Cai to Sa Pa usually takes around 1-1.5 hours. And the complete train journey takes approximately 8-9 hours. Once you arrive at Lao Cai Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Sa Pa,

How to go to SaPa

Moving Around

Once you are in SaPa, the complete town can be visited on foot. It is a small town after all. However, if you want to go around, to the waterfalls or viewpoints, you will need to rent a scooter or go on a tour.

Scooter prices are from 150 000 to 200 000 VND. The scooter is given to you with an empty fuel tank. So, be sure to refuel right away. And to give the scooter back with an empty tank as well.

When to Visit SaPa

When to Visit

Let’s start by saying that Vietnam is a really long country and as such have 3 very distinct type of weather (North/central/South).

The best time to visit SaPa is Autumn (from September to November) if you want less rain and cool temperatures.

The raining season being Summer (June to August) and is apparently a great time to visit to get blue sky however you will get lots of showers as it is the raining season. 

Spring (from March and April/Mai) is the second-best time to visit especially if you plan on visiting more than only the north of Vietnam. We visited Vietnam as this time and during our stay in SaPa, we had haze, cloud and even sun (the day we left haha=)

SaPa Travel Guide

Where to Stay

  • (€):  Capsule Hotel Sapa
  • (€€): Sapa Rosie house
  • (€€€): Laxsik Ecolodge

Where to Stay in SaPa

What to Eat

The best things to eat in Vietnam are:

  • Pho: A Vietnamese soup dish consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat or tofu.
  • Banh mi: A French-Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with vegetables, meat/tofu/tempeh, and sauce…
  • Banh Xeo: A rice flour pancake filled with various toppings and herbs.

Plus, lots of many other dishes made of spring rolls, fried noodle, or rice. We personally always found vegetarian or vegan option in Vietnam but also noticed that their kitchen is quite heavy and used lots of fried and deep-fried ingredients.

They are also lots of drinks to try:

  • Egg coffee: Hot or cold coffee prepared with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk and strong coffee.
  • Iced coffee: Made using Medium/Dark coffee passing through hot water into a cup that already contains condensed milk.
  • Coconut Coffee: Where coconut milk is added.

Plus, they are also lots of fresh juices, fresh coconuts and beers to try.

If you are looking for good restaurants we would recommend.

  • Good morning Vietnam
  • Ladybird Restaurant Hotel Café

Thong Dong Vegan

Things to do SaPa

SaPa Travel Guide

Our journey there.

The van arrived around 6h40. We were the first one. We put our bags in the rear and then took our seat. There are 4 seats in the middle. We got the rear row. So far, seats are confortable, have bottle holder, USB…

We then picked up 2 other foreigners and 2 locals at another hotel and 3 more locals at another one. We were full by 7h.

At 8h30 we made a first break of about 25min. When we went out of the van, we received a free drink voucher. We made another stop at 11h37.

We kept on, now the road was going up the mountain. We arrived in Sapa where we were dropped off at the Cathedral a bit before 13h. We had lunch and then took a taxi to our accommodation.

  • SaPa Church

Around 15h, we rented a scooter as our accommodation wasn’t in town. We drove to SaPa and parked for free next to the church. Our first stop was therefor the church.

Also known as the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of SaPa, is a Catholic church and a prominent landmark in town and holds historical significance. It was built by French missionaries in the late 19th century during the French colonial period in Vietnam.

SaPa Church

  • SaPa Center

We then just hanged around town visiting, the station and the streets around which were beautiful.

SaPa Center

SaPa station

We also popped by the SaPa train station which is actually a shopping mall. It is a nice place to visit and definitely worth a stop even if you are not taking  a train.

sapa travel videos

  • Cat Cat Village

We then drove another 10min to CatCat village. The entrance was 300 000 for two. This is a super touristic place, especially for locals who come there with traditional clothes to take pictures.

Cat Cat Village is an ethnic Hmong village that offers visitors a glimpse into the local culture and way of life. It has many things to see such as traditional houses, performances, animals…

As we were there around 4h30, it wasn’t crowded at all but during the day it is apparently insane.

Cat Cat Village

  • Full Day Hike in the Hmong Valley

We had organised this when we arrived with our accommodation.  At 9h30 we met our guide for the day, Mimi, from the Hmong people, a local tribe.

With her we will hike through the villages in the valley and finish with a bamboo forest and a waterfall. Unfortunately, the waterfall was dry. The hike wasn’t too hard. We took 6h30 with 1h lunch break and lots of stop for photos, videos, drones…

We also stopped in some local houses to see how they were doing their clothes. Tina even got to try one of the processes.

We were back at our accommodation at 16h. But the hiked finished 20min earlier than that and we took a taxi back.

All was included in the hiking tour, the guide, lunch, and return.

The hike is breathtaking, and, in the end, we were lucky enough as it didn’t rain. Unfortunately, we didn’t get a clear sky either which was present 2 days ago. But mostly in spring the weather is cloudy.

Hiking with Mimi was super nice. She was extremely friendly and even we took lots of videos and pictures, she was fine and didn’t mind being on them. She is herself on TikTok.

She also told us many interesting things about the local traditions and answered all our questions.

We had lunch in one of her friend’s places. It is delicious. We had bamboo sprouts, cabbage, green beans, rice, and vegetables spring rolls (we told her we didn’t eat meat and she organized accordingly). We also tried some rice wine that she called happy wine. It isn’t too strong and raise up to 25°.  I also got a beer for 30 000.

Full Day Hike in the Hmong Valley

  • Love Waterfall

On our second full day, we left on our rented scooter. We stopped right away to refuel 1.5L for 70 000. Fuel is sold on plastic bottle by the small stores on the side of the road.

We drove around 35min to the live Waterfall. The parking is free, the entrance is 140 000. We followed a small path for 15min before arriving at the Waterfall.

It was nice to see and super moody as it was misty. The waterfall is named “Love Waterfall” due to its association with a local legend about a fairy who falls in love with a young man from a nearby village.

Love Waterfall

  • Heaven’s gate

We then drove 10min further until Tram Ton pass also called heaven’s gate or O Quy Ho Pass.

On this road you have a super scenic view of the valley and mountains around. As it was still super misty, we just stopped by the side of the road to take a few pictures. Otherwise, there are a few places where you can stop and enjoy the views but there are not free. The one called Sapa Heaven gate cost 120 000 per person.

Heaven’s gate

We then went back toward Sapa and drove to Sunworld where the cable car for Fansipan is.

Fansipan is the highest peak of Indochina (Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos) with a height of 3,143 meters (10,312 feet) above sea level.

Our host bought for us ticket for the cable car to Fansipan (680 000 per person). And sent them to us on whatsapp.

There wasn’t any line, but it was still a bit crowded. Cannot imagine how it is with a full blue sky. We already had tickets, so we went straight on. As it was the weekend there was an additional fee to pay:  110 00 per person..

With lots of hope we took the cable car up the mountain. We were alone in it which was nice. When we arrived on top it was even worst then down. We couldn’t see anything. We passed the restaurant and shops and went up to a first temple and a pagoda. After that Tina went back down and I continued up. I came along another temple, a Buddha statue and the summit. There are stairs all the way up but it is super steep.

On the summit, it was the same. So cloudy that I couldn’t see more than 10m away.

I then went back down to meet Tina and we took the cable car down.

This is really a super touristy thing to do, and we are not sure how often a year you get nice view. We wouldn’t recommend doing it unless you have a pure blue sky down in Sapa.

FansiPan

After that we just walked a bit around Sapa, by the lake, bought snack for 136 000 and then we withdrew money to pay our accommodation.

SaPa Lake

More things to do in SaPa

If you want more things to do in SaPa, you can consider:

  • Silver Waterfall

An amazing 4-day SaPa Itinerary

  • Transfer Hanoi to Sapa
  • Transfer Sapa to Hanoi

Thất bại là mẹ thành công – Failure is the mother of success.

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Traveling and Exploring in Northern Vietnam

SAPA → Travel Guide + Tips + Map

sapa-north-vietnam-travel-guide

ℹ️ Information about Sapa 🚍 How to get to Sapa ☀️ Weather in Sapa 🏡 Accommodation in Sapa 🔍 Interesting places in Sapa 📍 Map of interesing sites 🎫 Book a tour in Sapa

Sapa: Ethnic Hmongs and Tourists.

  • Please read carefully this article if you want to still keep protected this beautiful area without the impact of mass tourism. Approximately 140,000 inhabitants live in this area. The first people to inhabit the city are largely unknown. In the whole valley they left hundreds of petroglyphs, mostly formed from circular lines. The experts believe that they date from the 15th century. People of the ethnic minority Hmong and Dao then came to the mountains. You can meet them in Sapa and the neighborhood, but also when you are hiking through the stunning mountain ranges and valleys, and the off-the-grid villages. Sapa is about 1,600m above sea level.

You can hike Fansipan, but since February 2, 2016, you can go in a cable car.

  • One of the most popular treks is to the highest mountain of Vietnam – Fansipan (3,143 m, Hoang Lien National Park ), or through the valley of Muong Hoa. This cable car was opened on February 2, 2016. Measuring 6,282 meters, the Fansipan Sa Pa has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s longest three-rope cable car route. You can go to Fansipan in 20 minutes with this cable car. Ticket (up-down) costs 750,000 VND for adults, VND 550,000 VND for children up to 1.3 meters tall and children below one meter tall can travel for free.

Sapa-TaPhin-vietnam

The best option for exploring this area is to rent a motorbike.

  • The cable car to Fansipan is probably the main attraction in Sapa. I recommend renting a motorcycle and visiting villages in Lao Cai province and around Sapa. For example Ta Phin, Sin Chai, Hau Thao, and Thanh Kim villages. Getting to the Tavan, Cat Cat, Lai Chau, and I Lin Ho villages you can go through the beautiful Valley of Muong Hoa . It is necessary to buy a ticket, but it is not expensive, it costs 2 USD and a visit is definitely worth it. To visit the Tavan village you will need to have a ticket.

Accommodation in Sapa ➜

Several ethnic minority groups – mostly Hmong, Dao, Giay, Xa Pho, Tay.

  • Lots of women from the ethnic group Hmong and Dao offer a guiding service and homestay accommodation in the villages. In Sapa town you can meet them in the central square, talk to them and go. No agency fees. This is the best way to explore the area and try homestay accommodation and observe their culture . Women from these ethnic groups can speak English quite well, so there is no problem in agreeing on anything. And it is also important that they know the neighborhood very well.  Check out the video when you want to see a homestay in Sapa might look like.

vietnam-sapa

To buy the tourist trips to nearby villages in the agencies does not make sense!

  • For example, someone decided that when you want to go to Tavan village, you have to go with a certified guide – but you can get there more easily with a local guide. There is a lot of homestay accommodation available in these villages, with local ethnic people, and it is the greatest experience – you must try it. Some homestayes are created for the tourists and travellers, but a genuine homestay of local people is possible.

How to get from Hanoi to Sapa? >>> Hanoi to Lao Cai (Sapa) – Train schedule + Hanoi to Sapa – Bus Schedule

vietnam-sapa-hoang-lien-son

Trekking in Sapa is amazing – it is a fantastic surrounding.

  • I highly recommend you try a homestay with the locals , you can spend all day and night with them. You will be watching their everyday life and they will prepare very good meals for you. These people can also lead a trek into the surroundings with you. You will find great locations to create really nice photos. Rice terraces, valleys and mountains sometimes shrouded in mist and friendly ethnic minority people. Lots of homestay accommodation is in the Muong Hoa valley, but there are a lot of tourists, and some accommodation is more like a tourist cottage than a genuine local home. Sapa is an ideal place for trekking in Vietnam.

north-vietnam-recommendation

Sapa is a tourist destination frequented by foreign tourists.

