Sapa , Vietnam

Sapa, Bac Ha Market Tour - 1 Day Tour

Active

(1 reviews)

6h - 8h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We pick up you from your hotel in Sapa at 7am to go to the largest Flower Hmong market in Northern Vietnam at Bac Ha which is held on Sundays. The market is a 110km drive so the early start is essential. Your private tour guide will be with you every step of the way to make sure you have a memorable day. The market is alive with the bright colours and extravagant costumes of the local people, here you will meet Flower Hmong (Red Hmong), Black Dao, Tay, Nung, La Chi, Phu La and other tribal groups who come from far and wide to buy and sell a wide variety of goods and livestock, to exchange news and to renew friendships. In the past the market was a centre for trading horses but now that motorbikes have replaced them it is more common to see buffalo, cows, goats, fish and other livestock being traded. The market opens at around 7.30am and closes mid-afternoon.

Available options

Sapa, Bac Ha Market Tour - 1 Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private car or mini van to the market & back to Sapa

Food at a local restaurant where a variety of foods are available for your delectation and delight. You can even try the traditional local lunch of Thang Co (horse stew) and strong corn wine!

Detailed itinerary

We pick up you from your hotel in Sapa at 7am as the market is 110km away so an early start is essential. The private tour is by car or mini bus depending on the number of guests booked.

Stop 2

At the market you will meet Flower Hmong (Red Hmong), Black Dao, Tay, Nung, La Chi, Phu La and other tribal groups who come from far and wide to buy and sell a wide variety of goods and livestock, to exchange news and to renew friendships. In the past the market was a centre for trading horses but now that motorbikes have replaced them it is more common to see buffalo, cows, goats, fish and other livestock being traded.

We drive to Ban Pho where you can walk around the village where Flower Hmong, Tay and Nung tribes live. The village is beautiful as is the Ban Pho valley worthy of a photo or two. Take your time as we have an hour here to soak it all in.

Driving back to Sapa and drop off point of your choosing. Arriving at around 5pm.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.