EventsWelcome To Sapa
Location: Sapa Vietnam
Sapa is located in Lao Cai Province, about 350 km northwest of Hanoi, close to the Chinese border. Traveling to Sapa to discover the north mountainous area of Vietnam with the Hoang Lien Son range of mountains, which includes Fan Si Pan—the country’s highest peak.
Ethnic groups in Sapa Vietnam
This small Vietnamese town is home to different ethnic tribal groups. There are five main ethnic groups in Sapa: t
- Hmong,
- Dao,
- Tay,
- Giay,
- and Xa Pho
Sapa Landscapes
The landscape of Sapa Vietnam is known to be so beautiful with its mountains, waterfalls, green forests, flowers and harmonious layout that it has been a constant source of poetic inspiration.
Overlooking a beautiful valley, with lofty mountains towering over the town on all sides, the spectacular scenery that surrounds Sapa includes cascading rice terraces that spill down the mountains like a patchwork quilt offering great opportunities for photos of a lifetime.
Sapa is highly recommended for those who plan to travel to Vietnam.
Although Sapa is a small town, it abounds with fascinating activities and captivating sights to explore. The question “What to do in Sapa” is frequently asked by many first-time visitors. While on your journey, you will encounter breathtaking mountain scenery, verdant rice terraces, and unique villages inhabited by diverse ethnic minorities, crafting an unforgettable and extraordinary adventure. From hiking to waterfall-hopping, here are the 16 best things to do in Sapa.
1. Take a cable car to Mount Fansipan
- Ticket price: 750,000 VND per adult and 550,000 VND per child
For adventure enthusiasts, conquering Fansipan Mountain – the highest peak in Vietnam, should be at the forefront of your What to do in Sapa list.
Taking a cable car to Mount Fansipan is the most convenient way to reach the summit, especially for those seeking an easier trek. The cable ride provides panoramic views of Sapa’s valleys, rice paddies and rugged mountains, adding an extra element of adventure to your trip.
2. Try canyoning at Love Waterfall
Every thrill-seeker should join the exciting rappelling adventure at Love Waterfall, led by experienced and knowledgeable guides. This daring activity promises a truly thrilling experience, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. However, the journey requires good physical endurance and determination, so make sure to train regularly before participating!
3. Enjoy the pristine beauty of nature in Silver Waterfall
Surrounded by lush greenery, Silver Waterfall or Thac Bac Waterfall offers a perfect retreat for those seeking a rejuvenating experience. The cascading waters glisten like silver in the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing sight to behold. Whether you choose to stroll along the scenic paths or immerse in the soothing ambiance, the Silver Waterfall promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of untouched nature.
4. Discover local villages
The villages are indispensable to every “what to do in Sapa” list. Cat Cat Village, Ta Van Village, Ta Phin Village, Lao Chai Village, Ban Ho Village, Sin Chai Village, Sau Chua Village, and Hang Da Village are the top-visited tourist attractions.
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Sapa’s rugged mountains, these villages provide an opportunity to fully immerse in the unique cultures of different Vietnamese ethnic minority groups.
5. What to do in Sapa? Go trekking
When it comes to Sapa, one of the must-do activities is trekking. The region’s blessed natural beauty makes it a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. There are various trekking routes catering to all levels of trekkers, from easy walks for beginners to challenging trails for seasoned adventurers.
Popular trekking trails in Sapa:
- Muong Hoa Valley
- Cat Cat – Sin Chai Village
- Lao Chai – Ta Van – Y Linh Ho Village
- Sa Seng – Hau Thao Village
- Ta Giang Phing Village
- Fansipan Summit
6. Discover ethnic cultures at the Sapa Museum
When it comes to understanding Sapa, particularly its people, cultural heritage and historical traditions of the local minorities, the Sapa Museum is the ultimate destination to visit.
This museum houses approximately 200 artifacts, models, numerous publications and documentaries about ethnic groups such as the Hmong, Tay, Giay, Xa Pho, Ha Nhi and Red Dao. Here, you can learn about the history of Sapa town, religious practices, culture and unique costumes of each ethnic group.
7. Take a motorbike tour
A motorbike tour in Sapa is an exciting and exhilarating choice for motorcycle enthusiasts. It offers the benefit of exploring off-the-beaten-path areas at your own pace while also saving costs.
Riding a motorbike not only allows you to capture stunning views but also offers the opportunity to explore some of the most scenic routes in the region. During your adventurous journey, you will be left in awe by the iconic Tram Ton Pass, the marvelous O Quy Ho Pass, and the picturesque terraced rice fields.
