Travel Tips & Experiences

Sapa Trekking Guide

Sapa Trekking Guide

Sapa, located in the Northwest of Vietnam, is a wonderful destination for travelers who love nature, culture, and adventure. This mountainous region boasts stunning views of rice terraces, valleys, waterfalls, and peaks. It’s also home to several ethnic minorities such as the H’Mong, Dao, and Tay who have preserved their unique traditions and lifestyles for centuries. [incredible_toc] The beautiful picture of Sapa Trekking is definitely the best way to explore the nature of Sapa. It allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of the landscape while interacting with local people and learning about their culture. However, trekking in Sapa requires preparation and planning as there are different levels of difficulty, routes, and options to choose from.  In this article, we will share tips and advice on planning your Sapa trekking adventure based on our experience and research. 1. When is the best time to enjoy trekking in Sapa? Not every season is ideal for trekking in this mountainous region. You need to consider the weather, the scenery, and your preferences before you book your trip. Here are some tips on when to go trekking in Sapa and what to expect in each season. 1.1. Spring (March-May)This is a great time to go trekking in Sapa if you love sunny days and blooming flowers. The weather is dry and moderate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The plants and trees are starting to grow after the winter, creating a vibrant green landscape. This is also the time when the local people are planting rice in the terraced fields, which is an interesting sight to witness. Spring is a good season for solo trekkers who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet on the trails. Sapa in Spring 1.2. Summer (June-August)This is the rainy season in Sapa, which means you will encounter humid and wet conditions on your trek. The temperatures can reach up to 30°C, but the rain can cool things down quickly. The rain can also make the trails muddy and slippery, so you need to be careful and wear proper shoes. On the bright side, summer is when Sapa is at its greenest and most lush. You can also enjoy some waterfalls and streams along the way. The rain does not last all day, so you can still have some sunny hours to admire the scenery. Sapa in Summer 1.3. Autumn (September-November)This is another excellent time to go trekking in Sapa if you want to see the golden hues of the rice harvest. The weather is still dry and pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C and 28°C. The rice fields are at their most photogenic, with beautiful shades of green and yellow. This is also the best time to climb Fan Si Pan, as the visibility is high and the views are spectacular. However, autumn is also the high season in Sapa, so expect more tourists and higher prices. Sapa in Autumn 1.4. Winter (December-February)This is the coldest season in Sapa, with temperatures dropping as low as 0°C. You may even see some snow on the higher peaks, which can be a rare and magical experience. However, winter also brings fog and mist, which can reduce your visibility and affect your views. The trails can be icy and slippery, so you need to wear warm clothes and layers. Winter is a good season for adventurous trekkers who want to challenge themselves and see a different side of Sapa. Sapa in Winter 2. Choose Your Sapa Trekking Difficulty Level Before embarking on your trekking adventure in Sapa, it’s important to decide on the level of difficulty you want to experience. Sapa offers three main levels of trekking difficulty: easy, medium, and hard. 2.1. Easy TrekkingPerfect for beginners or those looking for a leisurely walk. These treks typically last one to two days and cover 10-15 km per day. You’ll enjoy views of rice fields, mountains, and villages. You’ll also visit ethnic minority villages such Lao Chai, Ta Van where you can stay overnight at a homestay or hotel. 2.2. Medium TrekkingIdeal for intermediate or experienced trekkers seeking a bit more challenge. These treks usually last two to three days and cover 15-20 km per day. You’ll follow a similar route as the easy treks but add a detour to Cat Cat Village, an old village of the Black H’Mong people at the foot of Fansipan Peak. You’ll also climb hills and cross streams and bridges along the way. 2.3. Hard TrekkingFor adventurous or expert trekkers looking to test their limits. These treks typically last three to four days and cover 20-25 km per day. Your goal will be to reach the summit of Fansipan Peak, the highest mountain in Indochina at 3143 m above sea level. You’ll pass through various terrains such as bamboo forests, waterfalls, rocky slopes, and snowfields while camping at different altitudes along the way. 3. Choose Your Sapa Trekking Option The last thing you need to decide is how you want to organize your trekking trip. There are two main options: booking a tour or going independently. 3.1. Booking a Sapa tourThis option is more convenient and hassle-free, as you don’t have to worry about transportation, accommodation, food or guides. You can compare prices, reviews, and itineraries online or offline before booking your tour. The advantages of booking a tour are that you can save time and money, meet other travelers, and support local communities. The disadvantages are that you have less flexibility and freedom, may encounter large crowds or scams, and may have a lower quality of service or experience.See our best Sapa Trekking Tours:Sapa Trekking & Bac Ha MarketSapa Trekking & ExploreSapa Trekking Tour with TrainSapa Cycling & Trekking TourSapa Trekking Tour with BusSapa Adventure By Trekking Tour 3.2. Go trekking Sapa independentlyThis option is more adventurous and flexible, as you can plan your own trip and Sapa trekking routes according to your preferences and budget. You can arrange your own transportation from Hanoi to Sapa by train or bus, book your own accommodation in Sapa town or homestays, buy your own food from markets or restaurants, and hire your own guide or porter from local agencies or villages. The advantages of going independently are that you have more control and choice over your trip, can avoid tourist traps or crowds, and can have a more authentic or personal experience. The disadvantages are that you have to spend more time and effort on planning and logistics, may face some difficulties or risks on the way, and may miss out on some information or insights from professional guides. 4. Amazing treks in Sapa 4.1. Lao Chai & Ta Van Villages Experience the magic of green rice fields and small houses nestled in the misty mountains This trek will take you to the world of traditional hill tribe villages and their rice terraces. You will follow a small path, cross the Muong Hoa River, and see the homes of Lao Chai and Ta Van villages. You will learn about rice cultivation, and the cultures of ethnic minorities such as Black Hmong, Zay, and Red Dao. Trekking in Ta Van Village Duration: 1 day Trekking level: Easy – Medium Distance: 6-8 km. 4.2. Cat Cat – Sin Chai Villages Make friends with the adorable Black Hmong children who love to smile for photos with tourists This trek is more like a relaxing walk than a hike. Cat Cat is an ancient village of Black H’Mong people who are famous for their brocade weaving and jewelry making. You will walk to the village and see the farms and techniques used by the locals. You will also climb up to the mountain and reach Sin Chai – a village of Red Dao people with gorgeous scenery. You will be accompanied by the local children who are curious and friendly. You will also enjoy the flowers such as peach blossom, plum blossom, gladiolus, pear blossom, rose… if you come here in the spring. Cat Cat Village Duration: A half day Trekking level: Easy Distance: 3-5 km. 4.3. Ta Phin Village Trekking is a great way to connect with local ethnic people and discover their ways of life Ta Phin village is situated about 12km from Sapa Town. The village of Red Dao and Hmong people has a rich culture that has not been affected by modern life. The Red Dao are known for their herbal medicine and their use of plants to treat many illnesses. Trekking through the countryside, you will see the beautiful landscape of rice fields, mountains, streams, and hill tribe houses. It is wonderful to spend some time wandering the village, seeing the local life and talking with them. Ta Phin Village Duration: A half-day to full day Trekking level: Easy – Medium Distance: 5-7 km. 5. What to Pack for Trekking in Sapa Packing for trekking in Sapa can be hard, as you need to be ready for the weather, the terrain, and the trip duration. Here are some key items that you should take for your Sapa trekking adventure: - Clothing: You should take clothing that can handle different weather and temperatures. Sapa can be cold and foggy in winter, hot and humid in summer, and rainy and muddy in spring and autumn. You should take layers of clothing that are warm, waterproof, breathable, and quick-drying. You should also bring a hat, a scarf, gloves, and socks for extra warmth. - Footwear: You should take footwear that is comfortable, durable, and suitable for different terrains. You will walk on dirt paths, rocky slopes, muddy fields, and slippery bridges during your trekking trip. You should take hiking boots or shoes that have good grip, support, and cushioning. You should also take sandals or flip-flops for resting at your accommodation or homestay. - Backpack: You should take a backpack that is spacious, lightweight, and comfortable. You will need to carry your backpack for several hours per day during your trekking trip. You should take a backpack that has enough space for your clothing, footwear, toiletries, water bottle, snacks, camera, and other essentials. You should also take a backpack that has padded straps, waist belt, and chest strap for extra comfort and stability. - Toiletries: You should take toiletries that are basic, eco-friendly, and compact. You may not have access to showers or toilets during your trekking trip. You should take toiletries that are essential for your hygiene and health, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, sunscreen, insect repellent, and toilet paper. You should also take toiletries that are biodegradable and natural, as you may have to dispose of them in nature. You should also take toiletries that are small and light, as you have limited space and weight in your backpack. - Water bottle: You should take a water bottle that is reusable, refillable and insulated. You will need to stay hydrated during your trekking trip. You should take a water bottle that is made of metal or plastic that can be reused and refilled with clean water from springs or streams along the way. You should also take a water bottle that has a lid or cap that can prevent leaks or spills. You should also take a water bottle that can keep your water cold or hot depending on the weather. Trekking in Sapa is a wonderful way to discover the beauty and diversity of Vietnam’s northern region. It is also a great way to experience the culture and lifestyle of the ethnic minority groups who live there. However, trekking in Sapa also requires some preparation and planning, as there are many factors to consider such as the difficulty level, the route, the option, the transportation, the accommodation, the guide or porter, and the packing. In this blog post, we have shared with you some tips and advice on how to plan your Sapa trekking adventure. Hope this information helps you have a smooth and enjoyable trip with Incredible Asia Journeys.

