About 376km from Hanoi, Sapa is a small mountainous town (Lao Cai Province) in Northwest Vietnam. Sapa is famous for its spectacular natural landscapes as well as the fascinating diversity of ethnic groups and cultures.
The most well-known attraction in the area is Fan Si Pan- the top of Indochina and also the country's highest peak (at 3143m high). The mountain is accessible all year round, you can get there by Fansipan cable car ( it takes only 15 mins) or 2-3 days hiking :blush:
Weather in Sapa: Locating in the mountainous area so the weather is pretty cool with temperatures of around 15°C to 20° ( 7°C to 8°C in the winter season) and humidity is from 75 percent to high of 91 percent. Winter here (especially in Jan) is cold, foggy, wet or even snowy. The weather can change very fast.
Recommended time to visit: March to May and from September to November when the weather is warmer with stable sunny days.
How to get to Sapa from Hanoi? A few differrent ways by motorbike ride, bus ride, car rental or train.
O Quy Ho View is known as one of the four stunning passes of Northwestern Vietnam, definitely a must-visit when visiting Sapa. This is truly a scenic road trip for adventurous seeker. You will be immersed in the majestic mountain view, the vast sky, floating clouds, and beautiful terraced rice fields when driving along the pass. Be aware as it is above 2000 meters so the temperature might change quickly and get cold easily.
Ta Van Village locates at the foot of a mountain and is about 15 kilometers away from Sapa town in the direction of southeast. My friend and I drove to the village instead of trekking due to the weatheres but it was still beautiful. The village is a ideal destination to experience the local life, culture and great handicrafts. People is very friendly and hospitable.
Exploring by foot around town is really fantastic and great way to meet the local people and try delicious foods. There are numerous coffee, flower and handmade shops. A few attractions in town totally worth visiting like the Notre Dame Cathedral of Sapa, Cat Cat village, Ham Rong mountain and Sapa Lake.
Town Center
Sapa Lake
Ham Rong
According to Tripadvisor,"Sapa is one of the top 10 most attractive destinations in Vietnam". Even I visited Sapa at not right season but still stunning. There are many breathtaking trekkings that I have not done. I love this place and I'm sure I will be back here and spend more time exploring all.