  • Sapa is among the top 3 most visited places in northern Vietnam after Hanoi and Ha Long Bay . Remember it ! If you really do not like places full of tourists, it is worth considering skipping this place. However, you can go to the north of the area (Y Ty, Bat Xat), and almost no tourists come here.

Sapa-MuongHoa-vietnam

Experience an authentic homestay and watch the life of ethnic people.

  • The prices for homestay accommodation varies – it can be for 10 – 30 USD / per person. The average price is about 10 – 15 USD / per person and includes a light trek, food, and 1 night in a village with local people. The Tourist Center in the city also offers homestay for a price of about 25 USD / person, including the trek and 1 night + food, but it is not authentic homestay accommodation.

Accommodation in Bac Ha / Lao Cai ➜

The sunday market of Flower Hmong people in Bac Ha town.

  • At this market you will meet the people from ethnic group Flower Hmong , Phu La, Dao Tuyen, La Chi and Tay. They come here to buy or sell their produce of food and animals. It is necessary to take a bus or a car by a tour operator. Bac Ha is about 80 km from Sapa. There you can visit other local markets, for example Coc Ly or Can Cau. However, even in Sapa, there is a bustling market every Sunday, but this market is more commercial than other ethnic markets in northern Vietnam. When you go to Bac Ha, I recommend you stay here at least 2 nights.

Sapa-town-Vietnam

Black Hmong are the largest ethnic group in Sapa and Lao Cai.

  • Black Hmong – they are the largest ethnic group in Sapa, you can meet them every day in the town. In the vicinity and in the province of Lao Cai, however, there are more ethnic minorities of Vietnam, but this is the largest group of this region. Black Hmong came to northern Vietnam about 300 years ago from China. They are easily identifiable – clothes are made from hemp and indigo dye used as coloring, in shades of dark blue to black. Some Hmong people no longer wear their original clothes, but modern clothes.

A great experience is to see the Hmong community at their festivals.

  • A lot of women in this ethnic group earn extra money by manufacturing decorative accessories, blankets, bags or clothes to sell in Sapa. They also offer guide services and homestay in their home and villages. Men perform more physically demanding and difficult jobs, for example construction of houses in the villages. Hmong maintain a series of celebrations and festivals throughout the year. The most important for the Hmong is TET (New Year) which is celebrated almost throughout the whole month. Boys and girls play musical instruments, sing, dance and the whole community meets frequently in one place.

sapa-vietnam-black-hmong

Experienced travelers can go to the less visited far north of Vietnam.

  • Far north from Sapa, about 45 km, in the town of Muong Hum a Sunday market is held (6.00-13.00), less frequented by tourists but more authentic. Here you will meet people of the ethnic minorities Giay, Dao, White Hmong and a small Ha Nhi ethnic group. Taste good local beer. Be careful with taking pictures, it is better to ask in advance and then show the photo, which is true almost everywhere in the north. If you decide to go for this challenging trip, stay at least two days at this place. Some tour operators from Sapa offer 2-days trips.

hanoi-sapa-transport

Y Ty town in the poor Bat Xat district is inhabited by the Ha Nhi ethnic people.

  • The town of Y Ty sees practically no foreign tourists where you can feel like being in a lonely outpost , mainly only travellers from Vietnam arrive here. It is located about 80 km from the town of Sapa, however, it is difficult to get there and the roads are in bad condition. Y Ty neighborhood is often shrouded in clouds, the whole area is surrounded by mountains that reach up to 2,700 meters above sea level, so it is also called “misty island“. Y Ty is mainly inhabited by the Black Ha Nhi ethnic minority, the Ha Nhi ethnic group has only approximately 20 000 people in Vietnam (Lai Chau, Lao Cai province). Foreigners who want to stay overnight in Y Ty have to pre-arrange a permit in Lao Cai and when arrive in Y Ty, have to present at the border patrol with passport and ID.

train-sapa-fansipan-legend

⚠ My opinion about Sapa, recommendations, what to watch:

  • As I wrote, Sapa is a very popular tourist destination, not only for foreign travellers but also for the Vietnamese people. I think if you go out of the town you willmore likely be satisfied.

> Some people wrote, there is a heavy traffic in Sapa.

  • Yes it is true in the town center, but where is this not true in Vietnam? The traffic is without any problems outside the city. Some of the bad roads in the mountains are almostin the whole of Vietnam.

> Everyone says, Hmongs are hired as puppets for money.

  • This is partly true. However, I disagree that absolutely everyone are puppets. Lots of Hmong in remote villages still live according to their life, customs and traditions. And you can spend the night with them, just ask and you will see for yourself, these people are living without any dependence on foreign money and foreign cultural influence.

> Agencies in Sapa say, that you will overnight with real Hmong families.

  • It will probably not be true, there will be fake hired Hmong people (Vietnamese who are playing at being Hmong). Although I cannot speak for all the agencies, I cannot generally recommend a trip or tour with a local agency. You can do it yourself with local ethnic people without difficulty – give it a try.

Book Tickets from Hanoi to Sapa ➜

⚠ What to avoid and not to do in Sapa:

→ do not buy tourist items from small children → do not give sweets to children and money → if you can avoid shopping in plastic goods (bags, bottles, waste disposal systems are unfortunately not in many villages) → do not enter to the local schools without notice → ask people if you can shoot them → do not make too much noise in rural villages (you are not on a party)

vietnam-sapa-hmong

  • In my opinion, you will be frustrated with the constant offering of goods and services by local ethnic population in Sapa town. Get ready for it! You will also see this in some local villages.
  • do not only stay in the city or nearby within 5 km
  • if you do not wish to buy products or services – ignore the local sell
  • tell them politely if you do not need anyone else to follow in your path
  • Cat Cat and Tavan village are the most visited sites, try to go and visit another villages
  • buy the handcrafted products from local ethnic population (fakes  are in the stores)

Let me also say that the Vietnamese government do not regulate tourism in this area. It has been reflected in what a lot of people have written. Several other hotels are being built and I think that’s wrong. But I understand, the money and the moneymaking mentality are for some the number one priority.

Book your Tour to Sapa / Fansipan ➜

sapa-vietnam-muong-hoa

🍜  FOOD IN SAPA, where to eat:

  • The best option to eat in Sapa is by street vendors – the tastiest and cheapest type of Vietnamese cuisine. There is a sufficient variety of stalls where you can eat typical Vietnamese dishes (meat, rice, noodles, soups,…). Sapa is not such a big city, so there’s a bit more of a limited menu. Foreign imitation restaurants are overpriced and the food is not at the same level to which we are accustomed. But in Sapa you can also buy pizza or steak with fries or other foreign food. In almost every village surrounding Sapa you can find some kind of mini restaurant.

sapa-vietnam-food

🚍 HOW TO TRAVEL FROM HANOI TO SAPA (Bus, Train):

1. buses from hanoi to sapa.

  • The fastest way is to use a day or evening/night direct bus from Hanoi. Buses from Hanoi to Sapa (Lao Cai) depart from various bus stations in Hanoi (check Baolau or 12go). Times, prices and possible reservations of some bus companies you will find below  – eg. Hason Haivan, Inter Bus Lines, Sapa Express, EcoSapa , Grouptour, Hung Thanh, Sapa Shuttlebus…
  • travel by bus from Hanoi to Sapa takes about 6 hours
  • cheap bus tickets from Hanoi to Sapa, prices start already at $9-18/pp
  • sleeper or seats comfortable tourist buses (+luxury minivans)
  • Book and buy bus e-tickets from Hanoi to Sapa online on Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜
  • you can also check – Hanoi to Sapa – Bus Schedule (buses, vans, sleeper buses…)
  • you can also travel from Noi Bai Airport to Sapa by tourist bus or private car/taxi

sapa-express-vip-hanoi-sapa

2. TRAINS FROM HANOI TO SAPA (Lao Cai town)

  • Many travelers go to Sapa ( Lao Cai Railway Station , 30 km from Sapa) on a night train. From Lao Cai to Sapa you can travel by local public bus. Trains may be Vietnam Railways with the less comfort (ofic.viet.railways) or also from the private tourist companies (2,4,6 – bert cabin). With double cabs in train, but also more expensive (Orient Express, King Express, Fansipan, Sapaly…). Read the all information before you book and buy bus or train tickets online.
  • travel by train from Hanoi to Lao Cai takes about 8 hours
  • train tickets from Hanoi to Lao Cai – prices start already at $7/pp (soft seat – Vietnam Railways)
  • Book and buy train e-tickets from Hanoi to Sapa online on Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜
  • this is a top travel route in northern Vietnam – recommended – book and buy your e-tickets online!
  • you can also check – 10 Luxury Trains from Hanoi to Lao Cai

vietnam-train-seat-cabin-berth

Vietnam Railways trains – SP1, SP3, SP7, LC3:

  • you can book hard or soft seat – price for one-way ticket from 120 000 – 160 000 Viet.dongs / 1 person
  • hard bed (6-bed cabin) or soft bed (4-bed cabin) – price for one-way ticket from 270 000 – 400 000 Viet.dongs / 1 person
  • SP = new trains, LC3 = old train, carry-on baggage – 20 kg
  • seat and berth selection is available on Baolau

Tourist and private train operators (added to SP1 + SP3):

  • Livitrans, Violette Train, Oriental Express, King Express, Sapaly, PV2, Fansipan Express, Victoria Express
  • price from 700 000 – 1 200 000 Viet.dongs / 1 person – soft bed
  • better quality and service, 2 or 4-bed cabins, carry-on baggage – 20 kg
  • the most deluxe train – Victoria Express Train (price for ticket from 2 500 000 – 3 500 000 Viet.dongs)
  • more information about the tourist luxury trains to from Hanoi to Lao Cai

 For bookings with Royal Railway and private railway companies Victoria Express, Fanxipan Express, King Express, Orient Express, Sapaly Express, Chapa Express and Saigon Golden Train, you will be required to complete the payment before submitting your order. Your reservation will be processed and you will receive a voucher by email to collect the physical ticket at the station before boarding the train.

➜ For bookings with Vietnam Railways and private railway companies Livitrans Express and Violette Train, you will be required to complete the payment before submitting your order. Your reservation will be processed and you will receive your e-ticket by email, ready to print or carry in your mobile phone or tablet and present when boarding the train.

sapa-to-ha-giang-vietnam

BUSES or TAXI FROM LAO CAI TO SAPA:

  • If you’re traveling from Hanoi, the train stops in Lao Cai town, which is 10 km from the Chinese border on the north of Vietnam. The train goes every day and many travellers and tourist go at night (20.30 – 22.00 pm), the train arrives in Lao Cai at 6.00 – 7.00 am.
  • From Lao Cai you must take the bus or taxi, lots of tourist buses wait outside the train station.
  • The public bus station is in the center of town, 300 meters from the station, see the map in this article.
  • I recommend a public bus in Lao Cai town, tourist minibuses at  the train station are overpriced.
  • You can book bus tickets from Lao Cai town to Sapa + schedule on Baolau ➜

fansipan-mountain-sapa-vietnam

☀️ Weather in Sapa:

  • Sapa, located in the northern mountains of Vietnam, has a subtropical highland climate with cool temperatures year-round. The summer months (June to August) are warm and rainy, while the winter months (December to February) can be very cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Sapa, with mild temperatures and clear skies. However, the weather in Sapa can be unpredictable, so it’s important to bring appropriate clothing and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions. If you want to visit or hike Fansipan Mountain, you can also check carefully this article: Weather in Fansipan Mountain .
  • The main tourist season in Sapa is from September to April. If you like trekking it is recommended in the months from September to November and March to May. In these months its very good weather and temperatures are from 15 to 28 °C and at night from 10-18 °C. Read the article – the weather in northern Vietnam. ➜ Current weather in Sapa

🏡 Accommodation in Sapa:

  • Lots of hotels have standard and even very good quality and service.
  • In the main season (September to April) capacity may be more limited, and it is recommended to book your accommodation online.
  • Prices for hotel accommodation is slightly higher compared to Hanoi, but still low.
  • Single room can cost 10-15 USD, a double room 10 USD / perperson.
  • Prices for shared housing is almost the same as in Hanoi, 5-10 USD / per person.
  • There are also luxury and new hotels, resorts and houses.

