sapa hiking trips

Welcome to Sapa Sisters Trekking Adventures

The best trekking guides in Sapa and Ha Giang, Vietnam

Hello! How r u?

Going to Vietnam? Come and join us in the mountains! We’ll show you the best spots and guarantee you’ll get an unforgettable experience.

XOXO/ Chi, Zao, Lang, Pen, Pang, Chinh, Ker, Lan, Little Chi, Su, Khu, Chai, Mao, Ze, May, Gom, Cho, Little Mu, Ru, So, Sam, Sy, Song, Big Khu, Shu and Tung

If you want to book a trek you can contact us by filling out the form on our contact page , come directly to our office or book a trek online.

Sapa Sisters, a social enterprise owned by local guides

We are Sapa Sisters, an ethnic minority Hmong trekking group based in the beautiful northern mountainous highlands of Sapa, Vietnam. We are very proud to be one of the few Hmong businesses that exist in this region – and one that is entirely owned and run by women. We think that this is a significant achievement because Hmong highlanders face much higher levels of poverty and many barriers to accessing capital and business connections. Tourism to our area is providing us with vital new opportunities to earn sustainable incomes, helping our families and our communities to prosper.

Sapa or Ha Giang? Choosing Your Next Adventure

Deciding between Sapa and Ha Giang for your next trekking experience? Both nestled in Vietnam’s northern mountains, these destinations offer unique adventures, but they are quite distinct. Situated about 6 hours apart by car, each has its own charm.

This valley, with its accessible trails, invites you to trek almost anywhere, whether for a few hours or over several days. Sapa is renowned for its verdant terraced fields and the rich cultures of its ethnic communities. Its network of paths takes you through villages and stunning natural scenery, allowing for both brief excursions and extended treks.

Prepare for a grander scale adventure. Ha Giang’s expansive area, characterized by more rugged terrain and towering mountains, necessitates combining trekking with transportation. This region offers a journey through dramatic landscapes, from lofty peaks to deep valleys, catering to those seeking a blend of adventure and exploration on a larger scale.

What We do and How to Get to Sapa

Book Online

Book a Tour

1-day, 2-days, 3-days or More-days, Market Tours, Homestays or Stay overnight at your guide’s home. Other activities: cook with your guide, Swimming, Harvest Rice, and learn Batik. What do you want to do?

You can book your trek by email or directly at our office in Sapa. Alley 29,  9 Fansipan Street. You can also book and pay for your trek on our Book Online page.

TRANSPORTATION

We arrange all kinds of transportation between Sapa and Hanoi and Ha Giang. Private Car with driver, Night Train, Sleeper-bus, VIP-Bus, and Limousine -Bus.

Hotels in Sapa and Hanoi

Hotel Stay in Sapa and Hanoi

During your trek you will stay overnight in a Homestay in Sapa Valleys but if you want to stay an extra night our two in Sapa Town or Hanoi, we work with several hotels and can offer you discount prices.

We make a difference in changing Sapa

Sapa Sisters was the first organization dedicated to paying guides fair wages for their trekking expertise. In fact, Sapa Sisters guides are the best paid H’mong guides in Sapa. Paying well is what companies should do and we also have many other benefits, such as: professional training in First Aid/CPR, paid parenting leave, access to healthcare at private hospitals in Hanoi, and yearly bonuses. All our employees have social insurance, we pay our taxes, and are members of the Working Union. In this way, we make sure to keep the best guides working with us and maintain a healthy business for them in the future.

More importantly, we work together in an environment based on trust and mutual reciprocity. Our hard work and dedication have clearly paid off and we are happy to see other travel organizations following in our footsteps to ensure that fair pay is an essential part of their business. Our initiatives have enabled us to take on more challenges to help empower Hmong women such as domestic violence, healthcare, and early childhood education – all important issues facing their community.

Preparing for a Trek: What to Bring on you Sapa Trek or Ha Giang Tour

Kick off your trek with a hearty breakfast, empowerment in action: the story of sapa sisters, discover sapa beyond trekking.

Is Sapa Trekking Difficult? Tailoring Your Trek with a Private Guide

What to expect: food on your trek, trekking with children.

We are happy to welcome parents with children to trek with us. We offer discounts for younger children and children 2 years or younger, trek for free. Sometimes our guides bring their own baby with them on the trek.

We know from experience that children often are stronger hikers than their parents may think, but of course, their energy might run out. Our guides are flexible to arrange the tour to fit your family’s needs all throughout the trek.

We can arrange tours that start by going down the valley by car you can then have a short walk and visit some villages and maybe have lunch in your guide’s home.

During the hot summer months, we can take you on an easy trek, pass Cat Cat village where you can swim in the clear stream, surrounded by forest. We bring picnic lunch and eat on the “beach”.

If you prefer to do it all by car, we can arrange that as well. You can still have lunch in local houses and sleep overnight in a homestay.

Sleep overnight in a local house or just stay for lunch

Some of Sapa Sisters guides welcome travelers to stay over at their homes or at a family member’s. It’s a very appreciated experience for many of our customers who are looking for a more authentic experience. However, it’s not for those who need extra comfort. Most local homes lack both showers or water toilets.

If you don’t want to stay overnight, then just stay for lunch! If you have lunch at a local house, either your guide or the hosting family will cook your lunch. If your guide cooks, you can buy the groceries together along the way. You are also welcome to take part in the cooking if you want to learn how to make Hmong food.

If you don’t want to trek but still don’t want to miss anything!

We arrange tours by private car to all the markets around Sapa and Lao Cai. We also do tours to all of the sights around Sapa; Tram Ton Pass, Silver Waterfall, Love Waterfall, and all villages.

For example, you can a car to Ta Phin village to have a short walk around the village and visit the cave. When you’re hungry you will be served lunch in a restaurant. After lunch, you can relax with a traditional herbal bath in the house of Dao people.

We can also arrange tours by motorbike-taxi.

Or drive yourself, but you will then have to have your guide behind you on the bike. (Only choose this option if you are a safe and responsible driver, with no intentions to drink alcohol along the way).

Address office

Sapa Sisters Trekking Adventures

Alley 29, No. 09 Fansipan Street Sapa, Lao Cai Vietnam

Office Hours: Monday – Sunday 07 – 17:00 Closed for Lunch 11:30 – 12:30

MAIL: [email protected]

Thanks to all our Travellers who have sent us photos over the years

Thomas Lauber Jimmy Welch Marianne Bengtsson Viveka, Tomas and Jesper …and many more

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Sapa Hiking & Trekking Tours

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10 best Sapa hikes

Compiled by

Melissa Sapa travel expert at TourRadar

Mystique Vietnam Vacation In 13 Days by Realistic Asia

Exquisite vietnam 11 days - sapa/ halong bay/ phu quoc island, sapa trekking 3 days 2 nights - overnight at homestay, sapa fansipan trekking tour 4 days 3 nights, charming vietnam 12 days - sapa / halong bay / mekong delta, sapa 3 days 2 nights trekking tour from hanoi (2 nights in hotel), sapa tour by night train from hanoi, sapa 2 days 1 night from hanoi - overnight in ta van village, 3 days sapa trekking tour with overnight train from hanoi, north vietnam at a glance: halong bay & sapa 5 days.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year
• Go shopping for treasures at the colorful Bac Ha market
• Meet a Vietnam War veteran at a traditional cooking class
• Trek off the beaten paths in beautiful Northern Vietnam

“We visited local villages, and the market in the mountains, met many interesting people. Personally I was blown away with the views in Mu Cang Chai, it is probably one of the most beautiful places I ever visited.”

• Discover the historic Cu Chi Tunnels
• Trek through scenic trails in Sapa
• Relax on the serene beaches of Phu Quoc

“PrestiGo were excellent, very responsive to our requests as we wanted to change the itenary tiny bit.”

• Discover the Cat Cat Village and local lifestyles
• Capture breathtaking views in Giang Ta Chai
• Trek through stunning rice terraces in Y Linh Ho

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

• Start hiking through Y Linh Ho
• Trek to the top of Fansipan peak
• Stay overnight in Ta Van Village

“Food and homestay were also quite good. 100% recommended.”

• Explore ancient temples in Hoa Lu
• Learn net fishing in Hoi An
• Stay overnight with a Dzay family

“The trek was suitable and so much fun! this trip was great value for money and all team was superb.”

• Mountain Hikes
• Ride a cable car to Fansipan Mountain peak
• Trek through Cat Cat village's scenic routes
• Explore Sapa's ethnic villages and costumes

“Trekking road is nice with up and down, pass through mountain, stream, bamboo forest.”

• Train & Rail
• Explore the ethnic cultures and handicrafts
• Enjoy scenic views of Fanxipan peak
• Discover Cat Cat village and its waterfall

“The trekking through the villages was great and the hotel was really nice.”

• Trek through rice terraces to Lao Chai
• Get picked up in Hanoi, depart for Sapa
• Stay with Dzay People, enjoy mountain sunset

“The trek was not the easiest but it seems that the guide adapted the path based on the group level and weather.”

• Explore Sapa's vibrant markets and handicrafts
• Enjoy stunning views of rice terraces and mountains
• Trek through picturesque Ta Phin and Ma Tra villages

“We loved the hike and the stunning nature. Also the night at the Sapa was just perfect and has everything you need.”

• Take an overnight train to Lao Cai
• Trek through stunning Sapa landscapes
• Witness sunrise over Halong Bay's karsts

“Accommodations in Sapa & Halong boat exceeded expectations. Meals were delicious & plentiful.”

Travel Styles

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A First-Timer’s Guide to Trekking in Sapa

• Last Updated: January 23, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

The Rocky Past of Sapa, Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Getting To Sapa, Vietnam Half the Fun?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Into the Clouds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is this what a heart attack feels like?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips and Advice for Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Train or Bus to Sapa?

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

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

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

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

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

Jane And Stephen

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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

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

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

Thank you for your tip Maarten. Happy travels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for the great content!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Any feedback would be more than appreciated and thanks again

Hi Sebastian,

Thank you for your message.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Tanya

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for the guidance…

Glad we could help 🙂

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

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

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

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

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A Guide to Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam

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

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

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

Trekking in Sapa Guide

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

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

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

Sapa Travel Basics

Getting to sapa.

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

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

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

Weather in Sapa

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

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

Planning Your Visit to Sapa

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

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

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

What to Pack for Sapa

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

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

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

Complete Guide to Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam

Things to do in the town of sapa.

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

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

Hồ Sa Pa Lake

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

Shopping in Sapa Market

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

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

Fansipan Mountain

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

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

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

The Local People in the Sapa Region

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

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

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

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

Government Rules

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Sapa

Topas Ecolodge

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

Check Prices on Booking.com

Aria Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa

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

Sapa Horizon Hotel

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

Praha Hotel Sapa

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

Where to Eat in Sapa

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

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

Where to Drink in Sapa

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

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

Villages Near Sapa, Vietnam

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

Lao Chải Village

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

Tả Van Village

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

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

Giàng Tả Chải Village

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

Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam

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

Self-Guided Sapa Treks

Trek to cat cat village from sapa town.

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

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

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

Trek to Tả Van Village from Sapa Town

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

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

Guided Treks Around Sapa

How to choose a tour guide.

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

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

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

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

Choosing a Tour of the Sapa Region

Prior to selecting a guide, consider the following:

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

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

Our Trekking in Sapa Experience: 

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

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

Cost of Trekking in Sapa

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

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

Tipping Your Sapa Tour Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Laura

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

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

Have a great time in Sapa!

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

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Exploring the real Sapa with local guide

Trekking, Hiking And Homestay Experience

SAPA TREKKING HIKING TOURS - OWNED BY HMONG PEOPLE

Owner by hmong.

A social enterprise owned and operated by the Hmong people

LOCAL GUDIE

All of our guides are Black Hmong people

PROFRESSIONAL STAFF

All of our staff can speak English, Vietnamese and Hmong. They have a deep understanding of Sa Pa culture, traditions and nature

BEST TREKKING AND HOMESTAY EXPERIENCES

Travelling to Sapa – Coming to Sapa and staying with us, we are local people in Sapa with Black Hmong, Red Dao,… We would love to show you the beautiful landscapes, experience our real culture, tradition; staying with us and enjoy local food. We guide you the most amazing trekking, hiking tours around Sapa which ways take you to see the interesting things with authentic experience

POPULAR EXPERIENCES

The Most Beautiful Terraced Trekking

Sapa Mountain View And Villages Trekking

Red Dao Villages Trek And Herbal Bath

Muong hoa valley and homestay trekking.

Sapa: The Roof of Indochina - Fansipan Hiking Full - Day Trip

Sapa One Day Motorbike Tour

Cooking Class: Cooking Hmong Traditional Food

Explore Sapa Nature - Off The Beaten Track

Sapa Mountain View And Muong Hoa Valley Trekking

Hiking to Fansipan 2D1N - Explore The Majestic Nature

S apa Trekking Hiking Tours is a group of local guides including Hmong and Dao people in Sapa, who have a strong love for tourism and wish to preserve, promote, develop and Spreading local culture to everyone. With the desire to provide unique experiences, delve into the natural beauty and experience the cultural beauty of ethnic minorities, we provide trekking, hiking and motorbike tours in Sapa and from Sapa.

Sa Pa is a highland district of Lao Cai province, located in the northwest of Vietnam, Sa Pa town is at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level, 38 km from Lao Cai city and 376 km from Hanoi. In addition to the main road from Lao Cai city, to get to SaPa there is another traffic route, National Highway 4D connecting from Binh Lu commune, Lai Chau.

Sapa with an area of about 678.6 km2 is inhabited mainly by the Mong, Dao, Tay, Giay, Xa Pho and Kinh ethnic groups. Sapa – a humble, quiet land but containing 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 composition, creating a region with many landscapes. Attractive poetic color.

