sapa vietnam travel guide

• Culture & Arts
• Ho Chi Minh City
• Attractions
• Phu Quoc Island
• Mekong Delta

14 Rewarding Things to Do in Sapa for First-Timers

What to See and Do in Sapa, Vietnam

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

1. Ride a Bike to Muong Hoa Valley

Highlights:

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

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

2. Conquer Fansipan – Roof of Indochina

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

• You should prepare some sturdy and no-slip boots because the hike can be wet and slippery. 
• Make sure you bring bottled water, dry food, and a flashlight.
• 3), first:(pageNumber == 1 && Math.abs(pageNumber - currentPage) > 3)}">{{ pageNumber }}

3. Shop for Trekking Gear and Local Handicrafts

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

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

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

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

4. Trek in Sapa

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

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

5. Climb to Ham Rong Mountain 

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

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

6. Explore Silver Waterfall and be Amazed at Sky Gate

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

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

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

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

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

8. See the Ancient Rock Field

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

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

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

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

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

10. Enjoy Sapa Specialties at Sapa Food Court

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

Tips: 

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

11. Admire Terraced Rice Fields

Highlights:  

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

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

12. Have a Drink at Café in The Clouds

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

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

13. Take Part in H’mong Sewing Class

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

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

14. Watch The Ta Phin Commune Church Singing

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

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

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

Most Popular

Foodlovers’ Guide to Eating in Sapa, Vietnam

Bac Ha Sunday Market in Sapa, Vietnam

Can Cau Market – A Unique Local Market in Lao Cai near Sapa, Vietnam

Trekking in Sapa: Must-know Points to Keep in Mind

More about sapa.

Ultimate Guide To Best Homestay In Sapa

Can Cau Market - A Unique Local Market in Lao Cai near Sapa, Vietnam

Coc Ly Market in Lao Cai, Vietnam

Sapa Church – An Ancient Symbol of the Sapa Misty Town

The Majestic Thac Bac Waterfall - Highlight of Sapa Tourism

Interesting Nao Cong Festival in Sapa

Gau Tao Festival - Discover the Cultural Beauty of Sapa, Vietnam

Tours may you like.

Sapa – Moana – Cat Cat Village – Fansipan…

3 days 2 nights

Start from: $139 /person

Sapa – Bac Ha Market Tour 3D2N, Daily Departure

Start from: $179 /person

Sapa – Can Cau Market Tour 3N2D, Daily Departure

Sapa – Moana – Cat Cat Village Tour 2D1N,…

2 days 1 night

Start from: $85 /person

Sapa – Cat Cat – Moana – Fansipan Tour…

2 days 2 nights

Start from: $105 /person

Sapa Trekking and Halong Bay by Bus 5-Day Full…

5 days 4 nights

Start from: $263 /person

3 Days Honeymoon Sapa Tour from Hanoi

Start from: $365 /person

Sapa Hiking off Beaten Track

Start from: $50 /person

Destinations

Tours by style.

• Shore Excursions

Travel Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Getting around
• Transportation
• Best Beaches
• Vietnam Honeymoon
• Travel esim to Vietnam

Our Company

• Responsible travel
• Terms of use
• Privacy Policy
• Recruitment

Connect with us:

• Email: [email protected]
• Hanoi, Vietnam: 23rd Floor, TASCO Building, Pham Hung road, Me Tri, Tu Liem, Hanoi.
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: 2nd Floor, VIPD Building, No. 4 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC
• Hong Kong: Vietnam discovery Travel Limited Room 1D, 2/F, Fu Tao Building,98 Argyle Street, Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Where Do You Want to Go?

• Tell us details of your holiday plan.
• Get multiple quotes from our expert agents, compare, then customize further.
• Select & book the best deal.

• +84 829 098 686
• [email protected]
• Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 18:00

North Vietnam Tours

Tours in the Central

Tours in the South

• Ha Giang Tours
• Mu Cang Chai Tours
• Ninh Binh Tours
• Pu Luong Nature Reserve Tours
• Cat Ba Island Tours
• Halong Bay Tours
• Son La Tours
• Lan Ha Bay Cruises
• Halong Bay Cruises
• Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise
• Hanoi Tours
• Ba Be National Park Tours
• Bac Son Tours
• Mai Chau Tours
• Ban Gioc Waterfall Tours
• Hoi An Tours
• Quang Binh Tours
• Quang Ngai Tours
• Quy Nhon Tours
• Buon Ma Thuot Tours
• Da Nang Tours
• Mekong Delta Tours
• Da Lat Tours
• Can Tho Tours
• Nha Trang Tours
• Ho Chi Minh City Tours
• Phu Quoc Island Tours
• Vung Tau Tours
• Top 10 things to do in Ha Giang
• Top 10 things to do in Mu Cang Chai
• Top 10 things to do in Ninh Binh
• Top 10 things to do in Cat Ba Island
• Top 10 things to do in Sapa
• Top 10 things to do in Halong Bay
• Top 10 things to do in Hanoi
• Top 10 things to do in Cao Bang
• Top 10 things to do in Hoi An
• Top 10 things to do in Quang Binh
• Top 10 things to do in Hue
• Top 10 things to do in Da Nang
• Top 10 things to do in Quy Nhon
• Top 10 things to do in Phu Quoc Island
• Hanoi Tour Packages
• Hanoi Photography Tours
• Hanoi Culinary Tours
• Hanoi Tours To Halong
• Hanoi Tours To Sapa
• Tours Hanoi To Ninh Binh

Sapa Homestay Tours

Sapa hiking tours, sapa market tours, sapa luxury tours, sapa eco tours, fansipan trekking tours.

• 6 Best Tours in Halong
• Halong Private Tours
• Halong Seaplane Tours
• Halong Shore Excursions
• Multi-Day & Extended Tours
• Day Trip & Excursions
• Cat Ba Island
• Cat Ba Island Kayak Tour
• Cat Ba Monkey Island Tour
• Cat Ba Island Day Tours
• Cat Ba Island Boat Tours
• Cat Ba Island Tour Halong
• Cat Ba Tours From Hanoi
• Tam Coc Tours
• Cuc Phuong National Park Tours
• Quang Binh Adventure Tours
• Thien Duong Cave Tours
• Phong Nha Cave Tours
• Hue Sightseeing Tours
• Hue Walking & Food Tours
• Bach Ma National Park tours
• Tours to Quang Binh From Hue
• Tours to Da Nang from Hue
• Hoi An Tour from Hue
• Sightseeing Tours
• Danang Free & Easy
• Day Trips & Excursions
• Eco Adventure Tours
• Shore Excursions
• Hoi An Tour Packages
• Eco Tours Hoi An
• Hoi An Walking & Food Tours
• Tours from Hoi An to Hue
• Tours from Hoi An to Quang Binh
• Tours From Hoi An to Da Nang
• Con Dao Island Tours
• Vung Tau Mekong Delta Tour
• Vung Tau Tour From Saigon
• Tour from Phu My Port

Top 10 Destination in North Vietnam

• Mu Cang Chai
• Bai Tu Long Bay

Top 10 Destination in Central

• Buon Ma Thuot
• Mui Ne Beach

Top 10 Destination in The South

• Ho Chi Minh City
• Phu Quoc Island
• Suggested Vietnam Itineraries
• Vietnam Rail Tours
• Vietnam Beach Holidays
• Vietnam Classic Tours
• Vietnam Family Tours
• Vietnam Photography Tours
• Vietnam Food Tours
• Vietnam Honeymoon Tours
• All Inclusive Tour Packages
• Vietnam Luxury Tours
• North Vietnam Itineraries
• Central Vietnam Itineraries
• South Vietnam Itineraries
• Vietnam Shore Excursions & Tours

NOT sure where to go next? We’re here to inspire you

Sa Pa Travel Guide

All things need to know before travelling to sa pa.

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

1. Where is Sa Pa?

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

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

2. How is Sa Pa unique?

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

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

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

The traditional style of Sa Pa

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

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

3. When is the best time to visit Sapa?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. How to get to Sa Pa?

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

4.1 From Hanoi go straight to Sa Pa

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

4.2 From Lao Cai city to Sapa

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

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

4.3 Traveling to Sapa by motorbike

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

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

4.4 Means of transportation in Sa Pa

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

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

5. Sightseeings & things to do in Sa Pa

5.1 area near sapa town center, 5.1.1 stone church.

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

5.1.2 Love market

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

5.1.3 Sapa Lake

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

5.1.4 Sapa Night Market

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

5.1.5 Ham Rong Mountain

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

5.1.6 Muong Hoa Valley – Ancient stone field

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

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

5.1.7 Ta Phin village

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

5.1.8 Ta Van Village

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

5.1.9 Cat Cat village

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

5.1.10 Y Linh Ho

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

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

5.1.11 Lao Chai village

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

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

5.1.12 Fansipan Peak

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

5.2 Sa Pa central periphery area

5.2.1 o quy ho pass.

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

5.2.2 Sa Pa Heaven Gate

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

5.2.3 Love Falls

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

5.2.4 Thac Bac Waterfall

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

5.3 Activities and experiences in Sa Pa

5.3.1 fansipan trekking.

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

5.3.2 Rice Terrace Fields Enjoyment And Shooting Photograph

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

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

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

6. Specialties when traveling to Sapa

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

6.1 Thang Co

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

6.2 Indigenous chickens

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

6.3 Indigenous pigs

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

6.4 Barbecue meat

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

6.5 Sa Pa salmon

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

7. Accommodation when traveling to Sa Pa

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

7.1 Hotels:

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

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

7.2 Resorts:

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

7.3 Homestays:

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

8. Some important notes when traveling to Sa Pa

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

Is Sapa Worth Visiting?

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

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

Sa Pa Medium Trek

Discover Hot Vacation Spots In Sapa, Vietnam

All Travel style tours in Sapa

Top recommend sapa tours & trek.

Sapa Trek Thanh Phu And Sin Chai Villages

Lai Chau And Mu Cang Chai Terrace Fields

Sapa Adventure Tour Package

Sapa travel guide & sightseeing.

Everything you will need to know before arriving Sapa Vietnam

Ban Cam Market

Traveling to Lao Cai, do not forget to visit Ban Cam market – an ideal place to learn about daily life and discover the pristine

Lao Chai Village

Sapa is not only attractive to tourists because of its natural beauty. But also to the peaceful villages characterized by the northwest village. Lao Chai

Lung Po Flagpole

The Lung Po flagpole is the pride of the people of Lao Cai province in particular and the people of Vietnam in general. This is

Bach Moc Luong Tu

Located at an altitude of 3046m, Bach Moc Luong Tu (Ky Quan San) is known as one of the four highest peaks in Vietnam and

When tourists traveling to Lao Cai may be too familiar with famous landmarks such as Sa Pa, Bac Ha or Bat Xat,… But besides that,

Top Recommended Hotel in Sapa

BB Hotel Sapa

Chau Long Hotel

Sapa Horizon Hotel

Our difference.

Origin Vietnam Responsible travel for Sharing Benefit with Local Community.

A small thing we do on our tours can make a big difference, so everyone at Origin Vietnam Travel, we strive our best to minimize the impacts while giving maximum enjoyment from your traveling experience. Continue reading ..

Sapa Travel Blog

BE INSPIRED, BE READY

It’s could be a get new experience of travel stories and taste local ingredients in traditional and local cuisines. It will take you into stepping of discover hidden of Sapa, Vietnam!

Top Recommended Sightseeing in Sapa

Best Months Of The Year Wherever You Want To Travel

Bac Waterfall – An Exotic Destination In Sa Pa

Travel destination in vietnam, north vietnam.

• Tuyen Quang

Central Vietnam

South vietnam, what’s in the agent hub.

• Industry News
• Download Brochures
• Useful Information
• Photo Gallery
• Construction Reports
• Operations Reports

Enter your email and password and start exploding Origin Travel features

YOUR TRAVEL PLAN

We keep your records confidential and do not sell them. Please provide accurate information to help us process your next tour faster, and we’ll offer unbeatable prices on our top tours.

Sapa travel guide & best things to do

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

5 reasons to visit Sapa

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

What is in this Sapa travel guide

Practical information, best time to visit.

• 10 best things to do
• Best hotels & hostels

Food & drinking

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

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

ATM's & money exchange

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

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

10 best things to do in Sapa

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

1. Trekking

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

2. View the terraced rice fields

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

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

3. Visit minority villages

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

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

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

4. Stay overnight in a homestay

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

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

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

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

5. Visit a local market

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

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

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

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

6. Fansipan mountain

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

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

7. Tram Ton Pass

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

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

8. Waterfalls

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

9. Sapa by (motor)bike tour

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

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

10. Explore Sapa town

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

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

Best hotels & hostels in Sapa

Where to stay.

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

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

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

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

Budget hotels & hostels

• Mountain View Hostel
• Go Sapa Hostel
• Sapa Capsule

Mid range  hotel

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

High end hotel & resort

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

Restaurants

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

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

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

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

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

Buses to Sapa

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

Trains to Hanoi

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

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

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

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

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

Itinerary 2 days in Sapa

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

More tips for traveling in Sapa

Where to go next.

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

Sapa with kids

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

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

What to bring

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

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

• Destination Guide
• Essential Guide
• Getting Around
• Vietnam Month by Month
• Inspiration
• Vietnam blog
• Travel tips
• Custom Made Trip
• Day- & Multiple Day tours
• Holiday Packages
• Local Meo Vac Homestay
• Local Dong Van Homestay
• Our Team & Company
• Our Customers & Reviews

Copyright © 2023 Local Vietnam

Start typing and press enter to search

Free ebook vietnam travel guide​.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

You may also like

Nearby places.

• How To Get There

Sapa town stands at the head of a deep valley of magnificent rice terraces that are still farmed today as they have been for centuries. Backdrops don’t get much more spectacular. Enticing ribbons of road lead the eye down to the valley floor, white-water rivers rush among rice fields, and lush green mountains stretch into the distance as far as the eye can see. The highest peak in the region, Mount Fansipan, crowns the ragged ridge line high above town.

Top things to do in Sapa

Summit Mount Fansipan

A 6-kilometre cable car journey will whisk you 3,143m to the summit of Mount Fansipan in just 15 minutes.  Wander the pagoda complex before climbing the last few steps to the summit. The views from the ‘Roof of Indochina’ are unmatched.

Visit an ethnic minority market

Every Sunday the Bac Ha market bursts into life, as hundreds of traders from the Dzao, Han, Xa Fang, Tay and Thai tribes descend on the market, decked out in traditional garb. Expect a riot of colour and excited haggling.

Go trekking in the hills

Sapa offers some of Vietnam's best trekking, and some villages such as Cat Cat and Ta Phin can be seen without a guide. Book an overnight trek to wander through rice terraces, bathe in waterfalls and experience ethnic culture firsthand.

Stay in a mountain lodge 

Stay outside the tourist hub of Sapa in simple comfort at a mountaintop lodge. Sapa is home to excellent lodges and homestays. Set among the rice terraces, you’ll brush shoulders with farmers as they go about their daily lives.

Mountain biking is a great way to get out and explore lesser-visited corners of Sapa. The annual Vietnam Mountain Marathon attracts some 4000 competitors who run buffalo-beaten trails ranging from 10 to 100 kilometres.

Sapa Weather

The best time to visit Sapa is in September and October when the rice terraces are at their most splendid; or in April and May when the weather is ideal and skies are clear. For those who don’t mind hot weather, June to August is a fine time to visit. Expect chilly weather from November to March.

Sapa Transport

Overnight trains  are the most popular way to reach Sapa via the neighbouring province capital, Lao Cai. Upon arrival, transfer vans finish the journey up the mountains. Alternatively, regular buses and shuttle vans run from Hanoi with a journey time of five to six hours, stopping in the centre of town. As a former hill station, Sapa has plenty of steep roads and pathways. Many visitors get around by foot, or by taxi. Adventure-seekers can rent mountain bikes to explore the trails along the valley.

In this article:

Aristo International Hotel

Victoria sapa resort and spa, sapaly hotel lao cai, topas ecolodge.