➜ Accommodation in Sapa / Lao Cai – Book Here ➜ 15 best homestays in Sapa ➜ 15 best cheap hotels in Sapa ➜ 15 best luxury hotels in Sapa

sapa-accommodation-vietnam

🔍 Places of Interest in Sapa:

  • trekking or riding a motorcycle to the villages in the area (Tavan, Cat Cat, Sin Chai, Ta Phin, Thanh Kim…)
  • Silver waterfall and Love waterfall
  • Fansipan – the highest mountain of Vietnam (Hoang Lien National Park)
  • Cable car to Fansipan mountain
  • Muong Hoa Valley (homestay, villages)
  • Seo My Ty village and hydro-power dam
  • Tram Ton Pass (O Quy Ho Pass)
  • Market in Sapa
  • Ham Rong mountain (Dragon mountain)
  • Cultural performances in the Cat Cat village
  • Homestay at the local ethnic minorities
  • Sunday market in Bac Ha (take a bus or a tour operator, Bac Ha is approx. 80 km)
  • Sunday market in Muong Hun
  • Y Ty district with the Black Ha Nhi ethnic minority
  • Bạch Mộc Lương Tử (the fourth highest mountain in Vietnam, 3046 m)

📍  Sapa (Lao Cai) – tourist map:

ethnic-villages-sapa-vietnam-450x230

❓ Frequently Asked Questions + Tips about Sapa:

1. how to book tickets or private car from hanoi to sapa.

  • You can book train or bus tickets or car from Hanoi to Sapa on Baolau or 12go.asia .
  • You can also search another routes and tickets, e.g. Sapa > Ha Giang, Ha Giang > Hanoi…

2. How to book a tour or hike to Sapa or Fansipan mountain?

  • You can search and book a tour or hike in Sapa or Fansipan mountain online, tickets for cable car or various tours to ethnic villages with KLOOK . There are various tours + trips or hikes in northern Vietnam.

3. How to move in Sapa?

  • The best way is to travel on your own or you can walk, e.g rent a motorbike. IDP is necessary if you want to rent a motorbike or scooter in Vietnam. You can book your motorbike in Hanoi or Sapa online with Bikesbooking . Roads in Vietnam are dangerous, drive carefully and slowly, watch the traffic. There are also some local buses between Lao Cai and Sapa or Sapa and Lai Chau.

4. What is the travel time from Hanoi to Sapa?

  • Travel by tourist bus / minivan from Hanoi to Sapa takes about 6 hours.
  • Travel by train from Hanoi to Lao Cai takes about 8 hours.
  • Travel by bus from Lao Cai to Sapa takes about 1 hour.

5. How much does it cost to travel from Hanoi to Sapa?

  • Travel by tourist bus or minivan from Hanoi to Sapa costs about $9-18/pp.
  • Travel by train from Hanoi to Lao Cai costs about $7-120/pp, regular or luxury tourist trains.
  • Travel by private taxi / car from Hanoi to Sapa costs about $160-280/car.

6. How far is Sapa from Hanoi?

  • Travel distance from Hanoi to Sapa town is about 320 km by tourist bus.

7. How do I get to Sapa from Hanoi?

  • The most common way to reach Sapa from Hanoi is by train + bus via Lao Cai city. There are overnight sleeper trains departing from Hanoi’s main train station, and the journey takes approximately 8-9 hours to reach Lao Cai city. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 5-6 hours. Private cars or taxis can also be hired for a more comfortable and flexible journey.

8. What is the best time to visit Sapa?

  • The best time to visit Sapa is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and you can enjoy clear skies and blooming flowers in spring or vibrant foliage in autumn. However, Sapa’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to check the forecast and pack appropriate clothing for cooler temperatures, especially during the evenings and early mornings.

9. What are the must-see attractions in Sapa?

  • Sapa is known for its stunning landscapes and ethnic minority cultures. Some must-see attractions include Fansipan Mountain , the highest peak in Indochina, which offers breathtaking views. The terraced rice fields in Muong Hoa Valley are also a popular attraction, especially during the planting and harvesting seasons. Don’t miss visiting ethnic minority villages such as Cat Cat Village or Ta Phin Village to learn about their unique traditions, crafts, and lifestyles.

10. Are there any local delicacies in Sapa that I should try?

  • Sapa has a distinct culinary culture influenced by the ethnic minority groups in the region. Some local delicacies to try include „thang co,“ a traditional soup made from horse meat and offal, and „cap nach“ chicken, which is free-range chicken cooked in a clay pot. „Com lam“ (bamboo rice) is another specialty, where rice is cooked inside bamboo tubes, giving it a unique aroma. Additionally, you can sample fresh local produce like fruits, vegetables, and mushrooms, which are abundant in the area.

11. How to travel solo in Vietnam?

  • Discover the wonders of solo travel in Vietnam as you explore ancient temples, cruise through scenic landscapes or karst sceneries, hike various national parks and ethnic villages and connect with the warm-hearted locals, creating a personalized journey of cultural immersion and breathtaking experiences.

12. What are the most interesting things or facts about Vietnam?

  • Vietnam, a country with a captivating allure, is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, including the mesmerizing limestone karsts of Halong Bay, the terraced rice fields of Sapa, and the bustling waterways of the Mekong Delta. Its rich history unfolds through ancient temples in Hanoi, the imperial city of Hue, and the Cu Chi Tunnels, providing a glimpse into Vietnam’s resilience during wartime. The country’s vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality further enhance the allure of this Southeast Asian gem. Read this: 15 Interesting Things of Vietnam .

13. What to expect from Vietnam Culture?

  • Expect a vibrant cultural tapestry in Vietnam , characterized by traditional values, a strong sense of community, and a deep-rooted respect for family. You’ll encounter a fusion of French, Chinese, and indigenous influences in art, architecture, and cuisine. Traditional water puppetry, folk music, and dance performances showcase the country’s artistic flair. The importance of rituals and festivals in daily life adds a colorful dimension, while the warmth and friendliness of the Vietnamese people make for a welcoming and enriching cultural experience.

BOOK TICKETS to Sapa / Lao Cai ➜

BOOK your HOTEL / STAY in Sapa ➜

➡️  Where to go from Sapa:

You can continue to Lai Chau , Bac Ha , Mu Cang Chai ( Yen Bai province ), Ha Giang , Son La .

⏪ Go back to places of interest

Accommodation | Transport | Visas | Vaccinations | Money | Weather | Trekking | Ninh Binh | Yen Bai | Motorbikes | Mai Chau | Da Nang | Train tickets

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By Ha Vuong- A travel expert

Located in the northwest of Vietnam, Sapa is a famous hill station of Lao Cai province near the China border. This destination has been a popular destination for travelers both domestically and internationally for over a century. It's an amazing place that has everything a traveler is looking for: an amazing natural beauty with imposing mountains and green valleys, fascinating cultures and traditions of many hill tribes, and beautiful pleasant weather all year round. 

Sapa

Let's explore Sapa with Handspan Travel Indochina !

The foundation of Sapa

  • Hoang Lien National Park and Vietnam's highest peak: Fansipan

Sapa's locals

  • Sapa's attractions

How to get to Sapa

Where to stay in sapa, the best time to visit sapa.

The name Sapa is derived from Mandarin Chinese. In Mandarin, SaPa or SaPá means "sandy beach" because in the past Sa Pa Town was a small sandy beach where indigenous people often gathered during their market days.

After capturing Sapa in 1887, the French colonialists expanded the area of Old Sapa into a hill station, especially for summer vacation. In 1915, the first two wooden villas were built by a French contractor. A very short time after that, many French-style villas were built making this place a popular summer destination in the entire Indochina for French officials. When it became a hill station, the French also set up the infrastructure. In 1925, they built the Cat Cat hydroelectric station. In 1930, they paved the road from Lao Cai to Sapa. A clean water supply system was also built to serve the town area. At the same time, a Sapa residential town was formed. Besides the Vietnamese people, there also were Chinese and French people living here.

Until 1943, Sapa had about 200 villas and houses. There were also many gardens, playgrounds, plantations as well as tourist attractions including Ham Rong Mountain, Hang Da Cave, Silver Waterfall, Cau May, etc. Nowadays, resorts and hotels from the French period no longer exist because most of them were destroyed during the border war with China in 1979.

Since 1954, Sapa has become a popular destination for domestic tourists but only until 1992, it has been opened to welcome international tourists.

Sapa town is 1,600 meters above sea level, 38 km from Lao Cai city, and 376 km from Hanoi. In addition to the main road from Lao Cai City, there is another transport route to Sapa, the National Highway 4D connects the border towns of Binh Lu, Tam Duong, and Lai Chau. Although the majority of Sapa residents are from ethnic minorities, the town is predominantly concentrated by Vietnamese people who rely on agriculture and tourism.

Tourists come to Sapa to enjoy not only the fresh air, and the simple tranquility of a mountainous area, but also to admire the wild beauty of Sapa's terraced fields, and waterfalls, or to discover the customs, and cultures of ethnic groups in the mountains such as H'Mong, Giay, Red Dao, Tay, Xa Pho, etc.

Hoang Lien National Park and Vietnam's highest peak: Fan Si Pan

Sapa’s highest peak is Fan Si Pan. It is 3,143m high and is also the highest mountain in Indochina on the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. The name Hoang Lien Son comes from the Hoang Lien tree, a plant that grows in this area and is used widely by local people as herbal medicine.

Hoang Lien National Park

Hoang Lien National Park

Being one of the 33 National parks in Vietnam, Hoang Lien has diverse fauna and flora. The National Park has a large area covered by pine forests which is not common for the tropical climate of Vietnam. Hoang Lien Son National Park has 136 species of birds, 56 species of mammals, and 553 species of insects. There are 37 mammal species recorded in the "Vietnam Red Book". Hoang Lien Son Park has 864 species of plants, including 173 species of medicinal plants.

6 ethnic groups are living together in Sapa including Hmong, Dzao, Giay, Xa Pho, Tay, and Viet. Although they have a cultural influence on each other, each ethnic group still retains its own cultural identity, as well as the customs that have been maintained for many generations. Traditional festivals are maintained every year such as:

  • Rice harvesting festival of the Giay people
  • Dancing Festival of Dao people.
  • Sweeping the Village festival of Xa Pho people
  • Xuong Dong or the celebration of a new crop at Ban Ho village

Dao people

Sapa' Attractions

Silver waterfall.

About 6km from Sapa towards Tram Ton pass, the Silver waterfall is about 200 m high with rushing water to create impressive mountain sounds.

Silver Waterfall

Silver Waterfall

Cau May- Rattan bridge

Cau May is an old bridge created by the locals to access their village crossing the river. The original bridge is gone however this is still one of the most-visited parts of Sapa because of its location in the beautiful Golden Stream Valley (Muong Hoa Valley).

Sapa Ancient Stone area

In Muong Hoa Valley, you can find 196 carved items covered with many strange figures of ancient inhabitants thousands of years ago. Until today many archaeologists have not yet deciphered their meanings. The ancient carvings area has been listed as the National Monument.

Sapa Ancient Stone Area

Sapa Ancient Stone Area

Ham Rong Mountain

Ham Rong Mountain is a garden on a mountain inside Sapa town. It's a small yet beautiful garden with nice walking paths and a few scenic viewpoints down to the town center. There's also an orchid garden available for visiting. There are two cultural dancing shows by the local artists from the villages around Sapa.

Sapa market

Sapa market is now available every day; however, it gets a lot busier on Sunday. A night before the market, local people travel to town and stay overnight. They gather together and sing folk songs or dance together. They often bring along their traditional instruments such as embouchure (lip instrument), bamboo flute, and bamboo saxophone to play. The activities are often happening near the market that’s why people called it a "love market".

