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Are you planning to travel by bus from Hanoi to Sapa? This guide has got you covered! Traveling by bus is a convenient and affordable way, as it takes you from the bustling city of Hanoi to the mountainous town of Sapa. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends and family, you will find a bus to suit your needs and budget. In this guide, I will share all the information you need to know about traveling by bus from Hanoi to Sapa, including how long the journey takes, the types of buses available, their features, schedules, and ticket prices. Here we go!
Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and is located in the northern part of the country. It has a rich history and culture dating back over a thousand years. The city is home to French colonial architecture, ancient Southeast Asian temples, and bustling markets. Some of the must-visit attractions in Hanoi are the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
Hanoi serves as a great starting point to explore other destinations in Vietnam, like Cat Ba, Halong Bay, Tam Coc, and Sapa. While Cat Ba and Halong Bay are beautiful destinations by the Gulf of Tonkin, Sapa is a mountainous region to the northwest of Hanoi. It is known for its beautiful rice terraces and colorful hill tribes.
→ Also read: 12 Excellent Vegan Restaurants in Hanoi
Sapa is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Vietnam. It is a small town in the Lao Cai province of Vietnam, located near the border with China. The town is a popular tourist spot due to its stunning rice terraces, misty mountains, and ethnic minority communities. More than 80% of people here are from different ethnic groups, including the Hmong, Dao, and Tay.
Some must-visit attractions in Sapa include the Fansipan Mountain (the highest peak in Indochina), the Cat Cat Village, and the Muong Hoa Valley. One of the most popular activities in Sapa is trekking, which allows you to explore the surrounding countryside and interact with the local communities. Sapa has a sub-temperate climate throughout the year. The best time to visit Sapa is during Spring, from March to May, and fall, from September to November.
Since Sapa doesn’t have its own airport, tourists coming from southern provinces or other countries usually fly to the nearest airport, Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi.
→ Also read: How to Get From Hanoi Airport to The Old Quarter
The distance between Hanoi and Sapa is approximately 315 kilometers (196 miles). The most popular bus route is CT05, a well-maintained road to Lao Cai, near China. Since there is only one road to Sapa, the bus goes to Lao Cai first and then turns southwest on QL4D, which takes you to Sapa.
The journey usually takes around 5-6 hours by bus. The road is scenic, passing through beautiful countryside and mountainous landscapes. The cost of a bus ticket ranges between $6 and $21 (196,000 VND to 440,000 VND).
When taking a bus from Hanoi to Sapa, make sure to confirm the departure point with your chosen bus company. Different bus companies use various boarding points in Hanoi which can be very confusing!
The most common departure points are My Dinh Bus Station (in My Dinh District), Giap Bat Bus Station (in Hoang Mai District), and Nuoc Ngam Bus Station (in Long Bien District). Buses leave at different times, from 6:30 in the morning until midnight.
→ TIP: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Hanoi’s traffic can be unpredictable, so allow extra time to avoid any last-minute rushes.
When you travel by bus from Hanoi to Sapa, the drop-off points can vary depending on the bus operator and route. The most common drop-off points include Sa Pa Bus Station, Lao Cai Bus Station, Cat Cat Bus Station, and SaPa Market.
Once you get off there, you can easily find transportation to your accommodation. Taxis, motorbike taxis, and shuttle buses are always available and easy to find.
When you want to travel from Hanoi to Sapa, you have three types of buses to choose from. The journey takes about 5-6 hours, so it’s important that you pick the one that makes you feel most comfortable.
Traditional sleeper buses are a popular and affordable choice to go to Sapa. They have fixed seats and shared bunk beds, so note that there is not that much privacy.
These buses operate both during the day and night time. Most companies have 20-25 trips a day from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm. Prices start at $6 (150,000 VND), and they are widely available. They are spacious and can accommodate around 38-44 passengers.
VIP Cabin sleeper buses are more expensive, but these buses give you a more private and comfy travel experience. Each passenger gets their own cabin, separated by curtains. Cabins are equipped with features like USB plugs, TVs, pillows, blankets, and even WiFi, making the trip more enjoyable.
Some buses even have double or twin cabins for couples or those who want more space. They are more expensive though and ticket prices start from $17 per person.
If you want a bit of luxury and comfort, you can choose a 9-seat limousine bus. It has spacious and comfy seats and a faster travel time of about 4 to 5 hours.
However, these buses offer limited luggage space and may have limited availability, so make sure to book tickets in advance. Prices start at $18 per adult.
→ Also read: Hanoi to Cat Ba: A Complete Transport Guide
Several reputable companies run daily buses from Hanoi to Sapa, including Luxury Van Limousine, Sapa Discovery Express, Sapa Express, Grouptour, Sapa Ethnic Travel, TBus, and more. One of the biggest perks of taking a bus is the direct route, so you won’t have to worry about additional transfers.