• You are here:
• Places To Go
• Northern Vietnam

Create an account

Already have an account? Click here to sign in

By clicking submit, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

Sign in with your social accounts

Sign in with your email

Forgot password? Click here to get it back

Don't have an account? Sign up here

Forgot Password

The entered email has subscribed for Vietnam Tourism monthly newsletter

• Northern Vietnam

Sapa Vietnam - The Complete Travel Guide

Sapa , a charming small town nestled in the mountainous region, is located approximately 340 km north of Hanoi, in close proximity to the border with China.

Renowned for its awe-inspiring vistas, Sapa offers panoramic views of a lush valley adorned with picturesque rice fields, which are particularly breathtaking on clear days. Surrounded by majestic mountains,this remarkable landscape makes unforgettable trips in Sapa.

While occasional dense fog may blanket the mountaintops, it adds an enchanting touch to the scenery.

In this article :

Geography and weather of Sapa vietnam

Located in the mountainous region of Northwest Vietnam, Sapa Town captivates visitors with its breathtaking geography. The entirety of Sapa district is gracefully embraced by the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range.

This range proudly boasts Vietnam's highest peak, Mount Fansipan , soaring to a remarkable elevation of 3,142 meters above sea level. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,600 meters, the town of Sapa offers a refreshing respite from the heat, enveloped in a cool and mist-laden ambiance that contributes to the town's unique allure.

Sapa town boasts a climate that sets it apart from the rest of Vietnam, offering a truly unique experience for visitors. The town experiences distinct seasons, with a subtropical climate prevailing in the summer and a temperate climate gracing the winter months.

The mean annual temperature in Sapa town is recorded at 15.4°C, with highs reaching up to 29.4°C and lows dropping to a chilly 1°C. The warmest months are July and August, while December and January bring the coldest temperatures. Occasionally, snowfall decorates the highest peaks, adding a touch of winter magic to the landscape.

One of the remarkable aspects of Sapa town's climate is its dynamic nature throughout the day. Mornings and afternoons resemble the gentle coolness of spring and autumn, while noontime welcomes abundant sunshine and cloudless skies reminiscent of summer. As evening descends, the atmosphere transforms, enveloping the town in a winter-like coldness. This unique advantage sets Sapa town apart, offering an unparalleled experience found nowhere else in the nation.

Travelers should be aware of the possibility of sudden thunderstorms and heavy rainfall during summer afternoons. However, these showers often gift Sapa with a magnificent sight—a vibrant rainbow painting the sky with all seven colors, transforming the town into a truly enchanting and magical destination. Therefore, it is advisable to carry a camera to capture this breathtaking view.

Best time to visit Sapa

To experience the true splendor of Sapa, the optimal time to plan your visit is during the periods from March to May and September to November, with September being the best time to visit Sapa Vietnam . This particular month holds a special charm as it coincides with the rice harvest season, when the terraced rice fields unveil their mesmerizing beauty.

During September, the rice fields stretch out before you, adorned in vibrant shades of yellow and golden hues, creating a breathtaking vista that is truly awe-inspiring. Ensure your trip aligns with this remarkable time of the year to witness Sapa's landscapes at their most captivating and immerse yourself in the picturesque allure of the terraced rice fields.

How to go to Sapa ?  

By bus to sapa.

Embarking on a journey from Hanoi to Sapa covers a picturesque route spanning approximately 340 kilometers, which can be traversed comfortably by bus in approximately 6 hours.

During this scenic bus ride from the capital city of Hanoi to the enchanting Sapa hill station , you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the captivating landscapes along the way, with a refreshing comfort stop provided at the halfway mark.

Traveling by bus offers several undeniable advantages. It is a more budget-friendly option compared to other modes of transportation. Buses provide a faster means of reaching your destination, and buses offer the convenience of taking you directly to Sapa, which is not possible with trains.

There are multiple reputable bus operators to choose from, such as: Sao Viet Bus: 114 Tran Nhat Duat street - Hanoi Tel: 1900 6746 Price: $13

Limousine Dcar: 16 Hang Chinh street - Hanoi Tel: 1900 1112 Price: $14

Green Bus Sapa: 30 Hang Muoi street - Hanoi Tel: 024 39338 282 Price: $13

Interbus line: Nam Son street, Linh Dam, Hoang Mai, Hanoi. Tel: 1900 1137 Price: $13

Sapa Express: 70 Nguyen Huu Huan - Hanoi. Tel: 024 668 21 555 Price: $20

Your choice of bus operator depends on your preferences and requirements. Simply inform us of your preferences, and we will assist you in selecting the most suitable bus service for your journey.

By overnight train to Sapa

A train journey to Sapa offers a truly remarkable experience for visitors. The overnight train ride, spanning approximately 8 hours, presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique charm of this mode of transportation. Arriving at the Lao Cai railway station between 5:30 am to 6:00 am, you will be greeted by our dedicated guide and driver, ready to accompany you on the subsequent 40-kilometer drive to Sapa, which promises to be equally captivating.

Traveling to Sapa by train allows you to witness the scenic beauty of Vietnam's countryside unfold as you traverse the picturesque landscapes during the night. It offers a sense of tranquility and a chance to rest before beginning your Sapa adventure . The train departs at Hanoi train station at 120 Le Duan street Hanoi at 19.40, 21.35, 22.00, 22.30. And the train arrives at the Lao Cai railway station in the early morning, our professional guide and driver will be waiting to warmly welcome you. From there, you will embark on a delightful 40-kilometer drive to Sapa, where breathtaking vistas and captivating experiences await.

Some recommended trains: Sapaly train, Vic Sapa train, Chapa express train, Livitran train, Violet train. Train ticket costs around $30 per way with soft sleeper bed ( share 4 berth cabin)

Best things to do in Sapa  

Sapa trekking.

This is the best thing to do in Sapa to explore the beautiful landscapes and minority groups in the villages in the Muong Hoa valley where you will encounter dozens of streams cascading downhill. As you make your way through this breathtaking landscape, you will pass by small villages nestled amidst picturesque rice fields, inhabited by vibrant ethnic minority communities.

Immerse yourself in their rich culture and witness firsthand the intricate farming practices that sustain their way of life.

View the Sapa terraced rice fields

The captivating allure of this mountain town lies in its renowned Sapa rice fields, beckoning travelers from far and wide. Renowned as one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Vietnam, these stunning terraced fields grace the entirety of the Muong Hoa valley, stretching from its base to the lofty summits.

Explore the minority villages in Sapa

Explore the enchanting tapestry of cultures woven by the mountain tribes inhabiting this region. These resilient ethnic minorities have called the mountains their home for countless generations, relying on the bounties of the land for their livelihoods.

In Sapa Vietnam, you will encounter a diverse array of ethnic groups , including the HMong, the Dao, the Tay, and the Giay .

Visit the local markets

Visiting the local markets is one of the best things to do in Sapa . you will discover several bustling markets in Sapa and beyond where local hill tribes gather to trade their bountiful produce. However, these markets offer much more than just food.

From intricately woven clothing and textiles to ornate brocade, exquisite jewelry, and even modern amenities like telephones and chargers, the markets showcase a fascinating array of goods. One of the most captivating sections is the livestock area, where traders meticulously inspect every aspect of the animals before engaging in trade.

Visiting an ethnic minority market is a truly unique and enchanting experience. The vibrant colors of traditional attire, the lively presence of animals, and the bustling crowds may initially appear chaotic, but amid this apparent chaos, there is an unexpectedly warm and welcoming atmosphere. The market exudes a sense of coziness and camaraderie, immersing you in the lively spirit of community and trade.

Admire the Fansipan mountain in Sapa

Fansipan is the highest mountain in Vietnam. For those who are interested in adventure. They can climb to Fansipan for a 2 - 3 day trip. This trip will require a really good physical health. For everybody, they can use the cable car to reach the peak within 15 minutes. On beautiful days, the Fansipan will offer a great view of mountains and the valley as well as the Sapa town.

Enjoy panoramic view at Tram Ton pass

Nestled adjacent to the magnificent Fansipan and on the opposite side of Sapa, lies the illustrious Tram Ton Pass , proudly holding the distinction of being the highest mountain pass in Vietnam. Embarking on a mesmerizing journey by car or motorcycle along the Tram Ton Pass grants you the opportunity to savor awe-inspiring panoramic vistas that will leave you breathless.

As you ascend along this remarkable route, a captivating viewpoint awaits you at the summit. It is an absolute must to pause and take in the breathtaking scenery that unfolds before your eyes. The viewpoint offers an unrivaled perspective, allowing you to bask in the majesty of the surrounding landscapes.

Visit Sapa Waterfalls

For those who love nature, especially waterfalls. Sapa is an ideal region to visit the waterfalls. There are some waterfalls in Sapa to explore: Love waterfall , Silver waterfall , Cat Cat waterfall . The 2 first waterfalls are on the way to Tram Ton pass . It is about 14 km from Sapa town. Cat Cat waterfall, as its name implies, is in the Cat Cat village . Only 3 km from Sapa town.

Explore Sapa town

Situated in the heart of the city, you will discover an ancient stone church and a vibrant local market . The old stone church stands as a testament to the rich history of the area, while the bustling market comes alive, especially on weekends, when local minorities gather, creating an atmosphere filled with excitement and cultural exchange.

Additionally, take a leisurely stroll around the serene lake, immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings.

Alternatively, for a mesmerizing view of the cityscape, ascend Ham Rong Mountain ( Dragon Jaw mountain) and be rewarded with a panoramic vista that showcases the beauty and charm of the entire area.

How many days is enough for a trip in Sapa Vietnam ?

The ideal duration for a visit to Sapa depends on personal interests and travel preferences, but typically, allocating 2 to 4 days allows ample time to discover the picturesque town, embark on hikes through the stunning rice paddies, engage with ethnic minority communities, and partake in enriching cultural experiences.

This timeframe strikes a balance between exploration and immersion, enabling you to make the most of your time in this captivating destination. The best duration to visit Sapa is 4 days - 3 nights.

This is the briefing itinerary for your reference: Day 1: Overnight train to Sapa Day 2: Arrive in Sapa by night train: Pick up to Sapa town - Explore the villages Day 3: Sapa trekking tours or Fansipan exploration by cable car trip Day 4: Sapa town - Bus to Hanoi

Where to stay in Sapa Vietnam ?

Sapa presents a myriad of choices for travelers, catering to diverse preferences. Whether you seek the convenience of hostels and hotels, the eco-friendly charm of ecolodges, or the warm hospitality of family-run homestays , Sapa has it all. Delve into the following handpicked accommodations that represent the pinnacle of what Sapa has to offer.

Homestay in Sapa

For an unparalleled immersion into the daily life of a local family in Sapa, we highly recommend choosing a homestay in an ethnic village such as Ta Van or Ta Phin . While the accommodations may be modest, they provide a comfortable and acceptable level of comfort. By opting for a homestay, you will have the opportunity to spend a few days fully immersed in the authentic experiences of the locals. Homestay in Sapa costs around $10 per person/night

3 star hotels in Sapa

Sapa Elite Hotel: 12 Hoang Dieu Street, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 0912 955 933 Sapa Elegance Hotel: 3 Hoang Dieu Street, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 091 298 0117 Sapa Village Hotel: 520 Dien Bien Phu Street, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 096 206 8988

4 star hotels in Sapa

BB Sapa resort ( Formerly Victoria Sapa Hotel): 8 Cau May, Sapa. Tel: 02143 87 1996 Freesia Hotel Sapa: 6A Vuon Treo, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 096 165 2662 Amazing Hotel Sapa: Dong Loi Street, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 02143 865 888 Sapa Legend Hotel and Spa: 1 Thu Dau Mot, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 098 313 28 88 Eden Central Hotel and Spa: 7 Fansipan street, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 0982 066 766 Sapa Eco Villas and Spa: Su Pan, Van Den Village, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 0867 616 186

5 star hotels in Sapa

Hotel De La Coupole M Gallery: 1 Hoang Lien Son Street, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 0214 362 9999 Silk Path Grand Resort and Spa: Doi Quan 6, Group 5, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 0214 3788 555 Sapa Jade Hill Resort and Spa: Cau May Ward, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 0214 377 1199 Topas Ecolodge Resort: Lech Dao village, Thanh Binh Commune, Sapa. Tel: 024 7307 0899 Pao's Sapa Leisure: Muong Hoa street, Sapa Vietnam. Tel: 0214 6253 999

Where to eat in Sapa Vietnam ?

To enhance your dining experience in the enchanting Sapa town , we have curated a selection of exceptional restaurants for your consideration. Prepare yourself for a culinary journey filled with delectable delights that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for another bite. These esteemed establishments are sure to satisfy your cravings and create lasting memories. Little Sapa Restaurant: 5 Dong Loi Street, Sapa Vietnam. Food price from $ 2 to $ 15 Tel: 038 806 35 26

Anise Sapa Restaurant: 21 Xuan Vien Street, Sapa Vietnam. Food price from $ 3 - $ 30 Tel: 0214 3 873 579

Sapa Nature View Restaurant: 61 Fansipan Street, Sapa Vietnam Food price from $ 6.5/dish Tel: 091 544 9707

Le Sapa Restaurant: 18 Fansipan Street, Sapa Vietnam Food price from $ 2 - $ 11 Tel: 098 398 31 86

Notice when visiting Sapa

Bring a warm jacket to visit Sapa in winter. Bring sunscreen, hat, and umbrella when traveling in Sapa. During Vietnamese national holidays such as: 30 April - 1 May, 2 Sept . It will be too crowded in Sapa . Vietnamese visitors will come for these national holidays. Please avoid these travel dates.

Related article

Local hill tribe markets around Sapa Top places to visit in Vietnam

Write Comment

Other articles

Updated on 26 Jan, 2024

• - Northern Vietnam
• - Central Vietnam
• - Southern Vietnam
• - Vietnam travel blog
• - Vietnam travel plan
• Cell/Whatsapp +84 904 586 510
• Email [email protected]

Alida shannon

Nicolaus giagitsis, monika skrzypiec, michael a burr, tailor-made vietnam private package tours..

• Privacy policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Clients' reviews
• Business License No 0110248892
• Hanoi office:
• Address : Number 20/101, Kim Quan, Yen Vien, Hanoi, Vietnam.
• Phone / Whatsapp : +84 904 586 510
• E-mail : [email protected]
• Website : www.amajourneyasia.com
• Cambodia office:
• Address : No 007, Merry Street, Svay Dangkhum, Siem Reap, Cambodia.
• Contact : Ms Rath: Cell/Whatsapp +855 17 905 090

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

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

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

Let’s take a look at the list below.

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

Table of Contents

What to SEE & DO in Sapa

Explore local villages

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

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

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

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

Suggested tours:

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

Go on a trek in Sapa

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

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

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

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

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

Trekking to Fansipan Mountain

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

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

Take the Fansipan cable car

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

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

Visit Cat Cat Village

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

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

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

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

Climb to Ham Rong Mountain

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

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

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

Visit Tram Ton Pass

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

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

Explore Silver Waterfall – Thac Bac Waterfall

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

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

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

Explore Muong Hoa Valley

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

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

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

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

Hotline/What’s app: + 84 974 805 797

Watch the Ta Phin Commune Church Singing

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

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

Admire the terraced rice fields

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

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

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

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

Explore Sapa by motorbike or bicycle

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

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

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

Visit Sapa Church

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

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

Most Interesting Activities in Sapa

Overnight at a homestay.

