The Muong Hoa Valley sprawls south of Sapa city. These are what most people think of when they envision Sapa. Accessed from the west side of DT152 you have destinations including:
- Tav Van
- Giang Ta Chai
- Lao Chai
- Y Linh Ho
Ta Van is the most commercial village in the area. That means there are some good restaurants and other services. But outside the “downtown” area many great hiking trails, rice fields and other natural sites. There are many unique photo opportunities like the bamboo forest, Muong Hoa Stream, May Bridge. It is also the route to Seo MY Ty Lake a wonderful high mountain lake.
Giang Ta Chai is a bit further outside of Sapa and located halfway up the mountain. This village borders the Ta Van area is best known for its waterfalls and winding country roads. It is surrounded by ancient forests and the locals are primarily Red Dao.
Lao Chai and Y Linh Ho are often visited together as a trek from Sapa city. It is a 12km trek and well worth the effort. Along the way you’ll find many rice terraces, ethnic minority groups and crafts for sale. There is a suspension bridge across the Muong Hoa stream that can make for some interesting photos. The local “guides” can be quite persistant and follow you as you walk but in the end there is little pressure to purchase their goods.
The Muong Hoa valley is the heart of Sapa and most trekers spend their time here. Be sure to checkout the areas on the other side of DT152. These hills have many spots with distant mountains in the background and rice fields in the foreground. A good place to breakout a medium telephoto and compress the mountains into your scene.