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Best Sapa travel guides for First-Timers

Best Sapa travel guides for First-Timers

As the tourist cradle of Northwest Vietnam, Sapa always impresses visitors with its majestic mountain scenery. Coming to Sapa, people will be surprised by the towering peak of Fansipan - the roof of Indochina. Visitors will be able to go from one surprise to another because each season Sapa wears a new shirt, the scene is different in every season. Sapa in the rainy season is green, like a giant mirror in the Northwest, in the ripe rice season, Sapa wears a fresh yellow shirt. Sapa is like that, like a beautiful 17-year-old girl, making people not want to return… 1. Conquer Fansipan Peak - Roof of Indochina Fansipan - the place known as the "roof of Indochina" is always in the top tourist activities that are hard to ignore when coming to Sapa. It is known that the most ideal time to conquer Fansipan peak is from September to April of the following year. This is the time frame that the weather and climate in Fansipan is the most stable, with little rain and cool. Conquer Fansipan Peak - Roof of Indochina If you can't climb the mountain road, don't worry, the cable car is a convenient alternative. From the cable car cage, you can have an impressive panoramic view of Hoang Lien Son range and Muong Hoa valley. Don't miss the Bamboo Garden, Bao An Zen Monastery, Bich Van Zen Monastery, shopping area, etc. located in Fansipan Legend area. 2. Climb to Ham Rong Mountain Ham Rong Mountain is an ideal place to visit, located right next to the central town of Sapa, built on an area of about 150 hectares. The name is based on the shape of a "super giant" rock that rises high into the blue sky shaped like a dragon's head. People compare Ham Rong to a "small Sapa" because it always changes its color according to each season of the year.  Climb to Ham Rong Mountain The more steps you go up, the more you can discover beautiful scenes such as the orchid garden, heaven gate, and peach garden. Visiting Ham Rong mountain, you can also explore many kinds of plants and see countless rocks with different shapes. It has a distinct color at any time of the year. However, if you have the opportunity to travel to Sapa on your own in the spring, this is the most beautiful season when the trees are sprouting buds and spreading the scent of the forest! 3. Trek in Lao Chai - Ta Van Going away from Sapa town center about 10 km to Ta Van commune, you will reach Ta Van village. On the way, you will pass through Lao Chai - a place with the beautiful natural scenery of mountains and forests, and even the famous ancient stone beach of Sapa. When going on a trekking tour of Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, visitors have the opportunity to experience the warm hospitality of the people and taste the local delicacies. Trek in Ta Van When you reach Ta Van, you will feel that this place is completely separate from the bustle of the town. The fields stretch endlessly with no beginning or end, and the rustic cottages weaving in the small road create an irresistible attraction for those who have "legs" who like to move. 4. Peace In Muong Hoa Valley A wonderful stretch of land at the foot of Fansipan, Muong Hoa valley is one of the most popular destinations for motorcyclists. Driving from town to Muong Hoa will be an amazing experience of your life. Muong Hoa Valley You have the opportunity to go through the highest mountains to dozens of downhill streams, past small villages and rice fields filled with the bright yellow of ripe rice, bringing with it the typical fragrance of the countryside of ethnic minorities, and see how people do farming. Currently, Sapa has a mountain train service that crosses the Muong Hoa valley to help you fully enjoy the scenery here. 5. Walk to Cat Cat Village Sapa To learn about Sapa's oldest black H'Mong village culture, you should visit Cat Cat Village during your trip. This place is only about 3 km from the center of Sapa Stone Church, the asphalt road is easy to move, you can walk to admire the scenery, take pictures of Cat Cat waterfall or majestic terraced rice fields.Cat Cat Village Visitors will learn about the life of the Black H'Mong and the unique cultural beauty of the mountainous people. You should try once to rent a traditional costume of the Sapa people to experience the unique identity of the village. 6. Explore Sapa Stone Church Sapa Stone Church is located in a prime location leaning against Ham Rong Mountain, in front of a large area where colorful festivals are often held. The architecture of the church is in the Roman Gothic style with construction materials of hewn stone combining lime, sand and molasses. The details of the arch, roof, and steeple have their own unique features and have never had to be restored. Just wear vintage clothes to check-in. Sapa Stone Church 7. Admire the Terraced Rice Fields in Ma Tra Village & Ta Phin Village Tourists definitely cannot miss the experience of admiring the wonderful beauty of the terraced rice fields on the hillside when coming to Ma Tra Village and Ta Phin Village. Due to the steep terrain and fertile soil, local ethnic minorities cultivate rice and create beautiful terraced rice fields.Terraced Rice Fields Coming to Ma Tra village, visitors will be warmly welcomed by the H'Mong people and visit the terraced rice fields. It is recommended to walk in these rice fields, where you can both understand the local culture, admire the beautiful and breathtaking scenery and take beautiful photos. Not far away is Ta Phin village, the residence of the Red Dao ethnic group. Coming to Ta Phin, do not forget to visit Ta Phin stalactite cave with interesting shapes. 8. Check-in at Love Waterfall Another fairy tourist destination in Sapa. Love Waterfall is located 14 km southwest of Sapa town, with a height of 100m flowing day and night. From a distance, the waterfall looks like a soft silk strip, standing out among the green vegetation. To reach Love waterfall, tourists need to walk through the cool green bamboo forest. Especially in March, the road will be brilliant with the red color of azaleas. Love Waterfall 9. Check-in Sapa Heaven Gate In Sapa, there is also a tourist destination called Sapa Heaven Gate, which is famous as a "check-in" place. At an altitude of 2228m, Sapa Heaven Gate (or O Quy Ho) is the best place to see the Northwest mountains. Sapa Heaven Gate Looking at the winding curve of O Quy Ho passing around the mountainside and 2 beautiful waterfalls, Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall, you feel like you are lost in a fairyland. "Going to Heaven's Gate to fully understand the beauty of Sapa" - is a saying that many tourists pass on when talking about this place. 10. Challenge of Courage at “Dragon Cloud” Glass Bridge Located at an altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level, “Dragon Cloud” Glass Bridge is a real challenge for even the bravest of travelers. In return, you can admire the charming natural scenery of the famous Hoang Lien Son range, enjoy the cool atmosphere to relieve stress and depression. Sapa Glass Bridge 11. Join Sapa Love Market You must have heard many times about Sapa love market - a special cultural feature in Lao Cai, held only on Saturday evenings. This is an opportunity for young men and women in the village to meet, exchange and learn to choose their life partner through love songs. In addition, you can also enjoy hundreds of delicious dishes here and shop for brocade items of the Mong and Dao people. Sapa Love Market 12. Enjoy Seven-Colored Sticky Rice of the Nung Ding Seven-color sticky rice is a specialty of the Nung Dinh people. Initially, this dish was invented to offer to ancestors with the desire for a bountiful harvest and a prosperous life. Each color of sticky rice has its own meaning. For example, green is the color of spring, dark red is the color of patriotic martyrs who died in the war, and yellow represents the color of dispersion and heartbreak. The dish is a wonderful combination of seven colors without the use of chemical dyes. Local women skillfully create color using a variety of forest leaves and herbs and some of their family secrets. Nung Dinh people believe that eating this dish will bring good luck. With its attractive appearance and distinctive taste, it is favored by many tourists. Seven-Colored Sticky Rice  13. Enjoy a drink at the cloud cafe One of the great highlights of a trip to Sapa is having a drink at the cloud cafe where you can take in the stunning views and enjoy a local drink. Most of these cafes can be found in Fansipan and Cau May streets. To name one standout cafe, it would be Cafe in the Clouds, where you can spend time enjoying the exotic landscape and admiring the views over the green valley below. The cafe also offers a wide range of drinks as well as local and international dishes. This can be a great experience to try in Sapa. Enjoy a drink at the cloud cafe 14. Watch the church singing in Ta Phin commune If you visit Ta Phin village in the first weeks of spring, you will have a chance to witness one of the most beautiful traditions of the ethnic people called “church singing”. On this occasion, local people and tourists in the region will move to Ta Phin commune to see this wedding custom and listen to singing charms. For most ethnic minorities in Lao Cai province, marriage is still arranged in advance. During the worshiping time, the groom and the future bride will join the procession back to the village. Young men and women compete in singing and dancing to satisfy their spiritual needs. The most interesting thing about this occasion is that you will be able to see ethnic clothes with different designs and colors, creating an unforgettable beautiful picture. Above are the experiences to travel in which season, how to go to Sapa, the most worthy places to visit in this great mountainous place or what to eat. Just pocketing this much, your trip to Sapa will be much less difficult and embarrassing! Let's come to Sapa on this vacation and experience it for yourself!!!