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

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

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

Join the H’mong sewing class

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

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

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

Shop at Sapa Local Market

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

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

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

Take a cooking class

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

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

Enjoy Sapa specialties at Sapa Food Court

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

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

Have a Drink at Café in The Clouds

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

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

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

Enjoy seven-color sticky rice of the Nung Dinh people

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

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

Enjoy hot pot meals

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

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

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

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

RELATED Post

Fansipan Mountain Sapa: A comprehensive travel guide for first-time visitors

Explore Fansipan Mountain – The Highest Mountain Peak in Vietnam Fansipan Mountain Sapa, also known as the roof of Indochina, is a destination that not only climbers but also Sapa Travel enthusiasts hope to visit and conquer once in their lives. Being able to gaze down at the incredible panorama of Sapa while perching atop […]

Thac Bac Waterfall Sapa: A must-see attraction in Sapa

Thac Bac Waterfall Sapa – A majestic beauty for nature lovers Thac Bac Waterfall, or Silver Waterfall in Sapa, Lao Cai province is considered one of the most beautiful and well-known waterfalls in Vietnam. This is also one of the tourist attractions that draw the greatest number of tourists in Sapa every summer. Let’s join […]

O Quy Ho Pass: A Beautiful scenic spot in Sapa Vietnam

O Quy Ho Pass: One of the most beautiful passes in the Northwest During your journey to Sapa, O Quy Ho Pass is a well-liked and well-known site that draws lots of travelers seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Driving across the pass will allow you to take in the breathtaking beauty of Sapa, complete with […]

Sapa Glass Bridge – Complete travel guide for your trip in Sapa!

What makes Rong May Glass Bridge near Sapa so appealing? Sapa Glass Bridge has become a popular tourist attraction in Sapa. The bridge has been open to tourists for a few years, but it draws tens of thousands of visitors every month. This is a stunning check-in location with lots of thrilling games to try. […]

Sapa Heaven Gate – Paradise in the clouds

Heaven’s Gate Sapa: A most interesting place for cloud hunting in Vietnam Explore the amazing beauty of Sapa Heaven Gate – a breathtaking pass in the center of Sapa, Vietnam Sapa Heaven’s Gate, a remarkable destination for individuals seeking comfort in the embrace of nature, draws a sizable influx of foreign visitors with its enchanting […]

Sapa rice fields: A natural masterpiece capturing people’s hearts

Rice terraced fields in Sapa:  Comprehensive guide for first-time visitors to Sapa Sapa is a must-see destination for anyone planning a trip to Northern Vietnam. Don’t miss the Sapa rice fields, which offer a charming and poetic view of terraced fields, when you visit Sapa, the most well-known town in Northwest Vietnam. These captivating landscapes […]

How to get from Hanoi to Sapa? Tips to choice a Best Transportation Option!

How to get from Hanoi to Sapa and advice for the greatest travel experience How to get from Hanoi to Sapa is a common question of many tourists when they plan to visit Sapa. The north of Vietnam is completely different from the rest of the country and Sapa is a must-see when you explore […]

What is the Best Time to Visit Sapa? Recommendation from Local View

Best time to visit Sapa: A comprehensive guide for first-time visitors Are you considering a trip to Sapa but are unsure of the ideal time to go there? You should definitely consider that factor since it can have a significant impact on your experience. There are months when there are gorgeous rice fields, months when […]

Ho Chi Minh City

Terrace Rice Paddy Fields, Friendly Ethnic Locals, Eco-friendly Resorts

Locally known as the “town of clouds”, Sapa is a charming treasure trove of Northwest Vietnam. At a glimpse of an eye, it effortlessly mesmerizes travelers by the beauty of iconic cascading terraced rice fields, lush valleys and emerald mountains lying side by side. Endowed by nature, it’s no wonder that Sapa has become one of the most alluring destinations in the country.

What makes Sapa even more special is the cultural richness of local ethnic minorities, boasting through the numerous customs and beliefs. Set amidst the idyllic rugged valleys are the tiny hill tribe villages, home to Hmong, Dzao, and Tay groups, who have been settling down here for hundreds of years while still being able to preserve their cultures and traditions. Enjoying local life with colorful ethnic costumes, typical dances, and songs performed by people of ethnic groups would be a memorable experience lingering in your mind during and long after your trip.

Best time to visit

At an altitude of 1.560 meters above sea level, Sapa features a sub-temperate climate all around the year. The town has 4 distinctive seasons with an average temperature of 15.4°C.

The ideal occasion to discover this mountainous hub is spring lasting from March to May when the wildflowers bloom at full brightness. Spring is also the time hill tribes showcase their unique culture with a dozen festivals. Coming to Sapa during April, you also have a rare chance to experience 4 different seasons of Vietnam within one day.

From September to November, when the scorching hot summer has gone away, Sapa turns into a little paradise for photo-hunting and trailing. The best time to take great photos of the yellow rice terraces in Sapa is September. Occasionally, thick white snow is recorded in Sapa in winter (December to February), giving adventurous travelers a rare chance to admire snow-capped mountains. It’s a one-of-a-life-time experience in a tropical climax country like Vietnam.

Major Attractions

Fansipan mountain.

Setting on top highlight destinations in the Sapa travel guide for adventurous travelers, Fansipan Mount is not only the highest peak in all of Vietnam but also the “roof of Indochina Peninsula”. The actual trek boats breath-taking a panoramic view of majestic mountains, lush valleys, and dense forests, challenging both amateur and professional hikers.

Muong Hoa Valley

Nestle in a range of marvelous mountains, the rustic and peaceful valley is known for its romantic beauty, unspoiled nature, the cultural richness of local ethnic minority, and especially an ancient rock ground, recognized as unique heritage of the ancient Vietnamese with hundreds of carvings scattering on the meadows and the cascading terraced fields of the ethnic minority.

Bac Ha Market

About 100 km away from Sapa, Bac Ha is the biggest ethnic market in the North-Western region of Vietnam. Alluring thousands of ethnic people from the nearby hill tribes, this is a great place for indigenous people to meet and boast their traditional and colorful ethnic costumes, giving travelers an ideal opportunity to discover the rich cultural diversity of Sapa.

Sapa Love Market

Sapa Love Market is a cultural beauty and unique experience no visitor should miss out in Sapa. Every Saturday evening, the town is always bustling by the charming heart of the indigenous boys, the enchanting dances of the girls dressing colorful costumes. More than a renowned place where young ethnic people come to find their partners for marriage.

Sapa Love Market is also a great base for people to retain cultural activities, exchange goods, as well as gather with friends.

Cave of Fairies

The pristine and rustic beauty of the Cave of Fairies enchants thousands of travelers from the very first glimpse of an eye. The emerald waters of the Chay river surrounded by high cliffs turns this limestone cave into a heavenly corner on earth with charming scenery. Cave of Fairies looks like something straight out of a Grimms' fairy tale.

The Heaven Gate

Perching on the peak of Tram Ton pass on the Hoang Lien Son mountain range is the Heaven Gate. About 18 kilometers to the north of Sapa, it boasts a great view looking over the valleys between Fansipan, the roof of Indochina Peninsula. As its name reveals, this destination brings a little feeling of heaven with a sublime scenery featuring majestic mountains and extreme abyss. Setting foot on Heaven Gate to grasp the beautiful scenery of the winding pass roads below will be an unforgettable memory for newcomers to Sapa.

Cat Cat Village

With typical wooden houses, flowing streams, elaborate brocades, and hospitable ethnic people, the enchanting Cat Cat is the most beautiful ancient village in Sapa. Being the home to the H'mong ethnic group, this little hamlet is where local inhabitants retain the cultivation of flax and cotton with a long-standing tradition of weaving beautiful brocade fabrics. Drop by the village, you can learn about the one-of-a-kind customs, and practices of Hmong through their local life, as well as get an insight into their traditional culture while enjoying the local hospitality.

Where to stay

The misty town of Sapa features a variety of accommodation options, especially for the travelers in the low to mid-range budget, from hostels, hotels to family-run homestays.

It also gives many options for travelers to stay in the luxury hotels. Diverse in styles and budgets, most of the hotels in the local area look out over the valleys with spectacular views of the Hoang Lien Mountains and Fansipan Mount. Depending on your demands, you might choose to stay in a downtown/village accommodation. If convenience is your priority, a downtown hotel would be the best choice. Thanks to its ideal location, Sapa downtown is a convenient base to discover the popular attractions around. It’s also where to find the restaurants and bars. For anyone seeking get-out-of-town experience and eager for something a little more authentic, village accommodation would be the ideal opt. Just 20 minutes ride away, you ’ll find quiet hamlets and humble homestays that embrace a totally different vibe.

Many hotels downtown also provide visa arrangements, train tickets and local Sapa tour packages with an additional fee. The town may be very crowded during the peak season so visitors are recommended to make a reservation. Also, during the weekends, prices can be charged slightly higher due to demands.

How to get there

Due to its distant location in the Northwest mountainous area with no airport nearby, Sapa is only accessible by road or rail.

The great way to get to Sapa from Hanoi is to take the train to Lao Cai, then hop on an hour-long bus or a taxi to the town. The journey takes around 8 hours, offering the picturesque views of the mountainscapes alongside. Vietnam Railways operates 2 daily express trains from Hanoi to Lao Cai and vice versa, departing at 9:35 and 10:00 PM in Gia Lam Station, Hanoi. The train only stops at major stations, so the trip is expected to be smooth and uninterrupted.

Thanks to the new expressway Hanoi – Lao Cao, traveling to Sapa from the capital city of Hanoi only takes 5 hours by shuttle bus. The ticket price varies from 220,000 VND – 450,0000 VND (about 10-20 USD). As it’s a non-stop ride coming straight to the town, visitors can save a lot of time for transferring to the town.

By motorbike/scooter

Another way to get to Sapa is riding a motorbike or scooter. The trip from Hanoi takes about 10 hours. Due to the rugged mountainous terrain, the roads may offer spectacular views, but it’s not an ideal option for novice riders. Don’t forget that an international driver's license is required to rent and ride a motorbike in Vietnam. During your trip, the temperature can get low at night so make sure you prepare some warm layers in your luggage.

Popular Attractions

Seasonal Guides

Best Of Sapa

See, Eat, Sleep, Shop, Stay - The Best of Sapa

A List Of 10 Most Hospitable Tourist Destinations in Vietnam Post Covid-19 Pandemic

Planning A Great Escape? Here Are 7 Best Ideas For Your Staycation In Vietnam

Make a Beeline for The 10 Most Beautiful Villages in Vietnam

6 Mind-Boggling Trekking Routes With Views to Die For in Vietnam

Frequently asked questions, what should i bring for my trip to sapa.

Whether you travel to Sapa in hot or cold weather, a jacket is highly recommended for you as the daytime may warm but early morning and night can be cold. Depending of the purpose of your trip, if you go trekking and overnight in a tent, don’t forget to bring trekking shoes, raincoat, flashlight, medicine, insect repellent, hat, sun protection, some snacks and water with you. If you have a weekend vacation to relax with friends and family, just bring the most necessary stuff since everything is available in the town for you.

What are Sapa's specialties?

Like many other destinations, Sapa also has many interesting and delicious local dishes. You can enjoy these dishes from a local restaurant, street vendors in the market or even in your hotel/homestays.

Some of typical dishes you can try when visit Sapa are:

• Salmon Hot Pot (O Quy Ho restaurant, A Phu Sapa restaurant)
• Com Lam (grilled rice in bamboo tube) (Street vendors or any restaurants)
• Grilled food (pork with vegetable/mushroom, chicken, fish, corn,…) (Street vendors)
• Thit Trau Gac Bep (dried buffalo meat) (Sapa night market, Fansipan Restaurant)
• Thang Co (Horse Meat Soup) (A Quynh Restaurant, Moment Romantic Restaurant)
• Mam Da (vegetable) (Sapa Grilling Area)

What are the must-visits in Sapa?

When in Sapa, considering putting the following on your to-do list:

Fansipan Mountain - the Roof of Indochina with the height of 3143m

Ham Rong Mountain

Silver Waterfall

Terrace Rice Fields

Sapa Church

Love Market

What makes Sapa different?

Sapa is a favorable destination for most tourists at any time of the year. So why is Sapa so attractive?

• The climate is cool and pleasant all year round. The average temperature in Sapa is 15 degrees. The highest temperature in Summer is just about 25 degrees and the lowest in the winter is under 0 degrees.
• The beautiful scenery, especially the rice fields, the majestic hills and mountains landscapes, the French architecture buildings.
• The unique culture of ethnic minorities is shown through stilt houses, sapa markets, churches, and friendly local people.
• Suitable for both relaxing and adventurous tours
• Plenty of amazing attractions

How to best reach Sapa from Hanoi?

It is around 376 km from Hanoi to Sapa. The most popular ways to travel to Sapa is by train or by local sleeping bus as they are convenient, safe and affordable. There are many seat types you can choose when booking a train ticket for the best comfort. You should book the departure time in the evening (around 9 – 10 pm) and arrive in Sapa in the early morning to save time.

When is the best time to visit Sapa?

The best weather in Sapa is in Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November). It is sunny and dry in the daytime and cool at night which is very comfortable for activities and good for photo-hunting. Although Summer (June to August) is hot and humid but it is still much cooler than the city thanks to the mountainous terrain. Besides, if you would like to enjoy the extremely cold weather and sometimes with snow in Vietnam, you can consider to travel in Winter (December to February).

Vietnam's Most Popular Destinations

The Adventuress

telling stories through adventures

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address

3D2N Sapa, Vietnam Travel Guide: A DIY Solo Backpacking Guide

Sapa’s allure lies in its breathtaking landscapes that unfold like a painter’s canvas. From its terraced rice fields, mountainsides, and mesmerizing mosaic of greenery that changes hues with the seasons, Sapa is one of the most sought-after destinations in Vietnam. With its breathtaking landscapes, Sapa, Vietnam, is a must-visit sight that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Northern Vietnam. 

As I embarked on another adventure, I decided to visit Sapa before leaving Vietnam. Sapa, Vietnam, was my last stop on my Northern Vietnam escapade after twenty-one days of staying in and exploring the country. In this travel guide, find out how to get to Sapa, Vietnam, things to do, and things to see for 3 days and 2 nights! 

Table of Contents

About Sapa, Vietnam 

Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of northern Vietnam, Sapa is a serene mountain town that captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty and cultural richness. This mountainous town is five to six hours away from Hanoi. Sapa, Vietnam, is renowned for its terraced rice fields, mist-shrouded valleys, and vibrant hill tribe communities. 

By visiting Sapa, Vietnam, you will get to experience scenic treks, explore traditional villages, and immerse yourself in their own unique culture!

How to get to Sapa from Hanoi? 

Traveling from Hanoi to Sapa is very convenient, although there are a lot of ways to get there. You can either go by bus, train, or private car. Thus, here’s an easy guide on how to get to Sapa, Vietnam. 

This is the easiest and one of the cheapest ways to get to Sapa, Vietnam. The travel time is approximately 5–6 hours. You can book your bus tickets with different bus companies.

You can opt for a sleeper bus for a more comfortable journey, especially if traveling overnight.

If you don’t mind long hours of traveling, you can opt for a train ride. The train ride to Sapa is approximately 8 hours. In this case, you can take an overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, the nearest railway station to Sapa. Some of the most popular trains include the Victoria Express, the Sapaly Express, and the Fansipan Express.

By Private Car

This option is great for small groups that want to have a more personalized itinerary. Opting for a private car in Sapa is also ideal for those who want more comfort. The travel time is approximately 5–6 hours. 

Based on my experience, I traveled to Sapa by bus since that’s the most convenient option on my end. I was traveling solo and didn’t want to travel for 8 hours! As mentioned above, there are a lot of bus companies where you can buy bus tickets from Hanoi to Sapa, Vietnam! You can book your bus tickets via bookaway ! 

Essential Travel Guide and Tips 

• Pack comfortable trekking shoes, a light jacket, and rain gear.
• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Stay hydrated and carry snacks during treks.
• Book your bus ticket online in advance, especially if you’re traveling to Vietnam during peak seasons. 
• Make sure to have your Google Translator ready since most of the locals find difficulty in communicating with English.
• Get enough cash. Though there are ATMs available in the town!

Things to do in Sapa, Vietnam

Explore sapa town..

Upon arrival and checking into your accommodation, you can start exploring the town of Sapa. You can visit local markets to try different Vietnamese cuisines! Traveling to Vietnam is relatively cheap, so any food you want to have in the town is affordable! In addition, you can enjoy the vibrant colors of the town at night!

Go trekking and visit ethnic villages.

You can go trekking and visit different ethnic villages in Sapa. Cat Cat Village is one of the most popular ethnic villages among tourists! Cat Cat Village is known for its Hmong ethnic minority community. Here, you can explore the traditional houses, terraced fields, and picturesque Cat Cat Waterfalls. 

