The mountains of northern Vietnam remain relatively unexplored, largely because of the limited road network and the difficulties of getting around by public transport. Even major highways are little more than single-truck, many roads are under repair and things gradually improve.
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The most popular routes to get to Sapa is sign up for train ticket depart at night time between 7.00 to 10.30pm from Hanoi station to Lao Cai station. We highly recommend Victoria Express train with soft sleeper and air conditioning. The journey is about 8.5 hours then by car or mini van to Sapa, it takes about 50 minutes up and down the beautiful rice terraces of local people. Train infomation to sapa Vietnam.
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Getting there by local buses is possible, though very uncomfortable, bumpy roads and many buses charge Westerners double or treble the regular fare.
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Renting a vehicle gives you more freedom to stop at villages or jaunt off along side tracks. Either a four-wheel-drive jeep or landcruiser or a motorbike is recommended.
If you have more time, highly recommend to do the excursion to Bac Ha market on Sunday, Can Cau market on Saturday or Coc Ly market on Tuesday. You can go there by local transportation(uncomfortable) or rent a private vehicle easily in Sapa or included in the itinerary if you book the tour through the travel agent.
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