Hilltribe villages in the valleys

Hilltribe villages in the valleys are the favorite spots for travelers to Sapa. They are the living places of local people in the villages with an incredible setting of nature. The villages are often located among the rice-terraced fields perched on the mountain slope. Trekking through these villages in Sapa while learning about the locals' fascinating culture is an amazing experience. Here is our list of 7 villages you must visit in Sapa . 

Fansipan mountain

Fansipan Mountain is also known as the roof of Indochina. It is now reachable by cable cars. You can easily spend a long half day in this area wandering through parks and flower gardens. 

For more attractions to visit in Sapa, here is your recommendation: The top 13 attractions in Sapa you should not miss . 

Sapa is 350 km far away from Hanoi and is around 40 km from Lao Cai city. Getting to Sapa now is very easy either by public transportation, tour buses, or private transportation. 

From Lao Cai city, you can reach Sapa by road only. Public buses or private cars with drivers are readily available while some small other groups choose to rent motorbikes.

How to get to Lao Cai / Sapa from Hanoi?

With the distance of about 300km, from Hanoi to Lao Cai you can choose to go by train, regular public tour buses, or private transportation. Traveling by train to Sapa is still a popular mode of transportation.

From Hanoi Railway Station, it takes you 8 hours to Lao Cai Railway Station, which is about 35 kilometers from Sapa town’s center. There are day and night trains to get to Lao Cai; however, Handspan recommends you take the night trains for a faster journey as you will have fewer stops than taking the day train. You can choose the SP1 departing at 09.35 p.m., or the SP3 train departing at 10.00 p.m. 

For more detailed information, please refer to our blog post here: A guide on traveling by train from Hanoi to Sapa .

Since the new Hanoi - Lao Cai highway is completed, getting to Sapa from Hanoi is a lot easier by road. The number of visitors choosing to travel by road increased a lot since it takes only 4 hours to get to Lao Cai from Hanoi. Many tourists choose to go by car because the time is much shorter (5 hours now compared with 8-10 hours before). Also, there are now many options for public buses that leave regularly from every bus station in the city. Many tour buses and luxury minivans depart from Hanoi Old Quarter to Sapa from early morning till noontime and from Sapa to Hanoi in the afternoon. 

For more detailed information on how to get to Sapa from Hanoi, please visit our blog post here: Hanoi to Sapa .

How to get to Sapa from Lao Cai?

Lao Cai is about 40 km from Sapa and is about one-hour drive if not in traffic. Some cars from Hanoi go straight to Sapa, but some will stop in Lao Cai, and then they use smaller cars to transfer passengers to Sapa to ensure safety (due to Lao Cai - Sa Pa road being narrow, and steep).

If you bring a motorbike to Lao Cai and then go to Sa Pa, you should follow the 4D road uphill and it takes roughly one hour too. There are also back roads to Sapa that take you on the less frequented road with amazing scenery . This is also one of our popular day tours from Lao Cai to Sapa. 

If you take the train, you will only get to Lao Cai station, then you should continue traveling 40 km more to reach Sapa town. For those who can afford it, renting a private car is the most convenient. However, for those who want to save money, you can choose to go by bus. At the outside gate of Lao Cai station, there is a bus stop. They sell bus tickets at a few dollars (equivalent to Vietnamese dong). And they also accept bulky luggage from visitors.

The bus departs from Lao Cai station square and ends at Sapa Church. They depart quite regularly every day, the earliest bus starts at around 5:30 a.m. to pick up the first groups from the train. This bus has some stops to pick up passengers at Lao Cai City and then runs straight to Sapa.

Sapa is a very popular destination hence there is a choice for everyone in terms of accommodation ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to low-budget guesthouses and homestays in the villages. In recent years, there are also options for eco-lodges.

There are hundreds of hotels in Sapa which are invested with quality from 1 to 5 stars. The standard of hotel, location, and reputation will decide the rates. Let's refer to these hotels below.

Silkpath Resort- 5-star: One of the top luxury hotels in Sapa with very nice rooms with views and a great garden.

Silkpath Resort Sapa

Silkpath Resort Sapa

Silkpath Sapa's executive room

Silkpath Sapa's executive room

Chau Long Hotel- 4-star : standing on terraces on the side of the mountain, the stone and wooden construction of the hotel blends perfectly with the surrounding valley features of terraced rice paddies and blazing green fields and overlooking Vietnam’s highest peak – Mount Fan Si Pan.

Bamboo Hotel- 4-star : one of the first hotels in Sapa that is currently renovated (in 2020). The hotel is standing on the side of the mountain with good views. The rooms are nice and spacious. A plus for this hotel is the infinity pool overlooking Fan Si Pan Mountain.  

Deluxe Room Bamboo Sapa Hotel

Deluxe Room Bamboo Sapa Hotel

Sapa Elegance Hotel- 2-star : located in the center of Sapa town, Elegance is a small charming local hotel with very spacious rooms and attentive service. 

Topas Ecolodge : is a certified unique lodge by National Geographic and one of the most wanted accommodations in Sapa. The resort is located 15km away from Sapa Center on a hilltop with bungalows overlooking a magnificent valley. This is a very good example of sustainable tourism as they use eco-friendly materials for bungalow construction and provide jobs for local people from the villages nearby. The resort has one of the most impressive all-year-round infinity pools and jacuzzi in entire Vietnam with probably the best view you can find from a mountain resort. 

Topas Ecolodge

Topas Ecolodge

Infinity pool in Topas Ecolodge

Infinity pool in Topas Ecolodge

Homestay in Sapa : Handspan has worked with communities from different villages since the beginning of tourism development in Sapa to provide a unique local experience for our guests. With the ‘Homestay’ experience, your overnight accommodation is provided by a local family in their traditional houses. There’s no private room and you’ll sometimes sleep on the floor (with a mattress) in a large communal area. The sleeping corner is set up with a single mattress (thin, but adequate), blankets (ditto), pillow, and mosquito net. The restroom is at the international standard and a few steps from the main house.

You can find one of our most popular trekking tours in Sapa here: Sapa Valley Trek and Village Stay .

The best time to travel to Sapa is from September to November and from March to May. At this time, Sapa weather is stable, with sunny days, and cool nights.

April to May is the time when ethnic minorities transplant rice in terraced fields. And this is also the blooming season of many beautiful flowers. The scene of rice transplantation is very beautiful, the photo hunters like to go in this season and the ripe rice season.

September to October is the season of ripe rice, then all the views of Sapa are glowing. Around this time, Sapa seemed to put on a new color - yellow on all the hills. But it would be best if you went in the middle or late September, to October.

Summertime from June to August is also the rainy season but it's time when the rice paddies are in lush green.

December to February can be cold however this is also the bloom season of peach blossom.

In conclusion, you have just learned some detailed information before you travel to Sapa. For any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our team. 

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Local Vietnam

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

Sapa trekking guide

  • 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

Sapa 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

Ta Van village

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

Sapa homestay view

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

Bac Ha Market from Sapa

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 cable car

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

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

Silver Waterfall Sapa

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

ciking and cycling in Sapa

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

markets around Sapa

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 Linh Ho’s Italian version

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, Ban Lao Chai is loved by many travelers as the “Muse of the Northwest”. The best time to travel to Ban 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 Ban 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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3 Days In Sapa: My Backpacking Sapa Itinerary And Tips (2024)

Find out the ideal 3 days in Sapa itinerary to ensure you have the ultimate time in Northern Vietnam. Let’s talk about the best things to do, restaurants, where to stay, and more for your three days backpacking Sapa!

Backpacking Sapa is a must when you are in Northern Vietnam. This spot is absolutely incredible with beautiful nature and friendly locals which will result in a busy 3 days in Sapa itinerary.

Think of bright green rice paddies, mountainous landscapes, and witnessing life in rural Vietnam. This place is absolutely gorgeous and honestly quite different from other popular towns and cities you may visit on your backpacking Vietnam itinerary.

Whether you want to check out some incredible waterfalls, stunning views, make friends with the local animals, or even hike Fansipan Mountain known as the roof of Indochina.

It could be easy to spend a week backpacking Sapa Vietnam, perhaps even longer exploring all the landscapes surrounding the main township. However, for the purpose of this guide, we will just be doing a 3 day Sapa Vietnam itinerary.

This is simply because the majority of travelers are limited to 30 days here and Vietnam is a huge country you need time to explore it all. Throughout the majority of my travels in Vietnam , I found having 3 days in each location was a great way to experience the best of that place.

So let’s get into the details of this 3 days in Sapa itinerary. From where to stay, where to eat, and what to do.

I have included everything you could ever want to know and need to know while backpacking Sapa. That way you can really get into that relaxed Northern Vietnam vibe and have a stress-free time here.

Backpacking Sapa Itinerary: 3 Days In Sapa Vietnam For The Ultimate Time

sun plaza in the middle of sapa town

🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: Baolau & 12.Go Asia

Need A Quick Answer?

If you perhaps don’t have time to read this entire guide on how to spend your time in Sapa Vietnam, no worries, here are the top tips:

Best Sapa 2 Day Tour: Enjoy a stress-free trip with everything planned out including a visit to Fansipan Peak and Cat Cat Village, and return transfers from Hanoi. Book now with Get Your Guide .

Easiest & Best Way to Reach Sapa From Hanoi: Public transport such as a bus or train, and even private taxis can be booked on 12 Go Asia.

Where to Stay in Sapa: Top hostel choices for backpackers in Sapa include Lustig Hostel (dorms start from $4.00) and Flaco Hostel Sapa (dorms start from $10.00)

Explore The Countryside: Take a Sapa trekking tour through the rice terraces and to local villages. Book now with Viator.

How Many Days In Sapa Should You Stay?

If youre wondering how long to stay in Sapa, worry no more. Many tourists spend about two to four days in Sapa to explore the scenic town, nearby Sapa Valley, and beautiful mountains.

Three days is often considered ideal, which should give you enough time to get out into nature, take in the beautiful scenery, sample the delicious cuisine, and find the best deals at the shops.

Honestly, if you want to do some Sapa trekking maybe a homestay 2 days in Sapa would not be enough for this and to take in the town as well. Therefore three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Sapa in Vietnam.

a couple of houses while trekking the countryside on the 3 day sapa itinerary

How To Plan A Sapa Itinerary

Now when it comes to your Sapa Itinerary you do have a couple of options as to getting to and visiting Sapa:

Independent travel: You can find numerous buses and trains traveling from Hanoi to Sapa so it is pretty damn easy to book it yourself over on 12 Go Asia. Once in Sapa hostels and guesthouses are everywhere, and treks into the valley are easy to arrange.

Organized tours: You will find numerous tours departing from Hanoi to Sapa which include your transfers, accommodation, activities, and some meals. This is a stress-free and easy way to explore Sapa on a budget. Recommended Tours:

  • Homestay: 2 day, 1 night Sapa trip in homestay accommodation . It’s super affordable and the most popular choice for travelers. Perfect if you are on a tight itinerary
  • Hotel: 2 day, 1 night Sapa trip in 3-star hotel room perfect for those who enjoy a more comfortable stay.
  • Homestay AND hotel: 3 day, 2 night Sapa trip including 1 night in a hotel and the other in a homestay , this has the best of both worlds and gives you to best option to experience Sapa.

Day 1 Of 3 Days In Sapa Itinerary

For your first day in our 3 days in Sapa itinerary expect to check out some of the incredible nature this town has to offer and what makes it unique.

Morning: Mount Fansipan

First up it’s an adventure up the highest mountain in Indochina. Though before we do that, you’ll need to fuel yourself with some breakfast. Head to Good Morning View Restaurant for a cheap meal to start the day.