In my case, I didn’t visit the Cat Cat village and decided to explore another ethnic village, which is a 30-minute drive from Sapa town. I booked and stayed at Mao Homestay, which also offers trekking adventures and activities! 

Visit the Fansipan Mountain 

Fansipan Mountain is one of the most popular tourist spots in Sapa, Vietnam. This is known as the “Roof of Indochina”. You can reach the summit by taking the cable car and see the panoramic views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and the Muong Hoa Valley.

In my case, I didn’t get to visit Fansipan Mountain since it was rainy during my visit so I just explored the town before I got back to Hanoi! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to visit sapa, vietnam .

Definitely! It is safe to visit Sapa, Vietnam, even if you’re traveling solo! I’m a female solo traveler and I can attest that Sapa is safe for solo travelers! 

Is it worth visiting Sapa?

Sapa is a great place to relax, go climbing, learn about the culture, and enjoy breathtaking views. Sapa is a great place to visit! 

How long should I stay in Sapa?

The duration of your stay in Sapa depends on your preferences, interests, and the activities you plan to undertake. 3 days and 2 nights are enough to stay in Sapa. You can explore the landscapes, terraced rice fields, and ethnic minority villages, and experience trekking opportunities. 

When is the best time to visit Sapa?

Sapa is most beautiful in September and October when the rice fields are at their most beautiful. The weather is also great in April and May when the skies are clear. For those who don’t mind hot weather, June to August are the best times to visit. Furthermore, temperatures usually drop from November to March in Sapa.

Whether trekking through terraced fields, interacting with hill tribe communities, or simply gazing at the misty peaks, Sapa is one of the best places to visit in Northern Vietnam!

A travel blogger in the Philippines and a K-pop enthusiast, Ara Patria (The Adventuress) pursues her passion and love for traveling. She’s been blogging for years, where she writes about her own travel experiences and promotes the wonders of the Philippines. Not only does she promote the beauty of her country, but she also focuses on promoting sustainable tourism. She dreams of traveling the world and inspiring other people through her own written works and captured moments with her camera.

The Adventuress is a travel blogger with a purpose. She aims to inspire other people through her personal experiences, stories, and lenses. Outside her blogging world, she is an education, an SEO specialist, and TEFL/TESOL certified.

Join her adventures!

About the Author

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Latest posts.

3D2N Ninh Binh Travel Guide: A Solo DIY Backpacking Guide

Valley View Homestay: Best Place to Stay in Sapa, Vietnam

Easy Japan Visa Application Guide for Filipinos

How to Apply for a Chinese Visa for Filipinos (with or without ITR)

• Backpacking Guides
• Beauty and Lifestyle
• Food & Restaurants
• Hotels & Resorts
• International
• Kpop & K-dramas
• Personal Insights
• Philippines
• Press Release
• Solo Travel Guides
• Travel Guides & Tips
• Travel Inspirations
• Visa Guides

Recent Comments

• Ara Patria on Farm T-House: A Farm Staycation Camping Site in Laguna
• RayfromWildkamp on Farm T-House: A Farm Staycation Camping Site in Laguna
• Find out how to Apply for Chinese language Visa for Filipinos - on Beijing Travel Guide: 3 days Itinerary + Expenses
• Liezel on A DIY Travel Guide to Rotypeaks, Bukidnon
• Ara Patria on The Ultimate Island Hopping Guide in Balabac, Palawan

You may also like these

@travelhackfun

Wander, Camp, Savor

Sapa, Vietnam: The Ultimate Travel Guide with Recommended Itinerary and Must-Visit Attractions & Food

Table of Content

Sapa | Introduction

Sapa ( Sapa ) is a small town located in the northern mountainous region of Vietnam, approximately a five-hour drive from Hanoi. Situated in the heart of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, in Sapa, you can ascend the "Roof of Indochina" at Fansipan Peak, overlooking the spectacular terraced fields and mountains shrouded in mist. You can also visit traditional villages and experience the diverse culture of the ethnic minorities.

Sapa | Itinerary

Sapa, being quite a distance away from Hanoi, offers a wealth of activities. It's generally recommended to plan for at least a two to three-day itinerary.

On Day 1 of the itinerary, after arriving in Sapa following at least a five-hour drive, start by touring the Sapa town center to get a feel for the local atmosphere. If time permits, you can take the cable car to Sun World Fansipan Legend on the very first day, reaching the summit of Fansipan Peak to enjoy the spectacular mountain views. In the evening, stroll through the Sapa night market and shop for souvenirs.

On Day 2 and 3, the focus will be on trekking and the culture of the ethnic minorities. For instance, you can join a two-day and one-night trekking tour, spending a night in a local ethnic minority's homestay. Alternatively, head to Cat Cat Village and find a day-long round-trip trekking route to admire the terraced fields and mountain views.

Recommended Sapa 2D1N Trekking Tour

• Tripadvisor

Sapa | How To Get There

There are a number of transportation options available from Hanoi to Sapa. The following are the main ones:

Take the train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, and then transfer to a bus from Lao Cai to Sapa. Many people prefer the option of taking the overnight train, which not only saves a night's accommodation but allows them to arrive in Sapa in the morning. Moreover, it's relatively safe and comfortable. The train journey is longer, requiring 8 hours to reach Lao Cai, followed by an additional one-hour bus ride. Ticket prices typically range from 25 to 50 US dollars.

Hanoi - Sapa Sleeper Train

Sleeping Bus

Take the Sleeping Bus departing from Hanoi, which goes directly to Sapa. The journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, which is faster and cheaper than taking the train. Ticket prices usually range between 10 to 20 US dollars.

Hanoi - Sapa Sleeper Bus

Private transfer

If you need more privacy and flexibility, you can also opt for a private transfer. The driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you directly to Sapa, though the cost is higher. This method offers more flexibility, allowing you to depart at any time. The journey is usually shorter than the Sleeping Bus, often reaching the destination in about five and a half hours.

Hanoi - Sapa Private Transfer

Sapa | Where To Stay

There are two most convenient accommodation options for tourists in Sapa. One option is to stay in a hotel in the town center. Sapa is a small town with Sun Plaza and the adjacent church at its heart. Hotels closer to Sun Plaza are more convenient. Another option is to participate in a trekking tour, which typically includes one night at an ethnic minority homestay. The advantage of this is that it allows for a deeper understanding of the ethnic minority culture. Travelers can choose based on their interests and itinerary.

Recommended Hotel | Hotel De La Coupole - MGallery

Hotel De La Coupole – MGallery is a five-star hotel located in the center of Sapa town. Its location is incredibly convenient, situated right inside Sun Plaza. Directly below the hotel is a shopping street, and right in front of it is the town center. Behind the hotel is the Sun World station leading to Fansipan Peak. To get to Fansipan, it's only a thirty-second walk.

The interior design of the hotel is also quite stunning. The design of the hotel alone is worth a visit.

The rooms are also very cozy and comfortable.

Hotel De La Coupole - MGallery

• Booking.com

Sapa | Must-see Attractions

Downtown sapa.

Sapa is a charming little town. Some places worth visiting in town include Sapa Church, Sapa Lake, and Sapa Market, all of which are within walking distance from the town center.

During the day, the liveliest area is the plaza in front of the town center's Sun Plaza. You'll often see people dressed in ethnic minority attire moving about, peddling their goods. There are often street performances taking place in front of the plaza. We might see some children hawking goods; it's best not to buy from them and encourage them to return to school instead.

In the evening, the nearby street, lined with hotpot restaurants, is brightly lit and is an excellent place for dining.

Sapa Church

The Sapa Church is a small stone church built by the French. It stands directly in front of the plaza and remains a central landmark of the town to this day. The church opens on Sundays and specific evenings for people to attend mass and prayers, and occasionally there are choir performances.

Sapa Lake is just a five-minute walk from the church and is one of the town's primary attractions. If you want to appreciate Sapa from the water, you can also rent a small boat for a lake tour.

Sapa Market

Sapa Market is the best place to buy souvenirs. You can find local handicrafts as well as a variety of goods from both the north and south. The prices can be quite reasonable, but bargaining is absolutely essential. Make sure to bargain hard, to the point where you're seemingly unsatisfied and ready to walk away.

Sun World Fansipan Legend

Fansipan is the highest peak in the Indochina Peninsula (including Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia), known as the "Roof of Indochina". If you enjoy hiking, consider spending two days trekking up the mountain for an amazing experience. However, the traditional trekking route has been supplemented by the Sun World cable car , which can take you to the summit in about two hours. The view from the top of Fansipan is spectacular, offering a panoramic view of the entire Sapa area. In addition to the natural beauty, Sun World has also established some man-made attractions and facilities on the mountain.

Sun World Fansipan Legend Tickets

Fansipan in Sapa: A Half-Day Journey to the Roof of Indochina

Cat Cat Village

Cat Cat Village is a mountainous hamlet located near Sapa, situated at the base of the Muong Hoa Valley, about two kilometers away from Sapa. Originally a picturesque mountain village, Cat Cat was founded by the local Black H'mong ethnic group in the mid-19th century. In the early 20th century, the French discovered this village and developed it into a holiday resort. The village's name is derived from the stunning Catscat waterfall located within. Visitors here can observe unique traditional architectural styles, watch cultural performances, dress in traditional ethnic minority costumes, savor local delicacies, and shop.

My journey to Cat Cat Village can be found in the following post .

Discovering Sapa's Heritage: A Visit to Cat Cat Village

Sapa | Trekking

If you have a passion for authentic ethnic cultures and breathtaking mountain views, finding a trekking route in Sapa to deeply appreciate the natural scenery and visit ethnic villages is a must-do. Sapa offers a plethora of trekking options, which you can either find upon arrival or book in advance. Typically, travelers choose either a day trip or a two-day one-night itinerary. The choice of trek is usually based on the desired village to visit, but the actual route might vary depending on the day's circumstances, leading to slight differences.

The focus of the trekking journey is to understand the ethnic minorities and to appreciate the beautiful terraced fields and mountain views. The most common route is through the Muong Hoa Valley, which is dotted with several small villages. Trekkers will pass through the Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, and Ta Van villages. However, these three spots also attract the most tourists and, as a result, have become more commercialized. Therefore, choosing a less popular village route might offer a more authentic experience with fewer sales distractions.

We prefer hiking, so we chose Muong Hoa Mountain. Our journey took us through Hang Da Village and Moung Hoa Village. The details are recorded in this article .

Muong Hoa Adventure: Trekking Through Sapa’s Cultural Landscape in a Day

Sapa | Cuisine

Nha hang a hoi vua.

• Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We came for dinner and ordered a salmon hot pot, dried beef, and apple wine. The portion of the salmon hot pot was even more generous than the previous restaurant, though the broth here felt a tad richer in flavor. The apple wine was home-brewed by the establishment, bottled in a plastic bottle. It reminded me a bit of the indigenous rice wine, with a stronger alcohol kick but an intensely rich fruity aroma, making it very enjoyable. We initially ordered the dried beef as a side dish, which came with a very spicy homemade chili sauce that was incredibly tasty. To my surprise, I found the dried beef more memorable than the hot pot. Unexpectedly, the portion of dried beef was so generous that, along with the wine, we continued to snack on it until the end of our trip.

Nha Hang Kham Pha Viet

This is also a hot pot restaurant.

We came here for dinner and ordered salmon pot, beef jerky and apple cider. The salmon pot was bigger than the previous restaurant, but the soup was a little heavier. The cider was home-brewed in a plastic bottle, which felt a bit like aboriginal millet wine. The wine was strong, but had a strong fruity flavor, and was very tasty. The beef jerky, which we originally wanted to order as a side dish, was accompanied by a very spicy homemade chili sauce, which was superb, and I was even more impressed with it than I was with the hot pot. What I didn't realize was that the beef jerky was a huge portion, and we ended up eating it all the way to the end of the trip with the wine.

Banh Mi (An unnamed roadside stand)

The roadside stall didn't seem to have a clear name, and it's located when you exit the main entrance of Sun Plaza, take a right and then a left into an alley. We noticed that it had a thriving business, and most of the customers were locals. A Banh Mi costs 25 and is grilled on the spot. While the fillings weren't extraordinary, the bread was toasted wonderfully. It came with ham, eggs, cucumber, coriander, and other ingredients – simple yet delicious and nutritious.

Further reading

• More Vietnam Further reading

Thank you for visiting our website. All the content on this site is original and shared with the purpose of providing valuable information. We sustain the operation of this site through a small amount of advertising and sponsored links. If you click on links to third-party merchants on our site and make purchases, we may receive a portion of the sales as a commission. If you click on links to third-party merchants on our site and make purchases, we may receive a portion of the sales as a commission. Find more posts on a map Here . My recommended resources for hotel bookings.

• Expedia.com
• TripAdvisor
• Best US Credit Card for smart traveler
• Backpacking 101: How to Pack for a Long Journey | A Beginner Packing List

If you are interested in quoting this article or using any part of its content and images on your website or publication, please contact us via email to request permission.

Share this post

Comment 取消回覆.

Maifootsteps

Blog du lịch của Mai- Mai's travel blog

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.

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 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 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

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.

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 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 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 !

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

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 .

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

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.

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.

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

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.

• 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 :

• 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:

Rate my post

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 3

Hiện chưa có đánh giá

As you found this post useful...

Follow me on social media!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

List of useful websites for your travel experience.

• - Book your accomodation at Booking.com or at  expedia.com.
• - Book your entrance tickets or tours at Klook or Viator.
• - Compare and book means of transportation at omio.com . Pleas use this code linhm0h7b4w6d to earn 10€ discount on over 40€ value booking, put the code on section received an invite code of Travel bonus .
• - Buy travel insurance at Worldnomads.
• - Book your Train, Bus, Ferry, Transfer & Flight Tickets Booking in Asia & Worldwide at 12go.asia
• - Support me through Paypal.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Best 13 Hotels in Bac Ninh That Exceed All Expectations
• 20 Beautiful Hotels in Phu Tho
• 11 Delightful Hotels in Thai Nguyen You Won’t Want to Miss
• 8 Affordable Hotels in Tuyen Quang to Elevate Your Stay
• 7 Hotels in Lang Son for a Luxurious Escape

Travel to Sapa Vietnam – Useful Guide for Your First Time

• by Chau Nguyen
• June 6, 2023
• 19 minutes read

Situated at the base of the magnificent Hoang Lien Son mountain range and just a 5-6 hour drive from Hanoi via the highway, Sapa Vietnam is a perfect year-round destination. Apart from the enchanting terraced fields during the rice harvest season, Sapa also captivates visitors with the splendor of numerous other attractions. In this Sapa travel guide, we will provide you with essential information to ensure a fantastic first trip.

Table of Contents

Where is sapa, when is the best time to visit sapa, how to go to sapa, how to move around sapa, what to do for the first time in sapa, what to eat in sapa, hotels in sapa, atm and money exchange in sapa, local emergency contact for tourists in sapa, other notes to ensure a wonderful trip beside of this sapa vietnam travel guide.

Sapa town is situated in the Lao Cai province , in the northwest region of Vietnam. It is located approximately 350 km northwest of Hanoi city and is close to the border with China. Sapa is renowned for its stunning and rugged landscape, as well as its rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine. In the early 20th century, the French regarded Sapa as the Summer Capital of Northern Vietnam. Since then, Sapa’s natural beauty has continued to attract an increasing number of visitors who choose to spend their vacations there. It is especially popular as a honeymoon destination for couples.

Sapa enjoys a cool climate, making it a suitable destination for year-round travel. However, it’s best to avoid the stormy season from June to early August, as this period can bring about extreme weather conditions like floods, flash floods, and landslides.

From February to May, Sapa blossoms with a vibrant spring season, showcasing a variety of flowers such as cherry apricots, peaches, and plums. During the summer months of June to August, Sapa becomes a popular getaway for tourists seeking respite from the heat. It’s a great time to witness the lush green rice terraces.

Autumn graces Sapa from September to November, offering a picturesque landscape with golden hues from the ripened rice field, and the weather starts to turn cooler. Winter arrives from December to February of the following year, and if you’re fortunate, you may even have the chance to witness snow and ice atop the mountains.

