Sapa In February: All You Need To Know (2025)

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🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: Baolau & 12.Go Asia

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When To Visit Sapa & Weather

Before adding Sapa to your Vietnam itinerary, I highly recommend doing research to prevent disappointment. It is located in the North of the country and lies about 1500 meters above sea level.

There are two seasons that are ideal for visiting. The first is September to mid-December, which is perfect weather for trekking.

The days will be clear with mild temperatures, making it the perfect opportunity to see the countryside. It is outside of the rainy season, so the trails will be dry, and if you are brave, you can even hike the impressive Mount Fansipan.

The second best time to visit Sapa is from March to May. The days here should be sunny and there should be good weather as well.

In contrast, you definitely do not want to go trekking during the wet season from June to September.

It generally lasts three months and is often overrun with domestic tourists. The second worst time to visit is from late December to February, which is what I did.

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What Is Sapa Like In February

Unknown to me until my arrival, February is winter in Sapa.

Temperatures here dropped to the negatives overnight, and we were not prepared. There was a constant fog over the town that never lifted, and I swear I lost a couple of shades of tan!

Luckily, it did not rain during the day while we were there. However, just like clockwork, at about 6 p.m. each night, it would bucket down.

We did not get any of those picturesque views over the rice terraces. Well, actually the rice terraces were empty, being basically just mud puddles for the winter months.

The hiking paths were similar, too. However, we found a good alternative by sticking to the roads.

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Is Sapa Worth Visiting In February?

On the plus side, prices during February are extremely cheap. From accommodation deals to free food and cheap massages your money will go far during your visit.

Most restaurants will have free drinks or free meals signage outside, and you will see online prices plummet.

In all honesty, I would not recommend trekking during February. Alternatively, I would recommend you visit Mai Chau instead.

You can still do all the amazing hiking and get those awesome rice terrace photos. However, it is not located as far north as Sapa, so the weather is warmer, there is less rain, and there are still plenty of trekking companies where you can have the homestay experience.

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Traveling To Sapa From Hanoi

If you find yourself in northern Vietnam, you will likely travel from Hanoi to Sapa. The two most popular options are either by sleeper bus or by sleeper train.

I chose to take the bus, and it quickly became a regrettable decision. At nearly 6 feet tall, I do not comfortably fit into those unique Vietnamese-style long-distance buses.

Luckily, on the journey there, we were right down the back of the bus, providing more room. However, the journey back was certainly not pleasant.

About an hour or so into the trip, we saw a bug, then another, and another. Soon enough, we quickly realized this bus was absolutely infested with beetles and cockroaches!

After that, we only took trains for the next three weeks. I know if I go to Sapa again, it will definitely be by train rather than bus.

A great option for booking transport in Vietnam is 12.Go Asia. I have used them plenty, and I highly recommend them.

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🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: Baolau & 12.Go Asia

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What To Pack When In Sapa During The Colder Months

If you are traveling during the best time, which I cover above, it is relatively easy to pack for Sapa.

Think comfortable shoes you can hike in, a jacket and some activewear. The days will be sunny, and you will want layers you can put on/take off.

Nothing overly special will be needed and you should already have in your bag everything you will basically need.

However, if you are traveling during the cold and wet months, such as February, you will need a completely different packing list.

If you are only visiting Vietnam during your travels, you should have room in your bag for a few thicker pieces. This will allow you to stay warm, snug, and, most importantly, dry. Try to pack a rain jacket, beanie, at least two jumpers, and some thick socks.

Alternatively, if you have previously traveled to other places in Southeast Asia, it is unlikely you will have warm clothes in your bag. Seriously, I had more bikinis than long-sleeved tops.

The best option here is to layer up! I also purchased an overpriced $5.00 beanie that I quickly threw out after returning to Hanoi. However, having something to keep my head toasty was honestly a lifesaver.

You will need lots of warm clothes, especially if you plan to sleep in a homestay as they do not have heaters. Often, though, the host will light a fire at night, which the whole family crowds around to keep warm.

A waterproof pair of shoes is also a must. If you book a trek with one of the local guides, you will be going off the main road and into the fields.

With constant moisture in the air and rainy nights, the consistency of the ground is beyond muddy. We saw so many people freaking out, having to walk along these crazy sludgy paths in their fancy white Nike sneakers. Just bring appropriate shoes.

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The Best Things To Do In Sapa, Vietnam

Even though the weather in February may not be the best, there are still plenty of things to do in this area.