Muong Hoa Valley with villages located on both sides of Muong Hoa stream, with easily accessible trails, invites you to walk almost anywhere, whether for a few hours or many days.

Sapa is famous for its green terraced fields and rich culture of ethnic communities. Its network of paths will take you through villages and stunning natural landscapes, allowing you to go on both short excursions and long trips.

CERTIFICATE & PARTERS

Email: [email protected]

Whatsapp/phone number: +84359165132.

Sapa Trekking Guide: How to Prepare for Epic Treks in Sapa, Vietnam

If you love hiking and trekking and want to experience fresh air, gorgeous mountainous regions, and rice terraces, head to Sapa in North Vietnam. Sapa is located 6+ hours from Hanoi and in the Lao Cai Province. 

This area is a hot tourist destination with picturesque landscapes, the best hiking trails in Vietnam , and adventurous activities to experience.

Whether you want to trek Mount Fansipan , Vietnam’s highest mountain, or trek to ethnic villages to visit the Hmong, Dao, Xa Pho, Tay, and/or Day people, you’ll have plenty of fun things to do here. 

While you can show up in Sapa and go trekking on the same day, it does require some planning. 

This Sapa trekking guide has everything that you need to know about trekking in Sapa, how to prepare for your trek, what to bring, and other helpful trekking tips. We want you to have a successful and exciting hike. 

Click on the links to jump to certain areas of the Sapa trekking guide:

• Best time to visit Sapa
• Number of days needed to trek in Sapa
• Various Sapa hiking trails to consider
• Choosing a Sapa trekking tour guide/operator
• How to prepare for your Sapa trek
• What to Bring on the trek
• What to wear on the trek
• Additional Sapa trekking tips to consider

Check out our other Sapa posts for more inspiration:

• How to get to Sapa from Hanoi 
• How to spend 3 days in Sapa

*Disclaimer: Hiking in Sapa? This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.  

Before getting to Sapa, buy a SIM Card at Hanoi Airport (Noi Ba International Airport) or set up a Vietnam eSIM . You’ll need to have data when traveling through the city and rice terraces.

For those in the U.S. looking for an international phone plan , consider Google Fi (formerly Google Project Fi). We love this phone plan and have used it since 2016. We get access to data and text in 200+ countries, and it works in Vietnam. There are no additional costs to the data plan.  Read more about the plan and try it for free here.

When is the Best Time to Trek in Sapa?

Sapa has two seasons to consider – dry and wet . The dry season is from October to May, and while the rainy season is from June to September. Rain can occur during the dry season.

Note: During the summertime (May to August), it gets very hot in Sapa. The weather will reach 24°C (75 ° F) and up, so you’ll need to stay hydrated. The evenings are cooler at 17°C (63 ° F). Check out our tips on hiking in hot weather here .

Many visitors come to Sapa right before the rice harvest period from the end of August to the beginning of September . The rice fields turn a magnificent golden color. 

If you hike during the wet season , you’ll need to be extra careful as the hiking trails are muddy. The chances of slipping are much higher. The guide may also make the executive decision to cut the hiking distance shorter during the rainy season. 

We hiked at the end of November and had a fantastic time. The weather forecast had rain for 2 out of the 5 days there, but it only rained in the evening of 1 night. The weather was foggy in the morning but eventually cleared up after in the afternoon. The temperature was between 12-14°C (54-57 ° F) so it was comfortable to walk around without a jacket. 

We also returned to do a hike during the May time frame. It was the start of the summer season, so there were clear skies and sunny days. Even though we live in Vietnam and are used to the humidity, it was still hot and humid for us.

Experience gorgeous views of Sapa in November.

How Many Days Do You Need to Trek in Sapa? 

We suggest a minimum of 2 days so you can walk at a more leisurely pace and soak in the beauty of Sapa. 

Check out our Sapa 2 days trekking post for more inspiration. 

If you have 4+ days to hike Sapa , it’s even better as you get the chance to visit more ethnic villages and see a variety of landscapes. 

One of the unique opportunities during your Sapa trek is to stay overnight at homestays . You get the chance to stay overnight at a family’s home, eat a meal with the family, and also learn more about their lifestyle. You can also meet other travelers staying at the homestay.

With the homestays, you can either request your own room or stay in an open shared area with individual beds and curtain covers. Bathrooms and showers are shared with the other guests.

Day hikes to visit the ethnic villages are also doable if you prefer to stay at your accommodation in Sapa town. However, you miss out on the homestay experience. 

Where Should You Go on Your Sapa Trek?

There are a variety of hiking trails and villages that you can visit. Some options include:

• Cat Cat and Y Linh Ho Village – Cat Cat is a popular area and is close to Sapa town. 
• Sa Sen and Hau Thao Village
• Lao Chai and Ta Van Village – We did this trail and loved it! Check out our experience here .
• Ma Tra and Ta Phin Village  
• Fansipan Mountain – Summit the highest peak in Vietnam at 3,143 meters (10,312 feet)

A couple sells steamed buns in Lao Chai village.

How to Choose Your Sapa Trekking Tour Operator

While some travelers choose to trek in Sapa without a guide, it’s recommended to have a guide for the longer trekking routes.

There are many different routes to take and the trails are not marked. The local guide will know where to go and how to tackle obstacles along the trail. 

To choose a trekking tour operator, you can either pre-book before your arrival in Sapa, ask for recommendations from your hotel, or visit tour agencies when you arrive.

All Sapa trekking tours are quoted in U.S. dollars (USD) and payment is by Vietnamese dong (VND).

The cost of the Sapa treks varies, so here are some things to consider:

• Number of days of trekking
• If the tour is a private or join-in group tour
• Cost per person per day
• What the trek includes such as water, meals, porters, transportation, homestay, etc.
• How many kilometers/miles of walking is covered each day 

Our 2 day/1 night trek was $30 USD per person per day which included meals and overnight at a homestay. 

During our research through Ho Chi Minh City’s Female Expat Facebook Group, we saw a few tour agencies recommended – Zaazaa Trekking , Ethos Spirit , Sapa O’ Chau , and Sapa Sisters .

**Our Recommendation**

If you’re looking for a female-owned tour operator , then contact Zaazaa at Zaazaa Trekking on Facebook right away. She’ll provide you with a WhatsApp phone number to continue the conversation. 

Zaazaa is a local guide who lives in Sapa and owns her small business tour company. 

We loved working with Zaazaa to plan our treks. She is responsive over WhatsApp and has affordable pricing for her treks. She’ll provide many options for you to experience the best of Sapa.

During the high tourist season, she is in high demand, so you must contact her in advance to plan a trip.

If she isn’t available on a particular day, she may ask a family member to guide you on her behalf. Otherwise, everything is taken care of before your arrival. 

If you have any dietary restrictions, please let Zaazaa know in advance.

As with the payment, you’ll need to pay a small deposit and the rest of the amount at the start of the trip or pay the full amount when you meet Zaazaa. Even though Zaazaa gives a quote in U.S. Dollars, you’ll need to pay in Vietnamese currency.

We did a 2 day/1 night trek through ethnic villages and trekked Mount Fansipan in 1 day. The three days flew by quickly!

We’re with our guide, Zaazaa, from Zaazaa Trekking, and her adorable baby boy.

How to Prepare for Your Sapa Trekking

Trekking long distances requires good physical health. Since you’ll be on your legs for hours at a time, you’ll need to do some training. 

Check out our tips on how to train for a hike .

Here are some ideas to help increase leg strength:

• Walk or run daily for at least 30 minutes a day. This will help boost your cardiovascular system. When you have more free time, consider walking up to an hour or longer. 
• Practice walking uphill and downhill . Use stairs or adjust the height on the treadmill. 
• Do bodyweight exercises such as squats and lunges to build strength. 
• Build ankle strength by doing calf raises. 
• Practice wearing your hiking boots and gear during your walks. This will help address irritation or chaffing that may occur on the day of the trek. 

What to Bring on Your Sapa Trekking

Packing light is key for your day hike in Sapa. Only bring things that you’ll need for the day. 

Ask your tour guide where to store your luggage such as at the tour agency’s office or your current hotel. Our tour guide hired a motorbike to transport our luggage to the homestay. 

• Rain jacket or poncho – Rain can occur at any time. Check out the jackets that we use: men / women . 
• Jacket – Any lightweight jacket would work
• Backpack – We use these backpacks on every trip. Check them out: men and women versions.
• Backpack rain cover – If your poncho isn’t wide enough to cover the backpack, having a rain cover will keep your backpack dry.
• Sun hat – Cover your head and face with this hat .
• Sunglasses – Here are our favorite sunglasses for hiking.
• Sunscreen – Wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days, to prevent sunburns.
• Hiking poles – Optional, but will be helpful when going down muddy roads.
• Umbrella – Can be used for both sun and rain!
• Extra cash  
• Camera or cell phone  
• Travel insurance or health insurance documents – It’s recommended to have travel insurance before you go hiking. You never know what may happen on your trip and may need to use travel insurance to claim expenses.

Forgot something? Sapa town has plenty of stores that sell rain jackets, backpacks, and trekking supplies. As a heads up, they aren’t authentic, so you will be buying a knock-off version.

North Face is a popular brand for jackets. They’re cheap as the cost of the jacket can be around 200,000 VND ($8.20 USD) or less.

While we aren’t a proponent of supporting knock-off products, sometimes you need to buy something now!

Prepare for any weather conditions when hiking in Sapa.

What to Wear on Your Sapa Trek

It’s recommended to wear lightweight and moisture-wicking clothing. Wearing layers will be helpful so you don’t overheat. 

• Technical t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt  
• Hiking pants – With the muddy paths and the overgrown plants, you’ll be glad to wear long pants. 
• Hiking boots – This is a crucial part of your Sapa trekking attire. Wear comfortable and waterproof hiking boots (men/ women ) if possible. It’s up to you whether you want to have boots covering your ankles or not. We prefer high-ankle boots since we tend to roll our ankles when hiking. 
• Hiking socks 

Other Helpful Sapa Trekking Tips

1. eat breakfast before your trek. .

The hike will start around 9:00am so it’s important to eat breakfast beforehand. You’ll need the energy and fuel to sustain your walking pace.

Your hotel will provide breakfast or you can find a restaurant around your hotel area. Many restaurants sell Western-style breakfast such as eggs with toast. 

2. Have sturdy hiking boots. 

We can’t stress enough that wearing hiking boots is a must for your Sapa trek .

You’ll walk through muddy rice fields and may need to cross rivers. Wearing walking shoes will not provide enough traction on the muddy paths. 

3. Women will follow tour groups for the first half of the trek.  

It’s common for women to follow hikers and walk for miles until a rest spot. They’re friendly and ask the hikers for their names and nationalities. Since they know the hiking routes, they’ll also help the hikers with challenging spots along the trail. 

At the halfway point, they’ll sell their handicrafts and souvenirs such as handbags, pillowcases, and coin purses. It’s an opportunity for them to sell their goods in a direct-to-consumer approach before heading back home. 

It’s up to you whether you want to purchase the souvenirs or not.

If you don’t purchase something, just politely decline. Once you buy something and others in the area know that you purchased something, then everyone arrives to try and sell goods. 

We had an elderly woman join us during our Sapa trek.

4. Do not buy souvenirs from children.

When walking around Sapa town, you’ll see children wearing traditional clothing.

They are adorable, yet they are also peddling for money by selling handicrafts and souvenirs. You’ll also get approached by children to buy souvenirs when trekking through the ethnic villages. 

Don’t be tempted by their cute faces and pleas.

By purchasing souvenirs from them, you’re encouraging them to continue this behavior instead of attending school and getting an education. 

5. Do not take photos of people without their consent. 

Sapa is such a pretty area to take photos.

Please be considerate and ask for permission if you take photos of people, especially portrait photos.

Otherwise, it’s rude and gives a bad impression to tourists. Or, you can consider taking photos without showing faces. 

6. Bring trash with you. 

Let’s preserve Sapa’s beautiful landscape!

Please remember the “pack in, pack out” approach, and bring any trash with you back to Sapa town or your homestay. 

While most of the areas that we trekked in Sapa were clean, there were pockets of plastic bottles and plastic packages. Since garbage collecting and recycling are rare on the mountainside, they’ll either pile up or will get burned. 

7. Embrace the mountain toilet. 

If you need to use the toilet during the trek, then you’ll need to use the “mountain toilet.”

Since you’ll walk through rice fields and villages, there aren’t any public toilet stops until you reach your lunch spot or homestay. Notify the guide that you need a toilet break and he/she will provide privacy.  

TIP for Ladies – You may consider wearing a pantiliner on your trekking days, so you don’t need to use toilet paper. 

8. Tipping your Sapa trekking guide is optional. 

It’s not expected, yet giving your guide a small tip is a nice way to show your gratitude and appreciation for the service. 

How much should you give?

It’s up to you as any amount will be helpful, even 100,000 VND ($4.30) would be great. We gave 300,000 VND ($13) to each of our tour guides and we had three different ones each day.  

9. Having travel insurance is recommended.

Not sure if you need travel insurance? It’s always good to have travel insurance just in case something happens during your trip .

If you fall during your trek and need medical attention, then you can use travel insurance to visit the nearest hospital and receive treatment. 

10. Once you’ve finished your trek, get a massage.

You deserve to treat yourself to a body and foot massage after completing your trek. Your body may be exhausted after the full-day trek. 

Luckily, Sapa town has plenty of local massage places to choose from. All you need to do is just walk in and enjoy it!

Pricing is similar and you can get a 60-minute massage starting at 200,000 VND ($10.80). 

11. Explore Sapa once you’re done with trekking.

If you didn’t get the chance to explore Sapa before your trek, now it’s the perfect chance to explore the area at a leisurely pace.