After a delicious meal, it is time to start your backpacking Sapa adventure with our 3 days in Sapa Vietnam itinerary.

What You Need To Know About Mount Fansipan

Before figuring out how to get to the top of Mount Fansipan you’ll need to get to the base. It is located about a 30-minute drive from the township of Sapa.

The easiest way to get there will be by Taxi or Grab. You should estimate spending around $20.00 for the round trip. Alternatively, you could also book a group tour to visit.

A cheaper way to do it is by buying a ticket at Sun Plaza in Sapa. For $30.00 this gives you return transport in a tram and the cable car up the mountain.

Once at the base, you then have two different options to get to the top, either hike or take the cable car. Though whichever you choose be sure to wear decent shoes as even taking the cable car you will need to climb up over 600 steps to reach the top.

You will also want to bring along some warm clothes as the weather can be quite harsh at the peak.

taking the cable car up fansipan mountain

Reaching Mount Fansipan Peak

Hike: Now if you perhaps don’t want to do everything in this itinerary and are just using it for inspiration then you may find yourself being keen to hike to the top.

Be aware this is a full-day adventure that’ll take you around 10 hours just to arrive at the peak! You can book a hiking tour to Fansipan Peak on Viator for $80.00 including entrance fee, food, drink, and transfers.

Cable Car: For those short on time or simply just not keen to inflict that kind of pain on themselves, taking the cable car is an excellent way to reach the peak of Mount Fansipan. The journey will only take you 20 minutes, much quicker than the 10-hour hike.

Each cable car can hold up to 35 passengers, though try to get a window seat for the best views! Also, it only operates between the hours of 7:30 am and 5:30 pm so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.

mount fansipan in sapa at sunrise

Afternoon- Waterfalls

After exploring the incredible Fansipan Mountain stop in at Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall on your journey back to Sapa. This is on the way to the town of Sapa so it is the perfect excuse to stop.

Love Waterfall should be your first stop. This is a short 15 to 20-minute hike away from the main road. It is a peaceful walk underneath a beautiful forest. The entry fee is $2.90 / 70,000VND and it is worth it.

A few kilometer’s drive away is also Silver Waterfall . This can be seen from the roadside. However, I definitely recommend hiking up the stairs to the top for the best view.

looking up at love waterfall across the bridge

Evening – Sapa Night Market

Time for an early dinner as you haven’t really had a chance to stop and simply relax. Head back to Sapa town and grab a bite to eat at Anise Sapa Restaurant .

They have the most incredible hot pots here. A sure way to build your energy back up after a busy day of exploring!

Next head to the Sapa Night Market . This is only held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. So be aware you may need to switch this Sapa itinerary around depending on which days you plan to visit.

It runs from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm and is located on N1 Street in the middle of town so is super accessible.

This is the perfect place to partake in a little bit of souvenir shopping or perhaps go for a second dinner. Buying here is a great way to support the economy and the minority tribes here in Sapa as this is where they sell a lot of their goods.

Day 2 Of 3 Days In Sapa Itinerary

On our second day of 3 days in Sapa itinerary, we will head more out into the countryside and stay at a homestay.

There is so much more to see than what is in the main town so make sure you venture further while backpacking Sapa.

Morning & Afternoon- Trek Towards Ta Van

After a delicious breakfast at Le Gecko Cafe . Make sure to fuel up as you’ll need the energy for today’s adventures as we will be doing some serious trekking to the small community of Ta Van.

Here you can find loads of Homestays where you can experience local life and appreciate countryside living. Trekking the incredible landscapes of Sapa is one of the best things to do here.

If you perhaps don’t feel like trekking but still want to experience some beautiful sights then you can actually still take a taxi the majority of the way.

This will cost you around $20.00. Though be prepared for a bumpy journey as the roads are not the best.

You can decide whether you want a guided trek to Ta Van or not. I recommend talking to your accommodation and asking whether you can leave your luggage there for the night. That way you will only need to trek with a day pack.

Remember if it has recently been raining then be prepared to walk the main road or just get muddy. We decided to walk the main road. Though if the weather is good you will want to trek in the valley among the rice fields.

Whether you decide to do a guided or unguided trek is completely your choice. Though since you are backpacking Sapa I will assume you want to do it unguided and on a budget.

Therefore I recommend you download the Maps.Me app and the Sapa map offline. This points out the trekking routes you can take and highlights along the way.

trekking on a guided tour in 3 days in sapa itinerary

Evening- Home Stay In Ta Van

You will want to book your homestay in Ta Van in advance. There are so many places to choose from and the easiest way to book your Homestay is through Booking.com.

This is what I used to book my homestay making it a hassle-free experience. You will just need to go through the listings and choose one of the homestay options or look at the map view and choose something, not in the main town.

I stayed in a homestay slightly outside of Ta Van, though it only took about a 15-minute walk to be in the town. Unfortunately, it is no longer available. Though, a lot of homestays are quite similar in terms of facilities and inclusions.

Make sure you contact your host in advance if you require a trekking guide. They will be able to recommend one or may even do it themselves. I also recommend asking if they do a family-style dinner and partake in that.

They generally cost a few dollars and you will get to experience a local-style dinner and share stories over a meal. Seriously some of the best food I had in Vietnam was during my homestay.

You don’t necessarily need to stay in Ta Van. There are plenty of other homestays dotted around the countryside in Sapa.

Though Ta Van is a small little village with quite a lot going on. There are a couple of delicious restaurants here and shops in case you require anything.

a hammock hanging up outside our sapa homestay on a foggy day

Day 3 Of 3 Days In Sapa Itinerary

On our last day of 3 days in Sapa itinerary, we will be experiencing a bit more of local life.

Explore the township of Ta Van or simply the peacefulness of life at your homestay, the culture at Cat Cat Village, and then top it all off with a well-deserved massage.

Morning- Explore Ta Van / Head Back To Sapa

Spend your morning exploring Ta Van village and heading back to the main town for Lunch. You can choose to either walk there or taxi.

Though be aware it is quite uphill, whereas the way to Ta Van is downhill. A taxi will only cost you $20.00 so can work out quite affordable if you have people to share it with.

If you want to visit Cat Cat Village in the afternoon then I would recommend taking a taxi. Though be aware it is quite touristy so perhaps you would rather enjoy a peaceful walk back to Sapa town than visit Cat Cat Village and that is okay as well.

water buffalos on the road to sapa

Afternoon- Cat Cat Village

Before heading out to Cat Cat Village be sure to grab lunch from one of the delicious restaurants in town. There is plenty to choose from and you deserve a hearty meal. Therefore if you are craving pizza or pasta just get it!

Cat Cat Village is a popular spot for tourists to visit while in Sapa. It is super accessible being located in the Muong Hoa Valley, just 3 kilometers from Sapa Town.

It is a super easy walk to get here and the pathway is well-maintained. The entry fee is $1.00 / 25,000 VND.

This place is home to the ethnic H’Mong and Dzao people and here they come together to demonstrate their handicrafts and skills to those interested. These skills include cultivating rice and corn as well as weaving fabric and creating handicrafts.

You will be able to enjoy not only the stunning scenery and villages but meet beautiful people as they show you their way of life.

Be aware that you just spent the evening at a very authentic homestay experience and have spent the past 24 hours appreciating the beauty of the countryside as well as the villages there.

You may find Cat Cat Village a bit touristy compared to what you have already seen. Though I am just letting you know this so you can set your expectations accordingly.

fast water flowing under the bridge at cat cat village sapa itinerary

Evening – Massage

For the final evening of your 3 day Sapa itinerary, I highly recommend getting yourself a massage. For just a few dollars you can find yourself relaxing and getting a back or foot massage.

There are so many massage parlors located around Sapa town you won’t have trouble finding one close to your hotel.

Go on have a massage, after all that trekking in Sapa you deserve to relax and be pampered!

Add To Your Sapa Itinerary?

If you happen to be staying longer than 3 days in Sapa then there are other things to add to your Sapa itinerary:

O Quy Ho Pass: This is one of the incredible passes in Vietnam’s northwestern region. At O Quy Ho Pass you can discover beautiful countryside as you travel over and around mountains.

Y Ty: A few hour’s drive away from Sapa is Y Ty. This is a much more authentic place when it comes to experiencing the culture in Northern Vietnam. Here you can find a few homestays who will be more than happy to sell you a bed. Located at over 2000 meters above sea level the temperature here is cooler year-round. This is where the minority Ha Ni people live and they cultivate many medicinal plants.

Ha Giang Loop: If you have some extra time and want to explore further up North, why not try the Ha Giang Loop? This is an epic adventure through the roads in Northern Vietnam.

Ha Long Bay: Another alternative is Ha Long Bay. This famous site is a must and one of the best things to do in Vietnam .

Map Of The Sapa Itinerary

Travel Tips For Your 3 Days In Sapa Itinerary

So you have your backpacking Sapa itinerary sorted, now let’s get into my top travel tips for your 3 days in Sapa.

This will allow you to have a stress-free time with the best weather, stay in the best accommodation, and know how to keep safe.

When To Travel Sapa

Depending on when you visit Sapa can seriously affect how your trip goes and honestly what you can do/see.

I, unfortunately, didn’t do this research prior to visiting when I did during the month of February. As a result, there was a constant fog, the temperature was below zero degrees Celsius and we had to buy more warm clothes as soon as we arrived in Sapa town.

Nevertheless, we made the most out of a bad situation. Though read on to find out when exactly you should travel to Sapa.

December To February

This is the coldest part of the year and also the time I visited. Be aware many homestays don’t have heaters so make sure to bring warm clothes.

It can even get so cold that it can snow in Sapa! It isn’t super wet, though there is a constant fog around so things can feel quite moist.

March To April

This is a beautiful time to travel to Sapa. It is when the rice fields are the greenest and many flowers are in bloom.

This is one of the most popular times to be backpacking Sapa.

May To August

This is the wet season when it is known to rain. Though this is just for a few hours each day, so bring a rain jacket and some old shoes for trekking.

September To November

During these months is when the rice harvest happens. As a result, you may not get those bright green rice fields that Sapa is so famous for.

Though you will get a unique experience as you see the landscapes constantly being worked around you.

one of the lodges on the road to ta van

How To Get To Sapa

The gateway to Sapa is Hanoi so no doubt this will be your starting point. There is a variety of transport options you can take to get there so I will give you a brief overview of them all.

Though for more detail I recommend checking out my Hanoi to Sapa travel guide .

Tickets for all journeys can be purchased on Baolau or 12.Go Asia

Train: The train is a great and super comfortable way to travel. Though the main thing to be aware of is that the train arrives in Lao Cai, not Sapa. This means you will need to take another form of transport for the last 1 hour.

Bus: If you are on more of a budget then you may find yourself leaning towards taking a sleeper bus from Hanoi to Sapa. This total journey takes around 6 hours which honestly isn’t too painful. I find anything over 8 hours really makes you question your life choices. Plus it is a direct journey so there is no need to stop in Lao Cai like the train.

Taxi: If you have a bit more money to spend why not book a private taxi from Hanoi to Sapa? No doubt this will be the fastest and most comfortable journey you could take.

Mini Van: Taking the minivan is another great way to travel from Hanoi to Sapa. This is slightly a more expensive option than the bus, but some of these minivans are fancy AF. Like they are known as limousine vans. Think plush, lazy-boy-style seats.

the rice terraces in sapa from above backpacking sapa

Where To Stay While Backpacking Sapa?

When deiciding your accommodation in Sapa you will be absolutely spoilt for choice. Most people, including myself, book a mixture of a hotel in the main town and a homestay among the rice terraces.

Sapa town has many affordable and more luxurious options. From comfortable guesthouses to sparkling brand-new hotels. The township is nice and compact making it easy to travel everywhere on foot.

I also recommend while you are in Sapa to do a homestay experience. This is where you will live alongside a local family.

