Top 21 Best things to do in Sapa, Viet Nam
As a small town in Lao Cai, the northwest province of Vietnam, but Sapa is full of intriguing places to see and things to do. Here you can find stunning mountain vistas, lush rice terraces, and distinctive ethnic minority villages. To help you get the most out of your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the top best things to do in Sapa.
Let’s take a look at the list below.
>>> You may like to read more: What is the Best Time to Visit Sapa? Recommendation from Local View
What to SEE & DO in Sapa
Explore local villages
Basically, Sapa consists of a number of small local villages dispersed throughout the mountains.
This means that if you want to get away from Vietnam’s cities and experience something a little more rural, this is the place to go.
You can also choose to stay in a local village as a homestay experience allows you to experience local life which has been for hundreds of years.
Although not everyone can enjoy staying in homestays, for those who had the chance to try it, this is undoubtedly the best part of their trip to Vietnam.
>>> Read more: Ta Van Village in Sapa: Get Lost in the Peaceful Village
Suggested tours:
Go on a trek in Sapa
Many trekkers have been drawn to Sapa over the past 30 years by its breathtaking scenery.
Trekking in Sapa, therefore, is a must-do activity when you visit this mountainous area, which is regarded as an undiscovered paradise for adventurous travelers. You can walk through lush rice fields and visit the communities of ethnic minorities around the town, which is a challenging but fascinating experience.
You have the option of doing it with or without a local guide. However, to save you time and effort, we suggest getting a local guide. The local guides can assist you in having a safer and more enjoyable journey because they have knowledge of the weather, terrain, and popular tourist spots.
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Trekking to Fansipan mountain
Fansipan, located in Vietnam, is the largest peak in the Indochina region (Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos), and is often referred to as the “Roof of Indochina.” This peak, which belongs to the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and rises to a height of more than 3 kilometers (3147 ft), draws a lot of tourists and trekkers. A medium-difficulty path requires 3-5 days to get to the top. These treks, which are planned by travel agencies, include overnight stops both close to the summit and along the way.
There is a complex garden with bronze sculptures, stone walkways, ancient rhododendron trees and the 20-meter high Buddha statue – the largest statue in Vietnam. In addition, after climbing up a series of steps to the top of Mount Fansipan, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the cloud-covered peaks.
Take the Fansipan cable car
Those who can’t handle the challenge of trekking across rugged terrain can view some of the stunning rice terraces and mountainous landscape by riding the cable car on Fanxipan Road.
Fanxipan Road is a lengthy, curving road with a steep incline. After the extended row of shops, the view of the surrounding mountains and valley, along with some terraced crops becomes more prominent. Therefore, taking a cable car to Fansipan and admiring the stunning scenery is one of the best things to do in Sapa besides trekking and visiting the villages
Visit Cat Cat village
Cat Cat village is one of the oldest villages in the Sapa region and also known as the homeland of the H’mong ethnic group.
There is a long tradition of weaving in the village and it is also well-known for its traditional practices including linen and cotton production.
Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about these traditional techniques and engage in H’mong culture.
>>> Read more detailed: Cat Cat Village Sapa – The most beautiful village in the Northwest Vietnam
Climb to Ham Rong mountain
Ham Rong Mountain is a well-known tourist destination covering an area of around 150 hectares and is regarded as the most spectacular mountain park in Sapa. As you ascend the higher stairs, you’ll find more breathtaking views, including the peach garden, orchid garden, cloud yard and heaven gate.
Aside from seeing innumerable rocks with unique shapes, Ham Rong Mountain also offers the chance to discover a diversity of vegetation. Every season of the year, this location has a distinctive color but the best season to travel is spring. At that time, a variety of flowers are in full bloom with vibrant hues and enticing scents
>>> More about: Ham Rong Mountain Sapa: All You Need To Know
Visit Tram Ton pass
If you want to enjoy more breathtaking landscapes in Sapa, you need to follow the Sapa – Lai Chau road and then turn into Tram Ton pass.
Situated at a height of roughly 1900 meters above sea level, Tram Ton is the highest pass in VietnamHere, there are a number of observation sites with fantastic views of the surroundings, and you can also combine the excursion with a visit to Silver Falls nearby.
Explore Silver waterfall – Thac Bac waterfall
Silver Waterfall is one of the famous waterfalls in Sapa. This is a cluster of white water tiers flowing from the height of 200 meters, making it the name “Silver Waterfall”.
- Read more about: Thac Bac Waterfall Sapa: A must-see attraction in Sapa
Right on the road from Silver Waterfall, Love Waterfall is a place linked to a local legend.
As you meet the locals, you can hear the legend of fairies who used to bathe there. Even though it takes a while to walk to both waterfalls, the breathtaking scenery is well worth it.
Explore Muong Hoa valley
The Muong Hoa Valley is one of Sapa’s gems traversed by the Hoa stream, which also passes through the towns of Han Thao and Tan Van.
From Sapa, you can join a tour that will take you through the beautiful valley and let you see the rock drawings, which are thought to be around 3,000 years old.
If you descend to the valley’s floor, you can walk alongside Hoa stream.
>>> You may like to read more about: Muong Hoa Sapa Valley: Explore Hidden Eden in Northwest Vietnam
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Watch the Ta Phin commune church singing
You will get the chance to witness “church singing,” one of the most interesting traditional beauty of the ethnic people, if you visit Ta Phin village in the first few weeks of spring. On this occasion, locals and visitors to the area will go to Ta Phin commune to witness the region’s traditional wedding ceremony and take in the excellent singing.
