Sa Pa: Muong Hoa Valley Trek and Local Ethnic Villages Tour
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Trek through the Muong Hoa Valley and enjoy panoramic views over the rice terraces. Hike along the Muong Hoa River and learn about traditional customs and cultures of different mountain ethnic groups. Explore the traditional cultures and local diversity of the Sa Pa valley. Trek through the amazing landscapes and get breathtaking views. Enjoy lunch at a local home in one of the villages
Available options
Sa Pa: Muong Hoa Valley Trek and Local Ethnic Villages Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pick-up - Trekking Down to villages
Local Lunch + Mineral water
English-speaking guide
Entrance tickets
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Benefit from pick-up at your hotel in Sa Pa, and then start your 10-kilometer trek through the beautiful valley. Admire the rice terraces hidden behind the morning mist as you follow a small trail to cross the Muong Hoa River.
2
Continue past well-tended, terraced rice fields on your way to the village of Lao Chai, where a local Black Hmong ethnic group live. Hike to the village of Ta Van Giay and trek along the route of the Muong Hoa River to cross a small suspension bridge roughly 2 kilometers from the settlement. Discover a fascinating collection of ancient rock carvings that depict images of men, stilt houses and different decorative patterns.
3
Enjoy lunch at a local house in the village before hiking through a bamboo forest and reaching the Red Dao ethnic minority village of Giang Ta Chai. Enjoy a short rest at a nearby waterfall before climbing uphill to the main road where the driver will be waiting for you to take you back to SaPa.
What's not included
Drink, personal expense, insurrance, tip, tax
Car transfer from Sapa to villages or villages to Sapa 15 USD/one way/ private 4 seat car
Holiday surcharge
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Sapa
Sapa is a picturesque town in northern Vietnam, renowned for its stunning rice terraces, vibrant ethnic minority cultures, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Nestled in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Top Attractions
Fansipan Mountain
Known as the 'Roof of Indochina,' Fansipan is the highest peak in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. It offers stunning views and a spiritual significance to the local ethnic groups.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive (cable car ticket required)
Muong Hoa Valley
A picturesque valley surrounded by rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. It's a popular trekking destination with stunning landscapes.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to Budget (guided tours available)
Cat Cat Village
A traditional H'mong ethnic village known for its handicrafts, cultural performances, and unique architecture. It's a great place to learn about local traditions.
Cultural
2-3 hours
Free to Budget (donations appreciated)
Silver Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall located in a lush forest. The waterfall is especially impressive during the rainy season when the water flow is strong.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Ta Van Village
A Giay ethnic village known for its traditional stilt houses and beautiful surroundings. It's a great place to experience the local way of life.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to Budget (homestays available)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Thang Co
A traditional H'mong stew made with horse meat, organs, and various herbs and spices. It's a hearty and flavorful dish.
Main Course
Contains meat and organs, not suitable for vegetarians.
Sticky Rice
Glutinous rice cooked with various ingredients like mushrooms, peanuts, or sesame seeds. It's a staple food in Sapa.
Side Dish
Vegetarian options available.
Salad of Young Corn
A refreshing salad made with young corn, herbs, and sometimes pork or shrimp. It's a popular dish in the region.
Salad
Can be made vegetarian or with meat.
Sapa Hot Pot
A communal hot pot with a variety of meats, vegetables, and herbs. It's a great way to try a bit of everything.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian or with meat.
Popular Activities
Trekking
Mountain climbing
Motorbike tours
Horseback riding
Homestays
Herbal baths
Scenic walks
Cultural performances
Best Time to Visit
September to November and March to May
These months offer the best weather with clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and lush landscapes. It's ideal for trekking and exploring the rice terraces.
15-25°C (59-77°F)
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Vietnamese
- Widely spoken: English, French, Chinese
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sapa is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to take precautions, especially in crowded areas and when trekking. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides.
- • Negotiate prices in advance for taxis and motorbike taxis.
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Getting there
By air
- Noi Bai International Airport • 300 km (186 miles) from Sapa
By train
Sapa Station
By bus
Hanoi - Sapa Express, Good Morning Sapa
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are affordable but can be crowded. They are a good option for short distances within the town.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sapa Town
Tau Chuu Village
Lao Chai Village
Day trips
Bac Ha Sunday Market
50 km (31 miles) from Sapa • Full day
A vibrant market held every Sunday, featuring a variety of stalls selling local products, street food, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and interact with the ethnic minorities.
Bac Ha Terraces
50 km (31 miles) from Sapa • Full day
A scenic area known for its stunning rice terraces and traditional villages. It's a great place for trekking and experiencing the local way of life.
Trung Do Valley
30 km (19 miles) from Sapa • Full day
A picturesque valley surrounded by rice terraces and traditional villages. It's a great place for trekking and experiencing the local culture.
Festivals
Sapa Love Market • Weekends (year-round)
Bac Ha Sunday Market • Every Sunday (year-round)
Gong Culture Festival • Every two years (even-numbered years)
Pro tips
- Pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially if trekking.
- Hire a local guide for trekking and cultural experiences. They can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the region.
- Try local specialties and street food, but be cautious with raw or undercooked foods if you have a sensitive stomach.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting ethnic minority villages.
- Carry small denominations for markets and street vendors. Bargaining is expected, but be respectful and polite.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
