Mt. Fansipan at 3143m and on the border with China. It is Vietnam's highest mountain. It is only 9 km from Sapa town but it takes at least three days to get to the peak and back. Sapa, at an elevation of 1600m, has been described as "Not easily reached... Sees few tourists... Unbelievable mountain scenery... Still retains many French cultural and architectural influences. It has been under the control of at least four countries over the centuries. Unlike other Vietnamese hill towns, different ethnicities co-habitate peacefully here." The region around Sapa is indeed home to various colourful ethnic minorities, wearing traditional attire.The climb is rough, wet and cold, but the views are rewarding. The top is accessible year-round to anyone who is in good shape. As there are no mountain huts on the way we will be camping out. No ropes or technical climbing skills are needed, just endurance and plenty of energy. The equipment and food will be carried by our porters. Trekking time is 5 - 8 hours per day

Tucked high in Vietnam's remote northern mountains, close to the Chinese border, the former French military outpost of Sapa offers some of Vietnam's most colourful experiences. The views are breath taking. Vietnam's highest peak, the 3,143-metre Mount Fansipan, looms overhead, while the surrounding valleys feature terraced rice paddies and blazing green fields cut by fast-flowing streams. Layer upon layer of green ridges fade into the distance, edged by sharp, rocky peaks. The region is home to several ethnic minority groups all wearing their traditional and colourful attire.
Sapa is a perfect back ground for trekking, hiking and climbing