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Go Trekking

One of the best things to do is trekking on a guided tour. These are actually pretty affordable starting from $20.00 for the day.

The price generally includes lunch and water. However, it is best to double-check what is included before booking.

On the trek, you will have the opportunity to visit the ethnic minority villages in the area, explore the beautiful rice terraces, and check out the most picturesque spots.

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Book A Homestay

If you are in Sapa, you need to book a homestay experience. Once you start researching, you will quickly find many places to choose from, including different villages.

If you are interested, I recommend looking on Booking.com for options. This is what I used when booking, and it was a hassle-free experience. When looking, you can turn on the homestay filter to narrow down your search or look at the map view to find something outside the main town.

We paid $6.00 / 136,000 Dong each per night at our homestay. This included breakfast each day and a basic private room with an amazing duvet cover!

On one of the nights, we also decided to get the homestay dinner, which was $3.30 / 75,000 Dong per person. These homestay dinners are always offered as an extra, and I highly recommend doing at least one. It was the best tofu I have ever had in my life and I was able to get the recipe.

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Stay In Ta Van

The majority of homestays are located in Ta Van, a village 9km outside the town. If you do not want to trek in, you can also catch a taxi there for $11.00 / 250,000 Dong.

This might seem like quite a large amount, but the roads down to Ta Van are horrible. Expect constant potholes and puddles. It is a slow 9km journey.

Honestly, it makes a nice change getting off the main backpacking trail in Vietnam.

There is also a $3.30 / 75,000 Dong entry fee to enter the Ta Van area. If you book a taxi off the side of the street, they will stop at the booth, so you pay the money.

However, if you book the taxi through your homestay, your host will likely tell the driver not to stop, as the fee is included in the room price. Well, this is what our host family said anyway.

There are many homestays and eateries in Ta Van itself. This is perfect if you don’t want to eat at a homestay meal every night.

One night, we stopped in at Lucky Daisy’s Bamboo Bar for a meal. It had super awesome, relaxing vibes and a massive fireplace. The town was a lot more happening than up the street where we were staying.

In my personal opinion, I recommend you book a homestay in the town of Ta Van, especially if you plan to stay more than one night.

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Where To Stay While In Sapa

Above I said above, if you are seeking a cultural experience, you may prefer to opt for homestays within the local villages.

For those desiring something more luxurious, the town boasts an array of hotels and resorts with stunning views of the valleys and rice terraces. Bamboo Sapa Hotel is an amazing option with an incredible pool and views.

Additionally, budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses are scattered across Sapa, providing comfortable stays and opportunities to meet fellow travelers.

I had an amazing time staying at Lustig Hostel. The rooms truly give off mountain chalet vibes. It’s also pretty affordable, at just $4.00 per night!

Most people decide to spend their time in Sapa between a hotel in the town and a homestay in the countryside.

If you are on a budget, definitely have a look at Little Ta Van Homestay. The family here is so lovely, and they also have a couple of sweet cats and dogs if you need some animal cuddles.

However, if you are looking for a homestay with a little bit of luxe thrown in, you can’t go wrong with Sapa Riverside Eco Lodge and Spa, which offers private single rooms starting from $25.00 per night.

This is great if you want all the amenities and comforts of a hotel but in the countryside surrounded by nature.

Lustig Hostel A beautiful hostel with mountain vibes for backpackers. Dorms here start from $4.00 oer night. BOOK NOW	Flaco Hostel Sapa Super affordable private rooms in an excellent location. Rooms start from $10.00 per night. BOOK NOW
Sapa Clay House Mountain Retreat Beautiful private rooms from $82.00 per night and in an incredible location with a pool. BOOK NOW	Bamboo Sapa Hotel A super modern and luxurious hotel, starting from $40.00 per night with an amazing pool. BOOK NOW

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Where To Next

North: In terms of heading north, there isn’t too much else apart from the Ha Giang Loop, which you can do on a tour or if you have purchased your own motorbike.

South: Alternatively, you can head South to Hanoi. I recommend booking the train down the country’s length and hitting up the highlights. This includes the Imperial City of Hue, Hoi An, snorkeling In Nha Trang, seeing the sand dunes in Mui Ne, and the tunnels in Ho Chi Minh.

Vietnam is a huge country with so many things to do!

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost. As always, all opinions are my own, and your support is much appreciated.

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