Bus or train

To travel from Hanoi to Sapa, you have a few options available. You can book a limousine or a bus from My Dinh bus station, with prices ranging from 230,000 to 350,000 VND per person, depending on the seat class. The journey typically takes around 5-6 hours.

If you prefer to take the train, you can choose the Hanoi-Lao Cai route. The train ride lasts approximately 7-9 hours, and upon arrival in Lao Cai, you will need to take a bus or taxi to reach the center of Sapa. Train ticket prices vary from 160,000 to 800,000 VND, depending on the seat class and train type.

Alternatively, you can opt to drive to Sapa on your own. Take the Noi Bai-Lao Cai highway and then turn onto 4D road, which will lead you to Sapa. The road is generally easy to navigate, but it’s important to pay attention to road signs and maintain an appropriate speed. Before setting off, make sure to check your tires, brakes, lights, and other essential components, especially during cold rain, fog, or when the roads are slippery. The driving time is approximately 5-6 hours. It is advisable to depart from Hanoi no later than around 12:30 PM to ensure that you reach the mountain pass to Sapa before it gets too dark.

Book a tour from Hanoi

One of the best ways to save energy and effort when planning a trip to Sapa is by booking a tour. By doing so, you won’t have to worry about transportation, food, and accommodation, and you’ll have the opportunity to visit the most prominent travel destinations, which are tailored to be interesting. There are numerous tour providers that can help you arrange a tour from Hanoi to Sapa, but we recommend booking through Klook. Klook is a trusted platform that qualifies and rates its tour providers based on feedback from thousands of tourists, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.

Rent a Motorbike

Motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation in Sapa, favored by many tourists. This vehicle allows you the freedom to explore the captivating attractions of this misty town at your own pace and convenience.

Furthermore, motorcycles are an excellent option for adventurous young travelers who are passionate about exploring both picturesque and thrilling roads. It is advisable to travel in a group, ensuring convenience in movement and minimizing the risk of encountering difficulties on the road.

If you don’t have a motorcycle with you, you can rent one from the following locations:

Hire a motorbike taxi

To make your way around Sapa, you can opt for a motorbike taxi service. This is a suitable choice for those who may feel uncertain about navigating on their own. By hiring a motorbike taxi driver, they can serve as your guide, taking you to popular tourist attractions. The rental price for a motorbike taxi typically ranges from 100,000 VND to 150,000 VND for visiting 4-5 attractions located near each other in Sapa.

If you are traveling in a group, another option is to rent a tourist car with 4 to 16 seats. The rental price for such a vehicle ranges from 400,000 VND to 500,000 VND per attraction. Alternatively, you can negotiate a full-day rental. Apart from serving as a motorbike taxi driver, these drivers can also act as guides, providing you with valuable insights about the various places to help you better understand Sapa.

Renting a taxi in Sapa is a convenient option, especially for group or family travel. However, it’s important to note that taxi rental prices in Sapa can be relatively high, and the fare is typically calculated based on the number of destinations, rather than the duration of the rental. Therefore, it’s advisable to inquire about the price beforehand to avoid any surprises.

By renting a taxi, you can have some assurance regarding weather conditions. On the flip side, taxis may have limitations when it comes to venturing deep into the villages, and their access may be restricted to the outer areas.

Trekking in Sapa offers a wonderful combination of walking and exercise while immersing yourself in the majestic beauty of the region. It allows you to explore Sapa without any obstacles holding you back.

However, trekking requires good physical health, so make sure to prepare the necessary items, especially good hiking shoes with arches support to ensure a smooth journey. With this activity, you won’t have to worry about parking or taking care of a vehicle. Additionally, it’s easier to navigate shorter distances and reach nearby destinations on foot.

One great option is to join a trekking day tour specifically tailored for destinations like Cat Cat, Ma Tra, Ta Phin, Cao Chai, and Ta Van.

You can allocate approximately 3 days and 2 nights to exploring the famous attractions in Sapa.

Ham Rong Mountain

Ham Rong Mountain is a popular spot teeming with tourists, offering a mesmerizing and misty landscape. It has a range of elevations, with the lowest point at 1,450m and the highest point exceeding 1,800m. From the mountain’s summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sapa’s notable tourist destinations such as Muong Hoa Valley, Ta Van Village, and Cat Cat Village.

Ham Rong Mountain is an ideal place for a picnic, combining dining, shopping, and sightseeing, as numerous shops and beautiful flower gardens line the way up the mountain. The entrance fee for Ham Rong Mountain tourist area is 70,000 VND for adults and 30,000 VND for children.

Sapa Stone Church

Following your visit to Ham Rong Mountain, you can return to the town center, not far away, to explore Sapa Stone Church. This architectural gem holds symbolic significance for the mountainous town and was initiated in 1895. The church, designed in Gothic style, features elements like a cross-shaped structure, arched doorways, and a bell tower, all showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.

Cat Cat Village

Situated just 2 km from the center of Sapa, Cat Cat Village offers the choice of trekking or motorbiking to reach its serene Hmong community. The village proudly preserves various customs and traditional crafts, including weaving, silver carving, and jewelry making.

The journey to the village is picturesque, with winding roads flanked by terraced fields and ethnic dwellings. Upon crossing Si Bridge, you’ll arrive at the heart of Cat Cat Village, where the convergence of Tien Sa Stream, Vang Stream, and Bac Stream can be witnessed. Exploring the village allows you to gain insights into the lives of the Mong people, purchase handmade products as souvenirs, and indulge in local delicacies. The entrance fee to visit Cat Cat Village is 50,000 VND per person.

JOIN TREKKING DAY TOUR TO CAT CAT VILLAGE FROM SAPA

Lao Chai – Ta Van

To reach Ta Van, located approximately 10 km from the town, you can opt for a motorbike, taxi, or trekking. The road leading to Lao Chai – Ta Van is narrow, enveloped by the soothing green hues of rice and corn terraces. Although it is no longer entirely untouched, Lao Chai – Ta Van maintains its peaceful ambiance and is inhabited by various ethnic minorities , including the Mong, Dao, and Giay.

The captivating feature here, apart from the local ethnic life, is the sprawling terraced fields that adorn the hillsides, which we already listed in the top places to watch golden rice fields in Vietnam . Late summer is a particularly enchanting time as the rice ripens, painting the entire mountainous area in a golden hue. If you have ample time, it is recommended to spend a day here to immerse yourself in the local way of life. The entrance fee to the area is 70,000 VND per person.

JOIN TREKKING DAY TOUR TO LAO CHAI- TA VAN FROM SAPA

Fansipan Peak

For a less strenuous ascent to the highest peak of Fansipan mountain , you can take advantage of the cable car and mountain train. In the morning, head to the mountain railway station across from Sapa town square to purchase tickets. The cable car ticket costs 715,000 VND per adult and 525,000 VND per child, while the mountain train ticket is priced at 99,000 VND per person.

PREBOOK YOUR CABLE CAR & TRAIN TICKETS TO AVOID PEAK TIME

To reach the summit of Fansipan, follow the route of the mountain train and cable car, then proceed with either another train ride or a walk up 600 steps. Each leg of the train journey lasts approximately 6-7 minutes, while the cable car ride takes around 30 minutes. Walking enthusiasts can leisurely ascend the stairs and explore the spiritual complex on Fansipan, which features attractions like Kim Son Bao Thang Pagoda, an 11-storey tower, and the largest bronze statue of Amitabha Buddha in Vietnam.

At the cable car and mountain train stations, you’ll find stalls selling souvenirs and restaurants catering to the shopping and dining needs of visitors. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes with low heels and bring a jacket, raincoat, or umbrella in case the weather at the mountain peak suddenly becomes chilly and overcast.

This picturesque attraction, known as Swing Sapa, is situated at 87 Nguyen Chi Thanh, near the town center, approximately 2 km from the Stone Church in the direction of the cable car.

Featuring captivating sculptures such as a man and woman statue, a giant stone hand, a Buddha statue, the “stairway to heaven,” and swings, Swing Sapa offers countless photo opportunities with its unique settings.

Prior to visiting, it is recommended to prepare your own photo props, or you can rent them on-site for 50,000 VND per set. Ensure that your camera and phone batteries are fully charged. If traveling with a group, you can even organize a camping trip or a small picnic in this area. The entrance fee is 80,000 VND per person.

Seo My Ty Lake

To reach Seo My Ty Lake, located in Ta Van commune, you must traverse a challenging 20 km road filled with large and small stones, making it quite difficult for inexperienced drivers. The lake was formed by constructing a dam for the Seo My Ty hydropower plant, and it holds the distinction of being the highest artificial lake in Vietnam. When viewed from above, the lake resembles a silk ribbon running alongside the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Visitors can seek permission from local fishermen to sit on boats and rafts, enjoying the lake’s beauty and learning about salmon farming practices in the area.

Heaven’s Gate

From the center of Sapa, follow Highway 4D for approximately 15 km to reach Heaven’s Gate, situated at the highest point of the O Quy Ho pass. Standing here, you can marvel at the panoramic view of the vast valley below, adorned with terraced fields and winding roads. Several newly built establishments such as restaurants, cafes, and hotels can be found at Heaven’s Gate. Admission to Heaven’s Gate is priced at 80,000 VND per person and includes a drink.

O Quy Ho Pass

O Quy Ho Pass, known as the “King of the Passes,” features a deep valley on one side and rugged cliffs on the other. Stretching for about 50 km, it connects the provinces of Lao Cai and Lai Chau. For those seeking great photo opportunities, it is recommended to visit O Quy Ho Pass around sunset, between 17:00 and 17:30. As the sun gradually sets behind the mountains, the entire pass is bathed in a mesmerizing golden hue. However, Sapa’s weather can change rapidly, with dark clouds often rolling in just minutes after sunset.

Along the road to Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall, you’ll find numerous stalls selling local specialties, food, and drinks, providing seating for weary travelers. When visiting O Quy Ho Pass, it is advisable to bring a raincoat and warm clothing. If traveling by motorbike, remember to wear a helmet and exercise caution on the winding roads.

Silver Waterfall – Love Waterfall

Located on the road of O Quy Ho Pass, approximately 3 km from the pass’s summit, Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall are must-visit destinations, particularly popular among young people. Silver Waterfall features steps leading to the top of the waterfall, but be cautious as the higher you climb, the colder it gets and the water flow becomes stronger, making it important to watch your step to avoid slipping. Love Waterfall, although a 1.5 km walk from the entrance, takes visitors through a scenic forested area. Admission to Silver Waterfall is priced at 20,000 VND per person, while Love Waterfall tickets cost 75,000 VND per person.

Grilled food & hot pot

When visiting Sapa, indulging in grilled food is a must as it is a ubiquitous dish with a wide variety of options. You can enjoy skewers of pork, chicken, and vegetables, as well as grilled eggs, corn, potatoes, and lam rice. The prices for these delicious barbecue items range from 20,000 to 100,000 VND each. Another popular choice is salmon and sturgeon, which can be enjoyed in hot pot dishes or even raw. A hot pot typically costs between 300,000 and 600,000 VND and is suitable for 3 to 6 people to share.

Restaurants in Sapa

• Thang Co A Quynh (Thach Son Street): This restaurant is known for its specialty dish called “Thang Co,” which is a traditional horse meat stew enjoyed by the local ethnic groups.
• Hotpot Center (Xuan Vien Street): Here, you can savor delicious fish hotpot dishes. It’s a great place to warm up and enjoy a comforting meal.
• Ong Ha’s effervescent noodle soup (468 Dien Bien Phu): This restaurant serves a unique and flavorful effervescent noodle soup, a must-try dish in Sapa.

For young tourists who seek a vibrant atmosphere and enjoy good food, they can visit:

• My Grill (Dien Bien Phu Street): This restaurant specializes in charcoal grilled dishes, offering a wide selection of tasty grilled options.
• Tuk Tuk Chicken Shop: Known for their grilled spicy ribs and cheese shake, this place offers a unique dining experience with a fusion of flavors.
• H’Mong Pizza at Pi’s Boutique: Here, you can try the famous H’Mong Pizza, a local twist on the classic pizza, featuring local ingredients and flavors.

These restaurants provide a variety of culinary delights for visitors to explore and enjoy during their time in Sapa.

In the town center of Sapa, there are numerous cafes for visitors to choose from. However, if you prefer a peaceful atmosphere with a view of the valley or mountains, you can consider the following options:

• Coong Cafe (located along the way to Cat Cat village, near Coong homestay): This cafe offers a serene setting with a picturesque view of the surrounding area.
• Vietrekking (Hoang Lien street): Vietrekking cafe provides a tranquil environment where you can relax and enjoy a hot cup of coffee while taking in the beauty of the mountains.
• Gem Valley Cafe (located in the village of Cat Cat): This cafe offers a unique experience, nestled in the village surroundings, where you can enjoy your beverage with a scenic view.

These cafes provide an opportunity to unwind, enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, and soak in the stunning natural landscapes of Sapa. Whether you’re looking for a quiet space to contemplate or simply want to enjoy the serenity of the mountains, these cafes are worth a visit.

Sapa offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer a motel, homestay in a village, hostel, cheap hotel, or a luxurious 4-5 star resort, there are plenty of choices available. Here are some notable accommodation options in Sapa:

• Topas Ecolodge
• Sapa Jade Hill
• Hôtel de la Coupole – MGallery
• Silk Path Grand

Read more: Best 7 Sapa Vietnam Resorts

Homestays and Hostels

If you prefer a more immersive experience and want to enjoy the peacefulness of the Northwest mountains, consider staying in homestays or hostels in villages such as Cat Cat, Lao Chai, and Ta Van. Prices for dorm rooms start from around 100,000 VND per person, while bungalow double rooms are available from around 500,000 VND.

Some popular homestays include:

• Eco Palms House
• Heavenly Sapa
• Viettrekking
• Phori’s House
• Rock Garden

These accommodations provide opportunities to experience the local culture, interact with the residents, and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Read more: Best 10 Sapa Hotels – Voted by Tourists

Whether you choose a resort, homestay, or hostel, Sapa offers a diverse range of options to cater to different preferences and budgets. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.

Sapa is a popular tourist destination, so finding an ATM is not difficult. Most restaurants and hotels accept card payments. However, it’s recommended to have cash on hand when visiting villages or purchasing goods from local stalls.

If you need to exchange money, you can inquire at the hotel reception for more information. It’s important to exchange money at authorized and legal places to ensure a fair exchange rate and avoid scams.

Having a mix of cash and card options will provide you with flexibility and convenience during your stay in Sapa.

Read more: 10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

• Sa Pa District Police – 0203 871 503
• Sa Pa town police – 0203 871 226
• Tourism manager – 0912 228 108
• Market Manager – 0912 010 521
• Sa Pa District General Hospital – 0203 518 558
• Emergency Rescue: Dial 112
• Police: 113
• Fire Department: 114
• Ambulance and Medical support: 115
• Remember to save your hotel/homestays phone number in case of emergency
• Clothing and Other Items: Prepare warm clothes, scarves, shoes, wool hats, and masks regardless of the season. Weather in Sapa in the evenings can be chilly, so wearing a windbreaker is advisable.
• Footwear: Opt for flat sandals or sports shoes as walking is the main mode of transportation in Sapa. Remember to bring your ID card for check-in procedures and a driver’s license if planning to rent a motorbike.
• Pre-Order Services: Save time, money, and effort by pre-booking trains and rooms for your Sapa trip.
• Phone Signal Coverage: Consider getting a Viettel SIM Card for better phone signal coverage, especially in forested and hilly areas. Read more guide on Vietnam SIM Card at Complete guide to pick Vietnam SIM Card for travelers .
• Energy-Boosting Snacks: Pack high-calorie snacks for trekking or mountain climbing activities.
• Temporary Welcome Gate: If you encounter a temporary welcome gate with knives, wooden swords, heads, chicken wings, etc., change your direction. The village is likely organizing spiritual cultural activities and wants to avoid intrusion. These festivals are usually held in February, June, or July of the lunar calendar.
• Village Etiquette: When walking in the village, maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Avoid laughing or talking loudly and move at a slow and elegant pace, appreciating the serene landscape.
• Interaction with Children: Refrain from patting children on the head, even if you adore them. Locals believe that such gestures can cause panic and make the child more susceptible to illness.
• Whistling in the Evening: Avoid whistling when walking around the village in the evening. According to local beliefs, whistling can attract ghosts to the village.
• Sacred Forbidden Forest: Each village often has a sacred forbidden forest, a place of worship for the entire community. While these areas are clean, beautiful, and cool, visitors should not stop to rest or eat there as it would be considered disrespectful to the gods.

