The Fansipan mountain
Surrounding Sapa are the Hoang Lien Mountains, nicknamed the Tonkinese Alps by the French. These mountains include Fansipan, which is at 3143m and is Vietnam’s highest peak. The summit towers above Sapa, although it is often obscured by clouds and is occationally dusted with snow. The peak is accessible all year to those in good shape and properly equipped.
The summit of Fansipan is 19km from Sapa and can be reached only on foot. The terrain is rough and adverse weather is frequent. Despite the short distance, the round trip usually takes three to four days. After the first morning, you won’t see any villages, just the forest, striking mountain vistas and perhaps some local wildlife such as monkeys, mountain goats and boats.