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Vietnam Travel Guide​
Sapa Market Tour & Rice Field Trekking in 2 Days
Overview
This Sapa market tour and rice field trekking experience combines cultural discovery with natural beauty over two unforgettable days. Start with an overnight sleeper train from Hanoi, then dive into the colors and energy of a local ethnic minority market—like Bac Ha, Can Cau, Coc Ly, or Muong Hum—depending on your travel date. On day two, explore the scenic Muong Hoa Valley with a guided trek through terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages. It’s a perfect blend of culture, nature, and authentic northern Vietnam.
Highlights
- Visit a vibrant ethnic minority market in the Sapa region
- Trek through the stunning rice terraces of Muong Hoa Valley
- Meet local H’mong, Zay, and Red Dao communities in remote villages
- Enjoy a scenic overnight journey on the Dream Train Express
- All travel, meals, and accommodations are smoothly arranged for you
Price & Availability
Questions or Special Requests?
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Itinerary
Evening :
Sleeper train departure
At around 10:00 PM, board the Dream Train Express from Hanoi to Lao Cai. You’ll sleep in a shared 4-berth cabin with bedding and air-conditioning — a comfortable and time-saving way to reach the mountains.
Day 1 :
Ethnic market visit
Early Morning :
Arrival and transfer to Sapa
Arrive at Lao Cai Station early in the morning. Your driver will meet you at the platform and take you to Sapa town, where breakfast awaits.
Breakfast
Morning to Midday :
Explore a local market
Depending on your arrival day, visit one of the region’s ethnic markets — Bac Ha (Sunday), Can Cau (Saturday), Coc Ly (Tuesday), or Muong Hum (Sunday). Each market is unique, with different minority groups gathering to trade livestock, food, handicrafts, and everyday goods. Expect a colorful scene of Flower H’mong, Dao, Tay, and other ethnic groups in traditional dress.
Lunch
Afternoon :
Scenic drive back to Sapa
After exploring the market and local area, you’ll return to Sapa in the afternoon. Check in at your hotel and enjoy some time to rest.
Evening :
Enjoy your free time in Sapa
Settle into your hotel in Sapa for a relaxing night. Accommodation is clean, comfortable, and conveniently located — a welcome break after your first full day in the mountains.
Don't forget to explore the evening atmosphere in Sapa town before getting a good night’s sleep.
Morning :
Trek through Muong Hoa Valley
After breakfast, start your guided trek through some of the most beautiful rice terraces in Vietnam. The trail leads you from Sapa to Y Linh Ho, a Black H’mong village, then continues through the scenic Lao Chai village and down to Ta Van, home of the Zay minority.
Breakfast
Midday :
Local lunch in the valley
Stop for lunch in one of the villages — a good chance to rest and enjoy the mountain views while learning more about local customs.
Lunch
Afternoon :
Final stretch to Giang Ta Chai
After lunch, hike through a stretch of bamboo forest before arriving at Giang Ta Chai, a Red Dao village. From here, a vehicle will take you back to Sapa for a short break and dinner.
Evening :
Night train back to Hanoi
In the evening, you’ll transfer to Lao Cai Station for the overnight train back to Hanoi. Expect to arrive in the capital early the next morning — rested and full of memories.
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- Train from Hanoi to Lao Cai and Lao Cai back to Hanoi
- Transfers between Sapa and the train station in Lao Cai
- Sapa market tour
- Local guide
- Transport on site
- Overnight accommodation
- Trekking tour
- Other meals and drinks not mentioned above
- Tips for guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
- Personal expenses (e.g. souvenirs, snacks, laundry)
What happens if it rains during the tour?
The tour operates in light rain, and we recommend bringing a waterproof jacket. In case of severe weather that makes trekking unsafe, we’ll offer an alternative activity or adjust the itinerary.
What’s the difference between the markets, and how do I choose?
Each market has its own character. Bac Ha is the largest and most colorful, Can Cau is scenic and less crowded, Coc Ly is riverside and livestock-focused, and Muong Hum is the most authentic. We’ll help you choose based on your travel date and interest.
Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly. Children and older travelers can join as long as they’re comfortable walking moderate distances. We can tailor the experience to suit different needs.
Is there a toilet during the trek?
Toilets are available at village stops or homestays along the way. Facilities are basic, so it’s a good idea to bring tissues and hand sanitizer.
Do I need special hiking gear or boots?
No technical gear is required. Regular sports shoes or walking shoes with grip are fine for these trails. If you'd like a walking stick, we can help you arrange one locally.
Is it possible to join this tour from somewhere other than Hanoi?
Yes, we can arrange private transfers or adjust the itinerary if you're coming from another city like Ha Giang or Lao Cai. Let us know your travel plans in advance.
Use this form for:
- Enquiries about the tour
- Customization Request
- Questions about booking
Or contact us through:
+84 358 345 100
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Reviews
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An Epic Himalayan Adventure!By Sarah Johnsonfrom United StatesAugust 3, 2023I just returned from the Everest Base Camp trek, and WOW! It was absolutely breathtaking. The stunning Himalayan vistas, warm Sherpa hospitality, and the sense of accomplishment made it an unforgettable journey. Highly recommended!
Date of Experience: August 03, 2023
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