More Sapa travel guides:

• 5 ways to get to Sapa from Hanoi

Share This Post:

Chau Nguyen

5 best cloud hunting spots in sapa, dak nong travel guide: your comprehensive handbook for first-time explorers, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Related Post

Best Ca Mau Travel Guide: A Must-Read Handbook for First-Time Explorers

Best Bac Lieu Travel Guide to Unraveling the Charms of Southern Vietnam

Soc Trang Travel Guide: Top Experiences and Local Recommendations for Your First Time

The Perfect Kien Giang Travel Guide for First-Time Adventurers

Hau Giang Travel Guide: Unlocking the Secrets of this Enchanting Destination

Best Tra Vinh Travel Guide to Plan Your First Trip

Sapa Travel Guide: What to do in Sa Pa, Vietnam

Posted on Last updated: October 30, 2023

Looking for the best things to do in Sapa, Vietnam? You’ve come to the right place!

Sa Pa, often written as Sapa, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, and it’s easy to see why! With its terraced rice fields, towering mountains and sweeping views, it’s a truly stunning place.

In this Sapa travel guide I have tried to include everything you need to know to have a great time in Sa Pa. Including what to do, where to stay, the best tours to join, where to eat, how to get around Sapa and more!

We spent three nights in Sapa as part of a wider Vietnam itinerary, and we really enjoyed our time there. The mixture of traditional villages, stunning views and unique terraced rice fields makes it really interesting.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and plan what to do in Sa Pa, Vietnam!

• 1.1 How to get to Sapa
• 1.2 Where to stay in Sapa, Vietnam
• 1.3 Best tours in Sapa, Vietnam 
• 1.4 How to get around Sa Pa
• 1.5 How many days do you need in Sapa?
• 1.6 Best time of year to visit Sapa, Vietnam?
• 2.1 Ride the Cable Car to Mount Fansipan
• 2.2 Explore Cat Cat Village
• 2.3 Go hiking
• 2.4 Buy some local handicrafts
• 2.5 Hike up to Fan Si Pan Peak
• 2.6 Admire the views from the Glass Bridge in Sapa
• 2.7 Drive along Ô Quy Hồ Pass (Đèo Ô Quý Hồ)
• 2.8 Admire Silver Waterfall & Love Waterfall
• 2.9 Explore the Terraced Rice Fields 
• 2.10 Wander around the center of Sapa town

Enjoying the views over the terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam, during our guided hike

Key things to know before visiting Sapa 

Before we dive into the best things to do in Sa Pa, Vietnam, I wanted to give you an overview of the logistics information that you will need to plan your trip.

These are all the useful things to know like how to get to Sapa, where to stay, how to get around and more!

How to get to Sapa

Sapa is located in the north of Vietnam, close to the border with China. It’s pretty far, and the journey is quite long, regardless of the travel method you choose.

You can travel to Sapa by bus, train or private taxi. The buses and trains both offer overnight sleeper options, as it’s a 5+ hour journey. A private taxi is obviously the most comfortable, although it can get quite pricey.

There are many options for train and bus tickets, ranging from basic to luxury.

We took the VIP overnight bus to Sapa from Ninh Binh for around 500,000 VND per person, and then the basic day bus from Sapa back to Hanoi for around 300,000 VND per person.

Travelling from Ninh Binh to Sapa in a sleeper pod in the VIP night bus

Needless to say the VIP bus was much more comfortable, but you don’t rely on getting much sleep.

The roads are bumpy, they drive like crazy and you will arrive in Sapa around 5AM, where you then have to decide whether to pay for early check-in at your hotel or just wander aimlessly around town with your bags while you wait for normal check-in hour.

We booked all our transfers in person at our hotels or home stays, but you can also book them online beforehand if you want to ensure you have it booked before you travel.

Overall, getting to Sapa was a bit of a journey, but it was definitely worth it. 

The non-VIP bus from Sapa to Hanoi

Where to stay in Sapa, Vietnam

Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam means that Sa Pa has plenty of accommodation options to offer. Here are some of the best ones for every budget.

Budget: Sapa Rosie House – we stayed at this affordable guest house and it was great option. It’s a little outside the Sapa town centre, but it has a great view over the rice fields and the host is lovely.

Click here to book your stay at Sapa Rosie House!

Mid-range: Laxsik Ecolodge   – this stunning Ecolodge offers beautiful bungalows with rice fields view, as well as a spacious outdoors dining terrace and an infinity swimming pool.

Click here to check out prices & availability at Laxsik Ecolodge!

Luxury: Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa Sapa – if you want to treat yourself, this luxury hotel is the place to do so. With its fine interior design, huge swimming pool and great position, it’s the perfect place to relax after a long day hiking and exploring Sapa!

Click here to book your stay at Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa in Sapa!

Our bungalow and view from Sapa Rosie Home Stay in Vietnam

Best tours in Sapa, Vietnam 

Here are some great tours that you can join in Sapa, which will make your experience all the more magical.

Sa Pa: Muong Hoa Valley Trek and Local Ethnic Villages Tour  – this isn’t the exact guided hike we did in Sapa, but it’s very similar. A local guide will take you hiking through the iconic terraced rice fields of Sapa and to discover local villages you wouldn’t be able to see without a guide.

Click here to book your guided hike in Sapa with local village tour!

From Hanoi: 2-Day Sa Pa Ethnic Homestay Tour with Trekking  – if you want to have your whole Sapa trip organised, from transfers to accommodation and activities, this tour starting in Hanoi is a great option.

Sa Pa: Private Guided Tour on a Motorbike with Lunch  – if you don’t feel comfortable driving a motorbike yourself, this tour is a great option that still allows you to experience Sapa’s more adventurous side.

Admiring the views from Fansipan Peak in Sapa, Vietnam

How to get around Sa Pa

Getting around Sapa is relatively easy and affordable. During my trip, I found that the best way to get around is to hire a motorbike or take a taxi.

Walking is also an option, but some destinations can be quite far apart, so be prepared for some exercise. If you’re comfortable with riding a motorbike, then renting one is the best way to explore the area at your own pace.

Prices vary depending on the type of bike, but you can usually expect to pay around 120,000 VND (5 USD) per day.

They didn’t ask us for it, but make sure you have an international driving license, and always wear a helmet.

Exploring Cat Cat Village in Sapa, Vietnam

The iconic terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam

Taxis are also widely available in Sapa. You can either hail one down on the street or use ride-hailing apps such as Grab or Be.

Taxi prices are generally quite affordable, with most rides within Sapa town costing around 50,000 VND (2 USD).

For those who prefer a more eco-friendly mode of transportation, there are also bicycles available for rent. Prices start at around 50,000 VND (2 USD) per day, and it’s a great way to see the beautiful rice terraces up close.

No matter how you choose to get around, Sapa offers a wide variety of options that cater to all travel styles and budgets. So don’t be afraid to explore and discover all the hidden gems this beautiful town has to offer.

Exploring the town centre in Sa Pa, Vietnam

How many days do you need in Sapa?

If you’re planning on visiting Sapa during your Vietnam itinerary, you might be wondering how many days you need to fully explore this beautiful region. 

I would recommend staying at least 2-3 days in Sapa. This will give you enough time to visit some of the must-see attractions without feeling too rushed, plus getting off the beaten track to some lesser known spots.

It also depends on your arrival and departure times in Sapa, but generally speaking if you spend at least 2-3 full days in Sa Pa you will have enough time to visit Cat Cat Village, take the cable car to the top of Fansipan Mountain, go on a hike amongst the rice fields and explore the Sapa town centre. 

Of course, if you have more time, you could easily spend a week or more exploring the region and getting to know the local culture.

Many travellers do multi-day hikes in Sa Pa , which obviously requires more time than the 2-3 days I suggested. Just remember to pack some warm clothes, as it can get chilly in the mountains!

The beautiful terraced rice fields and mountain views of Sa Pa in Vietnam, Asia

Best time of year to visit Sapa, Vietnam?

They say that Sapa is gorgeous no matter what time of year you visit. However, some times of year are definitely better than others.

If you’re looking for sunny and dry weather, then the best time to visit Sapa is from September to November (Autumn).

During these months, the weather is cool and dry (with temperatures ranging from 15 – 25°C), making it perfect for trekking and exploring the beautiful surrounding mountains and terraced rice fields.

If you’re a fan of greenery and lush vegetation, then you should plan your trip to Sapa from March to May (Spring).

During this time, the spring rains keep the region well-watered, making the rice terraces and the valleys absolutely stunning.

There are also lots of flowers blooming everywhere, making for some incredible photos. It is still chilly during this season though, and the average temperature ranges from 15-20°C.

Local women at Cat Cat Village working on traditional handicrafts in Sapa, Vietnam

I wouldn’t visit Sapa from June to August, as its the rainy season in Sapa.

They say the frequent rain makes the mountains and valleys come alive with fresh greenery and colorful flowers, and that you will be able to see the waterfalls in their full power.

However if it’s pouring rain the whole time you’re there, how many outdoors activities can you really do?

Another period I would avoid are the winter months, December to February. Some people like it as they say this is when you can experience Sapa’s dreamy foggy landscapes.

The mist may create an otherworldly view, but as I quickly discovered in Ninh Binh, a clear blue sky always makes places look better than a dark grey one (even if it might look dreamy and foggy in photos).

So, there you have it – the best time to visit Sapa depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Just don’t forget to bring travel insurance and pack accordingly for the weather!

The stunning temple and view at the top of Fansipan Mountain Peak in Sapa, Vietnam

Walking down the streets of Cat Cat Village in Sapa, Vietnam

Best things to do in Sapa

Ride the cable car to mount fansipan.

If you’re anything like me and love breathtaking views, then I cannot recommend enough taking a ride on the cable car up to the tallest mountain in Vietnam – Fansipan!

The cable car is a modern and efficient way to get up to the top of the mountain, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountain range and terraced rice fields.

Located in Sapa, the cable car journey starts from Sapa town and takes you to the top of Fansipan mountain in about 20 minutes.

The views are truly spectacular and give you a great sense of the scale of the mountain and the surrounding valley. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world!

Skip the line and book your Fansipan Cable Car ticket online beforehand!

Looking down from the peak of Fansipan mountain to the giant Buddha and surrounding mountain peaks

The temple at the top of Fansipan Peak in Sa Pa, Vietnam

The Fansipan cable car is open from 7:30am to 4:30pm and costs around 700,000 VND for a roundtrip ticket.

That might sound like a lot, especially when compared to average prices in Vietnam, but trust me, it’s worth every penny.

Plus, the cable car is a smooth and comfortable ride, so sit back and relax as you soar above the stunning landscapes of Sapa. Plus, once you make it to the top, you can expect more than just a viewpoint.

From the spot where the cable car arrives to the actual 3,147 metre peak of Fansipan there is still a little bit of a stretch. You have to walk around 20-30 minutes to reach it, passing by beautiful temples, pagodas and statues.

Fansipan mountain is an important cultural and spiritual site for many ethnic minorities in the region, such as the Hmong people.

View over the rice fields of Sapa from the cable car to Fansipan Peak, Vietnam

The mountain has historically been climbed for ceremonial purposes and pilgrimages, but with the addition of the cable car in recent years, more and more tourists are able to experience the majesty of Fansipan mountain.

If you’re hesitant about heights or the cost, I can assure you that this is an activity you won’t regret. The views are simply breathtaking and provide a unique perspective of Sapa and the surrounding Northern Vietnam region.

Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments!

Overall, taking the cable car up to Fansipan mountain was one of the highlights of my trip to Sapa. The stunning views, cultural significance, and smooth ride all made for an unforgettable experience.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Sapa, be sure to add a ride on the Fansipan cable car to your itinerary!

Click here to book the entrance ticket to Fansipan cable car , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

The peak of Fansipan mountain at 3,143 metres in Sapa, Vietnam

The stunning views from Fansipan Peak in Sapa, Vietnam

Explore Cat Cat Village

I was a bit wary of visiting Cat Cat Village, as I’d heard very different feedback about it.

There are those who regard it as a lovely little gem of a town, steeped in traditional culture, and others who just see it as a tourist attraction and trap.

My experience sits somewhere in between those.

As an ethnic Hmong village dating back to the late 1980s, Cat Cat Village is supposedly steeped in history and culture.

However, there’s no denying that it has taken quite a touristy turn in recent years, with many locals adapting to sell souvenirs for tourists.

Cat Cat Village and its waterfall in Sa Pa, Vietnam

When I arrived, I was immediately struck by the beautiful traditional costumes worn by locals and tourists alike, adorned with bright and intricate patterns.

Add to it that Cat Cat Village is located in a breathtakingly beautiful setting, surrounded by lush green mountains, bamboo forests, terraced rice fields and a waterfall, and it all makes for a very picturesque experience.

As you wander through the village you will find a wide range of traditional handicrafts on offer.

From embroidery to weaving, silverwork to lacquerware, there is a wide variety of products being created on-site by skilled artisans.

Exploring Cat Cat Village in Sa Pa, Vietnam

Entrance to the village costs 70,000 VND (around 3 USD), and it’s open every day from 9 AM to 6 PM. Guided tours are available, but I don’t think it’s essential.

I found that exploring at my own pace allowed me to really take in the sights and sounds of the village.

You can easily spend a few hours wandering around the village and its surroundings, checking out the local handicraft stalls, tasting some local dishes and just generally enjoying the atmosphere.

Is it a tourist attraction? Yes. Is it a pretty place to visit in Sapa? Also yes. There are probably more authentic villages that you can visit in Sapa, but I still found my visit to Cat Cat Village interesting.

The picturesque streets of Cat Cat Village in Sapa, Vietnam

One of the best ways to fully experience the stunning views of Sapa is by going on a hike. And let me tell you, it’s definitely worth the effort! 

There are several hiking trails to choose from, ranging from beginner to advanced levels of difficulty, as well as day hikes or multi-day hikes that usually involve overnight stays in Vietnamese home stays.

We did the Lao Chai – Ta Van trail, which offered stunning views over the rice fields and mountains, as well as a beautiful glimpse into the everyday life of the locals.

We did our hike with a local guide, organised through our home stay, and it was pretty interesting to see what life is like in authentic local villages, as opposed to slightly more touristy ones like Cat Cat Village.

Click here to book your guided hike of Sapa rice fields & local villages , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

View over the rice fields and local villages during our guided Sapa hike

The hike took us through rice fields, past waterfalls and over suspension bridges.

We even had the opportunity to visit a local home, where we were introduced to how handicraft products were made and traditional farming techniques.

It was a very interesting and unique experience, which gave an insight into local life that we wouldn’t have been able to have without a guide. 

As for prices, it’s completely up to you!

Hiking amongst the rice fields of Sapa with our local guide

You could go for a wander along the main road, taking in the views over the terraced rice fields by yourself, but you would miss out on all the interesting insights that a local guide can give you.

Plus, many parts of the trail we did were through rice fields and unmarked, not the kind of route you would follow if you didn’t know to go there!

Tours range from 300,000 to 700,000 VND (around 13 to 30 USD), and in our case also included lunch. Keep in mind that prices may vary based on the difficulty of the trail and the length of the hike.

Overall, I highly recommend going on a guided hike in Sapa. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, and to get a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the local people.

Plus, the exercise will make you feel amazing!

Don’t miss out, book your guided hike in Sa Pa here!

The unique terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam

Buy some local handicrafts

One of the best things to do in Sapa is definitely shopping for local handicrafts. The town is full of shops and stalls selling handmade items made by the local families and ethnic group of the region, such as the Hmong and Red Dao.

One of my favourite places to browse was the Sapa Local Market, located in the town center.