We recommend that you visit Sun World Fansipan Legend and take the funicular and cable car to Fansipan Peak . You can explore the temples, pagodas, and take a photo of the highest peak at 3,143 meters (10,312 feet).

For those who like waterfalls , check out Love Waterfall and Silver Waterfall . You can take a taxi from Sapa city center to these two waterfall spots. If you hiked Fansipan previously, you’ll notice that the entrance to Love Waterfall starts at the same parking lot.

Another cool spot to explore is Sapa’s Gates of Heaven . It’s a beautiful area with views of the O Quy Ho mountain pass.

For visitors with additional time on the weekend, consider visiting the largest traditional market in Lao Cai, Bac Ha Market . It’s open on Sundays (although Saturdays are open to see horses and buffaloes for sale). You can see many ethnic minority people in their traditional outfits selling food and household goods.

Final Thoughts

After reading this Sapa trekking guide, we hope you’re inspired to go on a trek in Sapa! It’s one of the bucket list experiences to have in Vietnam. 

If you plan to continue your Vietnam journey, check out our other Vietnam posts:

• Spend 1 week in Vietnam
• Central Vietnam 1 week itinerary
• South Vietnam 2 weeks itinerary
• Vietnam islands to visit
• Vietnam off the beaten track destinations 

Have more questions about hiking in Sapa? Ask questions in the comments below. 

Like this post? Save it to your Vietnam Pinterest board.

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

How to Spend 2 Days Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam + Trekking Tips

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• Trip Styles
• Destinations

• Trip Destinations
• Vietnam Hiking Tours

Vietnam Sapa Trek and Ha Long Bay

Hanoi, vietnam, trip highlights.

• Mountains of Vietnam
• Big Rivers & Beautiful Views
• Home-stay Lodging
• Amazing Vietnamese Cuisine
• Village Cultures of Vietnam
• Remote Villages & Rice Paddies
• Ha Long Bay Cruise

Description

“Xin Chao” from Vietnam! We start this epic Vietnam trekking adventure off in the ancient capital city, Hanoi, where we pick you up from the airport and transfer you to our hotel. We acclimatize in Hanoi and subsequently travel to Sapa, which lies on the Northwest border of Vietnam and China. Sapa sets our scene for the hiking portion of this trip as we trek through beautiful rice paddy terraces to remote ‘hill tribe’ villages. The trails we walk on connect village to village and are backdropped by rolling hills, pristine rivers and terraced mountainsides. We experience the lives of the Black H’mong, Red Dzao, Green Dzai and White Tay hill tribes by sleeping in comfortable home-stays, making personal connections and trekking from village to village. After the trekking portion of this trip, we head east to the South China Sea for a luxury cruise of Ha Long Bay. The World renown limestone archipelago is a must for any travelers who visit Vietnam and no better place to end our adventure tour of Vietnam. The cultures, mountains, trekking, food and Ha-long bay make this trip one of the best trips in the world!

$3750 Per Person

$725 single supplement.

Single Supplement on this trip includes single rooms in all hotels/lodges and a single cabin on the overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay. We do not have single/private facilities available during the 2 nights we utilize Sapa home-stay accommodations along our trek. On both of these nights the group will be in a communal dorm type setting.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL 3

Scale of 1-5. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult

Hiking Distances:

Up to 10 mi

Backpack Weight:

Moderately Rugged

Max Daily Elev. ↑↓:

Up to 1,680 feet

Heights Exposure:

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THIS TRIP

• Hiking uphill or downhill with a 10-20 lb backpack for 6-8 hours
• Maintaining balance and footing on variable, uneven terrain
• River and creek crossings
• Hiking in very humid & hot weather conditions
• Hiking in mud and slippery terrain

SOLITUDE LEVEL 3

1 least solitude, 5 most solitude

We rate this Vietnam hiking tour a solitude 3. You can expect to have hours of solitude at a time while hiking.

•   Minimum Guests

Minimum of 2 Guests

We require a minimum of 2 guests to confirm this trip. If a trip date is not confirmed yet, you can register and will be notified when the trip is officially confirmed. We recommend not making final travel arrangements until your trip meets the minimum number of guests and is confirmed.

In most cases, if a trip does not reach the minimum number of guests, you may choose to transfer to another trip date or another trip, be refunded your payments in full, or you may have the choice to pay a supplemental fee to run the trip with fewer guests. We make the final determination for these trips 65-60 days before the departure date.

Private Trips

Travel in perfect company by booking a private trip exclusively for your group or family!

In many areas we can run trips with group sizes larger than our normal capacity of 12 guests. There’s no minimum number of guests on a private tour, and in many cases, we have flexibility around minimum age as well.

For all international trips outside the United States, we quote private trip requests on a case by case basis. Please complete the form below to inquiry about a private tour.

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Learn About Our Private Trips

Welcome to Vietnam and Southeast Asia! Get ready for new sounds, smells, and sights as we enter a unique, vibrant and colorful culture. Our team will pick you up from Noi Bai International airport in Hanoi, Vietnam and transfer you approximately 45 minutes to our elegant 4-star accommodations in the popular historic Old Quarter of Hanoi. After joining the group at an orientation meeting, you will enjoy dinner with your guide(s) and the rest of the group. Here we can further get to know one another and talk in more detail of our upcoming adventure together on this Vietnam trek .

Today we explore the lively city of Hanoi. After breakfast, your guide will host you on a tour of the city where we will get to stretch our legs after our long travel and take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of this city. Some of the highlights include the Vietnamese Ethnology Museum, where we’ll get to experience and learn about some of the 54 ethnic groups of Vietnam; the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House and One Pillar Pagoda; and the Temple of Literature, built at the end of the 11th century and showcases incredible architecture. We will enjoy lunch in the city and you’ll have some free time to explore the Old Quarter before dinner for more exploration or rest. Perhaps you’ll get to sample some famous Vietnamese egg coffee during the day!

Today we begin our Sapa journey! After breakfast we will transfer by a private shuttle to the Sapa region which will take approximately 5-6 hours to reach our hotel in beautiful Sapa. We will have lunch along our drive. Before dinner you will have time to explore this amazing town. Sapa is known for its colorful markets, friendly people, and beautiful textiles. You will love and be intrigued by this amazing place!

• Hiking Mileage: 9 miles (14.5 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1,355 feet (413 m)
• Elevation Loss: 2,775 feet (846 m)
• Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours

This morning after breakfast we will begin our trek! We will meet our local Black Hmong guide and begin our incredible trek through the mountains. Expect there to be many local women walking with the group, asking to sell us goods as we hike from Lao Chai village of the Black Hmong minority to Ta Van village of the Giay minority. Note that the trail is sometimes on wet, slippery mud, sometimes on dry concrete; it’s a bit of a mix of surfaces and terrain. We will have lunch along the way and continue trekking through beautiful, terraced rice fields, until we reach Ta Van Village. This village is nestled in the mountains and provides a great opportunity to be immersed in the local culture and daily routine of the Black Hmong and Red Dzao people. The majority of people in Ta Van are rice farmers and our local guide will be able to answer all of the questions we have. Upon arrival at our homestay, we will be welcomed by our ‘host mother’ who will be in charge of cooking dinner and breakfast for us. We may even have the option to help prepare spring rolls or appetizers! Getting to know the local people is one of our favorite things about this trek! Accommodations at the homestays are shared rooms and shared bathrooms. They are quite simple and really all we need for the night.

• Hiking Mileage: 9.5 miles (15.3 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1,680 feet (512 m)
• Elevation Loss: 3,392 feet (1034 m)
• Trekking Duration: 7-8 hours

This morning after more amazing food and hospitality, we will pack our bags and begin walking to the village of Giang Tai Chai. The rolling hills and rice terraces of this area shape the local people’s culture and it is evident how the environment plays an impact on the people’s lives. Along the way, we will have lunch and then continue on to Ban Ho village where we will stay for the second night of our trek. Ban Ho is one of the most interesting and diverse villages in the Sapa area. Black Hmong, Red Dzao, White Tay and other minority hill tribes all live together here. Ban Ho is a lovely village surrounded by rice terraces, glistening streams and traditional stilted houses. We check into our accommodation at tonight’s homestay. We will have free time for showers, rest, or village exploration before our delicious traditional meal is served.

• Hiking Mileage: 6 miles (9.7 km)
• Elevation Gain: appx 600 feet (183 m)
• Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

This morning after another filling breakfast, we pack our backpacks and set off for the village of Thanh Phu. Our trek today starts off by climbing roughly 600 ft until we level off near Nam Tong village. The terrain is sub-tropical, and the trails are used by local people to connect the villages. We will have lunch en route and continue trekking until we reach the village of Thanh Phu. Upon arrival at Thanh Phu, we will be picked up and transferred to our luxurious unique Ecolodge accommodation for the night! We will have free time for showers, village exploration, or rest until dinner is served. Our guides will provide the plan for the following day.

• Hiking Mileage: 4.3 miles (6.9 km)
• Elevation Gain/Loss: 800 feet (244 m)
• Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours

This morning we have a leisurely breakfast, pack our day packs and hike to Lech, a Red Dzao minority village. Upon arrival at Lech, we will visit with the Red Dzao people and learn about their culture and daily life in their village. After our visit with the Dzao, we will head back to our Ecolodge, have free time until lunch is served. We will then board our private mini-bus for our 5 ½ hour scenic ride back to Hanoi. It will be roughly 6:30pm when we arrive back to Hanoi, so we will have some snacks and drinks planned enroute during our drive. Once we arrive back to Hanoi, we’ll check into our hotel and all go to a late dinner together.

This morning we will enjoy waking up in our elegant accommodations in Hanoi. After a satisfying breakfast buffet, we will transfer by private vehicle to the fascinating gem at the north of Vietnam – Ha Long Bay. From the harbor we will board our ship for a cruise among the limestone karst rising from the emerald waters. Along the way, we’ll visit a grotto of spectacular stalactites and stalagmites in the Dark and Light Cave. It is absolutely stunning scenery! We will continue toward Lan Ha Bay for time to swim and enjoy a beautiful bamboo boat ride. We will then have dinner and you can enjoy the landscape of Ha Long Bay, while relaxing and soaking up all the views.

Note that you will only need an overnight bag for the cruise portion of this trip. Your other belongings will be kept at the hotel in Hanoi.

This morning you can sleep in or rise early to witness Ha Long bay at sunrise! You may even choose to enjoy a Tai Chi session on the sundeck. After a light breakfast of tea, coffee, and pastries, we will explore the Tra Bau area and local fishing culture as we paddle in our sea kayaks. After the optional morning of activities, we will return to the boat for a heartier brunch and then we will transfer to Gia Luan Port for a hike to Trung Trang cave on Cat Ba Island National Park. We will then meet our driver and begin the transfer back to Hanoi for our final celebratory dinner.

After breakfast, your Wildland guide will meet you in the hotel lobby for your transfer back to Noi Bai International Airport. We will ensure that you arrive in time for your flight back home, or you can continue your adventure in Vietnam. We hope you have had an amazing time and thank you for choosing Wildland Trekking!

Please Note : We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal  terms and conditions  apply to trips with itinerary changes.

Trip Dates & Booking

Trip dates & booking.

Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.

AVAILABLE TO BOOK

This trip is available and bookable online! Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team!

This trip has 1 or 2 spots remaining and is bookable online! Click on the date to book now or contact us online to book through customer service.

REQUEST A RESERVATION

This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Please contact us online or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to request a reservation.

Don't see your dates? Call us! We may be able to add new trip dates.

Trip details, what's included.

• A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
• Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See  Guide Bios .
• Transportation for the duration of the tour starting on Day 1 and ending on Day 10
• Lodging for the duration of the tour
• Use of a day pack and trekking poles
• All meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 10
• Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and emergency communication device
• Gratuities for support staff (drivers, luggage porters, etc.). Note that the optional tip for guide is not included (see “What’s Not Included”).

What's Not Included

• Transportation to Hanoi
• Trip insurance that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (required in Vietnam)
• Bar bills, drink bills, extra snacks, telephone bills, wifi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
• All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
• Clothes, rain gear, and footwear ( see recommendations )
• Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
• Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight
• Gratuity for guide(s) is optional but always appreciated; (The industry average for this trip type is 5-10% of total trip cost. Local currency is preferred or USD is acceptable.)

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about what to pack.

Meals: What to Expect

This Vietnam hiking tour features a combination of in-town meals and meals prepared by your guide. For the most part we’ll be enjoying in-town meals for dinner and some breakfasts and carefully-selected restaurants and lodges, and lunches are prepared on the trail by your guides.

We can often accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee, and in some countries may be more difficult to accommodate than others. Please inquire with us for more information about the specific trip you’re interested in.

*Common trail snack brands and items found easily in the US are not readily available in this destination. (i.e. protein bars, trail bars, beef jerky, etc…) We recommend guests that prefer these types of trail snacks to bring a few of their own choice items from home.

Trail Conditions: What to Expect

On this trek expect to see steep inclines, muddy conditions, and humid weather conditions. Comfortable hiking boots and breathable, quick-dry hiking clothing are essential to success on this hiking trek. Please see our “Guest Packing List” for aid in preparing for this trip.

Gear We Provide

We provide all group gear which includes the following:

• Trekking poles
• Company-issued first-aid kit
• Emergency communication device(s)

Guest Packing List

When you register for this tour you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip ( click here to see it now.) All trips require a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots, rain gear, a recommended clothing system, a headlamp or flashlight, a hydration system (water bottles and/or bladder) and other items specific to each trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled the most frequently asked questions that Wildland Trekking guests have about visiting and trekking in Vietnam. Learn the answers to these commonly asked questions about traveling in Vietnam by using the link below!

• Trekking In Vietnam – FAQs

Trip Logistics

How do i register.

Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can  click here  to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.

Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!

Where Do We Meet?

We will meet you at Noi Bai International Airport (in Hanoi) on Day 1. Once you arrive, make your way to the exterior of the terminal to meet your driver, as there are instances where they may not be permitted to enter. Your driver will be holding a signboard with your name and the Wildland Trekking logo.

You will then be driven to the first night’s hotel (included), where we’ll conduct an orientation meeting the first evening (your flight needs to arrive before 3 PM). Our Vietnam communications team will be in contact approximately  45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.

Travel to Hanoi

Booking flights.

For this Vietnam trek you will need to fly into Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi on Day 1, no later than 3 P.M. We will pick you up at the airport. An orientation meeting, dinner and accommodations are included on Day 1. Your return flight may be scheduled for any time that day (please note that hotel check-out is at 12 pm).

Flights to and from Hanoi are the guest’s responsibility. Multiple airlines operate flights into Hanoi from many international airports including those in Hong Kong; Seoul, South Korea; Beijing, China; Guangzhou, China; Taipei, Taiwan and others. Flights to Vietnam from the USA and Europe are often quite affordable.

Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging

We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Hanoi, Vietnam as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly  to our team to check availability.

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.

In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the  Center for Disease Control website  for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.

Essential Eligibility Criteria

Essential Eligibility Criteria (“EEC”)  have been specifically identified to help you understand the skills and abilities necessary to participate on each Wildland trip, and they apply uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability.

Once you identify a trip in which you may be interested, please carefully review the  EEC  and itinerary details. If after reviewing the EEC that apply to your desired trip, you determine you need an accommodation in order to meet the EEC, please  contact us  prior to registering to discuss your requested accommodation.

The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. If you register and arrive for a trip for which you do not meet the EEC, you will be disqualified from participation on the trip and will be dismissed or evacuated from the trip without a refund.

Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.

Check out our  Meet Our Team  page for staff bios.

Guide Working Parameters

Guides are required to take 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down time…etc. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents/rooms  uninterrupted  for a minimum of 5 hours each night. We ask guests to respect these requirements and to not interrupt guides’ off time and sleep time unless there is a true emergency.

Age Restrictions

Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:

• 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
• 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis

Trip Insurance

Field evacuation, repatriation and medical coverage insurance (at least $200,000) is required on all Vietnam trips as a condition of partnership terms with our Vietnam vendors. Additional travel coverage is strongly recommended.

If you wish to purchase trip insurance, we recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance.

For information on recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please  click here .

For even greater information, or if you simply prefer communicating with a real, live person, feel free to contact our exclusive agent Michael Bennett. Michael will help you identify the best product for your needs, and there is no cost associated with his assistance. You may contact him at:

Email: [email protected] US by Phone: 877-305-9083 Direct/International by Phone: 702-448-3664

If you already have insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.

Weather in Northern Vietnam

The weather in the mountains of Northern Vietnam is often rainy with moderate to hot temperatures and relatively high humidity. The Valley temperatures can be much hotter than the mountain averages shown here below.

• Accommodations

May de Ville Luxury Hotel

This exceptional hotel is located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter near Hoan Kiem Lake. Nestled in the vibrant, exciting “Old Quarter” historic district, this hotel puts us right where we want to be to begin exploring Vietnam.

ALIANA BOUTIQUE SAPA HOTEL & SPA

Nestled at the base of a lush mountain slope and just far enough away from Sapa’s busy downtown center, this luxury hotel provides a peaceful but modern experience. We will soak up the comfort and tranquility here before we begin our trek.

SAPA HOMESTAYS

Homestay accommodations offer a unique opportunity to learn about and be intimately part of the locals’ daily lives, by sharing their home and table. Expect these stays to be fun but also rustic and basic. The outstanding hospitality, food and this overall cultural experience is often one of the main highlights of the trip for our guests. In these family-run businesses there will be a mix of bungalows/rooms and dormitory set ups (beds/mattresses with fresh linens, hot showers and clean shared bathrooms).

SAPA JADE HILL RESORT & SPA

This mountainside ecolodge resort & spa has stunning views of the Muong Hoa Valley mixed with an extremely hospitable staff. With amazing private mountain bungalows, a pool with a view, delicious cuisine and local indigenous culture, this is one hotel you’ll never forget!

SENA CRUISES

Sena Cruises offers authentic traditional, boutique experiences. With premier service, wonderful meals, luxurious rooms and stunning scenery, Sena Cruises offers a top-notch experience. Our time cruising Ha Long Bay is definitely a top highlight for many of our guests during this extraordinary journey through Vietnam.

* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.

Trip Reviews

Average customer ratings:.

• 5.0 (3 reviews)
• Most recent

Katherine F

Very knowledgeable and helpful.

The guides were extremely patient answering all our questions and met everyone’s needs

Best trip of my life

I chose Wildland because I was looking for a trip with a guide. Our guide, Thuy, was phenominal. He was kind, compassionate, thorough, and attentive. He answered every question we had with great responses that sparked conversation, and we had a lot of questions! He ordered fantastic food for us at each meal. He communicated with other staff at the accommodations and in restaurants to ensure we had everything we needed. Our local hiking guide was joyful and helpful. He worked hard to make sure we had what we needed on hikes and made every step of the way exciting and fun. I cannot say enough good things about these guides. Myriam was present as a Wildland staff member and she was also a wonderful resource on the trip. When one of our travelers got sick, she was prepared with medication, advice, and a caring demeanor. The Wildland staff made this trip all the more special of an experience and I am very grateful. The trip would not have been nearly as great without them.

Wonderful Cultural Experience

It was a wonderful cultural experience mixed with physical activity. We loved the opportunity to meet so many Vietnamese people, as guides, in villages and

See All Guest Reviews!

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Best Hikes in Sapa: A Guide to Trekking Paradise

Sapa town is located in Northern Vietnam in Lao Cai Province which sits along the Chinese border. Hungry trekkers can arrive either by bus or train from Hanoi which is just a few hours away. Lao Cai, and Sa Pa, in particular, are known internationally as top tourist destinations due to the spectacular landscapes around them. The terrain is rugged and the ethnic minorities that live in the region are exceptionally friendly and welcoming. All of this makes trekking in Sapa Vietnam an unforgettable experience.

Table of Contents

The 5 best trekking routes around sapa town.

There are many Vietnam trekking experiences but few compare to what trekking in Sapa has to offer. The region is full of easy to access routes, but here are the best:

• Trek to Cat Cat falls and experience the Cat Cat tourist village
• The Sa Pa Valley Trail – an easy introduction to mountain life
• Bathe in Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall
• Conquer Fansipan Mountain – the top of Indochina
• Trek to Lao Chai, Ta Van Village, and Giang Ta Chai Village to see Cau May Waterfall

Self-guided treks in Sapa Vietnam

When you arrive in Sa Pa you will see an abundance of Sapa trekking tour companies. If you are a solo traveler or just feel more comfortable with a guide, then you can easily book an organized tour at any one of these places. However, if you prefer trekking in Sapa without a guide then there are a couple of easy routes to choose from!

Top tip – It is fairly common for the local people to offer to be your Sapa tour guide for the day and show you some less common trails in the area. At the end of the tour remember to tip your guide or you could buy a souvenir from them.

Trek to Cat Cat Village

Visiting the Cat Cat Tourist Village is a must when visiting Sa Pa. The route is fairly short, but for a longer day trek, you can continue to head north to the neighboring village of Xín Chải.

On this hike, you will see many Hmong people, who are one of the ethnic minority groups in Northern Vietnam. Most likely you will see some stalls run by local families selling traditional clothing and an array of souvenirs.

The hiking route starts at the Cat Cat View Hotel and Restaurant, where you begin a fairly leisurely downhill walk on the road. To your right, you can see some spectacular views of the surrounding mountainous areas and rice fields.

After you reach the Hoang Lien National Park building lookout for a staircase next to a cafe named Sky Sa Pa. These steps will lead you to the falls. There is an entry fee of 70,000 VND per person you will need to pay at the top of the steps.

During your descent, there are many cafes and restaurants along the way for refreshments. When you reach the bottom you need to cross a narrow suspension bridge before reaching the falls.

To turn this trek into an enjoyable loop continue straight and follow the well-paved path up to Fansipan Road. Here you can turn right and simply head back into Sa Pa Town. If you are looking for more adventure, at the main road turn left and head straight to the neighboring village of Xín Chải.

The Sa Pa Valley Trail

If you are looking for a beautiful day trek through the surrounding rice paddies, then this trail is for you. It will lead you through a stunning mountain valley and conveniently commences straight from the town. This route is fairly easy and suitable for people with a moderate level of fitness.

You can begin your hike in Sa Pa Town and follow the road, or if you prefer, you can take a taxi to the trailhead which begins just before Lầu Vọng Cảnh Fansipan coffee view and bar. You will see a set of stairs that lead to the trail.

This trek is a paved road the whole way, but be aware that if it rains, it can be a little slippy. At one point on the route, you cross a small waterfall. After about 4km you will reach the road. At this point, turn left and follow this route all the way back to Sapa. The entire route works out to be approximately 8.5 kilometers.

If you would prefer you can take a taxi back from the main road. There are many guesthouses along the way where you could take a rest and ask them to call one for you.

Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall

This hike is short but packed with some fantastic sightseeing. You will need to take a taxi from Sa Pa town as the start of the route is about 12.5km / 25 minutes drive away. You need a moderate level of fitness due to the number of stairs on this trek.

Love Waterfall is conveniently located right close to the road, you will spot the ticket booth and can request that your driver let you out there.

The entry fee is 15,000 VND, which you will need to pay before you can enter. Follow the steps up to get a great view of the cascading water. When you are ready to leave this site, you can exit the area and cross the road. About 1.8 km down you will see the entrance on the left. You will need to pay another entrance fee here, this one is 70,000 VND.

This route is well marked and easy to follow. There are options to deviate from the route, however, if you chose to do this be aware that some of them can be difficult to follow. When you reach the bottom you will have a stunning view of Silver Waterfall. If the weather is hot and sunny you can choose to swim.

After relaxing and soaking in the nature, head back up the stairs to the main road and take a taxi back to the town.

Sapa trekking tours

If you are looking for more than just casual day treks and want to explore some steep mountains and get off the tourist trail, then you should look to hiring a professional trekking guide. Usually, one is included as part of a Sapa trekking tour and can take you to some mind-bending places that you wouldn’t find on your own. Meals and accommodation will likely be included in your tour, but personal trekking gear is not, so bring good trekking shoes and enough warm clothes.

Fansipan Mountain

Fansipan is the tallest mountain in Indochina standing at over 3000 m above sea level. Located in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, it is one of the only places in Vietnam with the right snow conditions. A lso known as Phan Xi Păng in Vietnamese , Sun World has installed a whopping 6.3 km cable car that reaches the summit, but for hard-core trekkers who consider this cheating, there is another way.

Pickup is organized from Sapa town or Lao Cai train station, and from here tours are taken to Cat Cat village to begin the 3-day route. As trekkers enter the Hoang Lien National Park they are met with some of the most stunning scenery on the planet. Huge rice fields fill the Muong Hoa valley and tribal villages perch on the mountainside.

The trek begins as a gentle wander through a Hmong village before disappearing into thick bamboo forests. The first day usually ends at around 2,300 m in a pre-organized campsite or homestay after 6 or 7 hours of hiking.

The second day involves a hard trek at altitudes of 2,500 m. The total distance covered is rather small but it takes another 8 hours to reach the next base camp where porters prepare a hearty meal and a well-deserved tent.

On day three, walkers wake up early to finish the ascent of Fansipan. This final push takes you to over 3100 m and has the most breathtaking vistas of jagged mountains poking out the clouds. On a clear day, China is visible to the north. After a brief but necessary rejoice, the trekking tour begins the descent. This only takes around 4 hours and concludes at the Tram Ton ranger station where mini-buses are ready to take you back to Sapa.

One or two-day guided treks start at the Tram Ton ranger station and end there too. This point-to-point trail is around 10 km one way and takes up to 12 hours return depending on your fitness level. Alternatively, tired walkers can opt to take the cable car down from the top to close the loop.

Trek to Lao Chai, Ta Van, and Giang Ta Chai Village

Lao Chai village is nestled in the Muong Hoa Valley. The area is rich in culture and the perfect place to immerse yourself with the local people.

You can organize a tour guide before setting off on this trek, or if you’d prefer to do the first part solo you can find a local tour guide partway through. Though this could be a self-guided trek, though there are some hidden gems that only a local guide will know.

This route is only around 4.5 kilometers in length and is suitable for people of a moderate fitness level. If you leave early in the morning you can make it a half-day excursion or turn it into a day trek by stopping for a leisurely lunch along the way.

To get to the start of the trek you will need to take a taxi to Thuyền Mây Homestay Sapa. Just after this, you will see a road branching off to the right. Follow this road as it winds all the way down the valley, until you Linh Ho village Throughout the descent, you will have spectacular mountain views and breathtaking sights of the rice terraces. Make sure to stop in Linh Ho village for a unique shopping experience in local artisan stores that sell some pretty interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Continue for a few kilometers to Lao Chai Village. When you reach the village, cross a large bridge and continue up the opposite side of the Valley. Stay on this road as it passes many restaurants, home-stays, and small stores which are perfect to relax and refresh. Finally, you will reach Ta Van, take the right fork until you pass Phori’s House. At this t-junction turn right again and follow the road round until you leave Ta Van and pass through Giang Ta Chai village. At the end of the trail, you will see Cau May Waterfall.

Cau May Waterfall and the surrounding area are picture-perfect. When you are ready to continue, simply cross the narrow bridge and follow the path until you reach the main road. On the main road, there are usually many taxi or bike drivers waiting to take tourists back to Sapa.

