Situated at the base of the magnificent Hoang Lien Son mountain range and just a 5-6 hour drive from Hanoi via the highway, Sapa Vietnam is a perfect year-round destination. Apart from the enchanting terraced fields during the rice harvest season, Sapa also captivates visitors with the splendor of numerous other attractions. In this Sapa travel guide, we will provide you with essential information to ensure a fantastic first trip.
Where is Sapa?
Sapa town is situated in the Lao Cai province, in the northwest region of Vietnam. It is located approximately 350 km northwest of Hanoi city and is close to the border with China. Sapa is renowned for its stunning and rugged landscape, as well as its rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine. In the early 20th century, the French regarded Sapa as the Summer Capital of Northern Vietnam. Since then, Sapa’s natural beauty has continued to attract an increasing number of visitors who choose to spend their vacations there. It is especially popular as a honeymoon destination for couples.
When is the best time to visit Sapa?
Sapa enjoys a cool climate, making it a suitable destination for year-round travel. However, it’s best to avoid the stormy season from June to early August, as this period can bring about extreme weather conditions like floods, flash floods, and landslides.
From February to May, Sapa blossoms with a vibrant spring season, showcasing a variety of flowers such as cherry apricots, peaches, and plums. During the summer months of June to August, Sapa becomes a popular getaway for tourists seeking respite from the heat. It’s a great time to witness the lush green rice terraces.
Autumn graces Sapa from September to November, offering a picturesque landscape with golden hues from the ripened rice field, and the weather starts to turn cooler. Winter arrives from December to February of the following year, and if you’re fortunate, you may even have the chance to witness snow and ice atop the mountains.
How to go to Sapa?
Bus or train
To travel from Hanoi to Sapa, you have a few options available. You can book a limousine or a bus from My Dinh bus station, with prices ranging from 230,000 to 350,000 VND per person, depending on the seat class. The journey typically takes around 5-6 hours.
If you prefer to take the train, you can choose the Hanoi-Lao Cai route. The train ride lasts approximately 7-9 hours, and upon arrival in Lao Cai, you will need to take a bus or taxi to reach the center of Sapa. Train ticket prices vary from 160,000 to 800,000 VND, depending on the seat class and train type.
Motorbike
Alternatively, you can opt to drive to Sapa on your own. Take the Noi Bai-Lao Cai highway and then turn onto 4D road, which will lead you to Sapa. The road is generally easy to navigate, but it’s important to pay attention to road signs and maintain an appropriate speed. Before setting off, make sure to check your tires, brakes, lights, and other essential components, especially during cold rain, fog, or when the roads are slippery. The driving time is approximately 5-6 hours. It is advisable to depart from Hanoi no later than around 12:30 PM to ensure that you reach the mountain pass to Sapa before it gets too dark.
Book a tour from Hanoi
One of the best ways to save energy and effort when planning a trip to Sapa is by booking a tour. By doing so, you won’t have to worry about transportation, food, and accommodation, and you’ll have the opportunity to visit the most prominent travel destinations, which are tailored to be interesting. There are numerous tour providers that can help you arrange a tour from Hanoi to Sapa, but we recommend booking through Klook. Klook is a trusted platform that qualifies and rates its tour providers based on feedback from thousands of tourists, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.
Klook.comHow to move around Sapa?
Rent a Motorbike
Motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation in Sapa, favored by many tourists. This vehicle allows you the freedom to explore the captivating attractions of this misty town at your own pace and convenience.
Furthermore, motorcycles are an excellent option for adventurous young travelers who are passionate about exploring both picturesque and thrilling roads. It is advisable to travel in a group, ensuring convenience in movement and minimizing the risk of encountering difficulties on the road.
