Hill Tribes & Markets In Northern Vietnam

Sapa, in the far North of Vietnam and a short hop from the Chinese border, is home to an array of minority hill tribes. An exciting and authentic experience can be had by visiting one of the many local markets, held on various days across the Lao Cai region. All are definitely worth a visit, so it’s worth researching a few before deciding which one to visit.

All the markets are very busy and extremely colourful. They are all working markets, and you will witness a range of produce, livestock, and textiles being traded. The Sapa region is famous for embroidery, much of which is handmade. Clothes or blankets bought from here make fantastic souvenirs, and provide a valuable contribution to the local economy, whilst also sustaining traditional techniques.  Be prepared to haggle!

Bac Ha market, held every Sunday, is the closest market to Sapa and the most-visited by tourists. It offers a great chance to walk amongst members of different ethnic minorities including the H’Mong and Flower H’Mong, Red and Black Dao tribes, amongst many others.

Slightly further is Can Cau market, held on Saturdays. Can Cau market specialises in livestock trading, and (being only 9km from the border) draws in traders from neighbouring China as well as from across the region.

Visits can also be arranged to Coc Ly and Lung Khau Ninh markets (Tuesdays and Thursdays respectively), which are further afield and where significantly less tourists will be found. 

An example of how Sapa can be included in your itinerary can be found in our 'Colours of Vietnam' tour.