Lawrence has recently returned from a busy trip exploring everything that Vietnam has to offer. This is why the rolling green landscapes of Sapa left a lasting impression.
Sapa is a beautiful mountainous region located in northwestern Vietnam. Famed for its picturesque terraced rice fields, the region is a real rural highlight and well worth taking the half day journey (or overnight train) from Hanoi to get there. Here are my top 5 reasons to visit.
1. The incredible scenery
Whether you have clear skies or thick mist flooding through the valleys, the views and scenery in Sapa in Vietnam are spectacular. Lush green rice fields hug the sides of the mountains like contours on a map, and the bright flashes of colour from the clothes worn by the locals add to the spectacle.
2. Meeting the minority communities
There are several minority groups in the Sapa region and we were lucky enough to meet many of them. The most enjoyable experience was walking through Ta Giang Phinh Valley and meeting the Blue Hmong. As the adults worked in the fields, the children played and looked after one another. Unlike a few other minority groups in the area, this region is still completely unchanged by tourism, so it gave us a really authentic insight into the lives of the villagers.
3. Spending a few nights surrounded by it all
Although Sapa is a great base to explore the region from, it is currently undergoing a construction boom and more and more hotels are being built. I’d recommend staying at Topas Eco Lodge; this 3* property is about 90 minutes outside of Sapa town and has a 5* location. Located on the tip of the mountain ridge, there is nothing but greenery for miles.
4. A great place to hike and cycle
Sapa is northern Vietnam’s premier hiking destination and also one of the best places for cycling in the country. Whether you want to wander through the foothills for a few hours, or do some lengthier and more strenuous exploring, you’ll be able to enjoy the views as you travel between the small villages dotting the landscape.
5. The roof of Indochina
At 3,143m high, Mount Fansipan is the highest peak in all of Indochina. Until recently the only way to make the ascent was via a multi-day trek. However in 2016 the Fansipan Legend Cablecar was completed which gives you to access to the summit in under an hour. There are a few caveats about when to visit this attraction though as it can get rather busy. However if you are in Sapa on a clear weekday morning, the views on the way up are amazing.
Visit this beautiful region on our Golden Vietnam self-guided itinerary, or speak to our team about adding a stay here to your trip.