If you don’t have a motorcycle with you, you can rent one from the following locations:
| Unit Name | Phone | Address | Manual Bike Rental Price | Scooter Rental Price | Manual Clutch Rental Price |
| Hoc Ly | 0915 190 874 | No. 08 Hoang Lien, Sapa, Lao Cai | 80,000 VND – 100,000 VND | 100,000 VND – 130,000 VND | – |
| Mr Chinh | 0988 628 515 | 44 Fansipang, Sapa Town, Lao Cai | 100,000 VND/day | 130,000 VND – 170,000 VND | 200,000 VND – 300,000 VND |
| Anh Sang | 096 999 95 83 | No. 04 Muong Hoa, Sapa Town, Sapa, Lao Cai | 80,000 VND – 100,000 VND | 130,000 VND – 140,000 VND | – |
| Cheap Bike Rental | 0888 999 001 | No. 17 Thach Son, Sapa Town, Sapa, Lao Cai | 80,000 VND – 100,000 VND | 130,000 VND – 140,000 VND | – |
Hire a motorbike taxi
To make your way around Sapa, you can opt for a motorbike taxi service. This is a suitable choice for those who may feel uncertain about navigating on their own. By hiring a motorbike taxi driver, they can serve as your guide, taking you to popular tourist attractions. The rental price for a motorbike taxi typically ranges from 100,000 VND to 150,000 VND for visiting 4-5 attractions located near each other in Sapa.
If you are traveling in a group, another option is to rent a tourist car with 4 to 16 seats. The rental price for such a vehicle ranges from 400,000 VND to 500,000 VND per attraction. Alternatively, you can negotiate a full-day rental. Apart from serving as a motorbike taxi driver, these drivers can also act as guides, providing you with valuable insights about the various places to help you better understand Sapa.
Taxi
Renting a taxi in Sapa is a convenient option, especially for group or family travel. However, it’s important to note that taxi rental prices in Sapa can be relatively high, and the fare is typically calculated based on the number of destinations, rather than the duration of the rental. Therefore, it’s advisable to inquire about the price beforehand to avoid any surprises.
By renting a taxi, you can have some assurance regarding weather conditions. On the flip side, taxis may have limitations when it comes to venturing deep into the villages, and their access may be restricted to the outer areas.
Trekking
Trekking in Sapa offers a wonderful combination of walking and exercise while immersing yourself in the majestic beauty of the region. It allows you to explore Sapa without any obstacles holding you back.
However, trekking requires good physical health, so make sure to prepare the necessary items, especially good hiking shoes with arches support to ensure a smooth journey. With this activity, you won’t have to worry about parking or taking care of a vehicle. Additionally, it’s easier to navigate shorter distances and reach nearby destinations on foot.
One great option is to join a trekking day tour specifically tailored for destinations like Cat Cat, Ma Tra, Ta Phin, Cao Chai, and Ta Van.
Klook.comWhat to do for the first time in Sapa?
You can allocate approximately 3 days and 2 nights to exploring the famous attractions in Sapa.
Ham Rong Mountain
Ham Rong Mountain is a popular spot teeming with tourists, offering a mesmerizing and misty landscape. It has a range of elevations, with the lowest point at 1,450m and the highest point exceeding 1,800m. From the mountain’s summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sapa’s notable tourist destinations such as Muong Hoa Valley, Ta Van Village, and Cat Cat Village.
Ham Rong Mountain is an ideal place for a picnic, combining dining, shopping, and sightseeing, as numerous shops and beautiful flower gardens line the way up the mountain. The entrance fee for Ham Rong Mountain tourist area is 70,000 VND for adults and 30,000 VND for children.
Sapa Stone Church
Following your visit to Ham Rong Mountain, you can return to the town center, not far away, to explore Sapa Stone Church. This architectural gem holds symbolic significance for the mountainous town and was initiated in 1895. The church, designed in Gothic style, features elements like a cross-shaped structure, arched doorways, and a bell tower, all showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.
Cat Cat Village
Situated just 2 km from the center of Sapa, Cat Cat Village offers the choice of trekking or motorbiking to reach its serene Hmong community. The village proudly preserves various customs and traditional crafts, including weaving, silver carving, and jewelry making.
