Aerial View of the green stepped rice terraces in Sapa Vietnam

Sapa

“Stunning scenery of verdant rice terraces and colourful ethnic minority peoples”

Situated near the Chinese border, Sapa was originally established as a hill station by the French in 1922. Today, this mountain town is a popular destination known for its cool climate, stunning landscapes, and numerous ethnic minority groups.

Sapa is an ideal base for trekking and exploring the surrounding local villages. The key attraction in the town of Sapa is the main market where buyers and sellers from nearby villages converge, making it a great place to purchase souvenirs, try local food, and people watch.

WHY WE THINK YOU’LL LOVE IT

  • The mild climate in Sapa creates an ideal environment for trekking and mountain biking
  • Stunning landscapes of hills and rice terraces along with fresh mountain air offer a refreshing retreat from the big cities
  • Diverse groups of ethnic minority peoples including the Tay, Black H'mong, and the Red Dzao peacefully reside in this region
Within Easy Reach Of...
Bac Ha 3hr drive
Hanoi 5hr drive / 10hr train
Travel Tips
  • Mt Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam, can be reached by 12hrs of trekking or 20min by cable car
  • Visit villages of the Black H’mong, Tay, or Red Dzao ethnic minority peoples for a close-up experience of the local life
  • For an immersive experience, try a batik printmaking course in a Black H’mong village or a hot herbal bath in a Red Dzao village
  • Travel to the neighbouring town of Bac Ha (3hr drive) for the Sunday Market to witness one of the largest gatherings of ethnic minority peoples in the region

The Black Hmong women carry goods from the market as they return to their village

The quiet scenic roads out in the countryside are perfect for biking (Photo: Topas Ecolodge)

Colourful textiles are the trademark of Sapa, home to numerous ethnic minority peoples

From June to August, the rice fields in Sapa are vibrant green

Hotels We Recommend

Topas Ecolodge Sapa

Sapa, Vietnam

Suitable for:
Adventurers, Couples, Families, Romance
VIEW HOTEL

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