Top tip – In Ta Van, there will likely be many local guides offering to show you the way. If you opt for this ask them to take you through the bamboo forest. This is an alternative route to the road. You will trek on an interesting trail through gorgeous rice paddies and tall bamboo trees.

Best time to visit Northern Vietnam

Avoid the rain – Although Sapa town is beautiful all year round, if you want to make the most of your time trekking in Sapa, it’s best to plan around the rain which occurs mainly during the Summer season from June to August. This is not the ideal time for trekking in Sa Pa as rice paddy fields are muddy and the rocky terrain will be slippy. Daytime temperatures will rise to around 25°C and at night drop to a cool 15°C.

For the chance of snow – If you enjoy cold weather, the Winter season runs from December to February. During this time fog usually covers the mountain peaks, and if you’re lucky, you might see some snowfall on the highest points in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Average day temperatures are 15°C while at night it can get as low as 5°C in Sapa town.

For hiking – The perfect time to visit Lao Cai for the best Sapa trekking experience, is either in Spring from March to May, or, Autumn from September to November. The weather is dry and the countryside surrounding Sapa is breathtaking. Spring flowers bloom and the scenery is filled with peach and plum blossoms. In Autumn it is equally as spectacular as the rice terraces are bursting with yellow brightness. The day and night temperatures in Spring and Autumn are on either side of 15°C.

What to pack

You may be surprised by the weather in Sapa. It can be quite hot and sunny in the daytime, but at night time, the temperatures can drop. One moment there could be icy-cold rain, and then the most brilliant blue skies. So it’s important to pack right.

Shoes – To truly traverse the incredible terrain on a Sapa trek, you will need to have proper shoes. For most treks, just simple sneakers will do as long as you don’t mind them getting a little dirty or wet. For the most mountainous areas, you will need dedicated walking boots. You don’t want to slip on a wet rock and sprain an ankle in the middle of a three-day trek!

Warm weather clothes – A good rain jacket is a must especially if you go during summer when rain is usually in the forecast. In the daytime, the weather may feel warm but at night it drops low enough that you will need a few extra layers such as a jacket and pants.

Cold weather clothes – Winter in Sapa is fresh and brisk. The ‘feels like’ temperature is much colder than you expect. Make sure you bring a thick winter jacket, warm pants, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Bring an extra jacket and pants that you can change into if your first ones get wet or dirty.

Top tip: It is always good to come prepared with comfortable worn-in hiking boots and some lightweight clothing that you can easily add or remove as the temperature demands.

Where to buy last-minute gear

If you arrive in Sapa and feel ill-equipped, don’t worry, Sapa has many stores that sell high-quality trekking equipment where you can purchase everything you need.

A great place to get kitted out is inside the Sun World funicular station on Fansipan street. Here, many legitimate stores sell big-name brands like North Face and Osprey. Alternatively, there are dedicated trekking stores throughout the town.

The Sapa market, which is located on the corner of Dien Bien Phu and Thach Son, is a vibrant night market that offers many cold-weather clothes like hats, gloves, and scarves. It also has a bustling street-food scene with unique and delicious dishes and rather potent rice wine that are perfect for a cold night of bargain hunting!

Visiting Sapa

Whether your goal is hard-core trekking when you visit Sapa, or simply just to have a nice wander through the hills and neighboring villages, you won’t be disappointed with this destination. Sapa is much more than just a trekking destination. It’s full of culture, unique cuisine, and world-class accommodation too. If you want to know more about the incredible attractions that Sapa has to offer, then be sure to take a peek at our guide .

Written by My Huynh

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

Most visitors to Sapa end up wishing they could spend more time there, and no wonder — this highland town in northern Vietnam has got it all, from spectacular mountain views to colorful hilltribe markets. In Vietnam, Sapa has been long known for the natural spectacular footpaths along mountains and tribal villages where a few ethnic minority groups are residing in. Trekking is always one of the must-do things when exercise-lovers travel. This article is about to highlight you should know before arranging your backpack for journey of trekking in Sapa and be sure to check out the strolls, treks and scenic drives listed below.

I. How Many Days to Trek in Sapa?

For trekking alone, it is recommended that one full day is enough. But if you don’t want to miss an opportunity to discover a new lifestyle as well as totally unwind experiencing the beauty of nature, then a 3-day-2-night trip will be perfect.

II. Best Time to Trek in Sapa?

Sapa has 4 distinct seasons .

Spring is from March to May when people start planting rice and flowers bloom under warm sunlight. The picturesque scenery of peach blossom and plum blossom over the village will depict what a countryside-featured paradise looks like.

Summer (June-August) best shows off how warm such a tropical country can be, what’s more, it also has the heaviest rainfall of the year. You may encounter an unexpected downpour while enjoying the brightest green rice paddies with your fellows. As a result, it is definitely low season to go for a trek in Sapa here.

From September to November is Autumn, the weather is drier but still rainy sometimes. Please be noted that it is harvesting season, the yellowish color of terraced fields which are on top most magnificent backgrounds in Asia is ready to make your heart skip a beat.

Winter is chilly and misty. Sapa covers itself with heavy fog, occasionally snow on peak as if it were trying to hide its mysterious beauty

Honestly, Sapa is worth trekking all year round, but if you opt for the finest weather, Spring and Autumn will suit you best.

III. Sapa Treks and Trails

1. cat cat falls – one step at a time.

Overview:  More country stroll than hike, this short walk provides an excellent introduction to the countryside surrounding Sapa.  Most people tackle this trail on their first day in Sapa, when they’re still feeling worn out from the long night-train ride from Hanoi.  

Trail Route:  This hike begins just past the popular Cat Cat Hotel, continues on past the turreted mansion-like HQ for Hoang Lien National Park , and then descends by staircase to Cat Cat Falls.  After crossing the river on a plank-floored suspension bridge, the trail then climbs steeply up the other side of the valley before descending to cross the river yet again on another narrow suspension bridge.  At this point you can walk back to Sapa or hire one of the waiting motorcycle drivers to take you back on a high-speed ride up twisting mountain roads.  

Hilltribes:  Black Hmong live in an extended village scattered along the river valley.  

The Scenery:  The Cat Cat Falls are picturesque, though nowhere near the size of the famed Silver Waterfall (see below).  

Fitness Level:  Moderate, as the trail features hundreds of concrete steps. 

Trail Conditions:  Cement staircase or sidewalk the whole way.  The second suspension bridge has lost some planks, so watch your step.  

Trail Rules:  Cattle and water buffalo always have the right of way.  

Reality Check:  Expect to share the trail with not just backpackers but more well-heeled travelers as well, since tour buses regularly unload their charges at the stairs leading down to Cat Cat Falls.  

Costs:  Though it’s not always collected, foreigners normally pay 10,000 Vietnamese dong (US$0.70) to enter Cat Cat Village, payable at the gatehouse just past the Cat Cat Hotel.  The motorcycle ride back from the end of the hike should cost about 10 to 15,000 dong (US$0.70 to 1.00) with a little polite haggling.  

Guides:  This hike is so easy to follow that a guide isn’t necessary.  Keep in mind that if you go to Sapa with an organized tour, a guided version of this hike will likely be included in the itinerary.  The Kangaroo Café in Hanoi offers inexpensively priced tours to Sapa that consistently get good reviews from travelers .

2. Lao Chai and Ta Van – Down by the river

Overview:  This hike offers spectacular cloud-shrouded mountain scenery and the chance to walk through traditional hilltribe villages and their surrounding rice paddies.  

Trail Route:  The hike initially follows a mountain road that leads out of Sapa, then descends into a deep valley, crosses the Ta Van River, and winds through rice paddies and the spread-out homes of Lao Chai and Ta Van villages.  Eventually the trail crosses back over the river and rejoins the road, where most hikers then hire a jeep or motorcycle for the return ride to Sapa.  

Hilltribes:  Black Hmong and Day communities line the hiking route.  

The Scenery:  From the road you’ll get an absolutely stunning view of the mountains across the river valley as well as the villages nestled down in the valley itself.  In the summer, expect to see luminous green rice paddies.  

Duration:  3 to 4 hours at a reasonable pace, assuming you take a jeep back to Sapa; add another two hours minimum if you don’t.  

Fitness Level:  Moderate.  

Trail Conditions:  Construction crews are currently improving the road out of Sapa, so expect to encounter torn-up portions of pavement with axle-deep mud and piles of blasted rock.  The trail down into the valley can be steep and slick in spots, so be sure to buy a bamboo walking stick from one of the local Hmong kids for 2,000 dong (US$0.15).  Don’t wear your best shoes and pants, as the trail’s rust-orange mud can permanently stain your clothes.  

Trail Rules:  Behave as if you’re walking through somebody’s front yard, because often you will be.  And remember that while this hike is a photographer’s dream, you should ask first before taking pictures of anyone you meet.  

Reality Check:  In just a few years this hike has become highly popular, so expect to share the trail with your fellow travelers.  

Costs:  Try to buy something from the locals, even if it’s just a lukewarm can of Coke.  They’re desperately poor and need the cash, which is one reason why foreigners must pay 10,000 dong (US$0.70) to enter the Lao Chai area.  You pay the fee at the gatehouse on the road out of Sapa.  

Guides:  Though the trail has become so well established that you could probably hike it on your own without great difficulty, you’ll get more out of the hike if you hire one of the local Hmong teenagers as a guide.  These self-assured young women can explain Hmong culture, interpret what the locals say, and tell you their own fascinating life stories — and they can do all this in startlingly good English.  Keep in mind that if you go to Sapa with an organized tour, a guided version of this hike will likely be included in the itinerary.  The Kangaroo Café in Hanoi offers inexpensively priced tours to Sapa that consistently get high marks from travelers.

2. Silver Waterfall (Thac Bac) and Tram Ton Pass

Don’t pass on this one.

Overview:  Jeep or motorcycle ride to the 300-foot (100 m) Silver Waterfall and 6,200-foot (1,900 m) Tram Ton Pass.  

Trail Route:  Drive five miles (8 km) out of Sapa to the Silver Waterfall , then continue another four miles (7 km) to Tram Ton Pass.  Retrace the same route back to Sapa.  

Hilltribes:  Black Hmong live in the area, but no villages are in the immediate vicinity of the pass or falls.  

The Scenery:  The waterfalls are impressive and the pass offers a stunning view of the road to China’s Yunnan Province.  

Duration:  2 to 3 hours, but confirm how long you have hired the jeep for before setting off, as the driver may have a schedule to keep.  

Fitness Level:  Moderate, because while the waterfalls can be seen from the road, you will probably want to scale the staircase that climbs beside it for a better — and wetter — view.  This cleverly engineered route features a bridge that crosses in front of the cascades about half way up the falls, allowing hikers to ascend down the opposite side. The view from Tram Ton Pass can be seen from the road and requires no hiking whatsoever.  

Trail Conditions:  The road can be bumpy, especially in the no-frills ex-army jeeps used by most drivers, so expect a slow ride. The trail at the waterfall consists of concrete stairs and is in excellent condition.  

Trail Rules:  Be  very  careful if you deviate from the staircase trail beside the waterfall.  

Reality Check:  The scenery is beautiful, but all of it lies in the endangered Hoang Lien National Park.  Keep in mind that the waterfall can be a washout during the drier first half of the year and that clouds often sweep over the pass and reduce visibility to near zero.  

Costs:  Foreigners are theoretically required to pay 3,000 dong (US$0.20) to climb up alongside the waterfall, but nobody seems to be bothering with collecting the fee.  Jeeps to the falls and pass can be hired for US$12, which is a real bargain considering you can split the cost among five passengers.  If you want to go it alone, Minsk motorcycles can be rented for about US$8 a day.  

Guides:  If you hire a jeep, your driver will know the route, so no guide is needed; if you drive your own motorcycle, you’ll want to pick up a map at the Sustainable Tourism Information and Service Centre on Cau May Street in Sapa, which sells maps of Sapa and the surrounding areas for 15,000 dong (US$1.00).   

3. Ta Phin – Mountain valley outside of Sapa

Overview:  Several hilltribe villages lie in Ta Phin, a misty valley nine miles (15 km) out of Sapa.  

Trail Route:  Jeep or motorcycle ride down the main road to Lao Cai, with a left turn down a side road to Ta Phin .  If you’re driving your own motorcycle, be warned that this turnoff is not marked.  You’ll know you are on the road to Ta Phin when you pass the haunted-looking ruins of a burnt-out French seminary.  Within Ta Phin valley there are any number of possible trekking routes, though most people follow the main trail leading through a Hmong village and up to the Ta Phin caves.  

Hilltribes:  Black Hmong and Red Dzao live in neighboring villages.  

The Scenery:  Luminous green rice paddy and traditional villages set in a highland valley ringed by mountain peaks.  

Duration:  Variable, as you could easily spend a whole day here.  Most people take about 2 to 4 hours total.  

Fitness Level:  Easy to moderate in spots, especially in the caves.  

Trail Conditions:  Generally good, as the main “roads” are mostly concrete sidewalks sized for motorbikes rather than cars.  

Trail Rules:  Always ask before taking photos, as the Red Dzao are particularly camera shy.  

Reality Check:  This mountain valley has an idyllic feel to it, but keep in mind that tending those rice paddies is back-breaking work barely sufficient to feed local families.  Also, while Ta Phin is a great way to get outside Sapa, it’s hardly undiscovered.  Expect to spot some of the same foreign faces you’ve been seeing in the cafes and restaurants of Sapa. Costs:  Foreigners pay 10,000 dong (US$0.70) to enter Ta Phin valley, payable at the gatehouse near the ruins of the seminary.   Xe om  motorcycle taxis can take you to Ta Phin for US$2 to 3 one-way, while jeeps can be hired for US$12 round trip.  Alternatively, you can rent your own motorcycle for about US$8 a day.   

