If you want to go to Sapa alone. How to travel to Sapa alone safely and economically. There is an advantage when traveling to Sapa alone, you can be comfortable, go wherever you want, do whatever you want, enjoy peace and quiet, have plenty of time to enjoy as you wish. However, traveling to Sapa alone will definitely cost more.
Why travel to Sapa alone
I heard on the internet that people say: “extroverts recharge their energy when they are with others, while introverts recharge their energy when they are alone.” If this is true, then solo trips are a powerful energy booster for introverted people. As for me, I lean towards being introverted.
This is my second time in Sapa so I am quite familiar with the streets in the town and the places to visit. Last time I visited many famous spots here, so this time the main criteria are to chill and relax, not to plan too much, just go wherever I feel like, explore casually. So I will divide it into 2 parts: Places to visit and share my itinerary + suggest a better itinerary for you to remember. It’s quite long and detailed so read according to the bold keywords, read the parts you are interested in. I want more people to know about these places and encourage solo female travelers.
THE MOST ATTRACTIVE PLACES TO VISIT IN SAPA
1. Utopia Eco Lodge
Where is Utopia Eco Lodge located:
Utopia Eco Lodge is located 1km from the ancient rock beach and is in the Lao Thau village. Utopia Eco Lodge is a resort in the middle of Lao Thau village, situated on a large piece of land, with hills and streams, giving the feeling of small European mountains rather than Sapa. Far from people, bustling streets outside, and enjoying every moment here: listening to the stream flowing 24/24, jumping around on the grass, swinging on a hammock breathing fresh air. If you get bored, play with the dogs here, there are over 20 dogs and many puppies, all chubby and cute, inviting you to play. In the evening, have dinner with homegrown food and then watch a movie by the stream. Nearby is a small kitchen, lively with bonfires for grilling corn and potatoes. This is the main reason I came to Sapa this time. Liked it from the first sight through some pictures on Facebook.
How to get to Utopia Eco Lodge
The road is a bit far and difficult to travel, takes about 1 hour from the new town to the location, it’s deep inside the village, about 1km from the ancient rock beach. But as soon as you enter the gate, you will be overwhelmed by its beauty. A vast expanse of green grassy hill opens up in front of you, going inside you will see the stream flowing, capturing the view of the stream + terraced fields + mountains and hills.
What does Utopia Eco Lodge offer?
There are 3 types of rooms here: Stream view Bungalow (1.2 million VND), Hill view Bungalow (1 million VND), Family Bungalow. I chose the Stream view Bungalow, opening the door to see the stream. On weekends, the price increases by 200k. In general, the price is very reasonable for this view. The rooms are clean, tidy, and cute. It has been open for 4 years but still looks new. The rooms are fully equipped. Oh, there is no wifi here so everyone can fully enjoy the scenery. I used 3g.
The staff here is super nice, friendly, and cute, they can even include some dogs in the team. I see people hanging out with them for a long time, they even take you out, who knows, they might introduce you to a partner.
In the evening, you can have a campfire or ask some guys to set up a movie night with a projector. I’m not sure if there are any additional charges for group activities or anything like that. But for me, I always watch movies with everyone. That day, I watched a trilogy: Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, Before Midnight. It was the best movie-watching experience I’ve ever had. I always dream of watching movies outdoors like this, in the middle of the forest or on the beach. That day, I watched a movie by the stream, a small family was sitting by the fire roasting corn and potatoes, their dog running around us, it must have been a very beautiful memory with that little baby.
Here you can go alone, with friends, with your partner, or with your family, all are very enjoyable. There is a stream to visit around here, a village, but for me, just being here is already a perfect 10, no need to go anywhere else, nothing more is needed.
2. Absinthe Bar Sapa
Absinthe Bar Sapa is a very cool bar located right in the town center, on the 10th floor of Hotel de la Coupole. Beautiful view, architecture, prime location, nice service, delicious drinks, and the prices are really okay, cheaper than I thought for the quality. Sitting outdoors sipping a sweet and strong raspberry cocktail, gazing at the Sapa sky, especially at sunset, is mesmerizing. The music here when I sat was also good.
