National Geographic Traveller (UK)
TRUE NORTH Six m ountain t reks i n the S apa r egion
Stay with families in specially selected village homestays, waking up to Sapa’s epic mountain scenery and ancient rice terraces, and learn about the local Hmong, Tay and Red Dao people. sapaochau.org
BATIK & WALK
Learn traditional Hmong batik techniques, which involve using beeswax to draw patterns on fabric. The class takes place in Ta Van village, with tailor-made guided trekking routes also on oer. sapasisters.com/services
CAMPING & FORAGING
As an alternative to trekking through villages, this moderately challenging experience sees trekkers pitch up in forested Hoang Lien National Park to learn how to harvest wild food, prepare an evening feast at base camp and drink rice wine as the sun sets. ethosspirit.com/camping-andforaging
TAY & XA PHO PEOPLE
Your driver will take you to the starting point at Ban Ho Village, where you can take a day trek to the home of the Red Dao people, through rice terraces, to Nam Sai Village to meet the Xa Pho people. sapaochau. org/sapa-trekking-and-homestay
FAMILY STROLL
A short trek passes through Cat Cat Village to a pristine waterfall for swims in a forest-backed stream and a waterside picnic: a great option for travellers with children. sapasisters.com/services
MUONG HUM MARKET
O the tourist trail, this market attracts a range of local ethic groups. The drive there from Sapa passes magnificent mountain scenery, and on the way back, an easy 2.5-mile loop can be walked through the village of Ta Giang Phin. ethosspirit. com/muong-hum-market.html