Top 15+ BEST things to do in Sapa 2023

Sapa is a beautiful town in the northwest of Vietnam, famous for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and majestic mountains. If you are looking for a destination that offers both natural and cultural attractions, Sapa is a perfect choice. Here are the top 15 best things to do in Sapa that you should not miss.

But before we get into the list, let’s answer a common question:

What is the best time to visit Sapa?

The answer depends on what you want to see and do in Sapa. Generally speaking, Sapa has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season has its own advantages and disadvantages.

• Spring (March to May) is the time when the flowers bloom and the weather is mild and pleasant. You can see the cherry blossoms, orchids, peach blossoms, and other colorful flowers in full glory. You can also enjoy the fresh and green scenery of the rice fields and mountains. However, spring is also the peak season for tourism, so you might encounter crowds and higher prices.
• Summer (June to August) is the time when the rice terraces are at their most lush and verdant. You can witness the amazing contrast of the green rice fields and the blue sky. You can also enjoy some cool breezes and occasional rain showers. However, summer is also the rainy season, so you might face some muddy roads and landslides.
• Autumn (September to November) is the time when the rice terraces turn golden and yellow. You can see the harvest season and the spectacular scenery of the rice fields. You can also enjoy some sunny days and clear nights. However, autumn is also a popular season for tourism, so you might have to book your accommodation and transportation in advance.
• Winter (December to February) is the time when the temperature drops and the snow falls. You can experience a rare sight of snow-covered mountains and valleys in Vietnam. You can also enjoy some cozy moments by the fireplace or a hot spring. However, winter is also the coldest season, so you might need to pack some warm clothes and prepare for some foggy days.

Now that you know when to visit Sapa, let’s move on to the top 15 best things to do in Sapa.

List 15 best things to do in Sapa

1. Trek to the rice terraces.

Sapa is home to some of the most impressive rice terraces in the world, which change colors with the seasons and create a breathtaking landscape. You can join a guided tour or hire a local guide to show you the best routes and introduce you to the local culture. You will see amazing views of the valleys, waterfalls, and mountains, and meet friendly people along the way. Some of the most popular trekking destinations are Cat Cat village, Ta Van village, Lao Chai village, and Fansipan mountain.

2. Visit the ethnic minority villages

Sapa is inhabited by several ethnic minority groups, such as the Hmong, Dao, Tay, Giay, and Xa Pho. Each group has its own unique culture, language, clothing, and customs. You can visit their villages and interact with them to learn more about their way of life and history. You can also buy some of their handicrafts, such as embroidery, silver jewelry, or indigo fabrics.

3. Climb Mount Fansipan

Mount Fansipan is the highest peak in Vietnam and Indochina, standing at 3,143 meters above sea level. It is also known as the “Roof of Indochina” and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can either take a cable car or hike to the summit, depending on your fitness level and preference.

4. Enjoy the sunrise and sunset

Sapa is blessed with amazing sunrises and sunsets that will leave you speechless. You can watch the sun rise over the misty mountains and rice fields from your hotel balcony or a viewpoint, or catch the sun set behind the clouds and hills from a cafe or a rooftop bar. You can watch them from different viewpoints, such as Fansipan peak, Heaven’s Gate, or Ham Rong Mountain. You can also take some amazing photos or videos of these moments.

5. Shop at the local markets.

Sapa has several local markets where you can find a variety of products, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, and jewelry. You can also bargain with the vendors and get a good deal. Some of the most popular markets are Bac Ha Market, Coc Ly Market, Can Cau Market, and Muong Hum Market.

6. Enjoy a massage or spa treatment

After a long day of trekking and sightseeing, you might want to pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment. Sapa has many spas that offer various services, such as massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and herbal baths. You can choose from traditional Vietnamese or Western styles and enjoy a soothing experience.