I arrived in the late afternoon so the bar wasn’t too crowded, sometimes it was just me. But even if it’s crowded, Absinthe is spacious, the tables and chairs are well-spaced, and all seating areas feel quite private. The bar has indoor areas (2 floors) and an outdoor area connected to the hotel’s restaurant. Every corner is beautiful. I noticed that the ladies who come here often wear long, glamorous dresses, a bit of a noble and classic style. On that day (like every other day), I was dressed as a poor monkey, so I took photos to make the space less shiny.
Reference: 10 most famous tourist destinations in Sapa
3. Famous Cafes with Beautiful Views in Sapa to Visit
BB Sky Lounge
Address: 08 Cau May, 5th floor BB Hotel Sapa
BB Sky Lounge is a lounge with a luxurious and elegant style at BB Hotel right in the center of Sapa, opposite Sunplaza. On the 1st floor, there is a black and white-themed cafe (the whole building is prominently white at the beginning of Cau May Street). Beautiful view, modern decor, everything is okay, but the most outstanding point for me here is the handsome staff, everyone!
Absinthe
I was hesitant about whether to go to Absinthe or BB and finally chose Absinthe. After going to Absinthe and wandering around a bit, passing by here, I accidentally looked and saw the handsome staff holding a walkie-talkie looking at me, everyone, my heart and mind both said I had to go in, no questions asked. Now I understand why those Japanese food places on Kim Ma Street or those cute girls standing to welcome guests, it’s really effective, everyone. Coming here, I couldn’t hold back, even though it’s a lounge, I still chose to drink hot cocoa. I think they have Cocktail’s Time every Saturday, I saw it on their page and on the sign in front of the door. The outside view facing Sunplaza + sparkling lights is beautiful, whether you go in the morning or evening.
Cóong Coffee Homestay
Address: Tổ 8, Thị Trấn Sapa
At Cóong Coffee Homestay has a beautiful white hut for daytime photoshoots. They also have Live Music on Saturdays. They have recently started offering Homestay services. It’s a bit far from the city center if you walk, but it’s quick by car. If you don’t mind moving around, you might find it close enough.
Viettrekking
Address: 33 Hoàng Liên, TT. Sapa
Viettrekking is quite popular, located near the town with a high view, overlooking the Muong Hoa train running through the mist. Nearby, there is a small hill built out where people often stand to take photos, especially beautiful when the train passes by. This place offers coffee, homestay, and has been recently renovated, but I prefer the outdoor area as it used to be. The second-floor coffee area is beautifully rebuilt, all glass doors outside with a view of the clouds, very beautiful. The homestay offers both private rooms and dorms, I was hesitant but ended up choosing Jungle, a more secluded place with lush greenery for privacy and tranquility. However, after visiting both places, if you want to focus on exploring the town, then Viettrekking is more convenient, closer.
Lá Dao spa, coffee House & Homestay
Lá Dao spa, coffee House & Homestay is located in bản Tả Van
Lá Dao spa, coffee House & Homestay is the most Sapa-like beautiful cafe among the ones I’ve visited in Sapa. The view is incredibly beautiful, overlooking the terraced fields. Every outdoor corner is very charming because of the stunning view. They offer spa and homestay services, but I haven’t tried them yet. The downside is that the road to get there is currently under construction and not very pleasant. However, there are some beautiful photo spots along the way, Sapa’s signature: Cloud Bridge, a resting station on the road where you see crowds or street vendors, that’s it.
4. Ô Quy Hồ: Đường Lên Có qua Thác Bạc, Thác Tình Yêu
The winding road up is very beautiful, one of the four great mountain passes of Vietnam, lush and majestic. I heard there’s a Ô Quy Hồ coffee but I haven’t been there as I’ve been to Ô Quy Hồ before. Taking photos on the peak of Ô Quy Hồ is beautiful but can be harshly lit (I went in the afternoon). The road is beautiful and easy to travel, but a bit winding so be careful and you’ll be fine. I went to Ô Quy Hồ before when there were still some huts for photoshoots. Now they’re gone and it’s been a while since I last went, so the emotions are not as intense, faded with time. Well, enjoy the photos.
On the way to O Quy Ho Pass, there are Thac Bac (Silver Waterfall) and Thac Tinh Yeu (Love Waterfall), two famous spots that I didn’t have time to visit. My favorite part of these waterfalls is the road leading to them, with grass and wildflowers growing romantically on both sides, not many people take photos here +1 point.
