Sapa : 2-Day Trek & Heartwarming Homestay with an Ethnic Family
Active
2d
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
For a truly memorable journey in Sapa, nothing compares to a homestay trek with an overnight in an ethnic minority village. Imagine sharing warm moments with local families, discovering age-old traditions, and experiencing daily life in the heart of the mountains. As night falls, you’ll savor homemade dishes prepared with love, and wake up surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. It’s more than a trek — it’s an authentic encounter that will stay with you long after your return.
Available options
Sapa : 2-Day Trek & Heartwarming Homestay with an Ethnic Family
Pickup included
What's included
1 Breakfast in the homestay
1 Dinner with a local family
Air-conditioned vehicle
1 litle of mineral water/ person a day
Bus back to Sa Pa center
2 Lunch in the local restaurant
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Encounter vibrant ethnic communities and step into their daily lives, gaining authentic insights into their rich cultures and traditions. Trek through Muong Hoa stunning valley where rice terraces cascade down the mountainsides, creating unforgettable landscapes. Take part in a hands-on cooking class led by a warm local family, then share a delightful dinner and spend the night in their traditional home — an immersive journey that blends cultural discovery, human connection, and lasting memories.
What's not included
Beverages
Travel insurance
VAT
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.9
141 reviews
5★
129
4★
8
3★
2
2★
0
1★
2
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure
Warm clothes are recommended for Sa Pa from October - March
Please bring trekking shoes, sunglasses, sun cream and insect repellent
Please respect the local culture in Sa Pa
Meeting point
Vietnam Nomadtrails' office located at No 15 Tuệ Tĩnh, Sapa, Lào Cai
Important notes
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• Minimum drinking age is 18 years
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
• The listed price does not include a $X per person security surcharge, payable at the time of tour check-in. The security surcharge is required by our local supplier and is not within our control.
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
