With a height of 3143 meters, Mt. Fansipan is considered the tallest peak in Vietnam as well as the rooftop of Indochina peninsula. Adventurous and energetic souls like conquering this peak through going trekking. They are surely rewarded with a lot of memorable experiences, ranging from the large scattered rocks to the remote town of Sapa, with its beautiful villages, eye-catching scenery and minority groups
 
Of course, the exhilarating journey to the top of Fansipan is always challenging but interesting, and it should be led and supported by expert guides and locals. If conquering the mountain is one of your favorite things during the trip to Northwest region, then spend time consulting our advice below!
 

Best time to visit

From September to April is known as the most suitable season to climb Fansipan. However, it will be more wonderful if you start your trekking at the end of February since it is when the flowers along the mountain are in full bloom. Keep in mind that the weather here is unusual! You can feel hot at the foot of the mountain but may feel foggy and cold on higher level!
 

Route options to consider

Of course, it is highly advised to begin your journey with an excellent guide who can show you where to go, give advice and let you know what should not be missed. Most of the treks often last a few days! Then, be prepared for food and camping, too! Based on your time and skill level, there are 3 main route options as follow.


 

• Easy Route

You may begin from Tram Ton with the long distance of 1900 meters. It takes about 10 hours to reach the summit. Luckily, this hike can be done in just one day!
 

• Medium Route

Your trekking will start from San Sa to Ban Sin Chai with the long distance of 1260 meters. It takes about 12 hours to get to the final destination. The journey is challenging and difficult where you must even scramble.
   

• Difficult Route

The beginning point is at Cat Cat village. To reach the peak, it can take about 18 hours with the long distance of 1245 meters. Although the route is really challenging and daunting, it rewards you with imposing views and unforgettable experiences. Remember that no pain, no gain!

 

By cable car system & train system

Officially open in February 2016, Fansipan cable car is an another wise choice for visitors to reach the “Roof of Indochina” in only 20 minutes, instead of 2 days and 1 night as before. To be sure, experiencing cable car does give them unforgettable memories. From cabin, tourists are able to contemplate the poetic town of Sa Pa, gorgeous scenery and spectacular terrace fields with ease.

Tickets

• Adults: 600,000 VND/ person/ 2 ways
• Children from 1 meters up to 1.3 meters high: 400,000 VND/ person/ 2 ways
• Kids under 1 meters tall: Free fare

 
Remember that tickets for Fansipan cable car are only used throughout the day. So, don’t book in advance if you don’t have time to join in the system on time.
 
New fun experience
 
Both local and foreign tourists are able to choose this type of transportation. In general, each car can serve from 30 to 35 people. Actually, the whole system may carry about 2,000 guests every hour. The cables start running from Muong Hoa Valley to the final station, which is about 3,000 meters above the sea level. From the last station, you must take about 600 stairs before reaching the mountain top.

From the cable car end point to the top you can either walk or take the train. To fully help tourists, especially the elderly, children, and the disabled find it easy to stand on the summit of Fansipan, the mini-train system which has been particularly designed to reach the Mountain can become an extra excellent idea. Consult the tickets’ price for more information now!

• Adults: 100,000 VND/ person/ 2 ways
• Children from 1 meters up to 1.3 meters high: 70,000 VND/ person/ 2 ways
• Kids under 1 meters tall: Free fare

 
In fact, the train has only one cabin with the capacity of 60 guests per one route. It will begin from Do Quyen Station to Truc May Station within the duration of time about 2.5 minutes. 

What to prepare and carry?

• Food and drink

As one of the most important parts during the trekking, you should choose food that easy-to-bring and provides energy, like cheese, bread, chocolate, boiled eggs, etc. Preparing some fruits is also a good idea. Try to carry orange, mango, and so on to eat, which can give you necessary vitamin.
 
Each person in the team should have about 3 to 4 bottles of water. The best way to keep your energy is to drink a little for many times. If you feel tired, it is best to breathe in by nose and breathe out by mouth.

• Sleeping bags and tents

You can experience one or two nights before reaching the top of Mt. Fansipan. Thus, make sure to bring sleeping bags and tents with you to have a deep sleep and regain energy after a long day of hiking!

• Backpacks

To be sure, backpacks are indispensable during the journey. You should carry a backpack that weighs from 3 to 5 kg. This helps you move easily and conveniently. Furthermore, the backpack should also have strong straps that tightly tie with the chest and belly.

• Clothes

There is nothing wiser than bringing soft and light clothes that make you comfortable during the trip. Don’t forget to prepare some sweaters and thick jacket since the weather can become cold in the evening.

• Shoes

It is better to select the shoes that are particularly designed for trekking. In fact, their friction can help you avoid falling off during the hike. Furthermore, your shoes should also be waterproof as there may be a little rain or streams on the road.

• Other belongings

Flashlight, phone, camera, raincoat, rope, medicine, notebook, binoculars, snacks, backup charger, multifunction knife, ribbon, etc.
 

Special notes for hikers

• Never leave away from your team. Instead, always follow your groups as it is possible to get lost suddenly. If possible, it is recommended to take notice of some realizable signs on the path so as to avoid straying. If feeling tired, you should ask other fellows to wait for you within a few minutes. In general, a team of 10 to 15 people is fine. Don’t go trekking in a big group since it takes much time to prepare and organize.

• Be highly aware of protecting the forest and the environment. Never throw off litter on the road. Follow what Hoang Lien National Garden asks for!
• The hike should not be suitable for those who have heart disease and high blood pressure. Make sure you have strong spirit and willpower that make you have more chance of success.
• Always think positively. During the trek, some of you can feel exhausted and even want to give up! But, instead of quitting, let’s think about the moment when you reach the peak of the mountain and have an unforgettable memory!
• Avoid reaching under rocks or moving grassy areas because these places are home to snakes and scorpions. Be careful!