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Exploring Sapa independently is a memorable experience for many #teamKlook members. Let's delve deeper into Sapa - the promised land of flowers, mist, and delicious cuisine.
When it comes to the Northern region, no one can overlook the name Sapa, which has made a strong mark on the Vietnamese tourism map with its majestic mountains, pristine landscapes, unique climate, and the distinctive culture of ethnic minorities in the mountainous area.
Known as the mountain town in the mist, Sapa attracts many domestic and international tourists to explore, discover the Northwest mountains, or simply find a peaceful place to relax after stress and fatigue.
Have you experienced this fascinating land yet? If not, let's pocket some useful information about Sapa as well as some Sapa travel experiences through the following article with Klook!
Where is Sapa Located?
Located in the northwest of Vietnam, Sapa is a renowned tourist destination situated at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level.
From Hanoi, you have several route options to reach Sapa and explore this region:
1. Hanoi - Lao Cai Expressway: This highway takes you on a journey of approximately 320 kilometers.
2. National Highway 70 connecting Northwest provinces: This option is longer, about 390 kilometers, but offers a unique landscape viewing experience.
3. Hanoi - Lao Cai Railway Route: You can choose the train to Lao Cai, then transfer by car or bus to Sapa, totaling about 340 kilometers.
4. National Highway 32 via Mu Cang Chai: If you prefer a longer journey, National Highway 32 passes through Mu Cang Chai, covering approximately 455 kilometers.
Why is it Called Sapa?
According to cultural and historical studies, the name Sapa originates from the H'Mong language - an ethnic group that has long settled in this area. They called this land Sa Pả, meaning 'sand beach'. It was named so because there used to be a vast sandy beach where people from various ethnic groups gathered for trading.
During the French colonial period, the administrative name of Sa Pa on maps was Chapa, following the Latin phonetic transcription. Since 1945, the name Sapa has been officially used in Vietnam's administrative documents. Additionally, the spelling 'Sapa' is widely accepted alongside the term 'Sa Pa'.
Today, Sapa has a ward named Sa Pả, located in the town center. Naming it this way is to evoke the original name of Sapa.
Why is Sapa a Famous Cooling Destination in the North?
With its beautiful nature, majestic mountains, and pleasant temperate and subtropical climate, Sapa is known as a place where the earth meets the sky. What's remarkable about Sapa is that all four seasons can be experienced in one day. Morning is spring, noon is summer, afternoon is fall, and night is winter.
The factors above have attracted numerous tourists to Sapa for relaxation and recreation, making it the most famous cooling destination in Northern Vietnam.
To conveniently travel around Sapa, many #teamKlook members opt for renting Sapa motorbikes on Klook to freely explore beautiful routes, enjoy fresh air, and discover unique Sapa tourist spots known only to enthusiasts. This service is incredibly affordable. Don't miss out!
Is Sapa Located in the Northwest?
The district-level town of Sa Pa is situated in the west of Lao Cai province, in the Northwest region of Vietnam.
Why is Sapa Cold?
Due to its high altitude and proximity to the northern latitude, Sapa has a subtropical and temperate climate, enjoying cool air all year round with an average temperature of 15°C.
In the afternoon and evening, Sapa often experiences a lot of clouds and fog, creating a chilly atmosphere. Especially in winter, temperatures in Sapa can drop below 0°C, and snowfall is possible.
Why Does Sapa Have Snow?
Sapa is one of the rare areas in Vietnam where snow falls in winter. Typically, snow falls from around December to the end of January - this is when the coldest air masses move in, creating favorable conditions for snowfall in Sapa. Each snowfall event usually lasts for 1 to 2 days during periods of enhanced cold air.
When Does Sapa Get Snow?
The exact timing of when Sapa will have snow cannot be determined as it depends on the weather conditions each year. However, in recent years, the foggy town has consistently experienced snow and sleet from mid-December to mid-January.
Some years, the snowfall phenomenon only lasts for about 1-2 days, so if you plan to 'hunt for snow' in Sapa, I wish you good luck!
How Many Ethnic Groups Are There in Sapa?
As of 2023, Sapa is home to 8 different ethnic groups, including Hmong, Dao, Tay, Giay, Muong, Thai, Hoa, and Xa Pho. Among them, the H'Mong ethnic group accounts for over 50% of the population in Sapa.