You can eat what they eat, see the incredible countryside and explore to your heart’s content. They seem to be cheaper than the hotels in the main town, though they will be a lot more basic.

Our homestay had limited electricity which meant evenings cuddled up around the fire while eating warm sugarcane.

Staying Safe While Backpacking Sapa

Sapa is a relatively safe place to explore with the exception of the many Vietnam scams you will find around the country . This mainly revolves around robberies and pickpocketing.

Some of the children in their traditional clothes may be thieves looking for an opportunity. One of the children may try to keep you occupied, while another will pickpocket you.

In Vietnam motorbike snatch and grab is super common as well. Someone may see that your handbag, backpack, camera, or phone is not secure, so they will drive by on their motorbike and grab it.

Don’t drink the water out of the tap. Many hotels and hostels will have water refill stations or minimarts that sell bottles super cheap as well.

The main thing to remember is to just use your common sense. This should keep you out of dangerous situations.

I wasn’t scammed or taken advantage of once in Vietnam. Though I put this down to doing my research in advance and becoming familiar with common scams.

looking out over the mountains while on the 3 days in sapa itinerary

Where To After Your 3 Days In Sapa Vietnam Itinerary?

North: Apart from the Ha Giang Loop there isn’t too much else North of Sapa. If you have your own motorbike then you may want to explore the North. Though I wouldn’t recommend it if you are traveling solo and want to meet other people.

South: Alternatively, you can end back down South towards and past Hanoi .

Honestly, I recommend taking the train down Vietnam and hitting up some of the highlights including seeing Phu Quoc, Imperial City of Hue , Hoi An , snorkeling In Nha Trang , seeing the sand dunes in Mui Ne , and the tunnels in Ho Chi Minh .

FAQs About Sapa Itinerary 3 Days

Is sapa too touristy.

As a popular tourist destination Sapa can come off quite touristy at times. Especially some parts such as Cat Cat Village where it may seem like it is all put on for visitors. I recommend going on a trekking tour to a more authetic village or booking a homestay experience.

How many days in Sapa is enough?

Honestly the amount of days you spend in Sapa intieraly depends on what you can to do there and your travel style. However for the typical traveler I would recomend a minimum of 3 days in Sapa. This will give you enough time to explore the main town as well as some of the ethnic villages in the valley.

What is the best month to visit Sapa Vietnam?

The best time to visit Sapa is from September to November or March to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant with warm temperatures during the day and cool temperatures at night, making it comfortable for activities such as trekking.

Vietnam Sapa Itinerary: Wrap Up

Vietnam offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience for travelers. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant ethnic cultures, and adventurous activities, it is no wonder that Sapa has become a popular destination.

From trekking through picturesque rice terraces to visiting local villages and markets, this 3 day Sapa itinerary promises a memorable holiday.

So pack your bags and embark on an adventure in the breathtaking mountains of Sapa!

Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

Find out the ideal 3 days in Sapa itinerary to ensure you have the ultimate time in Northern Vietnam. Let’s talk about the best things to do, restaurants, where to stay, and more for your three days backpacking Sapa!

Want more Vietnam Inspiration? Check out….

  • 3 WEEKS IN VIETNAM ITINERARY
  • COMMON SCAMS IN VIETNAM
  • BEST THINGS TO DO IN VIETNAM
  • COST TO TRAVEL IN VIETNAM & MY BACKPACKING BUDGET
  • BACKPACKING VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS
  • TAKING A VIETNAM SLEEPER BUS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
  • SURVIVING A VIETNAM SLEEPER TRAIN
  • BACKPACKING HANOI TRAVEL TIPS
  • 3 DAYS IN HANOI ITINERARY FOR TRAVELERS
  • BEST HOSTELS IN HANOI
  • VISITING HA LONG BAY ON A BUDGET
  • DISCOVERING LAN HA BAY & CAT BA ISLAND
  • HANOI TO SAPA
  • 3 DAY IN SAPA ITINERARY
  • WHAT IS SAPA LIKE IN FEBRUARY
  • HANOI TO HUE TRANSPORT GUIDE
  • VISITING THE IMPERIAL CITY OF HUE
  • 2 DAYS IN HUE BACKPACKING ITINERARY
  • HUE TO DA NANG: ALL WAYS TO TRAVEL
  • DA NANG TO HOI AN: EASIEST WAYS TO TRAVEL
  • TRA QUE VEGETABLE VILLAGE IN HOI AN, VIETNAM
  • A MORNING AT THE MY SON TEMPLES IN HOI AN, VIETNAM
  • THANH HA POTTERY VILLAGE IN HOI AN
  • BACKPACKING HOI AN ITINERARY
  • BEST THINGS TO DO IN HOI AN
  • HOI AN TO NHA TRANG TRANSPORT GUIDE
  • SNORKELING IN NHA TRANG
  • BACKPACKING NHA TRANG TRAVEL ITINERARY
  • BEST BEACHES IN NHA TRANG WORTH VISITING
  • NHA TRANG TO MUI NE TRANSPORT GUIDE
  • BACKPACKING MUI NE TRAVEL GUIDE
  • BEST THINGS TO DO IN MUI NE
  • MUI NE TO HO CHI MINH CITY: ALL WAYS TO TRAVEL EXPLAINED
  • CHEAPEST TOUR OF THE CU CHI TUNNELS: IS IT WORTH IT
  • BACKPACKING HO CHI MINH TRAVEL GUIDE
  • HOW TO TRAVEL VIETNAM TO CAMBODIA: HO CHI MINH CITY TO PHNOM PENH

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

Photo credit: “ Vietnam-Sapa-Cat Cat Village-P1070359 ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by mmmngai.rogers . “ Sapa Love Waterfall ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Guerette . “ Sapa Silver Waterfall ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Gueretto .

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Avatar for Tasha Amy

Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

2 thoughts on “ 3 Days In Sapa: My Backpacking Sapa Itinerary And Tips (2024) ”

Avatar for Pete

Hi. Thank you for your informative article. May I ask if you experienced regional/territorial health/covid restriction traveling inside Vietnam? Thank you.

Avatar for Tasha Amy

Hey Pete, I traveled pre covid, but as far as I am aware the restrictions are relatively minimal and quite different to other southeast asian countries as mask-wearing isn’t enforced. Sorry I couldn’t be of more help :) I have recently been watching Paddy Doyle on Youtube who has been traveling the entirety of the country and he did speak on how relaxed covid measures are in the country

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Travel DMC & Tour Operator in Southeast Asia

Best 3 Days Sapa Itinerary: An Ultimately Travel Guide Blog

Best 3 Days Sapa Itinerary: An Ultimately Travel Guide Blog

  • 16 January, 2023 3:22 pm

Table of Contents

It is more magnificent than we expected, and Sapa is an amazing destination. You may find lovely hill-tribe settlements, rice terraces, and foggy lush green environment in Sapa itinerary. The natural beauty and distinctive culture of this place astound us.

YouTube video

On Metta Voyage trip to Sapa, we went to the local market and enjoyed a wonderful hike through the villages where the native tribal people reside. We were really astounded when we encountered minority ethnic communities in isolated highland places.

We will share with you our itinerary for traveling around the region in this blog post on the Sapa travel guide . To aid you in organizing and preparing for your trip to Sapa, we’ve packed all of our travel advice and information. Let’s investigate it!

1. 3 Days Sapa itinerary

1.1. day 1:  hanoi – sapa – cat cat village (b/l).

Breakfast is served in the hotel. you’ll then embark on a five-hour trip to Sapa. Once there, check into the hotel. Join a walking tour in the afternoon to visit the H’mong minority’s hill tribe villages in Cat Cat. We will meet a few of the minority residents and discover more about their way of life. Discover their way of life and culture.

sapa travel videos

Cat Cat village is the most striking village in Northwestern Vietnam, according to many who enjoy trekking, especially in Sapa. Tourists are drawn to Cat Cat Village by both its unspoilt natural beauty and the distinctive cultural aspects of the Mong people. The villagers in this community continue to practice and develop traditional crafts in addition to growing rice in the terraced fields.

You will have the chance to experience Cat Cat village ‘s alluring natural surroundings, distinctive culture, and several delectable dishes when you visit.

Service includes:

  • Transfer : Private
  • Guide : English Speaking Guide
  • Meal : Breakfast, Lunch
  • Accomodation : 3-4* hotel or homestay

1.2. DAY 2: TREKKING TO REMOTES VILLAGES (B/L)

sapa travel videos

After breakfast, you’ll see the Sapa market before beginning a 3–4 hour hike through the hill tribe communities of Lao Chai and Ta Van , which are inhabited by H’mong and Dzay people . The journey will take you over buffalo pathways and trails.

1.2.1. Lao Chai Village

sapa travel videos

One of Sapa’s most impressive sites is Lao Chai Village , which is where the Black H’mong live . Therefore, there is no justification for leaving this location out of any Sapa tours or any Vietnam Local Tour Company. Lao Chai will greet you with warmth and hospitality, and the village offers endless unique experiences.

Also, Lao Chai is the perfect location for trekking activities to discover Sapa’s natural beauty because of its spectacular grandeur of terraced fields, waterfalls, and mountains. By trekking to the villages, you may not only take in the full splendor of Sapa’s natural surroundings but also learn more about the locals’ way of life, traditions, and culture.

1.2.2. Ta Van Village

sapa travel videos

Coming to Ta Van , guests may enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the hamlet as well as the magnificent beauty of nature with the gurgling sound of streams and the singing of wild birds urging you to discover love.

The Muong Hoa Stream is on the front side of the settlement, which is tilted back against the Hoang Lien Son Mountain . The locals’ homes are oriented toward the northeast. The Giay school of feng shui holds that it is bad luck to construct a home with the mountain and stream flow in the downward direction. The Giay people have continued to practice their traditional religion, customs, and festivals for hundreds of years.

1.3. DAY 3: SAPA – FANSIPAN – HANOI (B/L)

sapa travel videos

After a leisurely breakfast in the hotel, a guide and driver will transport you to the cable car station . It takes 20 minutes to travel 20 miles through breathtaking scenery to reach the top of the mountain.

The cable cars run from 7:30am to 5:30pm every single day. Each one can accommodate up to 35 people . You will start to float above the rice terraces and jagged cliffs below as soon as you leave the station. As you progressively ascend to this towering peak above the clouds, large windows allow you to take in the scenery all around.

You have 1.5 hours to take in the scenery, snap pictures, and visit the spiritual sites before making the 600-step climb to Fansipan , the Indochina-top roof’s.

Then come back to Cable Car Station and return to Sapa town to transfer to Hanoi.

2. Sapa travel guide and tips

2.1. best time to visit sapa.

The months of March to May and September to November are the ideal times to visit Sapa. These are generally stable weather conditions, with sunny days and cold nights. Fall is the first timeframe. The weather is excellent for tourism at this time of year: dry, clear, and sunny conditions prevail.

September through October offer the nicest terrace views in Sapa. It’s the ideal time for hiking and taking pictures due to the cold, dry weather and the constant temperature.

2.1.1. Accommodation in Sapa

sapa travel videos

Cat Cat Garden Hotel

Location: 79 Fansipan, San Sa Ho Commune, Lao Cai (0.4km from Cat Cat Village)

Price: from 700,000 VND/night

Sapa Vista Hotel

Location: 70 Fansipan, Sapa Town, Lao Cai

Price: from 400,000 VND/night

Aira Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa

Location: 30 Hoang Lien Street, Sapa Town, Lao Cai

Price: from 1,000,000 VND/night

2.1.2. Restaurants in Sapa

sapa travel videos

Cat Cat Riverside

Location: Cat Cat Village, San Sa Ho, Sapa, Lao Cai

Typical food: local specialties, babeque, street food, fast food, coffee

Typical food: local specialties, Vietnamese cuisine, Asian dishes

Aira Restaurant & Bar

Location: 30 Hoang Lien, Aira Boutique Hotel, Sapa, Lao Cai (0.8km from Cat Cat Village)

Typical food: Vietnamese cuisine, Asian dishes

Good Morning Vietnam

Location: 63B Fansipan Street, Sapa, Lao Cai (0.8 km from Cat Cat Village)

Typical food: Vietnamese cuisine, French food, Asian dishes

Check out Metta Vogaye’s blog for more valuable information about travel in Vietnam, culture, traditional foods, and tour guides. 

