Lao Cai - Sa Pa

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Lao Cai is located about 300km north-west of Ha Noi at a dizzying 1600 meters (5000 feet) above sea level. Lao Cai is known as the Foggy City and is one of seven areas in Vietnam that receives snow every year: rare weather in a tropical country. Sapa is the most popular destination in Lao Cai. In Sapa, you can experience the diverse culture of many different minority ethnic groups such as Mong, Dao, Tay, Giay, Xa Pho, Kinh, and Hoa. Moreover, Sapa, Bat Xat, Muong Khuong, Bac Ha, Simacai, Van Ban, Bao Yen, or Bao Thang are good places to visit, with less tourists and more adventure. 

Famous among Vietnamese for its cool climate and rich diversity of ethnic groups, Sapa will be the center of any northwest itinerary in Vietnam. Fansipan Mountain, or the Roof of Indochina, sits at 3143 meters (10310 feet) above sea level. Connected by a 6-kilometer cable car to Sapa, the journey to the peak takes only 15 minutes. Visitors will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas and natural scenery. Near Sapa is Cat Cat village, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area, known for its local craft market. Finally, couples will surely love visiting the “love market” held every Saturday evening in Sapa’s city square. Young bachelors and bachelorettes come from around Sapa to find potential sweethearts, and spend the night dancing and wandering around the market, buying and selling items. 

Another popular destinations in Sapa are Stone Cathedral, Muong Hoa Valley, Ta Van Village, Ta Phin Village, Dragon Mouth Mountain (Ham Rong Mountain), Silver Waterfall (Bac Waterfall), O Quy Ho Pass, etc