Winter in Sapa -
Why It Might Not Be the Best Time to Visit
- LocationSapa, Vietnam
- Duration2 days
- Rating★★★★
- Average CostVND 100000
If you're considering a trip to Sapa, you might want to think twice about planning your visit in the winter. I visited in January, an off-peak season, and while there were fewer tourists, the weather conditions and several other factors made it less than ideal.
How to Get There
I took a 6-hour sleeper bus from Hanoi City around 1 pm and reached Sapa around 7 pm. The bus picked us up at the Old Quarter. Although the journey is long, you can enjoy the view from your private cabin. The bus made a 30-minute stop along the way, allowing us to use the restroom and grab a bite to eat.
Transportation in Sapa
The best way to explore Sapa is by renting a motorbike. I recommend a semi-automatic bike for navigating the mountain roads. It was my first time riding one, but with some time and practice, it wasn't difficult. There's no Grab service available in Sapa, and the local taxis tend to overcharge customers.
Why Winter Might Not Be the Best Time to Visit
Winter in Sapa, which falls in January, is the rainy season. The weather can be foggy and rainy all day. Also, during my visit, the famous Fansipan cable car was under maintenance, so I couldn't experience it.
Places I Visited
Advice
Here are some tips based on my experience: - Skip the Cat Cat village: It's overrated and too touristy. The entrance ticket isn't cheap given the size of the village and the overall experience. Instead, ride a motorbike to a local village to see the true Sapa village. - Avoid the salmon hotpot: Despite being a famous dish in Sapa, my friends and I found the salmon had a strong smell, probably because it was kept in freshwater with a fish tank. Instead, try the pumpkin chicken soup. It's probably one of the best foods I've tried in Vietnam.