The journey to the village is picturesque, with winding roads flanked by terraced fields and ethnic dwellings. Upon crossing Si Bridge, you’ll arrive at the heart of Cat Cat Village, where the convergence of Tien Sa Stream, Vang Stream, and Bac Stream can be witnessed. Exploring the village allows you to gain insights into the lives of the Mong people, purchase handmade products as souvenirs, and indulge in local delicacies. The entrance fee to visit Cat Cat Village is 50,000 VND per person.
JOIN TREKKING DAY TOUR TO CAT CAT VILLAGE FROM SAPA
Lao Chai – Ta Van
To reach Ta Van, located approximately 10 km from the town, you can opt for a motorbike, taxi, or trekking. The road leading to Lao Chai – Ta Van is narrow, enveloped by the soothing green hues of rice and corn terraces. Although it is no longer entirely untouched, Lao Chai – Ta Van maintains its peaceful ambiance and is inhabited by various ethnic minorities, including the Mong, Dao, and Giay.
The captivating feature here, apart from the local ethnic life, is the sprawling terraced fields that adorn the hillsides, which we already listed in the top places to watch golden rice fields in Vietnam. Late summer is a particularly enchanting time as the rice ripens, painting the entire mountainous area in a golden hue. If you have ample time, it is recommended to spend a day here to immerse yourself in the local way of life. The entrance fee to the area is 70,000 VND per person.
JOIN TREKKING DAY TOUR TO LAO CHAI- TA VAN FROM SAPA
Fansipan Peak
For a less strenuous ascent to the highest peak of Fansipan mountain, you can take advantage of the cable car and mountain train. In the morning, head to the mountain railway station across from Sapa town square to purchase tickets. The cable car ticket costs 715,000 VND per adult and 525,000 VND per child, while the mountain train ticket is priced at 99,000 VND per person.
PREBOOK YOUR CABLE CAR & TRAIN TICKETS TO AVOID PEAK TIME
To reach the summit of Fansipan, follow the route of the mountain train and cable car, then proceed with either another train ride or a walk up 600 steps. Each leg of the train journey lasts approximately 6-7 minutes, while the cable car ride takes around 30 minutes. Walking enthusiasts can leisurely ascend the stairs and explore the spiritual complex on Fansipan, which features attractions like Kim Son Bao Thang Pagoda, an 11-storey tower, and the largest bronze statue of Amitabha Buddha in Vietnam.
At the cable car and mountain train stations, you’ll find stalls selling souvenirs and restaurants catering to the shopping and dining needs of visitors. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes with low heels and bring a jacket, raincoat, or umbrella in case the weather at the mountain peak suddenly becomes chilly and overcast.
Swing Sapa
This picturesque attraction, known as Swing Sapa, is situated at 87 Nguyen Chi Thanh, near the town center, approximately 2 km from the Stone Church in the direction of the cable car.
Featuring captivating sculptures such as a man and woman statue, a giant stone hand, a Buddha statue, the “stairway to heaven,” and swings, Swing Sapa offers countless photo opportunities with its unique settings.
Prior to visiting, it is recommended to prepare your own photo props, or you can rent them on-site for 50,000 VND per set. Ensure that your camera and phone batteries are fully charged. If traveling with a group, you can even organize a camping trip or a small picnic in this area. The entrance fee is 80,000 VND per person.
Seo My Ty Lake
To reach Seo My Ty Lake, located in Ta Van commune, you must traverse a challenging 20 km road filled with large and small stones, making it quite difficult for inexperienced drivers. The lake was formed by constructing a dam for the Seo My Ty hydropower plant, and it holds the distinction of being the highest artificial lake in Vietnam. When viewed from above, the lake resembles a silk ribbon running alongside the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. Visitors can seek permission from local fishermen to sit on boats and rafts, enjoying the lake’s beauty and learning about salmon farming practices in the area.
Heaven’s Gate
From the center of Sapa, follow Highway 4D for approximately 15 km to reach Heaven’s Gate, situated at the highest point of the O Quy Ho pass. Standing here, you can marvel at the panoramic view of the vast valley below, adorned with terraced fields and winding roads. Several newly built establishments such as restaurants, cafes, and hotels can be found at Heaven’s Gate. Admission to Heaven’s Gate is priced at 80,000 VND per person and includes a drink.