5. Mường Hoa Mountain Railway – Purple Flower Garden
Round-trip ticket: 50k. 10 minutes to reach the panoramic view of the town.
This place is probably well-known to everyone. If you’re lucky to visit when it’s not crowded like me, you can freely take photos. I was alone, so I just set up my tripod, sometimes right in front of other visitors (it doesn’t bother them at all) and posed freely. That visitor even watched and counted for me to take photos, haha :))).
This purple flower garden is currently a hot spot in Sapa. When I went there, it seemed a bit low and a bit withered, but with some effort, I still managed to take a few shots.
They are building some wooden fences here, giving it a bit of a Dallas vibe with some photo spots for check-ins. There is a staircase pointing towards the sky, but the colors are too flashy, it would be beautiful if it were white.
There are several photo spots at the train station, on the side of the hallway. Take photos if you want, or don’t, it’s up to you.
6. Sapa Jungle Pub & Homestay
Sapa Jungle Pub & Homestay is located at 05B/534 Dien Bien Phu. Sapa Jungle Pub & Homestay is where I rented a dorm bed for the first night in Sapa. It’s about 2km from the town center, nestled at the top of alley 534, surrounded by lush greenery as its name suggests, Jungle. There are pathways, cute flower-lined steps on both sides, but I found the Bungalow more suitable. The impressive part here is a wooden platform with a panoramic view of Sapa town. In the evening, they have live music performances, somewhat similar to Dalas style.
For more information: Guide for self-sufficient Sapa travel
7. What to Eat in Sapa
Sapa offers many delicious dishes. But in the cold weather, hot dishes are the best.
- Grilled skewers at May Sapa near Sun Plaza. They have a variety of meats, vegetables, and meatballs. Price: 1030k. It’s crowded, so just go in without researching. The flavors are rich and good.
- Western restaurants are good: Italy Corner, La Roma, Delta,… all located near Cau May with delicious wood-fired pizzas. I usually go for burgers or pasta.
- Try the “Cốn Sủi” at Ong Ha 591 Dien Bien Phu for breakfast. Price: 35k. It’s a thick broth-like soup with meat, noodles, fried dough sticks, a unique dish worth trying.
- Two specialties are salmon and “thắng cố” but both are not my type of food, although my friends praised them.
- On the slopes, alleys, and Sapa market, there are small stalls grilling corn, sweet potatoes, rice paper, eggs,… they look delicious, but I prefer meat.
- Hot sweet soup at the Sapa night market: if you’re hungry in the evening and need something warm, sweet soup is a good option. The stalls look similar, so I usually choose the busiest one.
*Apart from these spots, there’s Cat Cat village nearby, but it seemed too touristy so I didn’t go. Many people visit for convenience and to take photos with various views.
Itinerary for Solo Trip to Sapa 3 Days 3 Nights
This part I will keep brief, as I have already reviewed all the locations above. Just assembling the timeline here. I will add some small stories to each photo if anyone is curious hehe. Hmm, maybe I should consider a career change to become a tour guide?
Day 1: Visit Sapa Town – Mountain Climbing Train – Purple Flower Garden – Absinthe
Arrived at 11 pm the night before at the bus station to go to Sapa. I chose Sao Viet because it has many routes and is closest to my home. You can visit saodieu.vn to book tickets, there are many bus companies with all the information for your convenience. I saw some buses that looked fancier but the boarding point was a bit far. You can choose from Limouse, Cabin, Greenbus, Sapa Express, Queen café bus,… all of which I haven’t tried. But I heard good reviews.
- 4:20 am: Arrived at Sapa market – Dien Bien Phu street. At this time, the homestays were not open yet so I wandered around and then ate at Con Sui restaurant nearby. They have various dumplings, quite delicious and unique. It was crowded though, everyone was in groups so I felt a bit lonely and ended up sharing a table with couples.
- 6 am: Returned to the homestay and slept until noon.
If you want to go out, you can visit the town, go to some cafes, and have random meals. But in this cold weather, sleeping is still the best choice.
