Sapa
Sapa and surrounding area has long been northern Vietnam’s premier trekking destination, and with good reason. The area is home to the country’s highest mountains, iconic rice terraces, and an unusually diverse patchwork of cultures and ethnolinguistic groups.
Sadly, Sapa has fallen foul of modern tourism’s biggest failing: promoting already popular places and pushing them to breaking point. Badly-planned tourism in Sapa town and the immediate surroundings has led to gross overdevelopment – a reality you won’t see in most tourism marketing. To get the most from this region it’s essential you employ the services of a guide and find an itinerary that gets you well into the countryside.
Hidden gems in Sapa
Sapa
Sapa multi-day hikes
Unfortunately, the town of Sapa suffers from overdevelopment and is one of my least favourite places in the country. But those that find Sapa disappointing seem to be the ones that base themselves in town and attempt day trips from there. Instead, engage a reputable tour company, tell them what you want and they will get you well away from the standard tourist traps. I don’t recommend trekking in Sapa without a guide. The trails and homestays (accommodation with local families) are unmarked, and travellers that attempt their own treks often end up lost or where they don’t want to be (e.g. on a road, near a hydroelectric plant, facing a quarry etc.). Besides, employing a guide is one of the best ways to learn about Sapa’s cultures and support local families. The majority of guides are women from local ethnolinguistic groups, and they usually speak decent English.
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Sapa itineraries