Website: mettavoyage.com

Email: [email protected]

Hotline 24/7: + 84 989 383 572

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Sapa Travel on a Budget

Featured image sapa travel guide feature image

Estimated reading time: 13 minutes

In This Post

Why Sapa is Perfect for Budget Travelers

I travelled for a little over 2 weeks in Vietnam, trying to pack in as many budget-friendly Vietnam experiences as possible! When I visited Cat-ba Island I thought I’d hit the jackpot of a budget-friendly Vietnam destination. Only to find that Vietnam has a lot more to offer. When it comes to budget travelling in Vietnam, Sapa is a brilliant choice. And my Sapa travel guide will help you plan your Sapa trip.

Just imagine hiking through lush rice terraces and marvelling at cascading waterfalls, all for free! And that’s not all. Sapa’s ethnic minority communities offer a unique cultural experience that won’t drain your wallet. Engage with friendly locals, immerse yourself in traditional activities, and soak up the authentic way of life without spending a fortune.

When it comes to accommodations, Sapa has you covered with budget-friendly options. You can expect to pay around $10-$20 per night for a comfortable stay. And let’s talk about the food! Sapa boasts a mouthwatering array of affordable eateries where you can sample local delicacies for as little as $2-$5 per meal. 

Getting around in Sapa is easy on the wallet too. Buses and taxis offer affordable transportation options within the town, while local guides and tour operators provide reasonably priced trekking tours to explore the natural wonders of the region. 

I’m going to go into detail for each of the following points in this Sapa travel guide.

How to get to Sapa from Hanoi?

Sapa, located in the northwest region of Vietnam, offers several transportation options for travellers making their way from Hanoi . When it comes to cost-effectiveness, my recommendation would be to take an overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, followed by a bus or taxi ride to Sapa town.

By opting for the Sapa train, you not only save on accommodation costs for a night but also get to experience a unique mode of travel. Once you arrive at Lao Cai station, which is the nearest railway station to Sapa, you can take a short bus or taxi ride to reach the town.

I must admit that changing multiple modes of transport can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you’re carrying a lot of luggage. But if you’re up for an adventure and want to make the most of your budget, this option is worth considering. 

On the other hand, if you prefer a more direct route without the need for transfers, you can choose to take a bus directly from Hanoi to Sapa. This option is convenient and eliminates the need to change transportation modes. However, do keep in mind that the bus journey may take longer than the train ride, depending on the traffic conditions.

When it comes to cost, both the train and bus options are relatively budget-friendly. The train ticket prices vary depending on the class and type of cabin you choose, while the bus fares are generally fixed. It’s advisable to check the current prices and schedules in advance to plan your journey accordingly.

sapa travel videos

What is the best time to visit Sapa?

The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most picturesque. A lot of activities are shut during the off-season in Sapa Vietnam. 

How many days should I spend in Sapa?

I spent 4 days in Sapa, and I feel that’s the minimum anyone should spend during their trip to Sapa. 3-4 days is a comfortable time to go on some Sapa trekking, experience a homestay, visit Sapa markets and still have an extra day to account for flexibility. 

If you have a bit more time in hand, I’d suggest adding 6 days to your Vietnam itinerary for the Sapa tour. This allows for further exploration of hidden gems, deeper cultural immersion, and the opportunity to venture on longer and more challenging treks, such as conquering the iconic Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.

What are the top 10 attractions to visit in Sapa?

1. fansipan mountain.

Most travellers come to Sapa Vietnam to conquer the highest peak in Indochina. You can either take the cable car or challenge yourself with a multi-day trek. Cable car fee: VND 700,000 (round trip).

2. Cat Cat Village

Here you can immerse yourself in the rich culture of the H’mong ethnic group at Cat Cat Village. I highly recommend traditional handicrafts, ethnic costumes, and cultural performances.

3. Muong Hoa Valley

Who doesn’t love wandering through the mesmerizing terraced rice fields? In Muong Hoa Valley, enjoy the panoramic beauty and choose from various hiking trails. Don’t miss the opportunity to interact with local ethnic communities along the way. 

4. Love Waterfall

Admire the stunning Love Waterfall, named for its romantic aura. Trek through lush forests to reach the waterfall and take in its natural beauty. Be aware of the rainy season when the waterfall is at its most powerful. Entry fee: VND 70,000.

5. Sapa Market

I came across many markets while exploring Vietnam. One such was the Sapa market. Here local vendors sell traditional handicrafts, textiles, fresh produce, and souvenirs. A great place to try some Sapa cuisine.

6. Silver Waterfall

Discover the majestic Silver Waterfall cascading down from the mountains. Enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings and take memorable photos of this natural wonder.

7. Ta Phin Village

Any Sapa travel guide is incomplete without this! Visit Ta Phin Village to encounter the Red Dao ethnic community. Engage in cultural exchanges, witness their unique customs, and appreciate their traditional textile craftsmanship.

8. Ham Rong Mountain

A great place to click some panoramic images of Sapa town. If extreme Sapa trekking is not for you, take a stroll in the beautiful gardens of Ham Rong Mountain. Admire vibrant flowers, scenic viewpoints, and charming orchid gardens. Entry fee: VND 70,000.

9. Bac Ha Market

Have a couple of extra days on your Vietnam trip ? Step outside of Sapa town to experience the Bac Ha Market. Marvel at the colourful display of traditional costumes, handicrafts, and local products. A great place to buy some unique Vietnamese souvenirs. 

10. Thac Bac (Silver) Waterfall

Add this to your Sapa hike. Thac Bac Waterfall, also known as the Silver Waterfall is a brilliant trail if you are looking for a waterfall adventure in Sapa Vietnam. 

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What are the popular trekking routes in Sapa?

When it comes to trekking in Sapa, you have the option to go solo or join a guided tour. If you’re an experienced hiker who loves the thrill of exploring on your own terms, you can definitely tackle these treks independently. Just make sure you’re confident in your navigation skills and take the necessary precautions. 

Hiring a local guide is still a good idea for safety and to learn more about the area’s culture. On the other hand, if you prefer a more organized experience with the convenience of transportation, accommodations, and meals are taken care of, signing up for a guided tour is a great choice. They provide knowledgeable guides who can enhance your trekking adventure with their insights and ensure you don’t miss out on any hidden gems. 

Ultimately, the choice is yours – whether you prefer the freedom of going solo or the ease of joining a tour, Sapa’s stunning trekking routes await your exploration.

  • Cat Cat Village Trek: A relatively easy trek that takes you through scenic landscapes to Cat Cat Village. Immerse yourself in H’mong culture, witness traditional handicrafts, and enjoy breathtaking views of the valley.
  • Muong Hoa Valley Trek: This moderate-level trek showcases the beauty of Sapa’s terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages. Traverse the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley, visit villages like Lao Chai and Ta Van, and interact with locals.
  • Fansipan Trek: For the adventurous and physically fit, conquering Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, is a must. This challenging trek requires multiple days and offers stunning panoramic views as a reward.
  • Ta Phin Village Trek: Explore the beautiful surroundings of Sapa and visit Ta Phin Village, home to the Red Dao ethnic group. Enjoy a moderate-level trek, learn about their traditions, and experience their warm hospitality.
  • Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall Trek: Combine nature and adventure on this trek that takes you to two beautiful waterfalls. Enjoy scenic trails, immerse yourself in the lush greenery, and witness the power and beauty of the waterfalls.
  • Heaven’s Gate Trek: Embark on a moderate trek to Heaven’s Gate (Tram Ton Pass), the highest mountain pass in Vietnam. Marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Bac Ha Trek: Venture out of Sapa to Bac Ha and embark on a trek that combines breathtaking landscapes with visits to ethnic minority markets. Experience the vibrant culture, encounter different ethnic groups, and immerse yourself in the local traditions.

Are there homestay options available in Sapa?

Yes, Sapa offers wonderful homestay experiences for travellers seeking an immersive cultural encounter. After all, travelling in Sapa is all about cultural experiences!  It’s a fantastic way to forge connections, gain insights into local life, and create lasting memories.

I recommend booking the homestays in advance, especially if you are travelling in peak season. Also, be a responsible traveller, these communities are opening up their homes to tourists, let’s be kind to them. 

sapa travel videos

What are the must-try local dishes in Sapa?

My Sapa travel guide is incomplete without mentioning the brilliant Sapa food! During my time in Sapa, I tried a bunch of vegetarian Vietnamese dishes . These are either inherently vegetarian or the locals have adapted them to be vegetarian-friendly. 

Here are some of my recommended dishes from Sapa Food: 

  • Thang Co: This traditional speciality is a hearty soup made with horse meat (which can be substituted with beef) and a blend of local herbs and spices. While it may not be suitable for vegetarians, it is a popular dish among meat lovers in Sapa.
  • Com Lam: Com Lam is a unique dish made of sticky rice cooked inside bamboo tubes. The aromatic flavour of the bamboo infuses into the rice, creating a delicious and fragrant treat. It’s often served with grilled vegetables or tofu, making it an excellent vegetarian option.
  • Mien Tron: Mien Tron is a noodle salad dish featuring glass noodles tossed with fresh herbs, vegetables, and sometimes tofu or mushrooms. The combination of textures and flavours makes it a refreshing and satisfying choice for vegetarians.
  • Xoi Xeo: Xoi Xeo is a savoury sticky rice dish topped with fried onions, roasted peanuts, and sometimes mung bean paste. It’s a popular street food snack and can be enjoyed as a vegetarian option by skipping any meat toppings.
  • Banh Cuon: Banh Cuon is a delicate rice noodle roll filled with various ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, and herbs. It’s typically served with a side of sweet and tangy dipping sauce. Vegetarians can enjoy the version without meat fillings.
  • Chayote Leaves Stir-fry: Chayote leaves, locally known as “su su,” are a popular ingredient in Sapa cuisine. They are often stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish.

Next up on my Sapa travel guide is the average daily cost of travelling to Sapa. 

What is the average daily budget for a trip to Sapa?

Now, let’s dive into the burning question of how much a trip to Sapa would cost. The average daily budget for a Sapa trip can vary depending on your travel style, preferences, and the activities you plan to do. During my visit to Sapa, I found that an average daily budget of 900,000 VND worked well for me. I opted for budget-friendly accommodations, ate at local vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and went on a couple of  Sapa treks. 

To assist you in planning your Sapa travel expenses, here are approximate daily budgets for different travel ranges:

Budget Travel to Sapa

For budget-conscious travellers who prioritize cost-saving options, the average daily budget for a Sapa trip can range from 300,000 VND to 500,000 VND per person.

  • Accommodation: Budget-friendly options like guesthouses, hostels, or homestays can cost around 150,000 VND to 300,000 VND per night.
  • Meals: Enjoying affordable local cuisine, street food, and market eats can cost around 50,000 VND to 100,000 VND per day.
  • Transportation: Opting for local buses, shared taxis, or even walking can keep transportation costs within 50,000 VND to 100,000 VND per day.
  • Attractions: Many natural attractions and hiking trails in Sapa are free to explore, while some may have a small admission fee ranging from 20,000 VND to 50,000 VND per site.
  • Miscellaneous: Keep some budget aside for small purchases, snacks, and unexpected expenses, which can amount to approximately 50,000 VND per day.

Mid-Range Travel to Sapa

For travellers seeking a balance between cost and comfort, the average daily budget can range from 800,000 VND to 1,500,000 VND per person.