Here, you can find a wide variety of goods including colorful fabrics, intricately embroidered clothing, handwoven baskets, and hand-carved wooden items. It’s a great spot to pick up unique souvenirs to take back home with you.

Like most markets in South East Asia, there is a fair bit of haggling and bargaining going on.

Personally I’m not very good at it, and often end up paying the full price they ask for, but if you’re a good haggler you can definitely get away with spending less.

It’s important to note that many of the handicrafts available in Sapa are not just decorative pieces, but they also support the livelihoods of the local people and their families.

By purchasing a handmade item, you’re not only taking home a unique souvenir, but you’re also supporting the culture and traditions of the ethnic minority groups in northern Vietnam.

Hike up to Fan Si Pan Peak

I’ve already mentioned taking the cable car to Mount Fansipan, but did you know you can also hike up to this stunning peak? Hiking Fan Si Pan is considered a memorable experience in Sapa.

As the tallest mountain in Indochina, Fan Si Pan stands tall at 3,143 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

If you’re a fan of hiking and stunning views, then hiking Fan Si Pan should definitely be on your bucket list when visiting Sapa, Vietnam.

It’s recommended to book a guided tour for this hike, as the trails can be challenging and the weather can change quickly.

The giant Buddha statue at the top of Fansipan Mountain Peak in Sapa, Vietnam

You can either hike up overnight, and reach Mount Fansipan in time to see the sunrise, or spread out the hike across different days, with overnight stays in homestays and villages along the way.

The entrance fee for hiking Fan Si Pan is around 70,000 VND (around $3 USD) per person, and the guided tour prices vary depending on the length of the tour and the number of people in the group. 

If you decide to hike Fan Si Pan, it’s important to bring proper hiking gear and clothing, as well as insect repellent and sunscreen.

The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for rain or sudden drops in temperature. Here are some options for guided hikes up to Fansipan Mountain Peak:

One Day Conquering Fansipan – The Roof of Indochina

2-Day Fansipan Mountain Trek – Indochina’s Highest Peak

Mountain views from the cable car to Fansipan Mountain Peak in Sapa, Vietnam

The beautiful temples and mountain views at Fansipan Peak in Sa Pa, Vietnam

Admire the views from the Glass Bridge in Sapa

We didn’t go to the Glass Bottom Bridge in Sapa as I’m a bit scared of heights, but there’s no denying that experiencing the stunning views from this unique spot must be quite the experience!

Located in the Hoàng Liên Son mountain range, the bridge hangs over a deep valley, offering incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

The glass bottom adds an intense element of excitement, as you are essentially walking on air – or at least it feels that way!

The glass bridge is around a 30-minute scooter drive from Sapa, and you can enjoy some pretty beautiful views on the drive over.

Along the way you will find a few waterfalls and viewpoints that you can stop at to break up the drive.

The Glass Bottomed Bridge is open from 7:30am to 5:30pm. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.

The ticket for the bridge costs around 100,000 VND (4 USD), a small price to pay for such an unforgettable experience.

Stunning mountain views from the top of Fansipan Peak in Sa Pa, Vietnam

View over Sapa Valley and its terraced rice fields from the Fansipan Peak cable car in Vietnam, Asia

Drive along Ô Quy Hồ Pass (Đèo Ô Quý Hồ)

This is the mountain road that connects Sapa to the glass bottom bridge, so if you plan on doing the above mentioned activity, you will already be ticking off this bucket list experience too.

Driving along the Ô Quy Hồ Pass is truly a breathtaking activity. Located about 50 kilometers away from Sapa town, it is one of the highest mountain passes in Vietnam.

As we ascended the winding road, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of adrenaline mixed with awe as I looked out at the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, terraced rice fields and valleys.

The beauty of this landscape is truly something that needs to be experienced in person.

Some of the rice fields and mountain views that you can enjoy while driving the Ô Quy Hồ Pass in Sapa, Vietnam

I was a bit wary going into Ô Quy Hồ Pass, as I’d read online that the road was quite scary, but I was actually very pleasantly surprised.

Yes the road is very winding, it can be narrow in certain points as well as steep, but we found it to be well paved and in better condition than most roads in Vietnam.

If you don’t want to drive yourself, there are also motorbike tours available in Sapa that will take you along the pass.

Prices for the tour vary depending on the length and activities included, but generally start at around 800,000 VND (35 USD) per person.

It’s important to note that the pass can be closed during the rainy season due to safety concerns, so be sure to check the weather as well as any travel advisories before embarking on the journey.

Click here to book your private motorbike tour in Sapa , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Wandering through the cute streets of Cat Cat Village in Sapa, Vietnam

Admire Silver Waterfall & Love Waterfall

On the drive from Sa Pa city center to the Glass Bridge, there are a few more attractions beyond the scenery and view of Ô Quy Hồ Pass.

Along the way you’ll find two famous waterfalls; Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall.

Silver Waterfall is partly visible from the road, although you will have to pay a small 20,000 VND fee if you want to get up close to the waterfall to see it properly.

To see Love Waterfall instead you will have to do a short 45-minute hike. We didn’t have time to do the hike, but I’ve heard the route is super scenic and the hike is beautiful to see, especially during the rainy season.

The giant Buddha at the top of Fansipan Peak Mountain in Sapa, Vietnam

The terraced rice fields and valley surrounding Cat Cat Village in Sapa, Vietnam

Explore the Terraced Rice Fields 

One of the highlights of my time in Sapa was exploring the stunning terraced rice fields. These fields are a must-see for anyone visiting northern Vietnam, and I was blown away by their beauty.

The terraced rice fields were initially created by the Hmong people, who have lived in the mountains of northern Vietnam for centuries.

They built these fields by hand, carving out the hillsides and creating a series of flat, stepped terraces. Today, the fields remain an integral part of the local economy, as rice is still a staple crop in the region.

We explored the rice paddies as part of our guided hike with a local tour guide. My guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the fields and the local culture.

As we walked she shared stories about the Hmong people and their traditional way of life. I learned about the various stages of rice cultivation, and how it impacts the lives of the locals.

It was fascinating to see the rice fields up close and to gain a deeper appreciation for the hard work that goes into growing rice.

View over the terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam

Wander around the center of Sapa town

Sapa has a lively town centre, where you can find shops, bars, restaurants and street food stalls of every kind. Many of the shops and streets are decorated with colourful lanterns and plants.

It can be a bit chaotic, but nothing like the traffic of Hanoi. It’s a nice town centre to wander around for a while, tasting the local cuisine and purchasing local souvenirs.

You will also find plenty of massage parlours. Sa Pa is known as a trekking town, so it’s only natural that so many massage parlours popped up in the area!

After all, after a long day hiking amongst the rice fields, a foot and leg massage is just what you need!

Final thoughts on visiting Sapa, Vietnam

There you have it, the ultimate travel guide to Sa Pa, Vietnam! Have you been to Sapa before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Whether you spell it Sapa or Sa Pa, this unique corner of Vietnam is a must-see on any Vietnam travel bucket list . With its terraced rice fields, towering mountain peaks and traditional villages, it’s a really interesting place to visit.

Especially for people who love hiking, being outdoors and want a taste of traditional Vietnam, it’s a must-see stop on any Vietnam itinerary.

Personally I really enjoyed my time in Sapa (and not only because we finally had some blue skies after a week of grey weather in Ninh Binh and Halong Bay )!

I hope you find my Sapa travel guide useful! If you have any questions on what to do in Sa Pa, Vietnam, just let me know in the comments below!

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Sapa, Vietnam? Pin it!

• No products in the cart.

Sapa Travel on a Budget

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

Related Posts

7 Days Vietnam Itinerary With Cost of Travelling

Cat Ba Island Travel Guide: UPDATED 2024

Vietnam Travel Scams (Updated 2024)

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Transportation

Sapa, Vietnam

With its dramatic scenery, it’s tough not to fall in love with this town. Sa Pa, or more commonly, Sapa, is a town in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains of northwestern Vietnam. Established as a hill station by the French in 1922, the bustling alpine village is now famous for its trekking spots and the highest point in Vietnam, Fansipan Mountain.

Sapa’s real beauty lies in its mountains and cascading rice terraces of the Muong Hoa Valley. It’s also in its friendly locals, both around town and mountain tribes. Sapa is a district-town of Lao Cai Province . It’s about 40 km from Lao Cai, and 380 km from Hanoi. Sapa covers an area of 670 km2, with 62,000 in the population (as of 2018).

Sapa is famous for its mountainous scenery, cool weather, and diversity in culture. It’s well known for Fansipan, the highest mountain in Indochina , which is a favorite spot for those who like hiking, adventure, and sightseeing.

Six different minority groups of people are living here: H’Mong, Dao, Ta, Giay, Xa Pho. Their different way in farming habits together with Sapa’s topographic characteristics created “ cascading rice terraces ”, the most significant image of Sapa.

In the ancient H’Mong’s language, Sapa means “sandbank”, where people gather and trade. Before the late 1880s, Sapa was a hidden village of minority people. Once the French came, they left many imprints, however, the ancient name was unchanged as a cultural appreciation for the minority people.

In 1903, the French debarked in highland Indochina and did a study about Sapa’s topography, since then the name “Sapa” was spread widely. In 1917, the French built their first villas for the purpose of relaxation. This was a key location for the French military as well as missionaries, who called it the “summer capital of the north”.

During the war between Vietnam and China in 1947 and 1979, most of the French constructions were destroyed. In the early 1990s, Sapa was again re-invested and became a travel attraction of Vietnam.

Main Attractions

Stone Church (Holy Rosary Church) & Ham Rong Mountain

Stone Church, which was designed and erected by French architects in 1935, is the only intact imprint of French in Sapa. Ham Rong Mountain is located right behind Stone Church. With an entrance ticket, you have the possibility to visit 3 destinations: Ham Rong Flower Garden, Thach Lam Stone Garden, and Ham Rong Viewpoint.

Ancient Rock Field

Nestled in the Muong Hoa Valley area, this site consists of 159 small and large craving boulders.

O Quy Ho Pass & Heaven’s Gate

The 50-kilometer mountain pass connects two provinces Lai Chau and Lao Cai. This is the highest country road of Vietnam, at an altitude of about 2,000 meters above sea level. The highest viewpoint of O Quy Ho Pass is Heaven’s Gate, where you can stop by and enjoy the greatest view in Sapa.

Hoang A Tuong Castle

A 4-hour-drive from Sapa, it’s a combination of Asian and European architecture in the middle of a tribal mountain. If you plan to spend a long time in Sapa, this is a destination that can be combined on the journey to Bac Ha market.

A market is a place that best reflects the life of locals where you visit. If you’re at all interested in ethnic culture, textiles and have time while visiting Sapa, you should consider Sapa’s local markets. The three following markets are all located in Bac Ha province, about 80 to 120 km from Sapa town.

• Coc Ly Market –  The closest market to Sapa which is held on Tuesdays. At the market, Mong Hoa, Black Dzao, and Nung people exchange and trade goods.
• Bac Ha Market – The biggest market in the northwest area and 20 km from Coc Ly. It can be visited on Sundays.
• Can Cau – Held almost every Saturday, this market is 20 km further than Bac Ha. About 8 different minorities gather at this market to exchange their products.
• Cat Cat Village is nestled in a beautiful valley located 2 km from the town. This is the village of H’Mong people.
• Ta Phin Village is home to the Red Dao ethnic people and is 17 km to the east of Sapa. Since 1998, Ta Phin has become the village of brocade, a decorative shuttle-woven fabric. Additionally, on your way from Sapa to this village, you can pass by Ta Phin abandoned monastery, an interesting and non-touristy attraction.
• Ta Van Village is about 17 km away from Sapa. This place is famous for its ratten bridge over Muong Hoa stream and terraced fields.
• Other villages : Sin Chai, Ho, Lao Chai.

Thanks to the high elevation mountains there are plenty of waterfalls on the hillsides.

• Silver Waterfall is the highest waterfall in Sapa.
• Love Waterfall is hidden deeply in Hoang Lien National Park . To get to the waterfall, you must walk through 3 km of forest road. Also, at Hoang Lien National Park entrance, you can choose another direction, to climb up to Fansipan’s peak.
• Other waterfalls: Tien, Coc San, and Cat Cat Waterfall in the area of Cat Cat Village.

Route Recommendations

Sapa is a mountainous area where you cannot reach all the places at once easily. That’s why we would like to recommend several routes that you can follow and cover as many attractions on your way as possible.

• Route 1: Stone Church – Ham Rong Mountain – Cat Cat Village
• Route 2: Sin Chai Village – Silver Waterfall – Love Waterfall – O Quy Ho Pass – Heaven’s Gate
• Route 3: Ancient Rock Field – Ta Van, Lao Chai – Ho Village
• Route 4: Ta Phin – Abandoned Monastery

Trekking – Ham Rong, Ta Phin, and Cat Cat village are easy to trek. When it comes to longer treks or an overnight stay in the villages, local guides are highly recommended.

Hiking – Fansipan is a favorite destination for those who love adventure hiking. To hike Fansipan, you would take a trip of 2 or 3 full days. This mountain is very challenging and you cannot do it without a local guide and porter.

Now everything seems much easier for those who want to reach Fansipan peak without much effort. Since the cable car and then funicular has been operated in 2018 and 2019, you can visit Fansipan within an hour or two.

Read about the hiking in Sapa .

Traveling to Muong Hoa Valley by funicular – The station is in MGallery Hotel by Sofitel. Trains run from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm daily, and depart every six minutes.

Taking a cable car to Fansipan – Muong Hoa funicular will stop at the area of Fansipan Legend Theme Park . If you want to go further to Fansipan mountain, you can take a cable to one more station above. To reach the cable car, you’ll hop on board the tram from Sapa to Fansipan .

After arriving at Fansipan station, you can either walk up an additional 600 steps or, again, travel on the Fansipan train to the top of Sapa and Indochina at 3,147.3 meters (10,326 ft).

Adventure activities – Glass bridge Sapa has been officially opened for tourists since September 2019. It hangs on the 600-meter-cliff, about 2200 meters above sea level.  Visitors cannot only have the view of Sapa from high above, but also join some adventure activities such as ziplines, parachuting, climbing, exploring old forests, visiting waterfalls, and so on.

Accommodations

Hotels in town -There are plenty of hotels from low-budget to luxury ones. Usually, visitors will choose a hotel in town where you can easily reach the main attractions and good restaurants. Or choose one just outside the bustle, but still a comfortable 10-20 minute walk into town.

Hotels outside the center – Those who want to enjoy Sapa in peace as it used to be, will choose such hidden charm like Topas Ecolodge. You can find hotels a taxi ride away or something that is doable walking to town. Since the town is rather small, you can see its sights in a day.

Homestays – This is a great experience if you do 2 or 3 day-trekking. Such an accommodation service can be booked with a private tour guide or by booking an all-included tour at your hotel reception or a local travel agent on-site in Sapa or Hanoi.

Hotels and lodging:

• Read about the best hotels in Sapa.
• Read about the top 5-star hotels in Sapa .
• Read about the cheap hotels in Sapa .
• Read about the homestays in Sapa .
• Read about the hostels in Sapa .

Breakfast: There are not many options for breakfast in Sapa. Booking a hotel with breakfast included would be the best choice.

Lunch and Dinner:

• Grilled dishes: chicken eggs, duck eggs, meat skewers, meat-wrapped vegetables, and many others.
• “Com lam” is rice in a bamboo tube, which is grilled over fire.
• “Lon cap nach” is a dish of pork. The pig is marinated and grilled as a whole. “Lon cap nach” means carried-under-arm-pig. The name arises from the fact that these around-10-kg pigs are really carried underarm for sale at the local market.
• Hotpot: The two most famous of all are salmon and sturgeon hotpot. Due to favorable climatic conditions, these two types of fish are well farmed in Sapa.
• Thang Co is a pot of soup that includes many kinds of meat, horse organs, vegetables, and special kinds of spices. Most of the ingredients are uncommon, even with the Vietnamese, those come not originally from the northwest area. Visit Nhà Hàng Khám Phá Việt restaurant. Their fusion cook might be a good option if you really want to try the most specialty dish of Sapa.

