Top 11 Best Things Must Do In Sapa 2024

 

Below is the list of the best things to do in Sapa that you cannot miss. Also, there are tips on how to get there, where to stay, some information about the best time to visit Sapa, and insider tips to make the best of your trip to Sapa.

 

 

 

 

Things to know before visiting Sapa

 

You probably visit the first time and don't know all about Sapa, so here are some ideas for you:

 

• Where to stay in Sapa: There is plenty of accommodation in Sapa town, or you can stay in local homestays in Ta Van village.
• Sapa trekking tour: If you're interested in trekking and exploring the area but have a short time, I recommend you find some information about transportation and ticket from Ha Noi to Sapa to understand better.
• Travel insurance: Get travel insurance for support in case things go wrong. 

 

 

1. View the beautiful Muong Hoa Valley

 

 

One of the top 10 amazing places to visit in Sapa and famous for its untouched natural landscape and ethnic tribes, Muong Hoa Valley is an exciting Sapa attraction that deserves a visit.

 

When is the best time to visit Muong Hoa Valley?

 

The color of the valley changes throughout the year. From April to the end of May, the valley is lush green. Then, the tone gradually changes to a bright yellow towards the harvest time in September.

It's great to visit most months, except during the rainy season from July to August.

Read more: Top 20 Best Tourist Attractions To Vietnam 2024

 

Ancient stone area

 

It would be best if you didn't miss exploring the ancient stone area when visiting Muong Hoa. The area is recognized as a national heritage with the relics of old Vietnamese people.

Approximately 200 stones of different sizes are scattered around the valley, each carved with mysterious motifs. No one can explain their origin or meaning.

 

Although I didn't understand the stones' meaning when I saw them, it was still lovely to see some historical relics.

If you use a motorbike, the road to the ancient stone area is challenging, so be careful!

 

2. Stay at Topas Ecolodge

 

 

Located on a beautiful hilltop, Topas Ecolodge is one of the best places to stay in Sapa.

This hidden paradise provides an excellent getaway from your busy life while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings and excellent services.

 

3. Explore Lao Chai Ta Van villages

 

 

Similar to Cat Cat village, ethnic tribes inhabit the villages of Lao Chai and Ta Van. The area is located at the valley's base, with the majestic ranges of Hoang Lien Son on each side.

 

The terraced fields in Lao Chai–Ta Van have been around for hundreds of years and are maintained by the diligent hands of the local farmers.

Hundreds of hectares wide, the paddy fields' curving lines are impressive.

 

4. Ride along O Quy Ho Pass

 

 

O Quy Ho Pass is known as one of the most beautiful locations in Northern Vietnam.

While riding along this pass, you will be immersed in the majestic mountain scenery. Once at the highest point, you can touch the clouds. The locals call this place Heaven's Gate.

 

I stopped at a beautiful rose garden on my way to Heaven Gate. Sipping hot tea while admiring the view was an unforgettable experience.

Read more: Transportation In Vietnam: A Local Tourist's Guide

 

5. Visit Love Waterfalls

 

 

Located on the way to the peak of O Quy Ho Pass, Love Waterfalls is one of the highlights of Sapa. With a height of nearly 100 meters, Love Waterfalls is an example of poetic scenery.

The waterfall is located deep in the area of Hoang Lien National Park. To reach it, you need to follow a 1.6km trail.

Other little waterfalls are on the way to O Quy Ho Peak. I spotted this one not far away from the Love Waterfalls.

 

6. Visit Cat Cat village

 

 

Cat Cat Village is situated within a ten-minute drive of Sapa town.

This village has a large population of HH'Mongethnic people. There are nearly 80 households located on a steep series of cobbled steps.

 

I walked around and experienced some of the traditional activities of the local people. You can read more about things to do in Cat Cat Village here. 

The road to Cat Cat Village is gorgeous; you can view terraced fields and ethnic houses while wandering along the winding road sections.

 

7. Try out ethnic clothes

 

 

One experience to be noticed when visiting Sapa is trying the regional clothes.

Being the home of different ethnic groups, clothing is extremely lively and diverse. Featuring unique decorative patterns, each outfit has a particular meaning.

 

This is a part of Sapa culture that has existed for a long time and remains strong today.

You can find many clothes rental stalls along both sides of the road near Cat Cat village. The shopkeepers will gladly help you choose an outfit that will suit you best for sightseeing.

It costs around 50,000 VND – 100,000 VND per rental.

 

8. Eat local food

 

 

Trying some grilled dishes in the delicious local eateries is an excellent idea in the cool evenings in Sapa.

I loved the grilled chicken with bamboo-cooked rice.

The sturgeon and salmon farmed here are transported to all areas of Vietnam. So a dish particularly special in Sapa is the sturgeon and salmon hotpot.

 

The hotpot has fresh ingredients, such as mushrooms, vegetables, tofu, sweet potatoes, and local fish.

The broth is cooked with freshly picked herbs, producing a sweet and fragrant taste.

 

9. Touch the cloud at Fansipan Mountain

 

 

A trip to Fansipan Mountain should be on your list of things to do in Sapa. Fansipan is the roof of Indochina, with a height of 3143 meters.

To conquer this mountain, you can sign up with a professional tour operator or tour with the locals. The most popular route will take you three days.

 

The best time to hike is from September to March, especially when the mountain flowers begin to bloom at the end of February.

There's a much easier way for those who don't have enough time for hiking! Now you can buy a train ticket to the Fansipan peak.

Read more: E-Visa Vietnam All Things You Need To Know Before Travelling

 

10. Visit Ta Phin village

 

 

If you have an extra day in Sapa, I recommend visiting Ta Phin village.

The village still preserves its wild and rustic look and culture while providing exciting experiences like the Red Dao herbal bath.