If you’re visiting Sapa on limited time, you’re probably looking for the best way to spend your time, and for this purpose we’ve collected a short list of the unique highlights of Sapa.
Rice Terraces
Terraced rice fields are a common sight in Northern Vietnam. They are a result of centuries of mastering techniques for farming on the often tough and rocky land of the mountain slopes.
Sapa, and especially Muong Hoa Valley are particularly famous for this practice, and rice terraces extend as far as the eye can see. In April and May, these fields turn a verdant green, so bright it almost hurts the eyes. Then in the following September, they turn a deep gold as harvest approaches. This makes these two periods some of the best times to visit Sapa.
Ban Pho Village
Ban Pho village is located not far from Bac Ha Town, and is populated by a H’mong tribe. While life here is simple, the warm and welcoming nature of the locals is sure to make you feel comfortable, and the surrounding highlands offers some of the best trekking in Sapa.
It’s also a great place to go to sample various local cuisine, such as Thang Co and corn wine.
Ta Phin Cave
Located roughly 12 kilometres from Sapa Town, Ta Phin Cave is a small cave located in a branch of the Hoang Lien Son range, measuring in at roughly 5 meters high and 3 meters wide.
The cave extends for 30 meters in the dark, which makes for an adventurous and exciting atmosphere. We recommend bringing good footwear for the cave, as the ground can be slippery.
Rose Valley
Rose Valley, named for the many rose plantations located there, is possibly the finest eco-tourism destination in all of Vietnam. The rose covered slopes and beautiful smell attracts many visitors, and the locals here have taken great care to make sure the tourism in their valley is environmentally and socially responsible.
Love Waterfall
Located roughly 4 kilometres to the north-west of Sapa Town, the waterfall is stunning and resembles a shining pyramid when hit directly by the sun. With a height of around 100 meters, the cascading water produces a deafening roar as it hits the rocks below.
The name is derived from a local love story featuring the waterfall, which we won’t spoil for you here as hearing it told from your local guide while at the waterfall is a lovely experience.
Ham Rong Mountain
Ham Rong Mountain rises high above Sapa and thus offers spectacular views of Muong Hoa Valley. Indeed, on a clear day, you might even be able to see all the way to China from here! As you climb up the mountain, you’ll be passing through a colourful landscape of flowers, before passing through the clouds and reaching the peak.
