SAPA TOURS OVERVIEW
The hill town of Sapa is just 38km (24 miles) from Lao Cai by way of a winding, metalled road which climbs slowly into the hills. Developed in 1922 as a hill station– those universal retreats constructed by European colonial administrations all over the east to escape from the heat and humidity of the plains Sapa lies in an attractive valley at an elevation of 1,600m (5,200ft) and is pleasantly cool during the hot season. Should you visit during the winter months, however, bring warm clothing, as rain and drizzle are prevalent and temperatures regularly fall to freezing point at night. While a visit to Sapa makes a refreshing change from the plains at any time of year, the best months are September- November, and March-May.
Besides the beautiful scenery and cool climate, this small market town affords the visitor a chance to enjoy temperate fruits such as plums, peaches, and apples, as well as to meet with the local hill peoples, among whom the most numerous are the colorfully dressed Hmong and Dao.