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Sapa Overview

Sapa Overview

Sapa is one of the best places in North Vietnam. When travellers visit Vietnam and North Vietnam, Sapa is a must-see for admiring the natural beauty and learning about the local life.Located about 350 km to the north-west of Hanoi, Sapa District in Lao Cai Province, is a very soothing place to visit, an attractive little town set over steep hills attracting a large number of international travelers for its views and topographic mountains at the average height of 1500m- 1800m, for its impressive, rugged scenery as well as for its rich cultural diversity.Besides its naturally gifted beauty combined with human creativity, the topography of the mountains, green forests, Sapa also has long been attracting more and more people for being a miniature Europe with the sub-temperate climate all around the year.With a subtropical climate in the summer (May to September): blue, clear sky, light wind, slight sunshine, fresh atmosphere, the average temperature of 15-20 degree Celsius and a temperate climate during the winter (from November to February): constantly cold, wet and foggy weather, climate sometimes below 0 degree Celsius, the unique highly seasonal climate is the pride of this charming town.In the recent years, Sapa even has snow and freeze in several days of winter which attract thousands of Vietnamese to come here and capture the beautiful moment of Sapa.Summertime is when to go for more gorgeous views than those at any other time of year, winter is a time for blurry landscape full of mystery, the white color of snow covering all roads and fields, spring is when the town is blossoming with pink and white flowers, green pastures in valleys and autumn offers views of exceptional yellow terraced fields.Each season in Sapa has its own charm making it the foremost choice for honeymoon couples!Where To Go And What To Do In Sapa?A modest land but hiding many wonders of the natural scene, the foggy town of Sapa is the convergence of the fascinating natural scenery and peaceful life: Fansipan- the highest peak in Vietnam – the rooftop of Indochina, Ham Rong Mountain, Rattan Bridge, Bamboo Forest, Silver Waterfall.If you want to experience the unique lifestyle of local, just spend 1 hour walking around Cat Cat village or exploring Ta Phin Cave where local tribes still live in a traditional way.If you love photography, let’s go around Muong Hoa Valley; the winding mountain passes, the lush vegetation, golden terraced fields set amid the swirling clouds in the harvest season; the detached wooden mansions and villas perched on top or side of the hills as well as the dazzling orchid and peach gardens. You will have amazing photos.With craggy topography, there are a lot of exciting activities for you in Sapa. If you love challenging and thrilling activities, just join in mountain climbing tour with Asia Incredible Journey. You would have a chance to conquer Fansipan – the roof of Indochina on your foot. If you enjoy driving a motorbike, Sapa surely satisfies your desire of conquering hard and dangerous road.If you love investigating about the culture, Sapa is the home to eight different ethnic minority groups: Hmong, Tay, Giay, Dao, Muong, Thai, Hoa (ethnic Chinese), and Xa Pho, is well known for its special cultural diversity in a combination of ethnic minority groups’ culture.Therefore, it will definitely be such a pity if you leave Sapa without discovering the unique customs of the local residents; visiting local markets - the town’s typically cultural element; enjoying ethnic minorities’ customs including: Mong Festival, Nao Cong Festival and knowing more about local ethnic people's courtship and marital life, through the Sapa love market and wife kidnapping ceremony of the Hmong group. They all are unforgettable memories in Vietnam.What To Eat And Drink In Sapa?It is undeniable that Sapa is also a heaven of food. Here you will be overwhelmed by grilled dishes: grilled pork, grilled beef, grilled vegetable and especially Com Lam (grilled rice in bamboo). Enjoying grilled meat with Com Lam in the windy and cold weather of Sapa is an unforgettable memory. Sapa also has a lot of pubs and bars which serve beer, wine, tequila as well as local wine. Don’t worry about the drink in Sapa!When To Visit Sapa?The best time to visit Sapa is from May to September when the sky is clear and there are beautiful terraces along the road. That will be so wonderful to visit Sapa this time when the terrace field is filled with the colourful rice. You may do trekking through the terraced rice fields and take the best photos of your life while interacting with the local people there.Sapa ToursThere are some options for you to take a Sapa Tours from Hanoi. You may book the Sapa Tours with a local travel operator from Hanoi which they will arrange the package tours for you from Hanoi and back to Hanoi. You also can book a train ticket or bus ticket from Hanoi and book the Sapa Tours online with a local operator in Sapa then the guide will pick you up in Lao Cai or Sapa.Sapa Tours From Hanoi By TrainCatch the train from Hanoi around 09.30 - 10.00 depending on the train schedule and company you choose. There are some trains you may choose such as Victoria Train (Luxury), Sapaly (Deluxe), Chapa Train ( Deluxe), Fanxipan Train (Deluxe), King Express (Deluxe), Livitran Train (Deluxe). The train tickets cost around $ US 35.00 - 40.00/ person for 4 berths sharing cabin. You will arrive in Lao Cai the next morning around 05.30 - 06.00 AM where you will catch a bus/car to Sapa. The road from Lao Cai to Sapa will amaze you with the beautiful view. If you go by private car you may tell the driver to stop somewhere to admire the green fields.In Sapa, you may join in some tours to Cat Cat Villages, Lao Chai and Tavan Villages, Matra and Taphin Villages. There are some more destinations for you to visit such as Silver Waterfall, Heaven Gate, Dragon Jaw Moutain and Sapa Town.2 days or 3 days for Sapa Tour is recommended by our expertsSapa Tours From Hanoi By BusFrom Hanoi, you may catch a tourist bus. The tourist bus cost about $US 20.00 - 30.00 /person and the bus can pick you up from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter around 07.30 AM. You will arrive in Sapa around 13.00. You may check in the hotel, have lunch then do the tour in Sapa in the afternoon or next days. For going back to Hanoi you may catch the bus in the morning or afternoon. The schedule in the morning is around 08.00 AM and afternoon is around 03.00 PM.If you visit Sapa by bus, 3-day tour is recommended by our experts.Sapa Tours From Hanoi By Private Car/VanThat is the same to the bus but taking a private car/van is more comfortable for you if you are a bigger group for about 4 or 6 persons or when you have a better budget. The private car/van gives you the flexibility for departure time. That also gives you the privacy when you are with kids or a group of friends.When you take a private car/van you can use your car/van in Sapa easily wherever you want to visit and when you go back to Hanoi you also can set up the time easily.Some Recommended Sapa Tours from Incredible Asia Journeys:+ Best North Vietnam With Sapa Tour+ Highlights Of North Vietnam+ Vietnam Tour 7 Days

