If you are into outdoorsy activities and adventurous trip, you can always come to Vietnam to conquer to the highest mountain, Fansipan Mountain Sapa. The greatest thing about this adventure is that you have the options to manage everything your way – whether you want to go with the ‘easy’ way or the hard way.
The General Challenges
As it was mentioned before, this highest mountain in Vietnam is located in the mountain range of Hoang Lien Son. In the past, only advanced hikers and professional adventurers (who were physically fit) came to this mountain. Because of the challenging terrain and the strenuous hike, not many people were attracted to come to the mountain. Well, unless they were up for the challenge and they seriously wanted to conquer the mountain.
The situation is quite the opposite now since the new tram that has been built and used to help people get to the top is running in full operation. Thanks to this tram, this mountain is now accessible and ‘friendly’ to all kinds of travellers. Naturally, you still need to hire a professional guide to get you up there and the package generally includes a porter and also the guide.
Baca juga: Amazing Golden Bridge in Danang City, Vietnam
When Is the Ideal Time?
Weather is crucial if you want to have an enjoyable hike while getting the best view. The most ideal times are from October to April. The weather can be chilly in December and January. If you decide to go in summers, you may think that the weather would be on your side. But nooo…summers are the time when it rains so much and it can be difficult for the hike.
The Various Trekking Options
As it was mentioned before, this mountain has different trails for different types of travellers. You want to go fast and complete everything in one day? You have the option. Want to go longer and save your breath? There are possible trails.
Here are some of the options:
- Tram Ton. This is considered the ‘easiest’ trail so you can complete it in a day or two. The distance from the beginning to the summit is around 11 kilometres. But don’t underestimate it because it is the simplest. It is still challenging – mentally and especially physically. The tram can be quite useful if you are tired to go down on your own.
- Sin Chai. This is the shorter but more difficult trail. It is challenging, treacherous, and tricky. The distance is 9 kilometres from the beginning to the summit. Even the adventure seekers and advanced hikers need two to three days to complete it.
- Cat Cat. This is the longest (and also dangerous) trail. However, the scenery is also the best. Advanced hikers generally need three to four days to complete the trail. The distance is 20 kilometres all the way to the top.
The standard cost for this trip is around VN$1,450,000 for two people. It already includes a taxi pickup and drop, park fees, and guide fees. You can still discuss the fees with the tour company but basically, if you are willing to pay more, you will get better food – leading to a better service too. No one likes cheap people!
How to Reach the Area
From Hanoi, you can reach Sapa with a bus (which takes around 5 hours to 6 hours). If you take the train, you will get off at Lao Cai Station after 8 hours of travelling. From the station, you need to use a car (or whatever means of transportation that can get you driving) to Sapa town. It takes around an hour. From the town, the hike’s starting point is located 2 kilometres away and it takes 30 minutes to drive there.
Interested in coming to Vietnam and Fansipan Mountain? Plan ahead and start making your bookings! If you want to manage your flights and choose services like Vietnam Airlines or Vietjet Air, go to Airpaz.
