Trek around Sapa

Set in Vietnam's rugged north, Sapa is home to stunning scenery, and many fascinating hilltribe villages and markets. An easy journey from Hanoi, its the perfect place to enjoy a range of great trekking opporunities.

One of our favourite routes starts on the road leading west from Sapa, which winds through hilly terrain and past terraced paddy fields to Cat Cat village, just 2km from the town. Take a walk through the ancient village to see traditional customs and practices of the ethnic Black H'mong, and continue to a nearby waterfall and the vestige of a hydroelectric power station constructed by the French during the colonial era. From here follow a dirt trail which sneaks between mountains along a narrow river until you reach Muong Hoa Valley, a stunning spot with the largest rice terraces in Sapa. Visits between May and October coincide with the planting and harvesting season, a chance to see local farmers in action. The trek then takes you from the Black H'mong Lao Chai village to Ta Van village of the Giay minority, with a stop at the local Catholic Church. You will then be met by your driver and taken back to your hotel.