Some of the best spas in Sapa are:

• La Dao Spa Sapa:

– Address: Tavan village, Sapa, Vietnam

– Hotline: 0946541541

– Tripadvisor: La Dao Spa & Coffee House

• Lavender Spa Sapa:

– Address: 023 Muong Hoa, Sa Pa, Lao Cai

– Hotline: 0976 225 474

– Tripadvisor: Lavender Spa Sapa

**You can refer to ” TOP 7+ Massage Sapa: Recovering after trekking“

7. Try the local cuisine.

Sapa has a rich and diverse cuisine that reflects its multicultural heritage. You can try some of the local specialties, such as thang co (horse meat soup), com lam (sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes), salmon hotpot, grilled pork skewers, and banh cuon (steamed rice rolls). You can also sample some of the exotic dishes, such as fried insects or snake wine.

8. Take a cooking class

If you want to learn how to make some of the delicious dishes that you have tasted in Sapa, you can join a cooking class and get hands-on experience. You can learn from a local chef or a family and discover the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine. You can also visit a local market and buy the ingredients that you will use in your class. Some of the best cooking classes in Sapa are Bamboo Sapa Cooking Class, Hill Station Signature Restaurant Cooking Class, and Viet Emotion Restaurant Cooking Class.

9. Explore Sapa town

Sapa town is a charming place that has a lot to offer. You can stroll around the streets and admire the colonial architecture, visit the Sapa Museum and the Sapa Church, enjoy the views from Ham Rong Mountain Park or Sapa Lake, or shop at the night market. You can also find many cafes, restaurants, bars, and clubs where you can relax and have fun.

10. Take a motorbike tour

Another way to discover Sapa is to take a motorbike tour around the area. You can rent a motorbike or join a guided tour with an experienced driver. You will be able to see more places in less time, and have more flexibility and freedom to stop whenever you want. You will also feel the thrill of riding on the winding roads and feeling the wind in your hair.

11. Visit the Muong Hoa Valley

Muong Hoa Valley is one of the most beautiful and fertile valleys in Sapa, where you can see some of the most stunning rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. You can trek along the Muong Hoa River and see some of the ancient stone carvings that date back to thousands of years ago. You can also cross the Muong Hoa suspension bridge and visit some of the villages, such as Ta Phin, Ban Ho, or Su Pan.

12. Go camping or glamping

If you want to experience the nature and adventure of Sapa in a more rustic way, you can go camping or glamping at one of the many campsites in Sapa. You can pitch your own tent or rent one that is already set up. You can also enjoy some of the facilities and services that are available, such as bonfires, barbecue, or live music.

13. Watch a cultural show

Sapa has a vibrant and colorful culture that is expressed through music, dance, and art. You can watch a cultural show and enjoy the performances of the local people. You can see them play traditional instruments, sing folk songs, dance in their costumes, and display their handicrafts. You can also join them and learn some of their moves and skills.

14. Take a photo with an ethnic minority child

One of the most memorable experiences that you can have in Sapa is to take a photo with an ethnic minority child who wears their colorful and distinctive costumes. You can see their innocent smiles and curious eyes that reflect their culture and identity. You can also interact with them and learn more about their lives and dreams.

15. Volunteer for a good cause

If you want to give back to the community and make a positive impact, you can volunteer for a good cause in Sapa. You can join a local organization or a project that supports the education, health, environment, or empowerment of the local people. You can teach English, help with farming, plant trees, or donate clothes or books. You can also make new friends and learn from their experiences.

16. Hike to the waterfalls

Sapa has many beautiful waterfalls that you can hike to and admire their natural beauty. Some of the most popular ones are Thac Bac (Silver Waterfall), Thac Tinh Yeu (Love Waterfall), and Thac Ham Rong (Dragon’s Jaw Waterfall). You can also swim in some of the pools or take some stunning photos.

These are just some of the best things to do in Sapa that will make your trip unforgettable and rewarding. Sapa is a place that has something for everyone, whether you are looking for nature, culture, adventure, or relaxation. Sapa is a place that will capture your heart and soul.