Most buses depart from Hanoi’s city center and arrive at Sapa’s town center. If you’re looking to save on accommodation, most bus companies offer a late-night bus that arrives in Sapa around 6:00 in the morning. Here are some popular and reputable bus companies operating from Hanoi to Sapa.
The Luxury Van Limousine is a popular choice for travelers seeking a premium travel experience from Hanoi to Sapa. They operate multiple daily trips from Hanoi to Sapa, both day and night.
Sapa Ethnic Travel is a reputable bus company that provides high-quality and luxurious buses from Hanoi to Sapa. You’ll get free WiFi and a water bottle. The bus makes one or two stops along the route, allowing you to grab a lunch or use the toilet. They run multiple daily buses from Hanoi to Sapa, both day and night.
Sapa Express is a great option for traveling from Hanoi to Sapa by bus. They offer comfortable buses with modern amenities, like air conditioning and WiFi, and double beds that are perfect for families or couples. The beds come with mattresses and curtains to ensure privacy. The company runs many buses daily, so you can choose a time that suits you.
For your convenience, they provide free hotel pick-up services in Hanoi Old Quarter. But, unfortunately, you cannot get this service in Sapa. Make sure to call them 24 hours before departure to request pick-up.
Sapa Dragon Express is a reputable bus company known for its comfortable and affordable sleeper buses. They offer regular bus departures from Hanoi to Sapa.
If you’re looking for a luxury bus from Hanoi to Sapa, Sao Viet is the best bus company. Their 44-seat VIP cabin sleeper buses feature modern amenities like USB ports, WIFi, curtains, and TV. They offer multiple trips daily from Hanoi to Sapa.
If you’re planning a trip from Hanoi to Sapa by bus, Inter Bus Lines is a great option for a smooth and comfortable journey. They guarantee a safe and enjoyable traveling experience with professional drivers and comfortable buses. They offer 3-4 bus trips per day.
Before selecting a bus company, make sure to check the bus schedules and ticket costs to have a pleasant and hassle-free journey.
You have different options for getting bus tickets from Hanoi to Sapa. The most convenient and reliable way is to book online through a reputable travel agency like 12Go. You can also book tickets in person at the bus station in Hanoi or through your hotel.
Note that, when you book through your hotel, you cannot choose the pick-up location in town. A pick-up may be included in the price but oftentimes, you’ll need to take a Grab or taxi at an extra cost.
When traveling during peak season, you must book your bus tickets in advance, to avoid any last-minute inconvenience.
If you’re planning to return to Hanoi from Sapa on the same day, bus companies like Sapa Express, TBus, Sapa Dragon Express, and others offer return trips from Sapa to Hanoi. The buses depart from the different departure points in Sapa and drop off at Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Noi Bai Airport, and other arrival points.
The travel time is also approximately 6 hours, but it might take longer in case of heavy traffic. The return trip ticket cost can vary depending on the bus type and company. You can book through 12GoAsia.
→ Also read: Can You Drink Tap Water in Vietnam? Things to Know!
If you want to travel from Hanoi to Sapa without taking the bus, you have a few alternative options. One option is to take the train. Daily trains depart from Hanoi to Lao Cai, the closest city to Sapa. You can take a taxi or shuttle bus from Lao Cai to Sapa, which is about 40 kilometers away. The train journey takes around 8-9 hours, depending on the type of train you choose.
Another option is to take a minivan or taxi. This can be more expensive than taking the bus or train, but it gives you more flexibility and comfort.
If you’re short on time or want an easy way to explore Sapa, consider joining a guided tour from Hanoi. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a motorbike and ride to Sapa. It is a scenic journey with beautiful countryside views, but it can be challenging for inexperienced riders.
Here are some of the must-do things in Sapa that are high on everyone’s bucket list when exploring the north of Vietnam.
Sapa is a popular destination for its beautiful trekking routes. You can trek to nearby villages like Lao Chai, Ta Van, and Giang Ta Chai and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains and rice terraces.
You can opt for DIY hikes or guided treks. If you’re coming from Hanoi, you can also book all-inclusive trekking tours to Sapa.
Fansipan is the largest peak in the Indochina region. It is a popular spot for tourists and trekkers and is often referred to as the “Roof of Indochina.” The peak belongs to the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and rises to over 3,140 meters (10,326 ft). You can take a cable car to the top and enjoy the stunning views of cloud-covered peaks.
Silver Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located a 12-kilometer hike or drive from the center of Sapa. It is also less than 3 kilometers away from Love Waterfall, another beautiful spot that you can find on the main road.
