Buzz
The heavenly clouds of Sapa – a pride of the Northwestern mountainous region, is no longer unfamiliar to both local and international tourists. Amidst the majestic natural scenery of the pristine mountain forests, lies a quaint and lovely village that anyone visiting Sapa must surely stop by. That village is none other than Cat Cat Village, with its captivating simple wooden houses, meandering streams, vibrant colorful terraced fields, and the humble and gentle ethnic minority people.
The natural beauty of Sapa's mountain forests
How to get to Cat Cat Village in Sapa?
Cat Cat Village, located in San Sa Ho commune, Sapa district, is just over 2km from the center of Sapa town to the entrance of the village. You can choose to hike, enjoying the mountainous scenery while admiring the entire village from above.
Cat Cat Village, Sapa
A few tips for visiting Cat Cat Village
On the way back, from the last stop of Cat Cat Village to the town is more than 3km. After exploring the village with a quite long journey, the 3km return route can be tiring, so if you are not feeling well, it's advisable to take a motorbike and park it at the village entrance (riding within the village is not allowed).
- The motorcycle parking fee is 10k.
- Entrance ticket to Cat Cat Village is 50k per person.
- Costume rental fee for ethnic clothes is 50k per person.
Colorful ethnic costumes
Outside the village gate, there are plenty of shops renting ethnic clothes. You can get yourself a set. Additionally, there are many other accessories available for rent such as ethnic sun umbrellas, etc.
One more small note is when buying tickets, at the ticket counter, there are many maps available. You can take one for free, and it's very useful. It lists all the famous attractions in Cat Cat Village and provides directions – very handy.
Sapa ethnic child
It's advisable to carry a few candies in your bag because along the village tour, you'll encounter many ethnic children who will follow you. These children sell handicrafts and may urge you to buy. If you prefer not to buy, giving them a candy will prevent them from following you further.
What makes Cat Cat Village beautiful?
Handicraft village in Cat Cat
Cat Cat tourist area offers a plethora of interesting and enticing things for you to explore. From the narrow pathways, quaint little houses, handicraft villages, waterfalls, to Gem Valley in Cat Cat, there's much to discover.
Routes leading to Cat Cat Village
During your exploration of Cat Cat Village, two routes are sure to leave the most impressions on you. The route leading to Cat Cat Village and the stairway section from the entrance gate of Cat Cat Village leading into the heart of the village.
Winding road leading into Cat Cat Village
Along the nearly 2 km stretch leading to the village, you won't feel rushed or anxious. Instead, you'll be mesmerized by the surrounding landscape. On one side are towering mountain ranges, while on the other, the Sapa valley unfolds with its terraced fields.
Cafe at the entrance of Cat Cat Village
Along this path, you'll pass by the most beautiful cafe in Sapa town. The road is quite steep and at a higher altitude than Cat Cat Village, allowing you to overlook the entire village from above, with houses nestled closely among the vegetation.
Stone-paved stairway
Image of the stone-paved pathway leading into the village
As you step through the gateway into Cat Cat, you'll be surprised by the wide stone-paved stairway, only wide enough for two people to walk abreast and gleaming in the sunlight. The steep path meanders between two rows of houses, creating a breathtaking scene.
Singer Ho Ngoc Ha also chose Cat Cat for her Sapa trip
Lining both sides of the road are stalls selling various handicrafts such as ethnic jewelry, handicrafts, and Sapa specialties, tempting tourists to stop by, purchase a few items for themselves and their loved ones as souvenirs.
Rustic ethnic houses
Image of simple houses amidst terraced fields
These houses have been formed since the 19th century, the Cat Cat of the H'mong people. They are the families of the Hmong people living on the slopes of the mountains, alongside the hillsides for farming and husbandry.
Perfect backdrops for photo shoots
The three-compartment wooden houses, also known as 'trinh tuong' houses, are often seen in Vietnamese movies set in the Northwest region. The interior space of these houses is extremely simple, with the kitchen next to the reception area, the dining area, and just one or two separate sleeping areas.
Unique features of wooden houses
On the stone stairway, you'll get the best view of these houses. Though small and simple, they are charming with a few flower pots and plants placed on the roof, sometimes with a wooden swing in front of the house for children to play.
One of the prominent check-in spots in Cat Cat Village
Central area of Cat Cat Village
Giant water mills in Cat Cat
The central area can be considered the most prominent stop in the journey to explore Cat Cat Village. Crossing the steep stone-paved road, a magnificent scenery will unfold before your eyes. However, be cautious as this road can be quite slippery.
The enchanting Hoa Stream
A roaring waterfall cascades down, echoing with a soothing sound. There's plenty of fascinating things to discover here. Giant water mills, a swaying bamboo bridge over the rushing stream, wooden spinning tops, rustic thatched houses,... that will keep you from leaving.
Silver Waterfall
The dreamy beauty of Silver Waterfall
A few more steps ahead, you'll encounter a towering waterfall gushing down with torrents of white water pouring straight from above. This Silver Waterfall was discovered by the French and named as Cat Cat Falls.
Nature's pristine beauty by Silver Waterfall
Amidst the rugged wilderness of the mountains, hearing the water trickling over the rocks,... under a tranquil sky, your soul feels light and serene.
The stunning Gem Valley scenery
Reward yourself with moments of relaxation after the hustle and bustle of work, indulge in a Sapa trip to immerse yourself in the mountainous nature. Also, don't forget to visit Sapa's Cat Cat village to explore the traditional culture of the H'mong people.
- Explore the wonders of Sapa in winter with these expert tips.