In Lao Cai province, marriages are still prearranged for the majority of ethnic minorities. The bride and groom will accompany the procession to the village during church singing. Young men and women will perform certain spiritual rituals while singing and dancing. The most intriguing aspect of this event is the presence of national costumes with a wide variety of patterns and hues, which will create an amazing and beautiful scene
Admire the terraced rice fields
In addition to being a great place to escape the summer, Sapa draws tourists who want to take in the breathtaking beauty of the terraced fields that line the mountainside. Due to its steep characteristics and fertile soil, local ethnic minorities cultivate rice and make beautiful terraced fields.
It is highly recommended that you take a stroll around these rice fields so that you can learn about the local way of life, take in the stunning surroundings, and snap wonderful images.
These terraced fields look like an amazing scene of nature from a distance, with breathtaking beauty that entices people to stay for a while. The colors of rice fields change with the seasons with a fresh green at the beginning of a new crop and golden rice as it nears harvest.
You can book a guided tour from Sapa that will take you to the famous terraced fields. You then just need to admire the landscape and learn how the locals farm and harvest rice.
>>> Get your own Customized Itinerary for FREE <<<
Hotline/What’s app: + 84 974 805 797
Explore Sapa by motorbike or bicycle
In addition to trekking in Sapa, it is also fun to explore the area by motorbike or mountain bike.
In comparison to trekking, riding a motorbike will allow you to travel considerably further afield and away from Sapa’s touristy spots.
There are some beautiful roads, but it is preferable to ride a motorbike in the back with a local guide if you lack driving confidence or experience.
>>> Suggested tour: Sapa 2 Days Tour by Motorbike: 1Day Trekking & 1Day Motorbike
Visit Sapa church
In Sapa town, the Holy Rosary Church, also referred to as the Stone Church, is a spectacular landmark. This Catholic Church, which was built by the French in 1930, is still a beautifully designed place of worship.
Tourists can come to take pictures in the church yard and may buy some crafts sold there by ethnic minorities. If you’re a tourist wondering what free activities are available in Sapa Town, visiting the church should be at the top of your list.
Most interesting activities in Sapa
Overnight at a homestay
A homestay will round up your unique local minority adventure. Numerous homestays are available in Sapa and the nearby areas. The most unique experience is undoubtedly spending the night in a native mountain community. Although the lodging is frequently simple and lacking in amenities, the experience is fantastic!
In the evening, you can have dinner with the local family. Then end your day with a wonderful traditional herbal bath or drinking rice wine with them. It will definitely be one of experiences you will never forget.
The ideal option combines a multi-day trip with an overnight homestay. For instance, if you go trekking for two days, you might spend the night at a local homestay before continuing your trip the next day to off-the-beaten-path locations.
Join the H’mong sewing class
The Sapa H’mong ethnic community is well-known for its weaving and needlework.
If you want to experience this firsthand, you can visit Indigo Cat, one of the most popular craft shops in town.
You can enroll in a sewing class here, where local H’mong people will instruct you on how to make your own crafts.
In addition, you can also stop by the stores to purchase some of the items on display, such as lovely textiles and other delights like tea and regional spices.
Shop at Sapa local market
If you want to experience traditional shopping in Sapa, let’s visit Sapa Market, which is conveniently situated 1 kilometer from the town center and close to the local bus station.
Here you can find a colorful assortment of regional products in addition to a fresh meat court that is undoubtedly not for the weak of heart.
Some crafts made by ethnic people who reside in the areas around Sapa are also available here.
All visitors should include a tour of the market on their bucket list of things to do in Sapa.
Take a cooking class
You will have the chance to learn from a H’mong chef who will accompany you to the local market. It will be great because you can learn everything about the traditional ingredients used in Vietnamese cuisine when going with him.
The majority of classes include learning how to prepare five regional dishes. Then you can enjoy your food with some regional wine in the dining area.
Enjoy Sapa specialties at Sapa food court
Travelling wouldn’t be complete without trying the greatest regional cuisine. The Sapa food court is a terrific place to get the widest range of culinary experiences since it is a gastronomic paradise with a variety of cuisines and flavors.
This area is crowded with booths offering delectable meals at affordable costs. You will undoubtedly feel full after eating eggs, grilled sweet potatoes, grilled meat, etc. before you leave. And to enhance your food experience in Sapa, you should accompany your friends.
Have a drink at Café in the clouds
One of the great highlights of a trip to Sapa is the chance to take in the lush scenery surrounding, and there’s no better way to do this than with a drink at one of the mountain bars.
Cafe in the Clouds is one of the most well-known cafes in Sapa. Like its name suggests, you can spend some time here appreciating the views over the emerald green valley below with the mist creeping into the scenery.
Here, you may enjoy a few common local and foreign dishes and drink a range of beverages; Wi-Fi is also available
Enjoy seven-color sticky rice of the Nung Dinh people
Seven-color sticky rice is a specialty of Nung Dinh people. The dish was initially created to be offered to ancestors as a prayer offering for a successful harvest and a prosperous life. Each color of sticky rice has a special meaning.
To make different colors, local women use a range of herbs and leaves from the forest, as well as some of their ancient techniques. Eating this dish, according to the Nung Dinh, will bring you good fortune. Due to its appealing appearance and distinctive flavor, this dish is favored by many tourists.
Enjoy hot pot meals
Due to its high altitude, Sapa’s weather can occasionally be substantially cooler than that of other regions of Vietnam.
So, if you need to warm up yourself, you might go to one of Sapa’s renowned Hot Pot establishments.
Vietnamese people enjoy this and it is regarded as a local delicacy in the town. A straightforward yet nourishing dish, the hot pot consists of stewed meat, then subsequently cooked with regional vegetables like cabbage and mushrooms.
There are still many other exciting things to do in Sapa town but the top things to do in Sapa are highlighted in the list above. Please let us know of any other worthwhile suggestions so that we can share them to other travelers.