O Quy Ho Pass
O Quy Ho Pass, known as the “King of the Passes,” features a deep valley on one side and rugged cliffs on the other. Stretching for about 50 km, it connects the provinces of Lao Cai and Lai Chau. For those seeking great photo opportunities, it is recommended to visit O Quy Ho Pass around sunset, between 17:00 and 17:30. As the sun gradually sets behind the mountains, the entire pass is bathed in a mesmerizing golden hue. However, Sapa’s weather can change rapidly, with dark clouds often rolling in just minutes after sunset.
Along the road to Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall, you’ll find numerous stalls selling local specialties, food, and drinks, providing seating for weary travelers. When visiting O Quy Ho Pass, it is advisable to bring a raincoat and warm clothing. If traveling by motorbike, remember to wear a helmet and exercise caution on the winding roads.
Silver Waterfall – Love Waterfall
Located on the road of O Quy Ho Pass, approximately 3 km from the pass’s summit, Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall are must-visit destinations, particularly popular among young people. Silver Waterfall features steps leading to the top of the waterfall, but be cautious as the higher you climb, the colder it gets and the water flow becomes stronger, making it important to watch your step to avoid slipping. Love Waterfall, although a 1.5 km walk from the entrance, takes visitors through a scenic forested area. Admission to Silver Waterfall is priced at 20,000 VND per person, while Love Waterfall tickets cost 75,000 VND per person.
What to eat in Sapa?
Grilled food & hot pot
When visiting Sapa, indulging in grilled food is a must as it is a ubiquitous dish with a wide variety of options. You can enjoy skewers of pork, chicken, and vegetables, as well as grilled eggs, corn, potatoes, and lam rice. The prices for these delicious barbecue items range from 20,000 to 100,000 VND each. Another popular choice is salmon and sturgeon, which can be enjoyed in hot pot dishes or even raw. A hot pot typically costs between 300,000 and 600,000 VND and is suitable for 3 to 6 people to share.
Restaurants in Sapa
- Thang Co A Quynh (Thach Son Street): This restaurant is known for its specialty dish called “Thang Co,” which is a traditional horse meat stew enjoyed by the local ethnic groups.
- Hotpot Center (Xuan Vien Street): Here, you can savor delicious fish hotpot dishes. It’s a great place to warm up and enjoy a comforting meal.
- Ong Ha’s effervescent noodle soup (468 Dien Bien Phu): This restaurant serves a unique and flavorful effervescent noodle soup, a must-try dish in Sapa.
For young tourists who seek a vibrant atmosphere and enjoy good food, they can visit:
- My Grill (Dien Bien Phu Street): This restaurant specializes in charcoal grilled dishes, offering a wide selection of tasty grilled options.
- Tuk Tuk Chicken Shop: Known for their grilled spicy ribs and cheese shake, this place offers a unique dining experience with a fusion of flavors.
- H’Mong Pizza at Pi’s Boutique: Here, you can try the famous H’Mong Pizza, a local twist on the classic pizza, featuring local ingredients and flavors.
These restaurants provide a variety of culinary delights for visitors to explore and enjoy during their time in Sapa.
Cafe
In the town center of Sapa, there are numerous cafes for visitors to choose from. However, if you prefer a peaceful atmosphere with a view of the valley or mountains, you can consider the following options:
- Coong Cafe (located along the way to Cat Cat village, near Coong homestay): This cafe offers a serene setting with a picturesque view of the surrounding area.
- Vietrekking (Hoang Lien street): Vietrekking cafe provides a tranquil environment where you can relax and enjoy a hot cup of coffee while taking in the beauty of the mountains.
- Gem Valley Cafe (located in the village of Cat Cat): This cafe offers a unique experience, nestled in the village surroundings, where you can enjoy your beverage with a scenic view.
