From Sapa: Hidden Trails of Mountains: Suoi Ho – Matra – Ta Phin

Sapa , Vietnam

From Sapa: Hidden Trails of Mountains: Suoi Ho – Matra – Ta Phin

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About this experience

This trip is our special tour off the beaten path in Sapa. Trek the dirt trails that less visited by others. Explore hidden corners, waterfalls and see the many ethnic groups along the way. Trekking to the village of Ma Tra and Ta Phin you will be able to meet both Black H’Mong and Red Dzao minorities. This tour offers you have a chance to experience the unique culture and the local life of ethnic people. Besides, you can discover the exotic landscape great views over rice terraced fields.

Available options

From Sapa: Hidden Trails of Mountains: Suoi Ho – Matra – Ta Phin

Pickup included

What's included

Bottle water

Entrance fees

Local English speaks guide

Private Transport from village to sapa town

Meal / Lunch at local restaurant

Herbal Bath

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Morning, meet with our guide at your hotel and start trekking from Sa Pa for about 6 km to Suoi Ho of the Black Hmong ethnic minority people.

Stop 2

Morning, meet with our Sapa Tour trekking guide at your hotel and start trekking from Sa Pa for about 6 km to Suoi Ho of the Black Hmong ethnic minority people. A welcoming sight of lush hillside tea plantations and cardamom gardens will open to your eyes.

You’ll observe life and nature there before trekking further along the buffalo-trodden narrow trail to reach a small village named Ma Tra, another Black Hmong settlement in a tranquil valley. Wander through the paddy fields and feel refreshed amid a scenic setting, which seems so distant from civilization. Next, a visit will be made at a small local elementary school for minority children before a picnic lunch will be served.

Stop 3

After lunch, continue to trek for about 2 km to Ta Phin village which is home to two different ethnic minority groups, the Black Hmong and the Red Dao living together, and have maintained their distinctive customs over generations. Interact with villagers to learn about how they live, see their traditional trade of making embroidered fabric items and honor their traditions. Have herbal bath it made by Redzdao peoples.it really good for your health,

Find the way back to your hotel in the town afterward.

What's not included

Personal Pocket Money

Available languages

Guide guide

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.