Climb the stairs on either side of the waterfall to reach a steel viewing bridge. From the bridge, you can see the waterfall and take amazing pictures.
→ Also read: Mai Chau, Vietnam: Everything You Need to Know
Cat Cat Village is a traditional Hmong village located in the middle of Muong Hoa Valley and Sapa town. It is a popular tourist attraction because of its easy accessibility, being only a short 20-minute walk away from the center. The village is famous for its weaving traditions. It’s a bit touristy but fun!
As you walk through the village, you can see the women creating clothes and handicrafts from linen and cotton using traditional methods. Furthermore, you can learn about the local culture, enjoy the beautiful scenery, or explore the hiking trails.
Staying in a homestay in Sapa can be a highly rewarding experience! This is because homestays provide a unique opportunity to experience the local culture firsthand.
You get to live with a local family, which allows you to see and participate in their daily lives and traditions. This can include everything from food preparation to agricultural practices and, on top of that, as a conscious traveler, you support the local community this way!
Local children and handicrafts in Sapa
From cozy homestays in ethnic villages to luxury resorts overlooking the valley, you’ll find a range of accommodation options. Some of the popular places to stay in Sapa include:
Topas Ecolodge is the top choice for a luxurious stay in Sapa. Located in the heart of Hoang Lien National Park, it features deluxe villas and bungalows. Other facilities include immaculately clean pools and a fantastic spa.
The staff, many from nearby tribes, are friendly and welcoming. The food is fresh and delicious, and every dish is well-prepared with love. The lodge offers plenty of opportunities to relax, and if you’re feeling active, you can take a trekking tour in the surrounding rice fields.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly stay in Sapa, Mega View Homestay is the perfect choice for you! Diego and his wife are lovely hosts, and they will help you organize all the sightseeing tours and transfers in Sapa. The property features air-conditioned dorms, a garden, and free WiFi. You can enjoy the mountain views from the rooftop or your room window.
Their on-site restaurant serves American and Vietnamese cuisine for dinner, lunch, and brunch, and they also have yummy pancakes for breakfast. The homestay is a top choice for budget-conscious travelers.
If you’re looking for a place to stay away from the hustle and bustle of central Sapa, consider the Mong Village Resort & Spa. The resort has an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, an on-site restaurant, and a bar.
You will get a complimentary, freshly-cooked breakfast every morning. The breakfast menu includes many choices like pho, noodles, bread, salads, cereals, and local vegetables.
Each room is equipped with modern comforts and has a terrace with views of the surrounding mountains and paddy fields. The resort is conveniently located near Sa Pa Lake and Sa Pa Stone Church. The staff is friendly and they can arrange tours to nearby attractions if you don’t feel like planning your itinerary yourself.
If you are looking for a beautiful and eco-friendly homestay, Hmong House Sapa is a great option. A taxi will pick you up from Sapa, and the journey to the homestay will take about 25 minutes. Sue, the hostess, is kind and makes you feel incredibly welcome, like it’s your second home!
The best part is that you’ll get delicious home-cooked meals and the bungalow has stunning mountain views. The rooms have all modern amenities to make you feel right at home. Staying here is like a glamping experience, with the rustic sound of farm animals and bamboo leaves.
Sapa Riverside Homestay offers a relaxing riverside accommodation experience. It is located 30 minutes out of the Sapa town down in the valley. Staying here is like living in a beautiful garden.
You can book the deluxe bungalow, a beautiful room with a balcony by the river. From your room, you can hear the calming sound of the flowing river, and their on-site restaurant caters to vegans in Vietnam, serving delicious and freshly prepared dinner, lunch, and brunch.
Yes, it is safe to travel by bus from Hanoi to Sapa. Just make sure you choose a reputable bus company.
The cost of bus tickets varies depending on the type of bus and the bus company. Regular Sleeper buses usually cost between $6 to $10 (200,000 VND to 300,000 VND), while VIP Cabin sleeper buses and Limo Buses can cost between $17 to $21.
The best time to visit Sapa is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are at their most beautiful.
Yes, besides buses, you can also take a train, a taxi, a minivan, or a private tour to get to Sapa. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a motorbike and drive to Sapa yourself.
If you’re looking for an affordable and hassle-free way to travel from Hanoi to Sapa, taking a bus is the best option.
Once you arrive in Sapa, you’ll be amazed by the beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals. So, don’t wait any longer and secure your bus ticket now!
Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or drop me a message through my contact page.
Also, don’t forget to check out my resources page with my favorite booking platforms and tips to start planning your trip. Additionally, have a look at my favorite travel gear if you want to pack more consciously!
ENJOY!
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Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and yourself!
On this website, I cover different topics like slow travel, plant-based food guides, responsible travel, sustainable packing, eco-travel, and more!
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