8. Visit Sapa Stone Church
Inspired by the French architectural style, the Sapa Church is the only remaining structure in Sapa that still preserves the soul and beauty of Catholic Architecture.
Visiting Sapa Stone Church offers various cultural activities, from exploring its unique architecture to witnessing local religious ceremonies. Its picturesque location amidst stunning surroundings also provides excellent photography opportunities and a peaceful retreat from the busy town.
9. Take awesome photos with the ancient Rock Field
The rock field is a good place to explore interesting history and take photos of its motifs. Located on Muong Hoa Valley’s steep mountain roads, the rock field consists of more than 150 different-sized boulders. Despite its unimpressive appearance from a distance, you will be captivated by the fascinating and beautiful patterns on the rocks’ surface. The carvings showcase 11 styles of unique human images, considered a significant heritage of mankind by scientists.
10. What to do in Sapa? Hunt clouds
In Sapa, cloud hunting is one of the most enchanting activities. With its elevated location amidst the rugged mountains, the town is often shrouded in a mystical veil of clouds, creating a mesmerizing and dream-like atmosphere. As you ascend higher into the misty hills, you will feel an otherworldly connection with nature and revel in the tranquility of the moment.
The most beautiful cloud-hunting spots in Sapa:
- Fansipan Mount
- Ham Rong Mount
- Pao’s Sapa Hotel
- Hang Da Village
11. Try Red Dao herbal baths
As a land of rare herbal medicines, the traditional Red Dao herbal bath is a unique experience in Sapa.
You will immerse yourself in a wooden bathtub made from Pomu wood. The bathwater is meticulously prepared with 77 different types of herbs, including 5 to 10 scarce herbs that the Red Dao people collect from the deep forests. This herbal concoction provides a relaxing experience, brings abundant energy, helps restore joints and bones, and detoxifies your body by eliminating toxins.
12. Walk across the glass bridge
- Ticket price: 400,000 VND per adult and 200,000 VND per child
If you are unsure about what to do in Sapa at night, consider trying the glass bridge journey. The bridge’s surface is positioned 60 meters away from the mountain wall, creating the sensation of being suspended in mid-air.
Standing on the glass bridge, you may experience a slight sensation of “butterflies in the stomach” as you look down at the deep abyss below. However, at the same time, you will feel a sense of joy and awe as you gaze into the distance, admiring the breathtaking scenery of Vietnam’s most impressive “Four Great Passes”.
13. Bath in the hot spring in Ban Ho Village
Bathing in the hot spring in Ban Ho Village is a rejuvenating experience, with soothing natural thermal waters providing relaxation and comfort. The distinctive aspect of this hot spring is its fluctuating water temperature at various times. When the natural environment is warm, the water becomes refreshingly cool. On cold days, the temperature decreases, and the hot spring water can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius.
14. Experience local cuisine – One of the best things to do in Sapa, Vietnam
Your trip will not be complete without savoring the finest local specialties. The cuisine in Sapa is characterized by a harmonious blend of various ethnic cultures, featuring flavorful dishes made from natural ingredients sourced from the mountainous region.
In your journey of exploration, do not miss out on Sapa’s famous dishes like Thang Co (horse meat hot pot), Trau Gac Bep (smoked buffalo meat), Lau Ca Hoi (salmon hot pot), Com Lam (bamboo-tube rice), Xoi Ngu Sac (five-color sticky rice) and Ruou Tao Meo (Tao Meo wine).
15. Chill at chic bars and coffee stores at night
When the sun sets in Sapa, the town transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination, with its chic bars and cozy coffee shops welcoming visitors for a relaxing and enjoyable evening.
For the young and adventurous souls, there are several must-visit spots that should not be missed, including The Hmong Sisters, Bebop Bar, Dao Cafe, Mountain Bar & Pub, and the Night Market. These hotspots offer a unique blend of local culture and modern vibes, making them perfect for mingling with fellow travelers and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
16. What to do in Sapa? Go shopping for local handicrafts
In Sapa and its surrounding areas, you will find various local markets where you can purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs. Here, you will find many small shops selling handmade items like musical instruments, leather bags and locally designed goods, showcasing unique skills.
For an authentic and fascinating shopping experience, you should head to the truly local markets in small villages. There, you can find the most authentic and beautiful products at reasonable prices. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to meet the artisans behind the creations and support their craftsmanship.