Although the majority of Sapa's population belongs to ethnic minority groups, in the central area of the town, there is a concentration of Kinh people engaged in agriculture and tourism services.
How Many Communes Does Sapa Have?
Sa Pa town has 16 administrative units including 6 wards: Cau May, Ham Rong, O Quy Ho, Fanxipan, Sa Pa, Sa Pa; and 10 communes: Ban Ho, Hoang Lien, Lien Minh, Muong Bo, Muong Hoa, Ngu Chi Son, Ta Phin, Ta Van, Thanh Binh, Trung Chai.
How Many Villages Does Sapa Have?
Sapa boasts 7 ethnic villages of great interest: Cat Cat, Ta Phin, Lao Chai, Ta Van, Sin Chai, Ho, and Y Linh Ho. Alongside the beautiful and majestic landscape of the mountains and forests, these ethnic villages in Sapa are an integral part of its unique culture, attracting a large number of tourists who visit Sapa annually.
Is Sapa a City?
Previously, Sapa was a town under Lao Cai province. Since January 1, 2020, following the reorganization, merging, and adjustment of administrative boundaries, the town of Sa Pa has been upgraded to Sa Pa town according to the Resolution of the Standing Committee of the Vietnamese National Assembly.
What Can You Do in Sapa?
Sapa has everything a traveler seeks: fresh air, tranquil landscapes, unique cuisine, and friendly local people. Let's explore with Klook to see what you can experience when visiting Sapa.
1. Conquer Fansipan Peak
'The Roof of Indochina,' Fansipan, always tops the list of must-visit tourist activities in Sapa. The ideal time to conquer this mountain is from September to April when the weather and climate at Fansipan are most stable, cool, and less rainy. In the legendary journey to conquer Fansipan peak, don't forget to explore Sun World Fansipan Legend, a complex of tourism combining religious sites, nature exploration, and renowned culture and cuisine of the mountain town.
When here, #teamKlook can indulge in checking in at the temples and pagodas that recreate the images of famous religious sites in the North, admiring the 21.5-meter-high bronze Great Buddha statue, and enjoying the delicious specialties of Sapa. From the cable car, you can soar above the panoramic view of the majestic Hoang Lien Son range and the vibrant Muong Hoa valley.
2. Trek to Cat Cat Village
To learn about the culture of the H'Mong people, you should join an interesting trekking tour to Cat Cat village. It's only about 3km from the center of Sapa Stone Church, with easy-to-move asphalt roads. You can walk to admire the scenery, take photos under the Cat Cat waterfall or the majestic terraced fields. Try wearing traditional clothes of the Sapa people to experience the unique vibe of the village!
3. Visit Ma Tra Village & Ta Phin Village
Ma Tra and Ta Phin are the homes of the H'Mong and Red Dao people, located near the tourist center of Sapa town. The distance between these two villages is only about 7km, and along the way, you can admire countless beautiful natural landscapes.
Moreover, when visiting Ma Tra and Ta Phin, you'll experience the daily life and unique cultures of each ethnic group. So why wait? Choose the super exciting trekking tour to Ma Tra village and Ta Phin village right away!
4. Explore Love Waterfall
Love Waterfall is located 14km southwest of Sapa town, with a height of 100m and the waterfall flows day and night. From a distance, the waterfall looks like a soft silk strip, standing out amidst the lush green vegetation like a fairy scene. To reach Love Waterfall, you just need to walk through the cool green bamboo forest. Especially in March, the path will be even more vibrant with the red color of azalea flowers.
5. Check-in at Rong May Glass Bridge
Located at an altitude of 2,200m above sea level, winding around the mountain, the Rong May glass-bottom bridge is truly a challenge, even for the bravest. However, once you overcome the fear of heights, you will feel ecstatic to behold the magnificent natural scenery of the Hoang Lien Son range unfold before your eyes, enjoying the cool air on the impressive clouds.
What to Eat in Sapa?
