Situated amongst the peaks of the Hoang Lien Mountains in the northern province of Lao Cai, Sapa is a charming town that is host to some of the most beautiful and captivating landscapes in Vietnam. Its history dates back to the early 20th century, when the French were attracted to the area due to its perfect climate and picturesque views.

Its popularity has grown over the years, as more and more travelers flock to experience the unique culture, scenery and food. From trekking to overnight homestays, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. Whether you’re hiking to the top of Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam, or exploring the terraced rice paddies or vibrant markets, there’s something for everyone. Read on to discover the top 7 things to see and do in Sapa.

Top 7 Things to See and Do in Sapa

1. Trekking Fansipan: Known as the “roof of Vietnam,” Fansipan is the highest mountain peak in the country, and an arduous trek to the summit is an experience not to be missed.

2. Explore the Rice Terraces: The rolling hills of the terraced paddies are a beautiful sight to behold and are a great way to get lost in the stunning nature of Sapa.

3. Experience a Homestay: Sapa is home to many ethnic minorities, and staying with a local family can be a great way to experience a unique insight into their culture and learn about pre-Vietnamese customs.

4. Visit Ham Rong Mountain: A colorful and vibrant garden at the peak of the mountain, it’s a great spot for bird watching and is a fantastic location for epic photographs!

5. Explore Silver Waterfall: The cascading waters of this falls make for a peaceful boost to your holiday and a great spot to take a break.

6. Night Market: The vibrant market at night includes plenty of delicious food stalls and quirky souvenirs to take home.

7. Cat Cat Village: This tiny old village is host to traditional houses and is a great place to learn more about the Hmong hill tribe culture.

Taste the Delights of Sapa

Sapa is home to a unique mix of influences, and the food scene reflects this. For lunch, the popular dishes are dishes such as the Hmong Minced Pork Baguette, a different take on the classic Banh Mi, or the Rice Noodle Soup, a hearty mix of noodles, vegetables and spices. Street food is also a great way to experience something different.

Feeling brave? Then why not try some of the local delicacies such as bamboo worms and water bugs! However, if that’s not your thing then there are plenty of delicious vegetarian options such as Spring Rolls and Hot Pot.

Unique Things to Know About Sapa

Sapa may be known for its fantastic views, but there’s more to the area than meets the eye. Here are some unique things you may not know:

  • The temperatures in Sapa can be quite extreme, so it’s important to bring the right clothing!
  • Sapa is said to be home to some of the best coffee in the world, thanks to its unique terroir.
  • The landscape of Sapa is perfect for paragliding, so why not take to the skies and get a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery?

Getting to Sapa

Sapa can be accessed by train, bus or car. The nearest airport is in Lao Cai, which is a 2-hour drive away. From here, there are regular buses and trains to Sapa. You can also take a shared minibus from Hanoi, which takes around 6 hours.

Once in Sapa, you can hop on a motorbike taxi or book a tour to explore the sights nearby. Nearby cities such as Bac Ha, Mu Cang Chai and Sa Pa can be found on Tripfany and offer exciting opportunities to explore.

Let Tripfany Help You With Your Itinerary

At Tripfany, we’re passionate about helping you get the most out of your travels. From planning trips to providing destination information, we’re here to help make your vacation dreams come true. So why not let us help you plan your perfect holiday in Sapa?

We’ll work with you to create a trip tailored to your individual needs and desires, helping you make the most of your time in this beautiful city.