- 12 pm – 5 pm: Woke up, wandered around and took photos at the homestay => Had lunch in town (burgers at Italy Corner) => Wandered around the town: Square, stone church => Had a massage => Took the mountain train to play, took photos of the purple flower field.
- 5 pm – 7 pm: Went to Absinthe for cocktails, watched the sunset, took photos.
- 7:20 pm: Had grilled food at May Sapa near Sunplaza.
- 8 pm – 8:30 pm: Got a hair wash. It was raining and foggy that day, so my hair quickly looked bad.
- 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm: Planned to go to Coong to listen to live music but it was too far at night, so I went back to the town to visit the night market and buy some random stuff. They sell a lot of things here from food, souvenirs, knives, guns (probably toys. I thought about buying a gun to take photos with my idol Tiger Dần but then it seemed a bit cheesy).
After visiting the market, I felt it wasn’t wild enough for a lady night aka a single girl traveling alone, so I planned to go to a pub at Cau May or Fanxipang street, there are many. I thought about going to Color Bar but it was recently burned. So, as reviewed above, I ended up at BB Sky Lounge, don’t know why.
- 10:30 pm: Went back to sleep. Even though I was far away, I still followed the family rule of returning home before 10 pm. I’m even more obedient than Cinderella, everyone. Maybe that’s why I haven’t met my prince yet.
Day 2: Coong Coffe – Ô Quy Hồ – Utopia
- 10h – 11h: Sunrise. Tried to wake up to see the sunrise but failed. Breakfast at Homestay
- 11h – 13h30: Visit Viettrekking cf. (Can be replaced with Coong)
This morning, if everyone wants to explore, I suggest going to Ô Quy Hồ for some fun and then back for lunch and coffee, which is perfect. But you have to wake up early to make it in time. Additionally, the Tả Phìm strawberry garden or the ancient rose garden are also quite nice.
- 14h15 – 15h30: Ride to Utopia. I took a motorbike taxi because I get motion sickness, costs 120k. You can also take a taxi or rent a motorbike, it’s convenient. If you leave early, you can stop by Lá Dao coffee in Tả Van and take more proactive photos on the way. But the road is rough, if you’re alone or in a group of women, I recommend taking a motorbike taxi or taxi for safety.
- 15h30 – 18h: Check-in, enjoy, take photos at Utopia. Plenty of opportunities for Instagram-worthy shots. They even rent out the place for photoshoots, so if you’re not staying there but want to take photos, just contact them. But I recommend staying, it’s a 10/10 experience.
- 18h – 19h: Dinner
- 19h30 – midnight: Movie Night / Bonfire
Day 3: Utopia – Thác Cầu Mây – Return to Hanoi
- 8h9h: Sunrise, breakfast
- 9h – 12h: Relax, take photos. The lighting here is incredibly beautiful for photos. Every corner is picturesque.
- 12h – 14h: Explore around, take photos, head to Thác Cầu Mây (not sure if that’s the correct name)
- 14h30: Return to town for lunch + prepare to leave for Hanoi. End of a perfect solo trip.
Above is my personal itinerary for self-discovery, so there are still many places in Sapa that I haven’t explored. You can check out other articles, I went at the end of August 2019 so if there are any updates, please let me know.Total cost for my solo trip to Sapa: Around 3,200k for all expenses starting from Hanoi.
Solo Travel Experience in SaPa
- Save the number of a motorbike taxi driver or a taxi driver for convenience
- Reading reviews beforehand is important, but also ask locals for advice as they are more familiar with the area. However, not everyone knows every place, sometimes even when taking a motorbike taxi, you still have to give directions.
- The biggest limitation of traveling alone is higher costs, limited destinations, and if you want to take Instagram-worthy photos, you have to bring a selfie stick or ask someone else to take your photos, so the solo travel photos may be a bit sparse…
- Remember to check your phone’s battery before heading out
- Just go, what are you afraid of
I want to pack my bags and move to Sapa right away! Nowhere compares to Vietnam in my heart, only when you travel far do you realize how romantic Vietnam is…This review is getting long, I’ll stop here. I hope you all find more motivation to travel solo or visit Sapa. Sending you all beautiful expressions.Thank you everyone and if there are any changes, please share your feedback and thoughts in the comments below!
