The Best Things to do in Sapa , Vietnam

This one-day tour of Sapa takes you on a trekking route through the remote villages of the Muong Hoa Valley. Along the way, you’ll learn about rice cultivation and life in the mountains.

Seeking a vacation of knowledge, excitement, and authentic cultural exchanges? Then this is the tour you need to experience! Spend the day traveling to and exploring Sapa Vietnam’s ethnic minority markets. They are a colorful exchange of customs and wares, and a highly unique experience.

Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy a hearty breakfast to start your day. Today’s hike begins with a peaceful walk along a quiet road from Nam Cang village, gradually leading you into stunning rice terraces—perfect for capturing beautiful photos of the surrounding landscape. If you’re visiting during the harvest or growing season, you’ll likely see locals using buffaloes to plow their fields, adding to the charm of the scene. The trail gradually becomes steeper as you approach Nam Nhiu village, home to the Red Dao ethnic minority. Here, you’ll have the chance to visit local houses and learn more about the unique culture of the Red Dao people. The women of this group are known for their intricate embroidery skills, and they traditionally shave their hair and eyebrows after marriage. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch in Nam Nhiu before continuing your trek along the mountainside, taking in the breathtaking views of the rice valley below. In Sin Chai, you’ll take a short walk along the road before veering onto a trail that winds through the valley. Your walk will end in Thanh Phu, where a car will transfer to Mai Chau Grade: Moderate trek Aprrox: 11 km hiking/ 5 hours; 5.5 hours driving.

After breakfast, your guide will meet you for a short transfer of around 5 km to Hau Thao village, where your trek begins. The first part of the trek involves a gentle ascent to the small Black H’mong village of Hang Da. From there, you’ll follow a mostly downhill path, enjoying stunning views of the high mountains and the deep Muong Hoa Valley on your left. After approximately two hours of trekking, you’ll reach Hau Chu Ngai, another Black H’mong village. The Black H’mong are the second largest ethnic group in the Sapa region, and here you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about their culture. Next, you’ll travel deeper into the valley, crossing the Muong Bo River before arriving at Thanh Phu village, home to the Tay minority. You’ll begin to notice cultural differences, such as the lighter-colored clothing worn by the Tay people. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the small village of My Son, inhabited by the Xa Pho people—one of the most remote and smallest ethnic groups in the Sapa area. Your journey will then take you to the tranquil Red Dao village of Nam Cang. As you explore the winding lanes, you’ll enjoy the peaceful, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere. Finally, you’ll check into your homestay to relax or, if you wish, visit Nam Cang village with your guide. Grade: Moderate Approx: 7 km walking/3 hours; 1.5 hours driving (~35KM).

Start your day with an early morning trek through the stunning landscapes of Sapa, immersing yourself in the rich culture of the hill tribe communities. Begin your journey in Lao Chai Village, home to the Black H’mong people, where you'll witness traditional stilt houses and terraced rice fields cascading down the mountainside. Continue your trek to Ta Van Village, a picturesque valley inhabited by the Giay ethnic group. Here, you'll have the opportunity to interact with locals, learn about their customs, and admire the breathtaking scenery. After a local lunch, head to Ta Phin Village, where the Red Dao people reside. Explore their unique herbal bathing traditions, visit a local home, and experience the serene beauty of the surrounding countryside. In the late afternoon, transfer by car to Lao Cai, where you'll board the overnight train back to Hanoi. Settle into your comfortable sleeper cabin and relax as the train winds its way through northern Vietnam, arriving in Hanoi early the next morning.