Special Events

Traveling to Sapa during the lunar new year, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in unique festivals of the local people, though strange but extremely interesting such as:

Roong Pooc – A festival of Giay people is held in January/February lunar calendar.

Dancing Festival – This unique event is held by Dao people during the lunar new year.

From Hanoi to Sapa :

• By night train: This is the most comfortable way to travel to Sapa. You will have a choice between soft seats (US$6.5) or 4-sleeper cabin (US$17) or a 2-sleeper cabin (US$37). There are several trains each night, including luxury trains for tourists, and all depart from Hanoi Central Station. It takes about 8 hours to arrive at Lao Cai Train Station. It’s about an hour from Lao Cai to Sapa via taxi or shuttle bus.
• By bus: A sleeping slot on a bus costs around US$10. It departs almost every one hour from 4:00 to 24:00. Depending on traffic, it might take from 5.5 to 6.5 hours to get to Lao Cai. Buses depart from Luong Yen, Giai Phong, or My Dinh bus station.
• By shuttle bus : A smaller shuttle bus/limousine/van runs $12-20 and takes you directly from Hanoi to Sapa, hotel to hotel. It’s the fastest way at 6 h0urs.
• By motorbike: You can also rent a bike in Hanoi or perhaps you already have one and drive it. There are several routes you can take. The most direct will put you there in a leisurely but intensive 9 hours. It’s best to break up the drive and stay at some of the interesting towns and villages along the way.

From Lao Cai Train Station to Sapa town:

• Take a taxi or shuttle. A shuttle bus you can book with the hotel or get yourself a ticket after arriving in Lao Cai Station at a cost of US$2.
• Motorbike rental: is at the cost of around $5 US per day without gasoline. Remember to fill up the tank before riding. There are very few gas stations on your way.
• Xe om (A motorcycle taxi), taxi, or car rental with a driver: You can arrange a half-day or full-day trip with drivers. They will drive you to the attractions, then come back to pick you up upon request.

The climate of Sapa is very pleasant, with an average temperature of 15-18°C. The most beautiful time to travel to Sapa is from September to November or March to May.

April to May is the time when ethnic minorities transplant rice on terraced fields, which is called the blooming season. September to October is when the terraced fields are covered with ripe rice, turning the hills golden yellow. From May to August, it has a lot of rain, and at the end of the year, when winter comes, the temperature can drop down to 0°C, sometimes it snows.

Activities near Sapa

Amusement Parks: 

• Sun World Fansipan Legend

Historical Sites:

• Muong Hoa Valley (1km)
• Stone Church (<1km)
• Terraced Rice Fields (varies)
• Bac Ha Market

Mountains: 

• Bach Moc Luong Tu
• Fansipan Mountain
• Phu Si Lung
• Sapa Museum (<1km)

National Parks:

• Hoang Lien Son National Park 

Scenic Drives:

• O Quy Ho Pass (17km)
• Tram Ton Pass (10km)
• Hanoi (315km)
• Lao Cai City (33km)

Transportation:

• Sapa Tram to Sun World Fansipan

Waterfalls:

• Silver Waterfall (11km)

Latest in Sapa

7 Natural Wonders of Vietnam

Outside of Vietnam’s bustling cities is a countryside full of natural splendor. Wherever you go, there…

7 Natural Wonders of Vietnam Read More

7 Manmade Wonders of Vietnam

Mother Nature does fine work, but it turns out that humans don’t do such a bad…

7 Manmade Wonders of Vietnam Read More

Tram Ton Pass – Sapa

Perhaps the best view in Sapa is located at Tram Ton Pass, 3 km away from…

Tram Ton Pass – Sapa Read More

O Quy Ho Pass – Sapa

O Quy Ho Pass, also known as Hoang Lien, can be found in the town of…

O Quy Ho Pass – Sapa Read More

View more Sapa articles

Uncover Vietnam

• Privacy Policy
• Disclaimer—Terms of Service

Travel Guide

• Travel Blog
• Vietnam Activities
• Vietnam Towns
• Vietnam Transportation
• Vietnam Hotels
• Vietnamese Culture
• Vietnam FAQ

Disclosure: Uncover Vietnam is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Traveling and Exploring in Northern Vietnam

SAPA → Travel Guide + Tips + Map

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 🎫 Book Tickets to 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

⚠ 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)

• 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 ➜

🍜  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.

🚍 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.asia). 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

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 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.

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 ➜

☀️ 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

🔍 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:

❓ 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

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 4.8 / 5. Vote count: 63

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

• Products search
• Good Prices, Save Time and Cost
• 24/7 Phone & Email Support
• 100% Secure Payment with SSL Encryption

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

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

The Real Sapa

The most interesting things about sapa vietnam.

Train Hanoi Sapa

Bus Hanoi Sapa

Limousine 9 Seats

Bus to sapa & from sapa to other.

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

Kadham Bus Sapa: VIP Sleeper Bus from Hanoi to Sapa

Sapa Group Bus: Hanoi Sapa Private Cabin Sleeper Bus

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

Eco Sapa Limousine: 9 Seats from Hanoi to Sapa

Hanoi to Sapa Private Car

Sapa to Ninh Binh Bus

Royal Cabin Sapa to Ninh Binh Bus

Sapa - Ninh Binh

G8 Bus: Sapa – Ninh Binh VIP Cabin Bus

Sapa - Halong Bay

Sapa to Halong Bay Bus

Sao Viet Bus: Hanoi Sapa Private Cabin Sleeper Bus

Trains Hanoi - Sapa

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

Lotus Train Vietnam: from Hanoi to Sapa 2024

Family Express Train: From 29$ Hanoi to Sapa

Sapaly Express Train: From 35 USD Hanoi to Sapa

Must-try Tours in Sapa

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

[1 Day] Sunday Bac Ha Market Tour from Sapa

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

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

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

[1 Day] Moderate Trekking in Sapa through highest Village

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

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

[2 Days 1 Night] Hike Fansipan mountain from Sapa

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

[1 Day] Loop Sapa Motorbike Tour with Local Expert

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.

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

• Czech Republic
• Budapest, Hungary
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Complete Japan Travel Guide
• Kanto Region (Tokyo, Hakone)
• Kansai Region (Osaka, Kyoto)
• Kansai Wide (Wakayama)
• Chugoku Region (Hiroshima)
• Chubu Japan
• Hokkaido Japan
• Kyushu Japan
• Jeju Island, South Korea
• KLOOK Promo Code & Voucher (2024 April)
• Agoda Promo Code

Things To Do in Sapa Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on April 5th, 2024

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Sapa Travel Guide

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

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

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

How To Get to Sapa From Hanoi

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

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

Get a full view on transportation option from Hanoi to Sapa

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

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

Accommodation in Sapa

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

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

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

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

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

Recommendation Sapa Tour

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

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

Here is the recommended Sapa Tour from Hanoi:

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

For Sapa trekking tour to the local village:

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

Planning on Sapa Itinerary

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

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

Planning on Sapa itinerary :

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

Sapa Itinerary Day 1

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

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

Bac Ha Sunday Market

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

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

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

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

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

Sapa Itinerary Day 2

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

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

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

Sapa Trekking Tour

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

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

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

Cat Cat Village

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Attractions in Sapa

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

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

Sun World Fansipan

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

Discounted Ticket for Sun World Fansipan from Klook

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

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

Final Tips for Sapa Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

Overview: A Visit to Sapa

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

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

Related Sapa travel information:

• Where To Stay in Sapa: Best Hotels and Homestays

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

• Things To Do in Hanoi Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• A Trip To Halong Bay: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog

Where To Stay in Hanoi: Best Areas and Hotels

• Hanoi Food Guide: Where and What To Eat

You Might Interested:

Day Trip Itinerary To Halong Bay: A Travel Guide Blog

Planning a trip to Ha Long Bay? This Halong Bay Travel Guide blog will tell...

Da Nang & Hoi An Food Guide: What To Eat

Discover all the cheap and mouth-watering local Vietnamese cuisine in the Da Nang and Hoi...

Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary: A Saigon Travel Guide Blog

In this Saigon travel guide blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know so...

Northern Vietnam Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

A travel guide blog with all highlights and attractions to get you inspired to start...

Bun Rieu Ganh: The Best Bun Rieu in Ho Chi Minh City

Bun Rieu is one of the most popular and must-eat in Ho Chi Minh City....

Learn more about where to stay in Hanoi, breakdown into areas and budgets in this...

• Search for:
• Hot deal for you!
• Login / Register
• Small Group Tours
• Private Tours
• Hanoi Tours
• Hai Phong Tours
• Halong Bay Tours
• Ninh Binh Tours
• Mai Chau Tours
• Moc Chau Tours
• Thanh Hoa Tours
• Cua Lo Tours
• Quang Binh Tours
• Hoi An Tours
• Da Nang Tours
• Da Lat Tours
• Nha Trang Tours
• Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City Tours
• Mekong Delta Tours
• Vung Tau Tours
• Phu Quoc Island Tours
• China Tours
• Indochina Tours
• Cambodia Tours
• Thailand Tours
• Myanmar Tours
• Malaysia Tours
• Indonesia Tours
• Tailor Made Tour
• 5 Star Cruises
• 4 Star Cruises
• 3 Star Cruises
• Day Cruises
• Overnight Cruises
• Catholic Pilgrimage
• Company profile
• Our services
• Why travel with us?
• Indochina Travel Guides
• Vietnam Travel Guides
• Laos Travel Guides
• Cambodia Travel Guides
• China Travel Guides
• Thailand Travel Guides
• Myanmar Travel Guides
• Malaysia Travel Guides
• Indonesia Travel Guides
• Hanoi Travel Guides
• Sapa Travel Guides
• Halong Bay Travel Guides
• Ninh Binh Travel Guides
• Hue Travel Guides
• Da Nang Travel Guides
• Hoi An Travel Guides
• Nha Trang Travel Guides
• Da Lat Travel Guides
• Vung Tau Travel Guides
• Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guides
• Mekong Delta Travel Guides
• Phu Quoc Island Travel Guides

Northern Vietnam Travel Guides , Sapa Travel Guides , Travel Guides , Vietnam Travel Guides

How to get to sapa vietnam: a travel guide of transportation.

Tucked away in the mountainous northwestern region of Vietnam, Sapa is a charming spot filled with picturesque landscapes and a rich ethnic culture that lures a flock of travelers to its doors. There are various affordable and convenient transportation options available to reach this area. Follow the article below to have a handy guide on how to get to Sapa Vietnam .

How to Get to Sapa Vietnam: Overview of Transportation Options

Sapa Town is situated in the west of Lao Cai province, 33 kilometers from Lao Cai City and 317 kilometers from Hanoi . Apart from the Hanoi–Lao Cai Expressway, the National Route 4D, which connects Northern provinces, is another main highway to Sapa. This route allows travelers to reach Sapa from Lai Chau province.

However, in this article, we will only discuss how to get to Sapa Vietnam from Hanoi, the primary gateway city in Northern Vietnam. Travelers can choose from various modes of transport based on their interests and schedules. These include coach, train, private car, or motorbike. Read on for more details about these options.

Traveling to Sapa by Coach

Speaking of how to get to Sapa Vietnam , the coach is the most popular mode of transportation because of its flexibility and affordability. You can book your tickets to Sapa easily online. Below are some recommended bus companies:

• SaPa Explore
• Sapa Express
• Sapa Group Bus
• G8 SAPA OPEN TOUR

Price range: VND 210,000 – VND 750,000 (depending on some factors like the amenities, the departure time, the number of commuters)

The trip from Hanoi to Sapa by coach takes about 5 hours, although this may vary slightly due to road conditions and traffic. While there are many departure times available, it’s often best to begin your trip at night, around 10 p.m. This way, you can catch some sleep on the bus and wake up refreshed and excited in Sapa, ready to kickstart your day of exploration!

Traveling to Sapa by Train

When it comes to how to go to Sapa Vietnam , if you are planning to travel to Sapa by train, you will need to spend roughly 8-9 hours on a night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai City. Upon arrival in Lao Cai City, you’re just a quick bus, coach or taxi ride away from Sapa – it should only take about an hour.

Price range of train ticket: VND 450,000 – VND 2,000,000 (depending on the class or type of seat such as hard seats, soft seats, or sleeper ones; or some additional requirements like air conditioners)

Even though it might take a bit longer, taking a train comes with a multitude of advantages for travelers. First of all, you get to enjoy a comfortable space with plenty of room to stretch and a variety of seating options, including cozy sleeper seats. Next, train travel is safer and more reliable than other means of transport, with a lower risk of accidents. Moreover, a train trip gives you a chance to admire Vietnam’s awe-inspiring scenery. From the bustling city life to the serene countryside and towering mountain ranges, it is a sight to behold.

By Private Car or Motorbike

About how to reach Sapa, you can hire a private car or motorbike for a more independent and adventurous journey.

Price range:

• Motorbike: VND 120,000 – 200,000 per day
• Private Car: from VND 600,000 per day

The selection of hiring personal transportation offers many thrilling adventures and discoveries. Not just moving from Hanoi to Sapa, you can freely navigate the roads at your own pace, stop at scenic points that catch your interest, and fully take in the beautiful landscapes along the route. It’s an experience that allows you to engage with the environment in a way that other modes of transport don’t.

However, there are a few challenges to traveling to Sapa in this manner. First and foremost, you must possess a Vietnamese driving license to drive legally. Additionally, you may face the risk of getting lost, as the online map may not work in isolated areas. The challenging terrain and weather conditions are other factors to consider during your trip. So, keep in mind that this option is only suitable for experienced drivers, who are confident in their ability to navigate and handle arising difficulties.

Local Transportation in Sapa

Upon arrival in Sapa, there are several transportation options to Sapa for an exploration for the town and its surroundings. Here are some options for how to get around Sapa:

• Hired Motorbike: A go-to choice for many tourists. It allows you to freely explore every corner of the misty town at your own pace.
• Motorcycle Taxi: Ideal for those unsure about navigating on their own. A driver takes you to your chosen spots. If the driver can speak English, he/she can also serve as a reliable tour guide.
• Taxi: Similar to a Motorcycle Taxi, but better for groups or families.
• Trekking or Hiking: Promises an adventurous way to explore the splendor of Sapa’s nature. You also save a bit on parking fees with this method. However, you need to be in good health and fully prepared with trekking equipment for a smooth journey.

Tips for Traveling to Sapa

If you are planning a trip to Sapa and need some advice on Sapa Vietnam how to get there , here are some tips to ensure you have a rewarding experience:

• Research the weather in Sapa beforehand, so you can pick the best time to visit Sapa for yourself.
• Book tickets, accommodations, and transportation at least one week in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Pack suitable clothes, footwear, and rain gear if you are up for some trekking in Sapa .
• Hire a seasoned guide who can give you the best route and a deeper insight into the local culture.
• Don’t hesitate to taste local specialties — Sapa’s cuisine will amaze you.

Or, why not let Asia Legend Travel take care of everything for you? There’s no need for you to figure out how to get to Sa Pa on your own. We confidently offer top-notch Sapa tours at super competitive prices.

Overall, there are numerous transportation options for how to get to Sapa Vietnam , including coach, train, private car, or motorbike. has its own advantages and disadvantages. With the information provided, hopefully, you can select the option that suits your preferences and travel style for a happy journey to Sapa Vietnam.

Tours related to Sapa

Hanoi – Sapa – 5 Days 4 Nights

$ 500 $ 439 +

Hanoi – Ta Xua – Moc Chau – 6 Days 5 Nights

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ta Xua – Moc Chau – 6 Days 5 Nights

Discover Vietnam – Scenic and Short Trek – 15 Days 14 Nights

Highlights of Vietnam – 15 Days 14 Nights

Discover Northwest Vietnam – Hanoi – Sapa – 5 Days 4 Nights

$ 575 $ 510 +

Shirleen Bui

Related travel guides.

Check out These Sapa Coffee Shop Perfect for Cloud Hunting

Sapa Coffee: Artisanal and Unforgettable Aromas

Night Market in Sapa: Twilight Tales Adventures

Culinary Delights: 10 Exquisite Dining Sapa Restaurants

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.