Guides:  You’ll get more out of your visit to Ta Phin with a guide, who will speak English and be able to offer you insights into local hilltribe culture.  In some cases, they will invite you into their homes.  Often no fee is charged, though in these cases, be sure to buy something from your guide at the end of your hike, and don’t bargain too hard when you do.  The dong you spend will help feed, clothe and school local families.

3. Coc Ly Market – Want to buy a water buffalo?

Overview:  The market at Coc Ly literally lies at the end of a road that winds along the scenic Green River.  Because of its remote location, both the merchants and the customers are almost all from various hilltribe groups.  In fact, ethnic Vietnamese look almost as out of place here as foreigners do.  Aside from the expected water buffaloes, other goods for sale include a wide array of food, clothing and practical items like tools and corrugated metal roofing.  The market is in full swing only once a week, usually on a Tuesday.  

Trail Route:  About 100 miles (160 km) from Lao Cai, or a three-hour road journey.  

Hilltribes:  Black Hmong, Flower Hmong and Tay all frequent this market.  

The Scenery:  The market sits above the Green River, which you can cross on a narrow suspension bridge straight out of an  Indiana Jones  film.  You can also hire a boat for a run down the river through limestone gorges and isolated villages.  

Duration:  If you opt for the boat trip, this is really an all-day affair.  Expect to spend a good chunk of that time driving to and from Coc Ly.  

Fitness Level:  Easy.  

Trail Conditions:  The market can be jam-packed on busy days, so expect a crowd.  There’s not much to keep you from falling off the middle of the suspension bridge, so those who are afraid of heights will want to give it a miss.  

Trail Rules:  Though it’s rapidly being “discovered,” Coc Ly is still largely off the tourist trail.  Try to leave a small footprint.  

Reality Check:  Though they are cheerful and colorfully dressed, the locals lead extremely difficult lives marred by poverty.  

Guides:  Ms. Loan, owner of the popular Cat Cat Hotel, can organize a guided minibus trip to Coc Ly.  For a bit more cash, she can send you off in your own jeep.  If you don’t mind getting lost or breaking down in the middle of nowhere, you can skip the tour and rent your own motorcycle for about US$8, plus gas and the inevitable fees for roadside repairs.

IV. How to Get to Sapa?

Sapa is easily accessed by train or sleeper bus departing from Hanoi.

• Going by sleeper bus takes about 4-4.5 hours, costs 230,000 – 280,000 VND ($10 more or less), you can set off any time of the day.
• The second option is by train, which takes a bit longer (6-7 hours) not including an hour to get on a minibus to move from Lao Cai train station to Sapa town but you can sleep pretty well at night with a flat bed and a thin blanket. The price is different depending on the kind of cabin you book, but slightly higher than a bus ticket in general.

V. What to Pack for Sapa Trek?

• A good preparation is the beginning of a nice trip, Sapa hit the nail on the head. There is a list of specific things to pack for trekking in Sapa due to the unpredictable weather and unstable trekking paths. It will be a long route, so just bring along the most essential items to reduce unnecessary weight.
• Rain jacket: It is hard to tell if the weather is nice all the time during your trek. An easily-folded light rain jacket is a must, you can find one in any market, in Hanoi or Sapa.
• Backpack cover or waterproof backpack: In case of rain, those will be extremely useful to protect the valuable equipment inside like your camera or smartphone.
• Comfortable hiking shoes: The trail is super muddy, rough and narrow in some parts, therefore a durable comfortable pair of shoes can protect your feet well against sliding and falling. Water- resistant ones are even better, since you might cross small streams as well.
• Water bottles: No need to say, you don’t want to be thirsty and exhausted during your trek, do you? Bring double the amount of water you assume needed.
• Trekking a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen: In a high altitude area, the ultraviolet index is immensely high and does more harm than good. Wear them even when it is not too sunny.
• Insect repellent: In such a place covered by jungles, you will be provided a mosquito net at night, but in day time, apply some insect repellent to get rid of itchy rashes when you come back.
• First aid kit
• Clothes depending on seasons: appropriate clothes are well- needed for a convenient smooth trip.

VI. Should You Choose Homestays or Hotels During The Day Treks?

Sapa downtown boasts all modes of accommodation, from 5-star luxurious hotels, hostels, guesthouses to homestays . It is really dependent on your budget and services you are inclined to get. If you want something cozy but still enough facility-well-equipped, it is suggested to choose Ta Phin Cottage for your stay during the day treks.

During holiday, the price of rooms usually doubles, but there are undoubtedly a larger range of choices for drinks and food. On the other hand, homestays tend to be more popular as this model has been developed for the past 20 years and it reaches even the most remote area.

If you want something more local, in an ethnic groups’ village, there is no hard effort to find a homestay near the trekking route and beautiful spots with nice hosts, lavish meals, at around $6, though roommates and dishes have been decided beforehand.

VII. Tips on Trekking in Sapa

• Sapa has been a touristy destination for not only Vietnamese people, but a huge number of foreign hikers and visitors, so don’t need to worry about the language barrier. People there can speak English pretty well and even be your trekking guide.
• In Sapa town, you can get everything, from coffee to waterproof backpacks at a reasonable price compared to Hanoi, which means if you haven’t spent enough time shopping for important gears in advance, you can absolutely do it when reaching Sapa.
• Local goods such as jewelry, scarves, clothes or rice wine are all home-made and sold by people from ethnic minority people.
• Be well-prepared before your journey, especially of weather
• Tipping is not required in Vietnam. But it would still be welcome to tip your guide or homestay hosts.

These are all suggested notes for a successful, safe and enjoyable trekking time in Sapa. Be prepared and you will see how amazing and special it can be. Share with us your experience by commenting below, will you?

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3 days in sapa itinerary: the ultimate guide (2024).

Find out the ideal 3 days in Sapa itinerary for an epic time in Northern Vietnam. Let’s get into the best things to do here, restaurants you have to try, where to stay including homestays, and more for your Sapa adventure!

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

Think of bright green rice paddies, mountainous landscapes, and witnessing life in rural Vietnam. This place is absolutely gorgeous and honestly quite different from other popular towns and cities you may visit, but how do you make the most out of your stay?

Luckily enough I have traveled Vietnam from North to South discovering the best places worth checking out, including right here in Sapa. And from this experience, I will let you know my top tips for visiting and what is actually worth your time!

So let’s get into the details of this 3 day Sapa itinerary. From where to stay, where to eat, and what to do. Whether you want to check out some incredible waterfalls, and stunning views, make friends with the local animals, or even hike Fansipan Mountain known as the roof of Indochina.

Sapa Itinerary: The Ultimate 3 Days In Sapa Vietnam

TAKE YOUR TRIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL …

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

Need A Quick Answer?

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

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

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

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

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

How Many Days In Sapa Should You Stay?

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

Three days are considered perfect as this should give you enough time to get out into nature, take in the beautiful scenery, sample the delicious cuisine, and shop for souvenirs.

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

Honestly, if you want to do some Sapa trekking and maybe a homestay, 2 days in Sapa would not be enough for this and to take in the town as well. Therefore three days at a minimum is recommended.

How To Plan A Sapa Itinerary

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

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

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

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

Day 1 Of My 3 Days In Sapa Itinerary

Get ready for your first day of the Sapa itinerary! Today we will concentrate on exploring the beautiful nature around the town and what makes it so special.

Morning: Mount Fansipan

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

After a delicious meal, it is time to start your backpacking Sapa adventure.

What You Need To Know About Mount Fansipan

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

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

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

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

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

Reaching Mount Fansipan Peak

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

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

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

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

Afternoon- Waterfalls

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

Love Waterfall should be your first stop. This is a short 15 to 20-minute hike away from the main road. It is a peaceful walk underneath a beautiful forest.

The entry fee is $2.90 / 70,000VND and it is worth it.

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

Evening – Sapa Night Market

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

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

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

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

This is the perfect place to partake in a little bit of souvenir shopping or perhaps go for a second dinner. Buying here is a great way to support the economy and the minority tribes here in Sapa.

Day 2 Of 3 Days In Sapa Itinerary

For the 2nd day of 3 days in Sapa, we will head further out into the countryside and stay at a homestay.

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

Morning & Afternoon- Trek Towards Ta Van

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

Here you can find loads of Homestays where you can experience local life and appreciate countryside living. Trekking the incredible landscapes of Sapa is a must while you are here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Evening- Home Stay In Ta Van

You will want to book your homestay in Ta Van in advance. You will find plenty of places available and I recommend checking out Booking.com. to see what’s out there.

This is the exact way I found my homestay and it was all super straightforward. To narrow down your search options you can filter by homestays or simply look at the map view for a stay a bit further out of the main township.

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

Make sure you contact your host in advance if you require a trekking guide. They will be able to recommend one or may even do it themselves.

I also recommend asking if they do a family-style dinner and partake in that. They generally cost a few dollars and you will get to experience a local-style dinner and share stories over a meal. Seriously some of the best food I had in Vietnam was during my homestay.

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

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

Day 3 Of 3 Days In Sapa Itinerary

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

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

Morning- Explore Ta Van / Head Back To Sapa

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

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

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

Afternoon- Cat Cat Village

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

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

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

This place is home to the ethnic H’Mong and Dzao people and here they demonstrate their handicrafts and skills to those interested, which includes cultivating rice and corn, as well as weaving fabric.

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

Be aware that you just spent the evening at a very authentic homestay experience and have spent the past 24 hours appreciating the beauty of the countryside. You may find Cat Cat Village a bit touristy compared to what you have already seen. Though I am just letting you know this so you can set your expectations accordingly.

Evening – Massage

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

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

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

Add To Your Sapa Itinerary?

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

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

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

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

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

Map Of The Sapa Itinerary

Ultimate Travel Tips For 3 Days In Sapa Itinerary

So we can tick off organizing the Sapa itinerary, now let’s check out the top travel tips for your 3 days here.

I mean, of course, we want you to have an amazing time, where you can enjoy great weather, stay in the best accommodation, and scams to watch out for.

When Is The Best Time To Travel Sapa

Depending on the time of year you decide to book your Sapa adventures can really affect what you can do there, and how much you will enjoy your time overall.

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

Nevertheless, we made the most out of a bad situation.

December To February

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

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

March To April

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

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

May To August

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

September To November

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

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

How To Get To Sapa

The gateway to Sapa is Hanoi so no doubt this will be your starting point. From here you will find a heap of transport options and I will give you a brief overview of each.

If you are interested in going more in-depth you can check out my Hanoi to Sapa travel guide .

I recommend booking your tickets over on Baolau or 12.Go Asia . These are platforms I have personally used in Southeast Asia and Vietnam. I prefer Baolau for trains and 12.Go Asia for buses.

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

Bus: Taking the bus is great if you are on a budget. You will find plenty of sleeper buses from Hanoi to Sapa. This total journey takes around 6 hours which honestly isn’t too painful. I find anything over 8 hours really makes you question your life choices. Plus it is a direct journey so there is no need to stop in Lao Cai like the train.

Taxi: If you can afford to splurge a bit then you have the option of a private taxi. This is for sure the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Hanoi to Sapa.

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

Where To Stay While Backpacking Sapa?

When deciding on your accommodation in Sapa you will have plenty of choices. Most people, including myself, decide to split their time between a hotel in the township and a homestay out in nature.

Sapa town offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels to luxurious new hotels. Bamboo Sapa Hotel is a fantastic choice, featuring an incredible pool and stunning valley vistas.

In terms of more budget options, I had a wonderful stay at Lustig Hostel . Here you can enjoy mountain chalet vibes at an affordable rate of just $4.00 per night.

I recommend also experiencing a homestay in Sapa, where you can live with a local family, enjoy their cuisine, and immerse yourself in the stunning countryside.

Homestays are generally more affordable than hotels in the town center, though they are simpler in amenities.

For hostels with dorms, Little Ta Van Homestay is a great option. The family is welcoming, and they have a couple of sweet cats and dogs for those in need of animal companionship. During our stay, we enjoyed cozy evenings by the fire, enjoying warm sugarcane with limited electricity, all of which added to the charm.

For a homestay with a touch of luxury, Sapa Riverside Eco Lodge and Spa offers private single rooms starting at $25.00 per night. This is an excellent choice for those who want the amenities and comforts of a hotel, surrounded by the natural beauty of the countryside.

How To Keep Safe Backpacking Sapa

Sapa is a pretty safe place for backpacking, though you will find many of the standard Vietnam scams . These are often to do with robbery and pickpocketing.

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

In Vietnam, motorbike snatch-and-grab theft is quite common. Thieves may spot an unsecured handbag, backpack, camera, or phone hanging off you and snatch it while riding by on their motorbikes.

Avoid drinking tap water. Most hotels and hostels offer water refill stations, and minimarts sell cheap bottled water.

The key is to use your common sense to stay out of dangerous situations. I wasn’t scammed or taken advantage of in Vietnam, thanks to thorough research and awareness of common tourist scams.

Where To Go After The Sapa Itinerary?

North: There isn’t too much further North, but if you own a motorbike then you can explore more in-depth. However, if you are looking to tour the Ha Giang Loop with a group and have an easy rider these typically depart from Hanoi.

South: Alternatively, you will have plenty of options heading South to Hanoi and further beyond. If this sounds like you definitely look into train hopping down to Ho Chi Minh. There are some great places to explore along the way including the Imperial City of Hue , discovering the Hoi An old town , snorkeling In Nha Trang , spending sunrise at the sand dunes in Mui Ne , and exploring the tunnels outside of Ho Chi Minh .

FAQs About Sapa Itinerary 3 Days

Is sapa too touristy.

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

How many days in Sapa is enough?

