Sa Pa is a town in the mountains of Northern Vietnam. Overlooking some pretty incredible rice terraces, most people visit for the trek. When we visited, we booked a two-day trek with a one night homestay through Sapa Sisters, and I would absolutely recommend them.
Weather
The best time of year to trek Sa Pa is during the summer and fall. June through September, the rice terraces will be the most green, but this is also rainy season. And it gets MUDDY. Luckily there are plenty of locals to help you on your trek, just be sure and bring small change to tip them at the end. Trust me, it is well worth it.
Getting to Sa Pa
It is easiest to get to Sa Pa by overnight train from Hanoi. This takes about 9 hours, and you can book your tickets in advance here. The train will take you to the Lao Cai Railway Station, and from there, you can take a shuttle to the town of Sapa.
Recommendations
Before or after your trek, I would recommend staying a night in the town of Sapa. We arrived from the night train and immediately started hiking on an hour of sleep. It was worth it, but if you can, take your time!
Hotels
To Do
Ham Rong Flower Garden: Pretty gardens.
Hike Fansipan: This is the largest mountain in Southeast Asia. You can hike it, or take a cable car up!
Sapa Market: Tons of stalls with everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts.
Silver Falls: Beautiful waterfalls.
Trek the local villages: Cat Cat Village is less strenuous and a beautiful village to check out.
Restaurants
Anise Sapa Restaurant: Good food with a view.
Delta: Italian food.
Gerbera: Hot pot.
Hill Station Signature Restaurant: Vietnamese, beautiful restaurant.
Moment Romantic Restaurant: Vietnamese-style food.
Nature View: Healthy food options and great view.
Cafes
Cafe in the Clouds: Great views, cute owners.
Le Gecko: Good pastries.
Sapa O’Chau Cafe: NGO with a great mission and good breakfast.
Bars
H’mong Sisters: Popular spot.