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Sapa Travel Guide

Sapa Travel Guide

Sapa is located in a remote area in the North of Vietnam, which is close to the Vietnam – China border. This town attracts more and more tourists because of its beautiful nature as well as its cultural depth. In this article, Incredible Asia Journey will show you the Sapa Travel Guide which will be helpful for you before your trip.[incredible_toc]1. What’s the weather like in Sapa?As Sapa is at an altitude of 1,500 - 1,800 meters, this small town has pretty cold weather all over the year with the average temperature at around 15-18 Celsius degrees. When winter comes, the temperature may drop to under 0 Celsius degree, and even snowy sometimes. From May to August, it’s the rainy season with occasional rains making it not very pleasant to travel to Sapa.Sapa in the mist2. When is the best time to visit Sapa?The months from September to November or from March to May are considered the best time to visit Sapa. During these months, the weather conditions are quite stable, it’s sunny in the daytime and cold in the nighttime. From September to November: it’s the time when the paddy rice field is ready to be harvested. Thus, the whole area looks so beautiful with the yellow color. It’s highly recommended to go in September to not miss this majestic scenery. Sapa terraced fieldFrom March to May: during this period, the weather is perfect since it’s cool in the morning and very warm at noon. Coming here in April and May, you also have a chance to see Sapa with many colors as it’s the blooming time of a lot of flowers. Wheat bucket flower in Sapa3. What are the best things to do in Sapa?3.1. Conquer FanxipanFanxipan, known as the Roof of Indochina, is the highest mountain in Indochina with a height of 3,143 meters, located at the central Hoang Lien Son mountain. It’s 9 kilometers away from Sapa town, however, if you trek to the top, it may take up to a week. Nowadays, you can easily reach the top of Fanxipan by cable car. It was opened to the public in 2016 and has served millions of tourists every year. If you go by cable car, it saves up quite a lot of your time as it takes only 15 minutes/way.Fansipan peak in SapaTicket price: 800,000 VND/person/ 2 ways3.2. Admire Sapa ChurchSapa Church was erected in 1895 by the French which follows the Gothic architectural style – which is very common in Europe in the Romance Empire. The whole building has an area of more than 6000 meters square and is made of stones.Stone Church in SapaIf you come here on Saturday, there will be a cultural performance and a love market for young couples or for young people to find their partners. Don’t miss this interesting moment.3.3. Explore Sapa MarketIf you want to embed into the local life, the Sapa market is the best place to do so. In the Sapa market, you can shop for some local goods, especially handmade items made by ethnic minority people, to watch how the locals communicate, behave, and interact. You can also try some local signatures such as Thang Co here at a good price. Sapa marketIn addition, in the evening, there is a night market here that you can come and enjoy some more delicious street food.3.4. Visit Silver WaterfallSilver Waterfall is located 15 kilometers away from the town. Its name stems from its silver color which can be seen from a far distance. The waterfall has a height of 200 meters being the upper stream of Muong Hoa River which lies at 1,800 meters above sea level. This is also the coldest place in Sapa in the winter which is the snowiest area. Silver WaterfallThe way to go up to the waterfall lies on the right side from which you can see a small bridge across the waterfall and lead to the left-side way to go down. Ticket price: 20,000 VND/adult and 10,000 VND/child3.4. Discover villages of ethnic tribesCat Cat Village This is among the most touristic places in Sapa which is a small ethnic village established in the 19th century and located 3 kilometers away from Sapa.Coming here, you can see how the H’Mong local people do things in their daily lives. There are a lot of H’Mong traditional houses that may make you want to take tons of pictures as it is very unique and can only be found in Northern Vietnam. If you have a chance, don’t forget to try some corn wine which is a famous wine of Hmong people.Cat Cat VillageTicket price: 90,000 VND/adult and 50,000 VND/childTa Van VillageTa Van is located 8 kilometers away from the town which sits inside the Muong Hoa Valley. This village is home to more than 100 families which add up to about 1000 inhabitants, most of whom are from Hmong, Dao, and Red Dao ethnic tribes. The way to this village is quite narrow from which you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the terraced rice field on the sides of the road.Ta Van VillageTa Phin VillageTa Phin village is where the Dao ethnic tribes settle down which has such a splendid landscape and rich culture. When coming there, if you want to get inside a traditional house of the local, don’t wear a white outfit as it’s a sign of death according to their culture. In addition, there is a big cave that you can discover too. Inside the cave, you can see some of the unique shapes of stones that the locals named “mother uphold her children”, “fairies”, etc.Ta Phin VillageVisit Sapa Love MarketThe love market is opened every Saturday which is a place where young people from different ethnic groups can come and meet their partners. On this day, you can see young girls wearing colorful outfits that look so beautiful. Besides, this is also a place to exchange goods and sell things, so if you want to find some local specialty, don’t miss this market, and don’t forget to bargain for the price.Love Market in Sapa4. How to go to Sapa from Hanoi?Sapa is a remote town which is about 370 kilometers from Hanoi. Due to its remote location, many travelers overlook this beautiful place. So, how to get to Sapa from Hanoi? Nowadays, there are many ways to reach Sapa from Hanoi and the 2 most common ways to transport from Sapa to Hanoi are by bus and by train. In 2028, the Lao Cai Airport will be established, therefore, tourists can go to Sapa more conveniently.4.1. By busWe strongly recommend this choice as you will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel if it is located in the central. In addition, the ticket price is also cheaper than the latter option. It takes about 6-7 hours from Hanoi to Sapa by bus.Bus to Sapa4.2. By trainIf you go by train, you need to go to the Tran Quy Cap train station which is the other side of Hanoi Station. From here, you will reach the Lao Cai Station and then take another local bus to reach your hotel, or you can contact your hotel for the pick-up service. The Hanoi to Sapa train duration is about 8 hours and then you will stop at Lao Cai Railway Station to take a bus to your accommodation.Train to SapaWe have explained to you the best time to visit Sapa as well as some essential information you should know before your trip. Hopefully you can find useful information in this Sapa Vietnam travel guide!Besides, we also operate some tours that take you to several highlights of Vietnam, including Sapa. Doing those tours may help you save your time from searching millions of options on the Internet.Some recommendations for you to SapaBest North Vietnam With Sapa TourHighlights of North VietnamVietnam Tour 9 Days

