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The list below is ordered roughly by popularity, with the time each one takes and a few practical notes to help you plan.
1. Trek the Muong Hoa Valley
The most popular route in Sapa: about 10–12 km through terraced fields and the villages of Lao Chai, Ta Van and Y Linh Ho, home to Black Hmong and Giay communities. It takes most of a day; wear shoes with good grip as several stretches are steep and slippery. More on the Muong Hoa Valley.
2. Go up Fansipan
Fansipan is 3,143 m, the highest mountain in Vietnam. The easy way is the cable car followed by about 600 steps to the summit marker; the other is a guided trek of 2 days and 1 night. The weather at the top differs from town, so bring a jacket even if it is sunny below. Details on Fansipan.
3. Visit Cat Cat Village
About 2 km from the centre, with a stepped path down to the village lined with cafes. It is the easiest place to see Black Hmong houses, weaving, silver-smithing and Tien Sa Waterfall. Allow 2–3 hours. See Cat Cat Village.
4. Take a Red Dao Herbal Bath
In Ta Phin, the Red Dao soak guests in wooden tubs of water brewed from medicinal plants, usually after a day of walking. A session is around 20–30 minutes. Anyone with heart or blood-pressure problems, or who is pregnant, should check with a doctor first.
5. Drive the O Quy Ho Pass
The pass is about 50 km long, linking Sapa with Lai Chau, and counts among the four great passes of the Northwest. Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall sit 12–15 km from town along the road, and Tram Ton is a good cloud viewpoint. Go by motorbike or private car, and avoid it in heavy rain.
6. Walk Around the Stone Church and Night Market
The stone church, built in 1895, is the town's landmark. In the evening, the square in front and the night market around it fill up with grilled food, woollens, brocade and cafes.
7. Eat Local
Sturgeon and rainbow trout hotpot, thang co, grilled free-range pork, bamboo sticky rice and stir-fried chayote shoots are on almost every menu. Read more in our Sapa street food guide.
8. Visit Ta Phin Village
About 12 km from town, where Red Dao women embroider and prepare herbal remedies, and where Ta Phin Cave is located.
9. Photograph the Terraces by Season
Fields are green from May to August and golden from mid-September to early October. Early morning, around 6–8 AM, usually brings the best light and the fewest people; see our Sapa travel guide for choosing a month.
10. Walk with a Local Guide
Many guides are Hmong or Dao themselves, know the shortcuts, know which village is holding a festival and help you talk with villagers. Browse our Sapa tours to pick a route.