Trekking in Sapa - A Starter's Guide

Sapa Easy Trekking

An easy trekking route will take you nearly two days, providing a brief immersion into Sapa and its tribal communities while you enjoy stunning natural vistas.

From Sapa town, tourists will commence a walk to Muong Hoa Valley, following the main road for approximately an hour before veering right onto a footpath downhill. On a clear day, trekkers will have the opportunity to see the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range, including the iconic Fansipan Peak. A suspension bridge will lead you uphill to Y Linh Ho village, where visitors can explore the homes of the Hmong people and observe their daily activities up close. After two hours of navigating hills, you will reach Lao Chai, a large village populated by the Hmong community, before continuing to Ta Van, where the Zay community resides. Tourists have the option to stay overnight in Ta Van to delve deeper into the ethnic culture, sharing meals or visiting local homes and schools.
Photo: Internet

The following morning, hikers can follow a trail uphill, traversing picturesque terraced rice fields before arriving at a serene bamboo forest and a waterfall. A half-hour hike leads to Giang Ta Chai, the village of the Red Dao people perched atop a hill overlooking the Muong Hoa River. If trekkers cross another suspension bridge and ascend further, they will reach Hau Thao Village, where many Hmong and Dao women convene for trade and handicraft exchange. This encounter offers a wonderful opportunity to connect and experience the local hospitality.

Sapa Medium Trekking

The medium trekking route in Sapa follows a path similar to the easy trek but lasts longer, as tourists will first embark on a two-hour journey through Cat Cat Village, located near the valley floor at the foot of Fansipan Peak. This traditional village of Black Hmong people presents unique insights into their everyday life, culture, and architectural styles.
Photo: hanoicaptialtravel.com.vn

Sapa Hard Trekking

Trekking to the summit of Fansipan Peak, known as the Roof of Indochina, presents the most rigorous challenge for adventurers, requiring three days to complete the hike. Tourists cannot embark on this trek independently; a local, experienced guide and porter are essential for navigating the area.

To reach the first campsite at an altitude of 2300 meters, trekkers will follow an itinerary that includes passing through Cat Cat Village, crossing the Muong Hoa River, and hiking upwards for nearly seven hours.

The terrain becomes steeper after the first campsite, posing additional challenges as trekkers navigate through arrowroot plantations and bamboo forests. Campers will spend the night in bamboo huts or tents.

The second day continues with a trek to the next campsite, situated at 2900 meters, traversing through ancient hardwood forests featuring majestic pine trees and rich bamboo growth. The campsite faces west on a mountain slope, beside a refreshing mountain stream.
Photo: viettrekking.vn

The third day is dedicated to reaching the peak of Mt. Fansipan, which stands tall at 3143 meters. The final segment of the ascent may take up to three hours due to the dense bamboo forest; however, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Vietnam from the summit.

The last day concludes with a trek downhill back to Sapa.