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Where to Stay in Sapa

Where to Stay in Sapa

When you’re gazing at the jagged dragon’s teeth of Sapa’s forested mountains, watching its misted breath glide slowly across the valleys, it’s hard to imagine all the turmoil that the beautiful hill region has been through. Since French colonisation in the late 19th century, Sapa has risen from the ashes of various wars with China, France, America and even its own government to become one of the essential excursions on any Vietnam holiday.[incredible_toc] Terraced rice fields in SapaTrekking the wonderfully quaint paths between rows of rice paddies, shadowed by gigantic limestone karsts and accompanied by colourful members of friendly hill tribes is an unmissable experience. The answer to the question of where to stay in Sapa is a long one, considering the amount of Vietnamese-run and native-run hotels, hostels and homestays in Sapa Town and along the region’s trekking routes. Here is a quick guide to some of the best Sapa accommodation options around Vietnam’s northern crown. 1. Where to Stay in Sapa Town The natural place for people to search for Sapa accommodation is also its most tourist. Sapa Town is the centre of activity in the region, offering a huge variety of accommodation options, meaning that you’ll be covered even during the most frantic holidays. If you don’t have a set plan then Sapa Town is the place to figure it all out, but we recommend maybe just one night here before moving on to the much more authentic attractions of the region. 1.1. Heart of Sapa Hotel  Located exactly where the name suggests, the Heart of Sapa Hotel is close enough to the main restaurants and attractions of Sapa while finding peace down a small alley with not much traffic. The rooms are very reasonably priced and warmly welcoming, offering a cosy interior and incredible views of the wisps of mist flying past the mountains. Heart of Sapa Hotel - https://heartofsapahotel.com/ - +84 203 772 456 Heart of Sapa Hotel 1.2. Sapa Odyssey Hotel  Backpackers looking for places to stay in Sapa will not be short of options, but the best of these is the Sapa Odyssey Hostel, a cheap accommodation option built around the incredible views of Sapa’s green karsts that guests can enjoy from the balcony. There are several private room options with the same stunning views, as well as a nice communal area in which guests can unwind after hiking. Sapa Odyssey Hotel – (Search on Booking.com) - +84 945 183 001 Views from Sapa Odyssey Hostel 2. Where to Stay in Ta Phin Village A mild-mannered trek separates Ta Phin Village from Sapa. This is a popular destination for short treks, with many people opting to stay in Ta Phin to avoid the buzz of Sapa Town 12km south. Ta Phin is the home of both the Black Hmong and the Red Dao, two proud hill tribes easily distinguishable by the black or red bandanas atop their heads. Let's find out what those accommodations brought to you by Incredible Asia Journeys! 2.1. Sapa Heavenly Homestay The much smaller number of accommodation options compared with Sapa Town evidences the genuine nature of Ta Phin, and there are few options more genuine than Sapa Heavenly Homestay, a wide, wooden stilt house operated by a Black H’mong local called Mr Dat. The beds are very comfortable, the food is of a deliciously local flavour and the hospitality of Mr. Dat and his family knows no bounds. Sapa Heavenly Homestay – (Search on Booking.com) - +84 975 565 308 Sapa Heavenly Homestay 2.2. Ta Phin Stone Garden Ecological If Sapa Town is chosen for its views, then Ta Phin Stone Garden Ecological is chosen for the beautiful garden on the property. The bamboo walkways, small ponds, a variety of native flowers and wood-hewn chairs create a wonderfully blissful atmosphere in this quiet section of Sapa. Rooms open up onto the garden and all needs are tended to by the caring Mr. Thanh and his wife. Ta Phin Stone Garden Ecological – (Search on Booking.com) - +84 912 927 769 Ta Phin Stone Garden Ecological 3. Where to Stay in Lao Chai Village The harmony of people and nature is the reason that visitors decide to look for places to stay in Sapa, and there aren’t many better options to feel this than Lao Chai. The 100 Black H’mong families that live here are always welcoming guests into their traditional homes, many of which run without electricity and require a completely different change of mindset for most travellers who wish to experience life without modern comforts. 3.1. Mica House  The lopsided brick gateway and thatched cottage roof of Amica House are as charming as the homestay’s interior. Each room has a cosy, rustic feel and views of the stunning valley of rice can be enjoyed through the large windows throughout the property, especially when specks of fog fly in front of the limestone mountains. Amica House – (Search on Booking.com) - +84 983 048 166 A corner of Amica House 3.2. Sapa Clay House  As the name suggests, Sapa Clay House is made from durable clay, a feature of traditional homes of the Ha Nhi hill tribe. Rooms in the seasonal house are modelled on the four distinct seasons of Sapa, while the private bamboo hut is fitted with contemporary amenities and stunning views from the outdoor shower and garden. Sapa Clay House - https://sapaclayhouse.com/ - +84 965 288 160 Views from Sapa Clay House  4. Where to Stay in Giang Ta Chai The village of Giang Ta Chai lies on the other side of a stream, connected by a suspension bridge over the Muong Hoa Valley. It also lies close to a waterfall as well as thick groves of bamboo, which have been the surroundings for the generations of the Red Dao hill tribe that live here. Giang Ta Chai is the beautiful terminal destination for some of the extended treks from Sapa. 4.1. Mrs. Soi’s Homestay  Due to its eponymous host, Mrs. Soi’s Homestay is one of the friendliest places to stay in Sapa. Mrs. Soi looks after guests like her children, cooking delicious food and providing warm, comfortable, humble beds in the communal sleeping area. As with most homestays in Sapa, the views of the undulating scenery outside are outstanding. Mrs. Soi’s Homestay – https://mrs-sois-homestay.sa-pa-hotels.com/en/ Mrs. Soi’s Homestay 4.2. Po Mu House  The feeling of community throughout the Po Mu House is very evident. Comfortable mattresses are placed together and dinner is a very social affair on one long table. The very welcoming Mr Minh and his family will give you lots of tips for hiking to nearby waterfalls and along paths that other tourists don’t hear about. Po Mu House – (Search on Booking.com) - +84 968 456 984 Po Mu HouseWith the above-mentioned suggested Sapa accommodations, we hope that you can find out the suitable places to stay in Sapa. Thank you for reading this Sapa Travel Guide! Also, if you want to book any Sapa tour, contact us to make your dream trip come true!Check our best tours to visit Sapa: Best Of Sapa Explore, Sapa Trekking & Bac Ha Market, North Vietnam & Sapa Excursions, and Highlights of North Vietnam.

