Sapa: The Switzerland of Vietnam

This place, often referred to as the Switzerland of Vietnam, is Sapa. Located in the highlands of Lao Cai Province in northwestern Vietnam, Sapa is a popular travel destination among Koreans, especially after being featured in various travel programs.

Sapa is approximately 320 km northwest of Hanoi, and it takes about 5 to 5.5 hours by car to get there. Since Sapa does not have its own airport, visitors must rely on buses or trains to reach the area. There are three main ways to get to Sapa: sleeping buses, sleeping trains combined with shuttle buses, or private vehicle tours.

While the cost of living in Sapa is slightly higher than in other parts of Vietnam, expenses such as dining out, massages, entrance fees, and taxi fares are still much cheaper compared to South Korea, making it an affordable travel destination.

Sapa has a highland monsoon climate, with a rainy season in summer and a dry season in winter. Due to its high altitude, the temperature is lower than in other regions of Vietnam, and it is the only place in the country where snow falls during winter. The weather in Sapa is highly unpredictable, with significant temperature differences between day and night, and frequent changes between rain and sunshine throughout the day.

📍 Recommended Places and Travel Itinerary

- Fansipan Peak
Known as the 'Roof of Indochina,' Fansipan is the highest mountain in Vietnam and is famous for its majestic natural scenery and beautiful trekking routes. Taking the cable car to the summit offers breathtaking views above the clouds.

- Cat Cat Village
Cat Cat Village is home to the Hmong ethnic minority. Visitors can explore traditional houses and lifestyles here. You can also rent traditional costumes for a unique experience, watch traditional folk performances, and purchase handmade souvenirs.

- Ta Van Village
Ta Van Village is another popular ethnic minority village located about 10 km southeast of Sapa town in the Muong Hoa Valley. It is primarily inhabited by the Giay people, with some Hmong and Dao residents as well. The village offers stunning views of terraced rice fields, the Muong Hoa River, and traditional wooden houses. It is also a famous trekking destination, with a popular route starting from Sapa, passing through Lao Chai Village, and ending in Ta Van.

- Sapa Night Market
No trip is complete without visiting a night market, and Sapa has its own vibrant night market near the central church in the town center. The market is larger on weekends and features a variety of traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, such as dried buffalo meat, herbal teas, corn wine, and honey. Food lovers can enjoy grilled skewers, corn, and a must-try dessert in Sapa—chestnut pie. *Note: Cash is essential as card payments are not widely accepted.

Post by 하양마마 | Aug 28, 2025