Out of many ways to explore the fanciful town in fog, Sapa trekking has been ranked first in the best activity to immerse the wildness of Sapa.
Why Sapa trekking?
Sapa is known as one of several must-go destinations in Vietnam. Hence it attracts flongs of tourists daily. Tourism has been a prominent industry in Sapa, turning this town into a travel hub that somewhat blurs out the local authenticity. That’s why trekking is the best option to get off the crowded tourist track and experience the natural beauty of Sapa.
What to expect during the Sapa trekking
Beautiful landscape
Sapa has one of the most thrilling trekking tracks in Vietnam. Hiking the hill country through remote villages would be an unforgettable experience for anyone. Terraced fields are cascading down the steep valleys, natural wildlife, cotton clouds floating through the rugged mountains, superb valleys that end with endless rivers… All these picturesque sceneries will definitely wow you in every single step you go.
The weather affects a lot on Sapa trekking experiences. It would undoubtedly be ideal for grasping the superb panoramic view of Sapa on a bright and clear day. The best time for trekking is mid-autumn, around harvesting time in late September and early October. You should avoid winter and the rainy season starting from June to September as the road gets muddy and dangerous for trekking.
Hill-tribe villages and minorities’ culture
Sapa is home to Dao and H’Mong people. On the trek, you will hike through remote villages and explore the vibrant life of these ethnic minority groups. Most multiple-day tours offer a stayover at local homestay so you can learn about local cuisine, costumes, marriage tradition, and house building techniques.
Where to stay in Sapa
Sapa Homestay
Staying in a local homestay is a great experience. Nevertheless it is not a suitable option for everyone. Don’t expect a stilt house to be well-equipped and hygienic. If you travel in a group, you may have to sleep all together in one room. However, there have been many tourist-based homestays offering pleasant accommodation while still maintaining Sapa house’s authentic style.
AA Vietnam Travel Recommended:
1. Tavan Riverside Ecolodge
Price: 25USD- 60USD/ room/night
Located in Ta Van Village, Ta Van Riverside Ecolodge provides cozy shelter and free Wi-fi, garden and spacious guest lounge. There are many dining choices from Vietnamese cuisine to European courses served in their restaurants.
2. Little View Homestay
Price: 13USD – 20USD
Little View Homestay is located 3 minutes from Sapa Cathedral. You can enjoy a great panoramic mountainous view from the terrace. Little View Homestay offers trekking tours or motorbike tours and other touristic activities.
3. Luckydaisy Buffalo House
Price: 22 USD – 56 USD
A lovely homestay in Ta Van Giay village that display authentic style of Hmong House. You will be welcomed by the friendly host who offer you homemade meals and enthusiastically introduce you to awesome local activities around.
4. Sapa Eco Bungalows & Spa
Price: 20 USD – 82 USD
Sapa Eco Bungalows & Spa boast impressive natural beauty with a lovely balcony – a perfect spot to have breakfast in the morning. The breath-taking view of paddy fields in the middle of Ta Van Village will refresh you mind and body.
Do you need a tour guide to Sapa trekking?
For a short trip, you can trek without a guide. All you need to do is looking up carefully the road map and attractions you want to visit. However, AA Vietnam Travel still recommends that you sign up for a guided Sapa trekking tour to avoid unexpected scamming or the possibility of getting lost in this mountainous area. Most tour guides in Sapa are local people, so they know everything about Sapa, from hidden paths to every patch of fields. They will assure you experience the best cuisine and accommodation in Sapa.
Sapa trekking tours
There are many kinds of Sapa trekking tours available to register in Ha Noi and Sapa. Most tours will lead your exploration to villages around Sapa town, the most popular of which are Cat Cat, Ta Van, or Ta Phin village. You only need to determine if you want to trek for one day or multiple days.
Sapa trekking tours usually last for one day or up to 3 days. A 4-day tour always includes your travel package from Ha Noi to Sapa, so make sure to check your itinerary before applying. If your endurance is limited and you want to take a glimpse at Sapa nature and then return to your hotel comfortably, a one-day tour is perfect. It provides enough time to watch beautiful terraced fields and indigenous villages.
However, if you are into more adventurous treks, AA Vietnam Travel recommends going for two-day one-night trekking for the best experience. The second day of trekking is the most beautiful because the landscape is becoming more impressive as you will meet fewer tourists. Besides the beautiful rice fields, you can take a stroll through the forest and stay longer in remote villages. You will be warmly welcomed by a local family to stay the night and experience a delicious home-made dinner.
AA Vetnam Travel offers reliable Sapa trekking tours to discover the best Sapa has to offer from just 202usd/pax
- Specular Sapa packages 4 days
- Trible market & Sapa Trek tour 4 days
- Hill Tribe & Rice Terraces 2 days
Some notices on your Sapa trekking trip
What to pack
When you are ready for your Sapa trekking trip, you must ensure that you have prepared the following:
- A good pair of walking shoes
- Raincoat
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Anti-bugs spray
- Medication for minor wounds, some blisters of medicines for treating illnesses like flu, diarrhea, and fever
- Camera with a backup battery
- Extra clothes
Also, you shouldn’t bring too many things. A lightweight backpack will make your long hours hiking much more comfortable.
Some tips to make the trip more enjoyable
- Locals, mostly children, and elders, often invite you to buy things along your trek. This can be uncomfortable for you. You only need to decline if they try to sell politely.
- Do not give children money and presents if asked.
- Please do not take photos of local people without their permission.