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The Best Time to Visit Sapa

The Best Time to Visit Sapa

The four distinct seasons of Sapa affect the landscape and the activities of its people in many ways. Higher than Hanoi, both in terms of altitude and latitude, Sapa features its own micro-climate, one shared by other hill regions in the north like Ha Giang and Cao Bang.[incredible_toc] The main hub of Sapa Town has come a long way since its use for military purposes by the French in 1922, with layers of Western and Vietnamese culture adding to that of the original ethnic minorities of the region. The hurricane of tourism has passed through Sapa in recent years and now a visit to its many golden rice paddies, sky-scraping mountains, rippling green hills and humble hill tribe villages is an essential part of Vietnam travels. The Stone Church in Sapa The best time to visit Sapa changes depending on the reason for your stay. While the distinct seasons make it easy to know when the Sapa weather will be less than optimal, the reasons to visit Sapa are numerous in amount and some are even enhanced by the colder and wetter weather that occurs at certain times. Sapa’s weather is in constant flux and its unpredictability often frustrates travellers to the region. Comprehensive guides are tough in this beautiful but volatile region, but here is our attempt at finding the best time to visit Sapa. 1. Sapa in Spring 1.1. Mid-February to Mid-May in Sapa The Sapa scene in spring looks like something straight out of a storybook. Romance is in full flow as peach blossoms spring up between mid-February and mid-May, creating a splash of vivid pink to add to the brilliant blue sky and crisp green rice paddies of the Sapa palette. Spring is very much peak season in Sapa, so be prepared for higher prices and more tourists. Sapa in Spring Temperature If it is comfortable trekking you’re after, then there’s no better time to visit Sapa than spring. The temperature rises quite a bit over the months of March, April and May; averaging about 15°C (59°F) at the start but 20°C (68°F) by the end. Though naturally colder than most of the rest of the country, the heat of the sun is not so debilitating that you feel your energy drain just by standing under it, like you might during the same month in Hoi An or Ho Chi Minh City. Rainfall Morning drizzles during spring are not uncommon, but the clouds are really just testing the waters before the summer deluge. Heading out later is usually the key to staying dry, but the impulsiveness of the quickly congregating clouds will have other ideas. The difference between the start and end of spring is massive, with March producing about 120mm per month compared to the threefold increase by May, which produces 370mm. Visibility  The rolling mist that descends around Sapa essentially does so whenever it feels, often here and gone within the blink of an eye. The best chance for avoiding the fog is in its sunniest month, April, which boasts about 6 hours of sunshine per day and is the perfect month for any potential photographers visiting the region. 1.2. What to do in spring in Sapa The beautiful spring weather brings the beautiful people of Sapa out in full force. Boisterous festivals are thrown after the start of the new lunar year, which falls either at the end of winter or the start of spring depending on the lunar calendar. The Gau Tao Festival, celebrated by the H’mong people, the most prominent minority tribe in the region, is initially a solemn religious affair before a few days of music, dancing and sport put everyone in a very festive mood. As with spring throughout the world, the best time to visit Sapa for its gorgeous flower blossoms is between February and April. Pink cherry blossoms, white pear flowers, purple plum flowers and the yellow of small shrubs become ubiquitous, turning Sapa into a vast, colourful wonderland and giving photographers many amazing backdrops to shoot some of their best work. Children in Sapa 2. Sapa in Summer 2.1. Mid–May to Mid-September Once the clouds have made their vague threats in April and early May, they are ready for the downpour of summer. This is easily the wettest season in Sapa, but rains tend to wash away the debris of foreign tourism, replaced by domestic tourism pretty much exclusively in Sapa Town and other hubs. A visit between June and September might be a brave endeavour, but it’s likely to be a quiet one out amongst the remote paddies. Temperature Naturally the hottest season in the region, heat joins the other components of Sapa’s weather in going full force. Averages are still a very comfortable 21°C (70°F), but highs of around 26°C (79°F) can feel a little draining if experienced for multiple hours while trekking in the sun. Nights are warm, however, which lends a lovely twilight atmosphere throughout the region. Rainfall If you haven’t invested in a fashionable Vietnamese poncho during your summer visit, you might want to consider getting a fairly substantial one. 80% of all of Sapa’s rain falls within summer, with July and August producing almost 500mm of rainfall each. As miserable as this sounds, the warm weather and the much quieter trekking trails actually lend Sapa a calm, contemplative vibe, one that’s hard to find in busier areas around the country. Visibility The vast clouds that devour hilltop villages and the peaks of mountains are a fairly common sight during summer in Sapa. However, the mist rolls quickly in the region, and a bit of patience can be rewarded with rapidly cleared skies and the opportunity to get breathtaking pictures of the retreating fog as it unveils rice paddies and whole villages in its wake. If you’re into photography, there’s really no better time to visit Sapa. Sapa in Summer 2.2. What to do in summer in Sapa The swirling kaleidoscope of colours that Sapa’s rice paddies progress through each year reaches their greenest stage in summer. The reflective blue of the water that is common in the rice paddies during spring is replaced with young rice seed and picture-perfect layers of lush green descending all the way down to the valley floor. The Summer Tourism Festival is a planned event to stir up tourism in this quiet season. Starting quite early, in May, and lasting until the end of June before the torrential rain really kicks in, the Summer Festival in the square of Sapa Town gathers various traditions of far-reaching hill tribes in Sapa and displays them together. This is a great way to absorb some of the traditions of the hill tribes that you wouldn’t usually have time to go and see.Check out our Best Tours to visit Sapa: Best Of Sapa Explore , Sapa Trekking & Bac Ha Market , North Vietnam & Sapa Excursions , Highlights of North Vietnam. 3. Sapa in Autumn 3.1. Mid-September to Early December Autumn in Sapa has no need for festivals to drum up tourism, it simply lets its natural beauty speak for itself. The period between mid-September and early December is one for the romantics, as vast seas of golden rice stretch out in every direction and the sky opens up to a deep blue and a fervent sun; creating, in many peoples’ eyes, the perfect conditions and the best time to visit Sapa. Rice fields in Sapa Temperature From the heat of summer, the temperature falls from about 20°C (68°F) through the end of September to 14°C (57°F) at the start of December. This can cause a few chilly shivers when the wind picks up on the trek, but really it is the ideal trekking temperature. Rainfall The later on in autumn that you decide to head to Sapa, the more chance you have of avoiding the rain. From about 320mm in September to barely 40mm in December, the anger of the summer clouds subsides and leaves Sapa in a calm, if occasionally wet, state of being. Sapa’s weather in autumn is just as unpredictable as it is in spring, so be ready with that poncho in case you see the clouds moving swiftly in. Visibility Views of the rice harvest are the prime reason to come to Sapa during autumn and this is why peak season prices and traffic are in full flow around Sapa Town. Getting out of Sapa Town and into nature, with its long, clear days with 4 or 5 hours of sunshine is a much better alternative. The sun really accentuates the gold of the rice and also provides some almost biblical scenery courtesy of the shadows it casts with occasional clouds. 3.2. What to do in Autumn in Sapa At this time of the year, Sapa gets back to its roots. There is no song-and-dance, no spectacle for tourists, just local people going about their local work in the fields, on the mountains or at the house. The idyllic scenes of the fields being tilled are quintessential Asia and trekking is the best way to see it all happen. Many Sapa trekking tours operate around this time, but the routes are rarely crowded due to the vast area that Sapa covers, meaning tourists have spread thinly around. Towards the middle of the season is absolutely the best time to visit Sapa for camping, an activity that ideally requires no rain, moderate temperatures and clear visibility, all of which are present during autumn. 4. Sapa Winter 4.1. December to Mid-February Sapa in winter conjures the most magical images for Vietnamese people about their homeland. The region is sometimes covered with a blanket of snow during its short winter, a complete novelty for the Vietnamese, many of whom have neither seen nor touched snow directly before. Visits to Sapa during winter are essentially solely for this, as snow never fails to get national news coverage and drum up big interest throughout the country. Winter in Sapa Temperature Usual lows of about 6 or 7°C (45°F) at this time are not uncommon, every so often dipping even lower during the night. With averages just about scraping double digits at 10 and 11°C (52°F), it’s a fair assessment to say that it’s pretty cold in Sapa in winter. The upshot, however, is that this puts a lot of tourists off, giving you much more freedom to frolic around the white rice paddies. Rainfall Snowfall in Sapa, no matter how romantic the image, is still a rare phenomenon. It is cold, drizzly rain that usually trickles languidly across the province, making treks pretty uncomfortable and camping experience a miserable experience. Though the averages of just about 40mm per month suggest a generally dry time, these rains often come in the form of a persistent sprinkle rather than in one torrent like the other months do, meaning they can last for hours. Visibility All that light sprinkling requires lots of grey clouds to carry it out. Towards the end of autumn, dark clouds like to shift over the Sapa landscape and settle in for the long haul. Just about 3 or 4 hours of sunlight a day over December and January means that Sapa becomes quite a dark place, with the fog sometimes settling about 15 feet from your face. Sapa is covered with fog 4.2. What to do in Winter in Sapa After such a dour assessment of Sapa in winter, you’ve probably written it off already. Honestly, you’d be right to do so, but if it’s the only time that you can go and you’re determined to make it work, then there are a few events towards the end of the season that you can try to catch to liven things up. Nowadays, due to global warming, the orchid and peach blossom starts towards the back end of winter and spectacular new blooms can be seen as early as January around Fansipan Mountain. If you’re lucky to catch this at the same time as the snow, then you’re in for a real photographic treat. The Giay hill tribe perform a ceremony called Roong Pooc in January to wish for a good harvest in the upcoming year. This comes in the form of a shuttlecock-throwing game followed by general festivities. Roong Pooc became so popular in the past that many other hill tribes around the region made their own versions, giving you many opportunities to see authentic hill tribe culture in Sapa.Now, if you eager to visit Sapa, what you're waiting for? Don't hesitate to contact Incredible Asia Journeys now!

