Sapa (known locally as Sa Pa) is one of Vietnam’s most famous and most northern trekking destinations. Nearby Fan Si Pan Mountain rises 3,143 meters above sea level, making it the tallest point in Vietnam. Sapa’s cooler weather (and occasional light winter snowfall) was responsible for drawing the French to establish the area as a popular hill station in the early 1920’s. The French were of course alongside local H’Mong and Dao tribes who have lived off the land for centuries.
Sapa travel is a journey through time and space compared to the rest of Vietnam: stunning rice terraces appearing on what would otherwise be described as cliffs, comparatively frigid winter temperatures, the distinct dialect of the hill tribes, traditional batik handicrafts and a magical overnight train to get there. The list of what makes Sapa travel unique is almost endless. If it weren’t for the hotel construction boom and growing number of tourist buses you might not even know you’re in Vietnam.