  • Accommodation: Mid-range hotels, comfortable guesthouses, or cosy homestays can cost around 500,000 VND to 1,000,000 VND per night.
  • Meals: Enjoying a mix of local dining and occasional mid-range restaurants can cost around 200,000 VND to 400,000 VND per day.
  • Transportation: Depending on the distances travelled, using a combination of local transportation, taxis, and possibly a guided tour can cost around 100,000 VND to 300,000 VND per day.
  • Attractions: You can explore various paid attractions, such as visiting ethnic minority villages or participating in guided trekking tours, which can range from 100,000 VND to 500,000 VND per day.
  • Miscellaneous: Allocate some budget for shopping, souvenirs, and additional activities, amounting to approximately 50,000 VND to 200,000 VND per day.

Luxury Travel to Sapa

For those looking for a premium experience and indulging in high-end options, the average daily budget can range from 2,000,000 VND to 5,000,000 VND per person or more.

  • Accommodation: Luxury hotels, resorts, or private villas can cost around 1,500,000 VND to 4,000,000 VND or more per night.
  • Meals: Dining at upscale restaurants, enjoying fine dining experiences, or private dining options can cost around 800,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND or more per day.
  • Transportation: Opting for more comfortable transportation options like private cars, chauffeur services, or helicopter transfers can cost around 500,000 VND to 1,000,000 VND per day or more, depending on the distances travelled.
  • Attractions: Indulge in exclusive experiences, private tours, or customized itineraries, which can range from 500,000 VND to 1,500,000 VND or more per day.

Needless to say, these are average daily budgets and can vary based on personal preferences, exchange rates, and the duration of your stay. It’s always a good idea to plan your budget in advance and allocate funds accordingly to make the most of your Sapa trip.

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Sapa Travel Guide Blog

Things To Do in Sapa Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on March 14th, 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

Sapa itinerary travel guide blog

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

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.

Overnight Train From Hanoi To Sapa

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

Planning 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

Sapa Itinerary - Bac Ha Sunday Market

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

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.

Food Eating Area in Bac Ha Market

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.

Sapa Travel Blog - A Visit to Bac Ha Sunday Market

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

Sapa Trekking Tour

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

Sapa Trekking Travel Tips

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.

Sapa Trekking Tour to Cat Cat Village

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.

Trekking in Sapa

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

Sapa Itinerary - Visiting 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.

Local House in Cat Cat 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 .

Inside Cat Cat Village

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.

Sapa itinerary - Waterfall in Cat Cat Village

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

A Visit to Sapa Bac Ha Sunday Market

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

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

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

1 Day Moderate Trekking in Sapa Tour

[1 Day] Moderate Trekking in Sapa through highest Village

Ta Van Village Sapa Vietnam

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

2 Days 1 Night Sapa Trekking & Homestay in Village

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

Hike Fansipan Mountain in 2 Days 1 Night

[2 Days 1 Night] Hike Fansipan mountain from Sapa

Hiking in Sapa Lao Than Mountain | Sapa Nomad

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

1 Day Sapa Motorbike Tour by Sapa Nomad

[1 Day] Loop Sapa Motorbike Tour with Local Expert

Sapa Travel Guide

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.

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- Welcome To Sapa Cloud Tours -

sapa travel videos

Sa Pa  Cloud Tours: Unveiling the Majesty of Vietnam's Breathtaking Highlands! 

  • At Sa Pa Cloud Tours, we specialize in curating extraordinary journeys through the mesmerizing landscapes of Sa Pa, a captivating highland region nestled in the northwest of Vietnam. With its awe-inspiring mountain vistas, vibrant hill tribe communities, and rich cultural tapestry, Sa Pa offers an unparalleled adventure for those seeking an immersive and unforgettable experience.
  • Our dedicated team of travel professionals is passionate about creating personalized itineraries that showcase the best of Sa Pa's natural beauty and cultural heritage. We are committed to providing you with a seamless and enriching travel experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for this remarkable region.

- TREKKING IN NORTHERN VIETNAM -

  • Northern Vietnam is still relatively wild and attracts the adventurer wishing to see spectacular landscapes, native peoples and traditional ways of life. Trekking in Northern Vietnam is an amazing experience. A private tour is the perfect way to see Northern Vietnam with a small group of friends. This is by far the most popular type of visitor we have. We do also cater for families, couples and solo travellers too, we love all our guests equally!
  • A trekking guide is essential in Northern Vietnam. From showing the way on the trails to organising the homestay accommodation, entrance to tribal lands, introducing indigenous tribes and explaining what is going on, visiting various workshops and translating to English (some villages are still populated by 100% tribal people who speak Hmong / Vietnamese only)
  • A general level of fitness is required to really get the best out of the trekking adventures. Treks are usually 5-7 hours of walking per day. If you feel that is a bit much, please contact us and we will recommend or change a tour for you to meet your requirements. Remember these are private tours so we can tailor to your needs. You will also need some comfortable footware that is suitable for trekking. 

sapa travel videos

Sapa Trekking

sapa travel videos

Bac Ha, Cao Bang, Ba Be Lake

sapa travel videos

Ha Giang Adventure

sapa travel videos

Bac Ha Market

sapa travel videos

1-2 Day tour

sapa travel videos

Sapa Adventure

Have questions ?

Ready to start booking? 

- Ha Giang -

  • Prepare to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through rugged landscapes, winding roads, and ancient traditions. Ha Giang's awe-inspiring scenery will take your breath away as you traverse through lush valleys, towering limestone cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie seeking thrilling motorbike rides or a nature lover yearning for tranquil hikes, Ha Giang has it all.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture as you encounter the warm-hearted ethnic minority communities. Engage in their time-honored traditions, witness their colorful festivals, and savor the authentic flavors of the region's delectable cuisine. Ha Giang will open your eyes to a world rich in heritage, where traditions have stood the test of time.
  • Our expertly crafted tours will take you off the beaten path, revealing the hidden treasures and best-kept secrets of Ha Giang. Led by knowledgeable guides, you'll delve into the heart of this mystical land, exploring remote villages, encountering friendly locals, and forging unforgettable connections.
  • Whether you're seeking the thrill of conquering the renowned Ma Pi Leng Pass, marveling at the mesmerizing Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, or simply indulging in the tranquility of nature, Ha Giang promises an adventure like no other. The memories you create here will linger long after your journey ends.
  • Don't miss the chance to embark on an extraordinary expedition to Ha Giang. Book your tour today and let the magic unfold as you explore this hidden gem. Ha Giang awaits, ready to enthrall you with its untamed beauty and everlasting charm.

  "" They treat you like family. 10/10"

Link to source

 "Zen is the best Hmong tourist guide in Vietnam"

Ohio mother who left toddler alone when she went on vacation is sentenced in child’s murder

An Ohio woman whose toddler died after she left her alone for more than a week while she went on vacation was sentenced to life in prison without parole Monday, the Cuyahoga County prosecutor said.

Kristel Candelario, 32, pleaded guilty last month t o aggravated murder and endangering children in connection with the death of her 16-month-old daughter, Jailyn, last year.

Candelario left for vacation June 6 and left Jailyn alone. She visited Detroit and Puerto Rico, the prosecutor’s office said.

When she returned on June 16, she found Jailyn dead and called police, authorities said.

Jailyn Calendario mom mother sentencing court legal law child death

Jailyn died of starvation and severe dehydration due to pediatric neglect, Dr. Elizabeth Mooney, the deputy Cuyahoga County medical examiner, said in court Monday. The manner was ruled homicide.

The child was extremely dehydrated and emaciated, weighing 13 pounds, 7 pounds less than in her last doctor's visit less than two months before, Mooney said.

Mooney, who conducted the autopsy, called Jailyn's death "one of the most tragic and unfortunate cases I’ve had in my career thus far." She said the child could have suffered for possibly a week.

In a statement Monday, prosecutor Michael C. O’Malley called Jailyn “a beautiful baby girl who was taken from this world due to her mother’s unimaginable selfishness.”

Candelario told the court Monday that “every day I ask forgiveness from God and from my daughter Jailyn.”

She also asked forgiveness from her other daughter and from her parents.

Jailyn Calendario.

Candelario’s attorney, Derek Smith, said that no one was trying to excuse her behavior but that Candelario was struggling emotionally and was overwhelmed as a single mother of two children.

Candelario had tried to harm herself earlier in 2023 and she had been placed on antidepressants, which she stopped taking without tapering down in dosage as required, which can cause side effects, Smith told the court. Candelario was "not thinking clearly," he said.

“I am not trying to justify my actions, but nobody knew how much I was suffering and what I was going through,” Candelario said through an interpreter.

Assistant Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Anna Faraglia told the court Monday that Candelario had left Jailyn alone for two days immediately before she left on vacation.

"The thought of this child dying every day while she's having fun — humanity can't stomach that," Faraglia said. "And those are the actions that need to be punished. She abandoned her daughter and left her for dead."

In sentencing Candelario, Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Judge Brendan Sheehan noted that the police and the medical professionals involved called it one of the most horrific cases they’d ever seen.

“It stunned people across this world, because it defies one of the basic human responsibilities,” Sheehan said. He called it “the ultimate act of betrayal.” 

sapa travel videos

Phil Helsel is a reporter for NBC News.

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Listen to an Ohio State expert detail this unique event

Learn more about the science behind the solar eclipse and how to safely view this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Dr. Wayne Schlingman

Dr. Wayne Schlingman, Director, Arne Slettebak, The Ohio State University

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Check out Ohio State’s hub for solar eclipse information on the Columbus, regional and CFAES Wooster campuses, including key resources, events and frequently asked questions.

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    16. Travel expenses in Sapa Vietnam. 1. Sapa Vietnam Travel guide introduction. Sapa is a small town in Lao Cai Province located about 350 km northwest of Hanoi. Sapa is well-known for Hoang Lien Son mountain range and Fan Si Pan—Vietnam's highest peak and the roof of Indochina (3143m). Sa Pa Vietnam has a great diversity of ethnic minority ...

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    Times, prices and possible reservations of some bus companies you will find below - eg. Hason Haivan, Inter Bus Lines, Sapa Express, EcoSapa, Grouptour, Hung Thanh, Sapa Shuttlebus…. travel by bus from Hanoi to Sapa takes about 6 hours. cheap bus tickets from Hanoi to Sapa, prices start already at $9-18/pp.

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    The best time to travel to Sapa is from September to November and from March to May. At this time, Sapa weather is stable, with sunny days, and cool nights. April to May is the time when ethnic minorities transplant rice in terraced fields. And this is also the blooming season of many beautiful flowers.

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    1. Trekking. Some of the best things to do in Sapa can be combined in one highlight and that is a trekking in Sapa! You can choose to do a half-day, full-day or multi-day trek where you spend the night in a homestay. It is the best way to see the rice fields and get in touch with the local minorities.

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    DAY 3: SAPA - FANSIPAN - HANOI (B/L) After a leisurely breakfast in the hotel, a guide and driver will transport you to the cable car station. It takes 20 minutes to travel 20 miles through breathtaking scenery to reach the top of the mountain. The cable cars run from 7:30am to 5:30pm every single day.

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    Budget Travel to Sapa. For budget-conscious travellers who prioritize cost-saving options, the average daily budget for a Sapa trip can range from 300,000 VND to 500,000 VND per person. Accommodation: Budget-friendly options like guesthouses, hostels, or homestays can cost around 150,000 VND to 300,000 VND per night.

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    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.

  21. Sapa Cloud Tours

    Sa Pa Cloud Tours: Unveiling the Majesty of Vietnam's Breathtaking Highlands! At Sa Pa Cloud Tours, we specialize in curating extraordinary journeys through the mesmerizing landscapes of Sa Pa, a captivating highland region nestled in the northwest of Vietnam. With its awe-inspiring mountain vistas, vibrant hill tribe communities, and rich ...

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  23. Ohio mother who left toddler alone when she went on vacation is

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