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Sapa Tours From Hanoi

Sapa Tours From Hanoi

Sapa Tours from Hanoi is the best way for you who want to visit Sapa. Sapa Tours are the best tours when you visit North Vietnam. If you love adventurous travelling by hiking or trekking, Sapa Tours from Hanoi would be one of the best options for you. Joining Sapa Tours is the great way to know more enjoy the landscape and learn more about local life there. Travel to Sapa and you will see that is amazing to do it. Located at 350 km far north-west from Hanoi City Center, Sapa is the Capital of Lao Cai Province, where you could witness the most breathtakingly beautiful mountainous town in the north of Vietnam. Joining a tour in Sapa, you will have a valuable chance to communicate with the ethnic minorities here and gain a deeper understanding of their local life.How to get to Sapa from Hanoi?There are some ways for you to get to Sapa from Hanoi and it can be by bus, car or train. So what are the advantages and disadvantages of going by this kind of vehicles? You may find the answer for your question as below depending on your request, budget and interest.Bus to SapaTo join in any of Sapa Tours from Hanoi there are some different ways. As you may know, the bus is a common transportation that people choose to move from place to place with the best cost. From Hanoi City Center, you also could catch a bus to Sapa and it can be a day bus or a night bus depending on your schedule. It takes about 06 hours from Hanoi to Sapa (including the short break in a middle way). Normally, the price depends on the size, types or standard of the buses, Limousine or just normal bus, sleeper bus or soft seat bus.You could travel by a night bus to Sapa with Inter Bus Lines at 22:30 pm and arrive at 03:50 am next day, the pick-up point is at 110A Tran Nhat Duat Street. You also could go with Hung Thanh bus at 19:00 pm or 20:00 pm and the pick-up point is at Gia Lam Station (it takes about 30 minutes away from The Old Quarter). Almost the buses will depart at 07:00 in the morning with the pick-up point in the Old Quarter and arrive Sapa at 13:00. You could also request the bus to pick you up at your hotel; however, the pick-up time will be earlier at around 06:15 – 06:30 then the buses will go to the meeting point for departing.Bus to SapaTrain to SapaThe second choice for you to get to Sapa is an overnight train to Sapa from Hanoi. Some people want to have an interesting experience with the train in Vietnam to enjoy the beautiful sceneries both side of the train while travelling. Furthermore, some people also believe an overnight train to Sapa is more comfortable and safer than travelling by bus or car.Schedule and price for overnight train to for your and of Sapa Tours from Hanoi: There are 4 main sleeper train schedules leaving from Hanoi Center at Tran Quy Cap Station gate (the western entrance of Hanoi Railway Station): SP1 at 21:10 arrive at 05:25, SP3 at 21:50 arrive at 06:15, SP5 at 19:40 arrive at 04:20 and SP7 at 20:35 arrive at 04:55. You will spend 8 hours and a half on a train from Hanoi to Lao Cai Station then transfer about almost an hour from Lao Cai station to Sapa Town by private car or bus.  Along the way, there are many beautiful sceneries of mountain ranges for you to take some photos as well. With those schedules, you may use some good operators with more private cabins (2 berths or 4 berths) include Livitrans, Sapaly, Fansipan, King Express, Chapa Express, Orient Express or Victoria Express with the higher price. For standard cabin is from USD30$ - USD40$/way ticket and for the luxury cabin is from USD80$- USD150$.Comparing to the other train in Vietnam the train to Sapa has different choices from the standard train to luxury train for you to choose. Enjoy your Sapa trip by experiencing a train.Night train to SapaPrivate car/van to SapaIf you travel with a group, family or even you just want to have your own private area, Doing a Sapa Tour with a private car/van would be the third option for you to get to Sapa. You will have more space to put your luggage along with you or chitchat with your companions. Especially if you are a businessman, the private car for your Sapa Trip is a good choice to get to Sapa if you want to work on the way if you have to.You could book the private car with your travel consultant. The driver just can understand simple sentences enough to communicate with you. The price depending on how long you will stay in Sapa and how much you do the trip in Sapa but we advise to use the package tour with a tour guide for more convenience. Normally the price includes the parking fee, petrol, tolls fee. The duration of the private car would be around 5.5 hours and it is almost the same as the bus. You could leave at 07:30 am or 08:00 am from Hanoi for a good tour schedule but that depends on your schedule. So how to get to Sapa depends on your budget, needs and your interests of experience.Private car/van to SapaSapa Tours from Hanoi ItinerarySapa Tours by bus/ Luxury Van/ Private carFor your convenient duration, you could consider Sapa Tour 2 days 1 night by bus or Sapa Tour 3 days 2 nights as well. It doesn’t matter if you travel by bus or private car, you should be ready in the morning to start Sapa trips. If you travel by bus to Sapa, you could request a pick-up at your hotel and they will come to pick you up at around 06.15 am – 06.45 am depending on each bus and their schedule as well. If you travel to Sapa by private car, the tour guide and driver will come at around  07:30 am to pick you up for the transfer from Hanoi to stunning Sapa. Otherwise, you could just go with driver and you will meet your tour guide in Sapa upon your arrival. Duration to get to Sapa by private car/van takes approximately 5-6 hours on the highway. You will have a short break in a middle way. Popular Sapa Tours:Sapa Tours 2 days 1 night:Sapa Tours 2 days 1 night is an option for many clients visiting Sapa by or by train. The first day will be easier, after arriving Sapa Town, you will check in at your hotel then visit Cat Cat Village- one of the age-old villages of H’Mong ethnic minority with their specific customs and daily activities. It is a good time for you to take some photos here, talk to the local and have a remarkable experience.  