2-Day trek in rice fields in Sapa
We trekked through stunning rice fields for two days in Sapa, delving into the region's rich culture and natural beauty. From the ancient farming traditions to the warm hospitality of ethnic villages, Sapa offered a perfect blend of cultural immersion and peaceful escape
Nestled in the misty mountains of northern Vietnam, Sapa town stands as a gateway to a realm of natural wonders and cultural treasures. Renowned for its breathtaking terrace fields that cascade down the slopes like giant green staircases, Sapa offers visitors a glimpse into the timeless beauty of rural Vietnam
Allow us to guide you on this adventure by providing all the necessary information for your trek through this stunning region of Vietnam
Hanoï
Hoi An
Hué
Ha Long
Ninh Binh
Sapa
Phong Nha
Hoh Chi Minh
Mui Né
Sapa Town: A Vibrant Cultural Hub
Sapa town emerges as a vibrant cultural crossroads, beckoning travelers with its unique blend of tradition and modernity. Situated approximately 6 hours away from the bustling capital of Hanoi, Sapa offers a refreshing escape from the urban bustle
As you step into Sapa town, you'll encounter an array of cozy cafes, boutique shops, and guesthouses, each offering a glimpse into the unique charm of Sapa
As the gateway to the majestic terrace fields that surround it, Sapa town serves as a launching pad for countless adventures into the rugged beauty of the countryside. Whether you're embarking on a trek through the terraced landscapes, exploring the hidden gems of nearby villages, or simply soaking in the panoramic views from the comfort of your accommodation, Sapa town is sure to leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Exploring the Surrounding Terrace Fields
Venturing beyond the town center, travelers are rewarded with the awe-inspiring sight of the terrace fields that define the landscape of the region. Among the most renowned areas are:
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Muong Hoa Valley: Known for its vast expanses of terraced rice fields, Muong Hoa Valley offers panoramic views that seem to stretch to the horizon. The valley is also dotted with traditional villages where visitors can experience the daily life of the ethnic communities.
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Ta Van Village: This village is renowned for its picturesque terraced fields and traditional stilt houses. Visitors can hike through the fields, interact with locals, and even participate in traditional activities such as rice planting or weaving.
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Cat Cat Village: Just a short trek from Sapa town, Cat Cat Village boasts some of the most stunning terrace fields in the region. The village is also home to the Hmong ethnic group, known for their vibrant culture and intricate handicrafts.
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Lao Chai Village: Situated in a picturesque valley, Lao Chai Village offers breathtaking views of terraced fields carved into the mountainsides. Here, travelers can immerse themselves in the rhythms of rural life and witness the timeless practices of farming passed down through generations.
Trekking in the rice fields in Sapa region
We chose to embrace the peaceful charm of Sapa's countryside, we opted to stay away from the busy city center. Our accommodation was nestled amidst the tranquil rice fields, promising us a special and authentic experience.
We picked Lao Chai Village as our base, which was right in the middle of the stunning landscapes, giving us a true taste of local life.
To make the most of exploring Sapa's gorgeous scenery, having a guide who knows the area well is key. They help you navigate the trails, showing you the best spots and sharing insights about the region.
Booking a full-day trek is simple through your homestay and usually costs between $15 to $20. Our guide was a friendly Hmong girl, and she led our small group of six, ensuring we had a fantastic time
During our adventure, we walked around 15 kilometers in seven hours, exploring Lao Chai Village and Ta Van Village
We saw beautiful small waterfalls and walked through lots of rice fields, each more beautiful than the last
Even though we walked quite a bit, the trek was fairly easy, so even beginners could do it. The paths were gentle, and we took our time enjoying the stunning scenery of Sapa's countryside
And don't forget to pack your sunscreen, water, and a hat to stay protected under the sun. And, of course, bring along your phone or camera to capture and immortalize those precious moments amidst Sapa's stunning landscapes.
Where to stay ?
We carefully selected accommodations that offered comfort and convenience. Our chosen stays enhanced our exploration and provided moments of relaxation throughout our adventure., below a selection of good stays for different budget :
Sapa : Sureleey Homestay ($) , Sapa relax hotel & Spa ($$), Pistachio Hotel Sapa ($$$)
Explore Sapa safely and efficienctly
By plane :
There is no airpot in Sapa, however you can land in Hanoï, which is 5 to 6h drive from Sapa
In Sapa, you'll find a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels with developped facilities to cozy guesthouses, both in the city center or on the coutryside of Sapa.