The Northwestern region not only boasts diverse ethnic cultures but also is renowned for its unique cuisine. The H'Mong people are famous for their 'thắng cố' and 'mèn mén,' while the Thái people have 'pa pỉnh tộp,' 'măng nộm hoa ban.' Additionally, there are colorful sticky rice, bamboo-cooked rice, smoked meat, grilled fish, sausage, and bitter bamboo shoots. Generally, the dishes here are made from buffalo meat, horse meat, wild chicken, mountain pig, and stream fish.
What's special is that each Northwestern dish possesses distinctive flavors from 'mắc khén,' ginger, lemongrass, chili, coriander, basil, fresh onions, mint, cinnamon, cloves, anise, cardamom, etc., making you feel like you're tasting all the flavors of the mountains in one meal.
Explore more Sapa specialties from Klook Vietnam's Blog to discover more delicious dishes in Sapa.
Where to Stay in Sapa?
Sapa features characteristic mountainous terrain surrounded by hidden valleys shrouded in mist. Therefore, choosing any hotel or resort in Sapa will provide you with the most beautiful and spectacular views.
1. Silk Path Grand Sapa Resort & Spa
Silk Path Grand Sapa Resort & Spa sits atop one of the highest hills in the mountain town, amidst a breathtaking landscape likened to the 'Vietnamese version of the Alps.' Surrounding the Silk Path Grand Sapa Resort & Spa are famous Sapa attractions you shouldn't miss, such as the Muong Hoa Valley, Sun World Fansipan Legend amusement park, Sapa Stone Church…
- Address: Hill 6, Group 10, Sapa Town, Lao Cai Province
- Price range: from 1,905,000 VND/night
2. Topas Ecolodge Sapa
Topas Ecolodge Sapa is one of the most beautiful eco-resorts in the world nestled within the Hoang Lien National Park conservation area. This unique resort consistently makes the shortlist as one of the top places to stay for nature lovers.
Topas Ecolodge provides a perfect space for both relaxation and contributing to environmental and local cultural preservation.
- Address: Ban Lech Hamlet, Thanh Kim Commune, Sapa Town, Lao Cai Province
- Price range: from 5,600,000 VND/night
3. Hôtel de la Coupole – MGallery
Inspired by the golden fields of Northwest Vietnam and the green hues of France, Hôtel de la Coupole – MGallery stands out with its elegant yet culturally enriching beauty. From the hotel, you can conveniently reach the train station to begin your legendary Fansipan conquest in just a few steps.
The hotel is an ideal stop for family vacations, romantic getaways, or other special events.
- Address: 1 Hoang Lien, Sapa Town, Lao Cai Province
- Price range: from 2,725,000 VND/night
4. Aira Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa
With a view overlooking the Muong Hoa Valley nestled amidst the majestic Hoang Lien Son range, Aira Boutique Sapa Hotel & Spa features modern minimalist-style rooms, ensuring the best experience for you.
Staying at this hotel, #teamKlook will have the opportunity to explore many famous attractions in Sapa such as Sapa Lake, Ham Rong Mountain, Stone Church, Sapa Square, and Cat Cat Village. Don't miss out on outdoor activities like long walks, forest cycling, or mountain climbing.
- Address: 30 Hoang Lien, Sapa Town, Lao Cai Province
- Price range: 1,395,000 VND/night
5. Pao’s Sapa Leisure Hotel
Introduced in late 2019, Pao’s Sapa Leisure Hotel quickly became a social media sensation with its outstanding check-in photos featuring designs inspired by the terraced fields in Northwest Vietnam.
With its prime location on the mountainside overlooking the stunning Muong Hoa Valley in all seasons, Pao's Sapa Leisure Hotel is popular for its wonderful setting for enjoying evening meals on the balcony or relaxing in the infinity pool.
- Address: Muong Hoa Street, Sapa Town, Lao Cai Province
- Price range: 1,512,000 VND/night
There are plenty of beautiful hotels in Sapa, charming homestays in Sapa, and stunning resorts in Sapa waiting for you to explore. Book now on Klook Vietnam to grab exclusive deals of up to 50% off. Your journey to conquer Sapa will surely be more exciting and inspiring with the information provided by Klook.
Don't forget to rent a motorbike to discover the beauty of the mountainous town yourself. Klook always offers suggestions for Sapa tours and independent travel experiences in Sapa for you to refer to.
Do you love Sapa - the land of clouds and mist - or not?