After finishing Cat Cat village exploration, you will come back to your hotel, take a rest and spend your free time in the evening to discover the town of Sapa. There are several restaurants with the special dishes such as Clamped-under-the-armpit pig, Meo Cabbages, Salmon in Sap. Nevertheless, barbecued stick meat, fish, and veggies on the street are the attraction to travellers who visit Sapa. The more time you spend on discovering about the place, the more special things you see. The second day of Sapa Tours you may spend your time on trekking to Lao Chai and Ta Van villages where Black H’Mong and Zay hill tribes live. You could have a chance to trek along local paths and enjoy the wonderful view of the terraced rice paddy fields on the way. Lao Chai and Ta Van Villages are located in Muong Hoa Valley – one of the most spectacular villages where offered you the gorgeous panorama views facing by the river and backed by the mountain. Here you will absolutely relax and commune with nature by feeling the fresh air, see their tribal life, interact with ethnic minorities. In the afternoon around 15:00, you will get back to your bus private car to go back to Hanoi. You finish the Sapa Tours 2 days 1 night.Terrace rice paddy field in SapaSapa Tour 3 days 2 nights:In case you choose Sapa Tour 3 days trip, you can stay overnight in Sapa hotel or homestay then you will have one more day in Sapa for visiting Ma Tra Village, Silver Waterfall or Fansipan Peak with the cable car to admire the most breathtaking of “The Roof of Indochina”. Sapa Tours days trip will bring you the best experience for learning about the local life on the mountainous area.Sapa tours by trainAs mentioned before, if you would like to have a unique experience of transportation while enjoying a Sapa tour in Vietnam, travelling by train is a good option for your trip to Sapa. Different from a bus/private car, the night train will depart at around 21:30 so you have to move from your hotel to the Hanoi Railway Station at 20.30 for check-in. Travelling by train to Sapa will give you the bumpy feeling but it is safer and you will have experience on the local train in Vietnam. You will arrive at Lao Cao Station at around 05:00, our tour guide will pick you up, and transfer to Sapa Town by private car (estimated 35 km). Along the way, there are many beautiful sceneries of mountain ranges for you to take some photos. It is very flexible with the itinerary for Sapa, similar to bus or private car, you could do the Sapa Tour 2 days 1 night or Sapa Tour 3 days 2 nights. You may trek to Cat Cat, Lao Chai- Ta Van Villages or Ham Rong (Dragon Jaw Mountain) or Ma Tra Villages – a rural village that less touristic like the others. There are nearly 50 homes living here and most of them are the H’ Mong tribe minority people. Your tour guide may take you to see the small primary school meet little children here and you will have time discovering the village and have an overall view of the tribal culture and custom. They earn their living by using their craft such as carving silver; weaving brocade, silk and some of them make decorated cloth to sell on the main street in the centre of Sapa.  You will have an opportunity to learn about their living by growing rice and corns on terraced fields, make traditional handicrafts or cotton cultivation and unique fabrics. Sapa tours by train is a popular choice for many clients from long time ago because in the past it was the best way or doing a Sapa Tour from Hanoi.Love Market in SapaSapa Accommodation for Sapa tripHotels in SapaOne important part of your Sapa trip must be accommodation. There are a hundred hotels in Sapa, hostels, resorts, and homestays from standard to luxury service. You could find good hotels, Sapa Dragon, U Sapa, Sapa Legend Hotel & Spa to the Luxury resort include Sapa Highland Resort, Topas Ecolodge, Jade Hill Resort & Spa, Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa, Spa Victoria Sapa, etc. Each hotel in Sapa has air-conditioning, hot water, and all the services as same as a hotel in the city with the splendid view to the mountain of Sapa would be a great choice for you to relax after your long day trip.Hotel in SapaSapa HomestayBesides hotels, another option for those who do not want to avoid the noise from the street and want to stay in the village with local people is the homestay in Sapa. Nowadays, many travellers when visiting Sapa stay in Sapa homestay. Homestay could be in Ta Phin Village, Ta Van Village or Lao Chai Village depends on the itinerary. With the homestay in Sapa, you will have a valuable opportunity to know more about the local’s daily life, listen their sharing about how they could earn their living in and learn more about the cultural diversity of the village local and other hills tribes living nearby while helping them to prepare and enjoy the dinner with. Staying in Sapa homestay would be an unforgettable memory because you will feel their warmest hospitality and friendliness from the host and atmosphere like your family. This definitely different from the hustle of city life or in Western countries. Enjoy your Sapa trip with the Sapa homestay.Sapa Homestay

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