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

What is the best month to visit Sapa Vietnam?

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

Vietnam Sapa Itinerary: Wrap Up

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

From trekking through picturesque rice terraces to visiting local villages and markets, this Sapa itinerary won’t disappoint.

Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

Want more Vietnam Inspiration? Check out….

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

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

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

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10 Comments

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

2 thoughts on “ 3 Days In Sapa Itinerary: The ULTIMATE Guide (2024) ”

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

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

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

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: March 16, 2020

Updated: October 20, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Is Sapa, Vietnam?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How To Get To Sapa, Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time For Trekking In Sapa, Vietnam

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

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

Winter: December, January and February (Not Recommended)

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

Spring: March, April and May

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

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

Summer: June, July and August

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

Fall: September, October and November (Recommended)

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

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

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

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

Self Guided Or Local Guided Sapa Trekking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Book A Sapa Trekking Tour (Local Guide)

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

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

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

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

Here are top rated Sapa Valley trekking tours :

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

How To Book A Guided Sapa Trekking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

Finding The Perfect Tour Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What To Expect On A Sapa Trekking Tour With Hmong Guide

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

Sapa Hiking Day 1 Morning

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

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

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

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

Lunch Break In Sapa Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overnight Homestay Accommodation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Water Aka Rice Wine

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

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

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

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

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

Sapa Hiking Day 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heart Of Sapa Hotel (Budget)

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

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

>> Book the Heart of Sapa Hotel here <<

Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa (Mid-Range)

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

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

>> Book Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa here <<

Hotel De La Coupole (Luxury)

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

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

>> Book Hotel De La Coupole here <<

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

Tips For Trekking In Sapa, Vietnam

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

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

Sapa Trekking FAQ’s

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

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

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

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

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Want more Vietnam content?  Head over to our  Vietnam Travel Guides  to see example itineraries, tips about Vietnam and popular city guides.

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

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

Happy Hiking ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy This Sapa Trekking Guide? Pin It For Later!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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

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

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

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Ethical and Eco Sapa Trekking Experiences - Locally Owned & Supported by H’mong People.

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Our professional staff speak English, Hmong, and Vietnamese. They have deep first-hand knowledge of the history and culture of Sapa

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Trekking Tour Sapa  is comprised of a local team of expert guides representative of the ethnic minority group of the Black H’mong tribe based in the beautiful northern mountainous highlands of Sapa, Vietnam.

 We are so proud to share our trekking in Sapa vibrant culture, unique ecology, and stunning landscapes so that we may preserve it for generations to come.

Sa Pa is a quiet mountain town and home to a great diversity of ethnic minority peoples . The total population of 36,000 consists mostly of minority groups. 

Besides the Kinh (Viet) people (15 percent) there are mainly five ethnic groups in Sa Pa: Hmong 52 percent, Dao 25 percent, Tay five percent, Giay two percent, and a small number of Xa Pho. 

Approximately 7,000 live in Sa Pa, the other 36,000 being scattered in small communes throughout the district. wikipedia

Sa Pa has cool weather . It not too hot and not too cold. Sapa is in northern Vietnam. 

It can have 4 seasons in one day! Sapa has stunning mountain views of “Fansipan 3.143m (the highest peak in the Indochina peninsula), Hoang Lien and Dragon” and traditional villages such as Lao Chai, Ta Van, Ta Phin, and Cat Cat.

The best time to visit Sapa and do trekking Sapa is in August and September when the green and yellow terraced rice fields are in full splendor, and many families are harvesting.

Trekking Sapa is the best way to see the countryside of this town. During a trek, you will navigate the hills and mountains to see the beautiful landscape of rice paddies and the traditional villages in Sapa. 

Sapa Trekking Vietnam, you will descend to villages to discover the daily life, customs, cultures, and traditions. Book a tour with us! Our professional guides will take you on a trek of a lifetime.

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Faq for trekking sapa..

Well, it depends on what type of treks you are looking for, how many days you want to do a tour; and how many people do you have?

I will explain here:

We offer different trekking tours in Sapa for the different levels, which dissimilar prices, there is a challenge, moderate and easy. It also depends you would like to join a private tour or a group tour; I think any company does a bit the same price:

If you are excellent trekking Sapa trips, there are some tour recommend for you:

• Mountain views and villages trek – 1 Day: It costs about 25US$ to 27US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 30US$ to 45US$ for a private tour.
• Mountain views & Muong Hoa valley trek – 2D 1N  (strongly recommend): It costs about 55US$ to 60US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 65US$ to 75US$ for a private tour.
• Trekking Experience with A Local Expert – 2D1N  (strongly recommend): It costs about 55US$ to 65US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 70US$ to 90US$ for a private tour.
• Sapa Valley Trek and Homestay – 3D2N: It costs about 100US$ to 120US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 130US$ to 150US$ for a private tour.
• Muong Hoa Valley Trek & Homestay Experience – 4D3N: It costs about 150US$ to 160US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 160US$ to 200US$ for a private tour.

If you are moderate and natural level, here are these tours we would love to recommend:

• Trekking Through Rice Terraced Fields – 1 Day : It costs about 25US$ to 27US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 30US$ to 45US$ for a private tour.
• Sapa Private Car Tour : It costs about 73US$ to 80US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 80US$ to 95US$ for a private tour.
• Rice Terraced Fields & Homestay Experience– 2D 1N : It costs about 55US$ to 60US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 65US$ to 75US$ for a private tour.
• Sapa Easy Trekking Tour 1Day- Rice Paddies and Cultures : It costs about 25US$ to 27US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 30US$ to 45US$ for a private tour.

If you are a motorbike rider, there are two tours as follows:

• Sapa Motorbike Tour 1 Day| See All Of Rice Fields & Valleys in One Day: It costs about 73US$ to 75US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 80US$ to 95US$ for a private tour.Sapa Motorbike Tour 1 Day| See All Of Rice 
• Motorbike Tour 2 Days|Get To See 80% of Sapa Town: It costs about 165US$ to 170US$ for a group tour 4 – 6 pax; and 175US$ to 190US$ for a private tour.

If you like to do something a little challenge, please join us here – Hmong Trip Culture and Adventure. We also offer Fansipan tours in Sapa for one day and two days; they do more multiple days tours in Sapa like four days, five days, and more.

This is the question everyone asks before they come to Sapa, so my answer is it depends on your level.

Let me explain:

In summer (June to August) : I would say everyone can do trekking in Sapa, you can choose a tour as your level because this time it’s sunny, the temperature at about 25 – 30 Degree C, therefore the trail is dry, that makes you step strong. This is a good time to visit Sapa.

In Winter (December to February) : It did not rain much but someday it’s misty, so it will make the rout slippery and muddy, so this time is difficult to trek in Sapa, but if you book a tour with us, we will make sure to take you to the easy trail and safe.

In Autumn (September to November): It offers a dry terrain in Sapa; you can easily see the green nature of the rice fields. This season is also a good time for you trekking in Sapa.

In Spring (March to June): This period is one of the best times to trek in Sapa, it comes with cool weather, sunny days, a period that precedes the blossoming nature of flowers and plants, so you will easily to walking through rice fields.

We brought a lot of people came to all Sapa Trekking destination; they are trekker, some routs it still a hard for them, but it is straightforward for some people as well. So if you afraid trekking, there are only some things (keys) you should have during trekking in Sapa as the next answer.

As I suggest above, you know what type of tours you want to take and which season is going to be, so this is the key to do Sapa Trekking, it depends what season you come to Sapa, you should wear

Comfortable clothes – in summer (strongly recommend) Waterproof jacket – in winter (strongly recommend) A Jacket – in Winter (strongly recommend) Trekking shoes or boots (strongly recommend) Waterproof jacket (strongly recommend)

Other things to bring:

• Comfortable clothes
• Mosquito repellent

Here are somethings you have to bear while doing the Sapa Trekking:

• Trekking shoes or boots
• Waterproof jacket
• Poles ( If you have)
• Waterproof for your small bags
• A Jacket – It might be cold in the evening (temperature about 10 – 15)

a. March to June is spring season in Sapa Vietnam, this period is one of the best times to do Sapa trekking, it comes with cool weather, sunny days, a period that precedes the blossoming nature of flowers and plants. This period also gives you an opportunity to learn how they plant their beautiful rice that cumulates into  the best rice fields that everyone loves to see.

b. July to August is the summer season  that is a rainy season. You can trek comfortably trek in this season, just that you have to come with your raincoat, and boot. Because it will definitely rain, and the ground might likely be muddy. There is the possibility of experiencing four seasons within a day. There are few visitors during this period.

c. September to November is Autumn.  It offers a dry terrain in Sapa; you can easily see the green nature of  the rice fields.  This season is dry compared to the summer season.

d. December to February  is winter months; this is a magical period in  Sapa, Vietnam . You can easily see frost all over.

=> Whichever case,  the best time to trek in Sapa is all-around seasons, it all depends on the time and season you like to embark on your  Sapa trekking . Also, ensure you pack the right things for the right reason and for the perfect season.

Combining both culture and natural beauty into one enticing package, Sapa is definitely worth visiting if you have the chance. While its remote location does make it a bit of a pain to get to, it’s also what has preserved the scenic beauty, paddy fields and rich cultural heritage for so long !

Two days in Sapa should be the bare minimum, but  most people agree that  3 days and 2 nights  is perfect for a trip to Sapa

The trains are way more comfortable! They depart from Tran Quy Cap (Hanoi Station B), and the whole journey takes around eight hours. The end station is also not at Sapa, but rather at Lao Cai, a town 24 miles (38 kilometers) away

Sapa is an incredibly picturesque town that lies in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range near the Chinese border in northwestern Vietnam, known as “the Tonkinese Alps”. Sapa and its surrounding region is host to many hill tribes, as well as rice terraces, lush vegetation, and Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam (rice paddy fields)

You should plan to spend around d714,560 ($31) per day on your vacation in Sapa, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, d324,933 ($14) on meals for one day and d188,517 ($8.25) on local transportation.

Sapa has no airport, so travel by plane is not possible. Another popular option is to travel by tourist bus (seats or sleeper berths).

The travel distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Sapa in Lao Cai province is about 2050 km by land (by train, bus). The best and fastest way is to take a direct flight from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi and in Hanoi, you can travel by bus to Sapa or train to Lao Cai. Travel by plane+bus (with a stop in Hanoi) takes about 10 hours.

The best way to get from Hanoi Airport to Sapa is to bus which takes 5h and costs $11 – $18. Alternatively, you can train, which costs $18 – $35 and takes 8h 44m. Where does the Hanoi Airport to Sapa bus arrive? Hanoi Airport to Sapa bus services, operated by Interbus Line, arrive at Sapa station.

From Hanoi, you could book a bus or train to Sapa: + Bus : if you need cheaper and faster transport also comfortable, a bus is for you. It’s cost about 250.000vnd – 300.000vnd/ per way/per person. You could check with Green Bus company. From Hanoi to Sapa.

+ Train : If you need more comfortable transport, the train is for you, it’s cost about US$30/per way. But for the train, you have 2 stops. Train from Hanoi to Lao Cai train station and then take a shared bus from Lao Cai train station to Sapa (it’s cost about US$3/per way). Total about US$33/per way/per person. You could check with King Express company.

You can choose from Hanoi to Sapa or From Sapa back Hanoi.

Please contact us by this email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

WhatsApp:  +84886766031

Trekking Tour Sapa CO., LTD

• +84838040010
• WhatsApp: +84886766031
• [email protected]
• 09 Thac Bac Str, Sapa
• Support Time: 6:30am – 22:30pm GMT+7, Monday – Sunday, Lao Cai
• Business License No: 5300817754
• Operator License No: 10-078/2023/CDLQGVN-GP LHQT

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Bus From Hanoi to Sapa

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

Bus From Sapa back to Hanoi

• Total: $ 0

Booking Chapa Express Train

Way hanoi to sapa.

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

Way Sapa back to Hanoi

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

Limousine/Minivan From Hanoi to Sapa

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

Limousine/Minivan From Sapa back to Hanoi

From Hanoi: Sapa 3 Days 2 Nights With Trekking Village/Guide

Exploring the enchanting landscapes of Vietnam’s northern highlands , this immersive 3-day, 2-night trekking adventure from Hanoi to Sapa promises to captivate the senses. Guided by local experts, travelers will explore the rich cultural heritage of the Hmong people , discover picturesque villages , and embark on scenic treks through breathtaking terrain. From hands-on cooking classes to comfortable accommodations, the tour’s meticulously curated itinerary ensures an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or seeking a culturally immersive journey, this Sapa expedition offers a tantalizing glimpse into the region’s natural splendor and traditional ways of life.

• A 3-day, 2-night trekking tour in Sapa, Vietnam with visits to Hmong villages, including Cat Cat and a homestay experience.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation from Hanoi, accommodations, most meals, and an English-speaking guide.
• Key activities include a 9 km trek through scenic villages, a cooking class with local hosts, and exploration of Sapa’s natural and cultural attractions.
• The tour is priced from K2,720 per person and is limited to 12 participants with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is designed for able-bodied trekkers and is not recommended for those over 95 years of age or with accessibility needs.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Sa Pa: Guided Motorbike Tour to Ethnic Villages With Lunch
• Ngu Chi Son Mountain Hiking
• Mu Cang Chai, Sapa, Bac Ha Rice Terraces 5 Days 4 Nights
• Sapa One Day Motorbike Tour

Tour Overview

This 3-day, 2-night trekking tour in Sapa, located in northwest Vietnam, promises an immersive experience exploring the region’s stunning natural landscapes and vibrant local culture.

Priced from K2,720 per person, the tour is limited to 12 participants and offers guided excursions in English, Estonian, and Vietnamese.

