Can Cau Market and Bac Ha Market Private Saturday Tour
Active
11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Can Cau is a busy weekly market held in Si Ma Cai District of Lao Cai in every Saturday. Located just mile from the border between Vietnam - China border, it take people a great effort to get there. Even though, this market attract thousands of people travel there to trade, to meet, and to look for love-mate. There are some groups of minority ethnic people gather at this market, like Red Hmong, Nung, Phu La and even Chinese people from across the border. All kinds of goods are traded here, from fabrics to various types of livestock to the powerful local corn wine. The Kinh (the majority group in Vietnam) far from the Red river Delta also come there for good buffaloes as it is the merchandise this market is most famous for. There will be a large section for buffalo trading alone, where you can find buffaloes from variety of type and size.
Available options
Can Cau Market and Bac Ha Market Private Saturday Tour
Pickup included
What's included
All fees and taxes
A bottle of water for day tour
Private air-conditioned vehicle
Private guide for the trip
Lunch at a local restarant in town
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Get picked up from your hotel in Sapa to depart to Can Cau market - a colourful local market in the North of Vietnam. This authentic and bustling market attracts hundreds of ethnic minority people dressed in their stunning traditional clothes. Can Cau market is also the largest buffalo market in the north-west of Vietnam, with hundreds of buffaloes are sale.
2
Stop 2
Located in the mountains near the Chinese border, Can Cau market attracts different ethnic minorities, mainly the Flower Hmong, the Blue Hmong and the Giay (pronounced “Zay”). The Hmong are easily recognised by their colourful traditional costumes, predominantly orange for the Flower Hmong and blue for the Blue Hmong. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any Giay. Or maybe they were invisible among the riot of colours of the Hmong. Visit the market and drive back to Bac Ha town center. Have lunch in the local restaurant.
3
Stop 3
This is the biggest Ethnic minorities market in the Northern part of Vietnam. The market open on Sunday of weekly only. Come here it look like a living museum of cultural and community activities. Where still contains plenty of ethnic culture with original traditions and unique customs. End the afternoon with a visit to the house of Mr. Ho, a local Hmong man who performs traditional music, dance and story telling. Drive back to Sapa town and ends the tour at the hotel in Sapa.
What's not included
Tips, other drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
