Sapa
About Sapa
Sapa, a quiet mountain town located about 380km to the north-west of Hanoi, is not a strange name to tourists, both local and foreign ones. It is known as ‘the mecca of trekking routes’ in Vietnam Northern part, a must-see spot for short getaway from Hanoi with cool weather all year around.
Numerous hiking trails passing the picturesque nature landscape, stunning rice terraces and rustic tribal villages make Sapa become an exceptional tourist site. It shares the same time of harvest season with some other destinations in the North like Mu Cang Chai, Hoang Su Phi and Mai Chau, so you are highly recommended to visit the place by early to middle September to contemplate the scenic golden rice fields along Muong Hoa valley.
Besides, the diversity of ethnic minorities with featured culture identity, attract culture lovers. There are so many options of accommodation in Sapa, ranging from budget hotels, eco-lodges in the valley to nice resorts on the hills. However, homestay overnight is considered a nice experience that you should not miss, a good opportunity to deeply the hill tribes’ daily life and customs.
What to do in Sapa?
Trekking and hiking
A network of trekking trails spread in Sapa with various routes and level, both classic and off-road ones. Among them, Muong Hoa valley offers most of the trails which attracts tourists, passing spectacular rice terraces dotted with tribal villages, splendid mountains and lush forests.
Trekking in Muong Hoa Valley
Heaven Gate and O Quy Ho pass
You are finding the best place for a view over the winding pass named O Quy Ho and the magnificent landscapes of mountain ranges in Sapa? Don’t hesitate to visit Heaven Gate, from which you will contemplate a water-colored painting, especially at sunset.
Waterfalls
Waterfalls are also another highlight when travelling to Sapa if you are interested in nature sceneries. Silver fall and Love fall in Tram Ton pass at the end of Golden stream are the most famous ones of the region.
Explore tribal villages
You may be impressed by the diversity of the ethnic groups here including Black H'Mong, Red Dao, Tay, Giay and Xa Pho. Each ethnic group has its own typical clothing, lifestyle, customs, cultivation methods and distinct cultural identity, awaiting your exploration.
Lao Chai Village, Muong Hoa Valley
Conquer Fansipan Peak
Known as “the Roof of Indochina”, Fansipan Peak is the highest mount at the height of 3143 m which is worth your visit and your effort.
Nowadays, you can easily visit it by cable car or intensively conquer it by climbing up to the top, better with a local guide and porters in a tour package.
Fansipan cable car