Highlights include visiting the Hmong village of Cat Cat , trekking through scenic villages, and staying in a homestay.

Transportation, accommodations, most meals, and entrance fees are included.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and no upfront payment is required to reserve the tour.

Itinerary Highlights

According to the itinerary, on the first day, guests depart from Hanoi and arrive in Sapa , a mountain town situated at an altitude of 1,500 to 1,800 meters in northwest Vietnam.

They visit the Cat Cat village of the Hmong, the Cat Cat waterfall, and a hydroelectric power plant. In the evening, guests enjoy dinner and free time in Sapa.

On the second day, travelers trek 9 km to the villages of Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, and Ta Van.

They participate in a cooking class with locals and spend the night in a homestay in Ta Van village .

The third day involves a 6 km trek to Giang Ta Chai and Su Pan village before returning to Sapa and then back to Hanoi.

Included Services

The tour package includes round-trip transportation by sleeping bus with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, travel blankets, and pillows.

Accommodation is provided for 1 night at a bungalow homestay in Ta Van village and 1 night at a 3-star hotel in Sapa.

Meals include 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, and 3 lunches as per the itinerary.

An English-speaking guide is included to accompany the group throughout the tour.

Entrance fees to the visited sites are also covered in the package price.

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve the tour without any upfront payment.

Cancellation and Payment Policies

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund . This policy provides flexibility for travelers, allowing them to adjust their plans if needed without financial penalty.

Plus, the tour can be reserved now and paid for later, eliminating the need for an upfront payment. This "reserve now, pay later" approach makes it easier for travelers to secure their spot on the tour.

What to Bring

Packing the right gear is essential for a comfortable and successful Sapa trekking experience. The tour recommends bringing the following items:

Comfortable, well-broken-in hiking shoes or boots to navigate the uneven terrain.

Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the strong mountain sun.

A lightweight, packable rain jacket or poncho in case of unexpected showers .

In addition, it’s a good idea to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery , as well as any necessary personal items and medications.

Adherence to the tour’s recommendations will ensure a safe and enjoyable journey through the picturesque Sapa region.

Not Allowed

Alcohol and drugs are strictly not allowed on this Sapa trekking tour. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.

The trek involves navigating narrow mountain trails and traversing uneven terrain, which requires full focus and coordination. Consuming alcohol or drugs could impair judgment, increase the risk of accidents, and jeopardize the overall experience for the group.

The tour operator takes this rule seriously and reserves the right to refuse participation or terminate the tour for anyone found in violation. Maintaining a sober and alert mindset is essential for a successful and enjoyable Sapa trekking adventure.

Not Suitable For

Designed for able-bodied trekkers , this Sapa tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over the age of 95.

The itinerary involves several kilometers of hiking over uneven terrain , including steep inclines and descents. This level of physical activity could be challenging for those with mobility limitations or advanced age.

Plus, the accommodations in remote villages may lack the necessary accessibility features for wheelchair users.

Finally, the high altitude of the region, reaching up to 1,800 meters, may pose health risks for older travelers.

While the stunning landscapes and culture are worth experiencing, this tour requires a certain level of physical fitness.

Tour Details

This Sapa 3-day, 2-night trekking tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

The tour begins with a visit to the picturesque Cat Cat village , where travelers can witness the unique architecture and traditions of the Hmong people .

Day two features a 9-kilometer trek through the stunning landscapes of Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, and Ta Van, culminating in a hands-on cooking class with local hosts.

The final day takes visitors to Giang Ta Chai and Su Pan, before returning to Sapa and then Hanoi.

Throughout the journey, travelers will enjoy comfortable accommodations , delicious meals, and the expertise of an English-speaking guide.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• From Hanoi: Explore Sapa 2-Day Tour
• From Sapa: Waterfalls, Trekking and Tribal Villages Tour
• Muong Hoa Valley: Rice Fields, Villages, Mountain Views
• From Sapa: Terrace Fields and Local Villages Trek With Lunch
• From Hanoi: 3-Day Trip to Ninh Binh With Ha Long Bay Cruise
• From Hanoi: Sapa 2 Days 1 Night Trekking With Local People

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour is not suitable for individuals over 95 years old. However, the minimum age requirement is not explicitly stated in the provided information.

Can I Bring Pets on the Tour?

The tour doesn’t allow pets, as the itinerary involves hiking and staying in homestays. Bringing pets would not be suitable for the activities and accommodations. The tour is focused on the experience of trekking through the local villages.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

This tour does not offer a private option. The group size is limited to 12 participants, and the tour is conducted in a group setting with an English-speaking guide. Private tours may be available upon request, but they would incur additional costs.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal?

Yes, travelers can request vegetarian or halal meals on this tour. The tour operator is accommodating of dietary restrictions and can cater to specific meal preferences with advance notice.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available?

The tour operator occasionally offers discounts or promotions, such as early bird specials or group discounts. Customers should check the website or inquire directly to see if any offers are currently available.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Group Tour: Sapa 2 Days 1 Night From Hanoi
• From Ha Noi: SAPA – FANSIPAN – CAT CAT VILLAGE 2 Day 1 Night
• Sa Pa: The Roof of Indochina-Trek to Fansipan Peak Full Day
• Sapa 2 Days 1 Night Cat Cat Village and Fansipan Peak
• Sapa 2 Day 1 Night Get off the Beaten Path
• 2 Days 2 Nights in Sapa – Moana – Fansipan – Cat Cat Village
• From Sapa: 3-Day Trekking Tour With Homestay and Meals
• FROM SAPA: SAPA 3D2N (TA VAN FAMILY HOMESTAY & HOTEL)
• Hanoi: Sapa 3 Days 2 Nights – Trekking Village – Transfer
• Sapa Package Tour 2-Day With Fansipan Peak & Meal From Hanoi
• SAPA TOUR 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS PACKAGE – DEPART IN THE EVENING
• From Hanoi: 2-Day 2-Night Sapa Tour by Overnight Train
• From Hanoi: Admire The Terraced Field In The Local Village
• From Hanoi: 3-Days 2 Nights Sapa Tours
• From Hanoi: Trekking To Admire Terraced Fields For 2 Days

This 3-day Sapa trekking tour from Hanoi offers an immersive cultural experience amidst Vietnam’s stunning highlands. Visitors will explore picturesque villages, hike scenic trails, and learn traditional cooking from local Hmong people. With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and an English-speaking guide, this tour promises an unforgettable and enriching adventure in one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking regions.

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Sapa trekking without a guide: yes, it’s possible and here’s how to do it

Posted on Last updated: 11 September 2024

For those who would like to experience Sapa trekking without a guide, here we tell you how to do it and provide a map for you to follow.

Trekking is one of the best ways to experience the countryside around Sapa . You will see signs for trekking companies everywhere and locals will approach you in the main town to ask if you need a guide.

We did initially look into getting a trekking guide, but once we discovered this would cost USD40 per person, we decided to go it alone (we’re a family of four and USD160 is an extortionately expensive walk).

We love hiking as a family (we actually run another blog all about hiking for families in the UK’s Peak District), we’re confident in map reading, and in all honesty, we always prefer to experience things independently.

It was the Dad at the homestay we were staying at, Stone Paradise Homestay , who explained to us that you really don’t need a guide for trekking in Sapa and that footpaths are shown on Google Maps. He pointed out a rough route on our phone for us and the next morning we set out!

A Sapa trekking route for you to follow

We’ve mapped out the route for you on Google Maps (see the map below) so you can follow. The route is 11km in total and leads you from Sin Chai to Ta Van via Cat Cat and Lao Chai.

It starts at Stone Paradise Homestay , which was our accommodation in Sapa. It’s is easy enough to get a Grab to if you’re not staying there. In fact, you may want to start this Sapa trek a little further up the road from the homestay to enjoy more of the stunning views.

The trek is split into two parts as we split it across two days. Part 1 is 5km and Part 2 is 6km. If you’re short on time in Sapa and have just one day to do a trek, then it’s very possible to do Part 1 and Part 2 in one go.

There’s a steep incline up to the middle point on the map, but aside from that, this Sapa trekking route is mostly flat or downhill leading you through hill villages and alongside rice paddies.

It’s an absolutely beautiful walk and really shows off the best of Sapa’s countryside. The route leads you from the top of Sin Chai village, through Cat Cat Village (where you may want to detour to the waterfall), and onwards to Lao Chai. The footpath out of Cat Cat Village is the most beautiful section of this walk, although be ready for the steep incline up towards Cha Pa Ecolodge .

It’s then downhill from here to Cầu Treo Lao Chải San II , an impressive bridge spanning the river. You don’t cross over the bridge here, instead you follow the footpath to the left of the river. Here the gradient levels out before you cross a different bridge and head down into heart of Lao Chai Village .

There are a handful of eating and drinking options as you walk through Lao Chai’s main village. But the end of this independent Sapa trek is not far now. There’s a little detour from the road (check the GPS on your phone so you get the right location for the turning) that leads you through rice paddies and alongside the river, to eventually emerge at Le Gecko restaurant and bar in the village of Ta Van.

The route we’ve mapped out and detailed for you is not signposted, but as long as you have your phone handy, you can follow along on our map. The GPS on your phone will show your location. It’s very easy to follow.

However, on the very slim chance that you get lost or unsure of your way, there will always be a local around to ask. Don’t show them your phone as they may not be able to map read. Instead, mention the next village that you are heading to, and they will point you in the right direction.

There’s a footpath towards the very end the goes over a stream. This is probably the only section that readers may feel unsure. But trust the map on your phone. Below is a photo of the crossing I’m talking about.

How to get to the start of the trek and get back to Sapa at the end

Grab is absolutely fantastic around Sapa and taxis will come and collect you along narrow winding lanes that feel like they’re in the middle of nowhere. You will have no problems getting a Grab to or from the start, middle, and end points on the map.

Just make sure you have a local sim or Vietnam e-sim on your phone, loaded with data. You will be able to get an internet reception, no problem.

Things to note when trekking Sapa independently

This is an absolutely stunning walk and easily the highlight of our time in Sapa, but it’s important to be prepared when trekking independently in Sapa. Here are some pointers from our experience.

1. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing

The terrain can be steep and, depending on the season, very muddy. Wear comfortable shoes with good tread. Also, dress in layers. In the winter months the temperature can get very cold (snow is not uncommon in December) but you may get hot walking. Always have an extra layer to put on when you stop.

2. Beware of motorbikes

Trekking is very much a tourist activity. The vast majority of locals get around on motorbikes. Therefore, don’t be surprised if motorbikes whizz past you on your peaceful hike. The only section they felt like a nuisance is the section of the walk into Cat Cat, after this they were infrequent.

3. Have enough cash handy for Cat Cat Village

The walk takes you through Cat Cat Village, a very pretty hilltribe village that has now become quite the tourist village. Souvenir stalls line every footpath and there’s an entry fee of VND150,000 per person over 1.3m to walk through the village. People under 1.3m pay VND70,000. Our 10 year-old is almost the same height as most Sapa locals and we had to pay full price for him.

4. Falling into stride with local ladies

Along the walk, you’re very likely to come across one or two local ladies who will fall into stride with you and have a chat. Their aim is to either become your guide or to lead you to their shop in the next village. If you don’t wish for them to join you, be polite but firm with your rejection. These ladies can be rather persistent!

5. Do spend money in the villages you pass through

Independent trekking in Sapa is a free activity. It costs you nothing. Please consider buy souvenirs or stopping for drinks and snacks en route so that your tourist dollar does go back into the community.

6. Think twice about giving buying a bracelet from the kids

You will also be approached by very young, barefoot kids, who want to sell you a handmade bracelet for VND10,000. Whilst it may feel good to think you’re helping them by buying a few, you’re actually doing the opposite. You’re encouraging these children to not go to school as they think they can get better rewards from tourists. Spend your money with the parents who run the souvenir stalls.

7. Do bring enough water with you

Whilst our independent Sapa trek does lead you through villages, there are some long stretches where you don’t pass a drinks stall for a long time. In particular, I’m referring to the uphill slog at the end of the Part 1.

8. Make sure your phone is charged

This Sapa trekking route is not signposted. You will need to rely on our map displayed on your phone. Therefore, please ensure your phone is fully charged. It’s also a good idea to bring a power bank with you.

9. Take a waterproof case for you phone

Heavy rain is not uncommon in this region of Vietnam. If you are relying on your phone for directions, it’s a good idea to keep it waterproof. We travel with one of these waterproof phone cases (these are more water resistant than water proof – we don’t recommend swimming with it).

10. Don’t rush

Take your time and savour the view. This walk isn’t a challenge to tick off, it’s about exploring the countryside in Sapa. Stop to chat to locals, take little detours if you see a signpost for something of interest, put your feet up in a café to admire the view. This is why we don’t put a time limit on this way. Yes, it can be completed in 3 hours, but we suggest allowing for a full day. Or even, like us, split this walk into two days and enjoy a late lunch in Sapa’s main town after each day.

Final thoughts on Sapa trekking without a guide

Whilst a guide can lead the way and provide historical and cultural context to your walk, in all honesty, we always prefer to explore alone. This allows us the flexibility to explore under our own steam and in the case of Sapa, saved us a lot of money.

The route is very easy to follow. Just make sure you have your phone charged and the map displayed before you start your trek. And if at any point you feel unsure as to where you are or where you’re going, just ask a local, they’ll be more than happy to help.

Please do try and give a little something back to the communities en route. Even just buying a few drinks or a souvenir is something. And most importantly, take your time. This isn’t a hike to be rushed. Enjoy the stunning views and allow yourself a moment to stop at the viewpoints.

You may also like to read: Visiting Sapa with kids: the essential guide for backpacking families Visiting Fansipan, Sapa, via cable car: everything you need to know Riding a Vietnam sleeper train: what to expect and how to book