By Train :
it is possible to travel from Hanoi to Sapa by train. The journey offers a scenic route through Vietnam's countryside, providing travelers with a unique and comfortable way to reach Sapa. Trains depart from Hanoi's main railway station, typically in the evening, and arrive at Lao Cai station, which is the nearest station to Sapa. From Lao Cai, travelers can take a bus or taxi for the remaining distance to Sapa town, which is approximately 38 kilometers away. The train journey typically takes around 8-9 hours, depending on the type of train and its schedule. Travelers can choose from different classes of tickets, including soft sleeper, hard sleeper, and seat options, depending on their preferences and budget. Overall, taking the train from Hanoi to Sapa offers a convenient and picturesque way to experience the beauty of northern Vietnam.
You can purchase train tickets from Hanoi to Sapa through various methods:
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Online Booking: Several websites allow you to book train tickets online. Vietnam Railways (dsvn.vn) is the official website where you can check schedules, seat availability, and make reservations. Additionally, there are third-party booking platforms like Baolau (baolau.com) or 12go.asia, which offer similar services.
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Train Stations: You can buy tickets directly at the train stations in Hanoi. Visit the ticket counters, and the staff will assist you in choosing the train and class of ticket that best suits your needs.
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Travel Agencies: There are numerous travel agencies in Hanoi that offer ticket booking services for trains to Sapa. These agencies can help you arrange your tickets, often for a small fee, and may offer additional services like transportation to and from the train station.
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Hotels and Hostels: Some hotels and hostels in Hanoi also offer ticket booking services for their guests. Check with your accommodation provider to see if they can assist you in purchasing train tickets to Sapa.
When booking your tickets, it's advisable to do so in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as trains to Sapa can fill up quickly. Additionally, make sure to double-check the departure times and arrival stations to ensure a smooth journey.
By Car :
Traveling to Sapa by car is another option, offering flexibility and convenience for those who prefer a private mode of transportation or wish to explore at their own pace.
Renting a car in Vietnam is not as common as other modes of transportation like motorbikes or public buses, but it is still a feasible option
In Sapa, as in many parts of Vietnam, Grab is a popular ride-hailing app that you can use to book taxis, motorbike taxis (known as GrabBike), and car rides. Grab operates in Sapa and provides a convenient way to get around the town and its surrounding areas.
By Bus :
Using local buses is a convenient and cost-effective way to explore Sapa and its surroundings, allowing travelers to experience the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage while staying within budget.
In Sapa, as in many tourist destinations in Vietnam, there are numerous travel agencies that offer a variety of services to assist visitors in planning their trips. These agencies cater to both domestic and international travelers and provide a range of services, including tour packages, transportation arrangements, accommodation bookings, and more
you can therefore either go see directly the travel agencies in HanoÏ or Sapa to book your bus tickets, where you can try to negociate up to 20% the initial price, or you can directly use one of the fiable and most used website in Asia for transportation's tickets, 12go website, and this was our full transportation mean in Vietnam, a convenient and budget friendly way to travel around Vietnam
It is a popular online platform that provides information and booking services for transportation options in various countries, including Vietnam. On the 12go website, travelers can search for and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, flights, and other modes of transportation, making it convenient to plan and book travel arrangements in advance.
The 12go website offers a user-friendly interface where travelers can search for transportation options based on their preferences and travel dates. It provides detailed information on schedules, fares, routes, and availability, allowing travelers to compare different options and make informed decisions.
Discover Sapa cuisine and restaurants
Sapa's cuisine is a blend of local specialties and ethnic minority dishes, influenced by the region's diverse cultural heritage and abundant natural resources. Highlights include grilled meats, such as pork and chicken, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, as well as hearty soups like "thang co" and fragrant rice dishes. Wild vegetables and herbal teas add unique flavors
Here are some addresses you can try while in Sapa :
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($$) Little Sapa Restaurant: Try the Grilled Sapa trout and Thang Co (hearty soup).
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($$) Delta Restaurat: Enjoy the Grilled pork ribs with honey and lemongrass, and Bamboo rice.
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($) Vegetarian, Good Monrning Vietnam Restaurant: Taste the Stir-fried wild mushrooms with garlic and herbs, and Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich).
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($$) Sapa Lotus Restaurant: Savor the Grilled Sapa sausage, and Lemongrass chicken with rice vermicelli.
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($$) The Hill Station Signature Restaurant & Cafe: Indulge in the Red Dzao grilled pork with five spices, and Vietnamese hot pot with local herbs and vegetables.
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($$$) Green Valley Restaurant: Delight in the Grilled mountain goat with herbs, and Fresh spring rolls with shrimp and herbs.