These cafes provide an opportunity to unwind, enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, and soak in the stunning natural landscapes of Sapa. Whether you’re looking for a quiet space to contemplate or simply want to enjoy the serenity of the mountains, these cafes are worth a visit.
Hotels in Sapa
Sapa offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer a motel, homestay in a village, hostel, cheap hotel, or a luxurious 4-5 star resort, there are plenty of choices available. Here are some notable accommodation options in Sapa:
Resorts
Read more: Best 7 Sapa Vietnam Resorts
Homestays and Hostels
If you prefer a more immersive experience and want to enjoy the peacefulness of the Northwest mountains, consider staying in homestays or hostels in villages such as Cat Cat, Lao Chai, and Ta Van. Prices for dorm rooms start from around 100,000 VND per person, while bungalow double rooms are available from around 500,000 VND.
Some popular homestays include:
- Eco Palms House
- Heavenly Sapa
- Viettrekking
- Phori’s House
- Rock Garden
- Coong
These accommodations provide opportunities to experience the local culture, interact with the residents, and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Read more: Best 10 Sapa Hotels – Voted by Tourists
Whether you choose a resort, homestay, or hostel, Sapa offers a diverse range of options to cater to different preferences and budgets. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
ATM and Money Exchange in Sapa
Sapa is a popular tourist destination, so finding an ATM is not difficult. Most restaurants and hotels accept card payments. However, it’s recommended to have cash on hand when visiting villages or purchasing goods from local stalls.
If you need to exchange money, you can inquire at the hotel reception for more information. It’s important to exchange money at authorized and legal places to ensure a fair exchange rate and avoid scams.
Having a mix of cash and card options will provide you with flexibility and convenience during your stay in Sapa.
Read more: 10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
Local Emergency Contact for Tourists in Sapa
- Sa Pa District Police – 0203 871 503
- Sa Pa town police – 0203 871 226
- Tourism manager – 0912 228 108
- Market Manager – 0912 010 521
- Sa Pa District General Hospital – 0203 518 558
- Emergency Rescue: Dial 112
- Police: 113
- Fire Department: 114
- Ambulance and Medical support: 115
- Remember to save your hotel/homestays phone number in case of emergency
Other notes to ensure a wonderful trip beside of this Sapa Vietnam travel guide
- Clothing and Other Items: Prepare warm clothes, scarves, shoes, wool hats, and masks regardless of the season. Weather in Sapa in the evenings can be chilly, so wearing a windbreaker is advisable.
- Footwear: Opt for flat sandals or sports shoes as walking is the main mode of transportation in Sapa. Remember to bring your ID card for check-in procedures and a driver’s license if planning to rent a motorbike.
- Pre-Order Services: Save time, money, and effort by pre-booking trains and rooms for your Sapa trip.
- Phone Signal Coverage: Consider getting a Viettel SIM Card for better phone signal coverage, especially in forested and hilly areas. Read more guide on Vietnam SIM Card at Complete guide to pick Vietnam SIM Card for travelers.
- Energy-Boosting Snacks: Pack high-calorie snacks for trekking or mountain climbing activities.
- Temporary Welcome Gate: If you encounter a temporary welcome gate with knives, wooden swords, heads, chicken wings, etc., change your direction. The village is likely organizing spiritual cultural activities and wants to avoid intrusion. These festivals are usually held in February, June, or July of the lunar calendar.
- Village Etiquette: When walking in the village, maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Avoid laughing or talking loudly and move at a slow and elegant pace, appreciating the serene landscape.
- Interaction with Children: Refrain from patting children on the head, even if you adore them. Locals believe that such gestures can cause panic and make the child more susceptible to illness.
- Whistling in the Evening: Avoid whistling when walking around the village in the evening. According to local beliefs, whistling can attract ghosts to the village.
- Sacred Forbidden Forest: Each village often has a sacred forbidden forest, a place of worship for the entire community. While these areas are clean, beautiful, and cool, visitors should not stop to rest or eat there as it would be considered disrespectful to the gods.
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