Best Time To Visit Sapa

Weather in Sapa
Toward the end of May, humidity increases in Sapa, as the summer-monsoon season begins in early June. The temperature reaches 25℃, at the highest, and one can expect heavy rainfall once every day. And although the rain typically lasts for not more than an hour, precipitation levels are so high that it makes the roads and streets inaccessible at times. Precipitation on average in this season is around 400 mm, and July records the highest precipitation levels - at approximately 470 mm. Sunny days are less in number, which is a deviation from the scorching sun and heat in the rest of Vietnam. The average temperature even in summer months is relatively cold, with a nighttime average of 15℃.

Things to do in Sapa in Summer
Because of the intermittent and unpredictable rains, it is thought that Sapa in this season wouldn’t be that much of a tourist distraction. But surprisingly, even in the monsoon, especially so, tourists footfall is the highest, as people for the rest of Vietnam primarily travel to Sapa for its moderate heat. While treks and hikes might be risky and mostly muddy, for those who are up for an adventure, this season is attractive too. However, it is advised to take a guide along who'd know the place and treks better. Because of the massive influx of tourists, accommodation during the monsoon months is relatively expensive, and streets of Sapa are mostly crowded. But, this town has something for everyone, and if unpredictable, adventurous tours are your thing, this is the time to visit Sapa.

Weather in Sapa
Spring season is yet another pleasant and booming time to visit Sapa. As winter sheds and the town starts to take on some colour, the mean temperature also starts to warm up and become more pleasant. The average temperature of this season is around 20℃, with the highest daytime temperature being 23℃ and lowest 10℃. However, these months do have some rainy days, because of Vietnam’s predominantly subtropical climate, but it isn't’ as intense and enduring as those during the monsoon. The average precipitation in this season is about 165 mm, with the months progressively becoming more humid.

Things to do in Sapa in Spring
The sunny and dry weather during the day and crisp and cold weather at night make this season perfect for hiking and trekking along Sapa’s terrace mountains. Around this time, the landscape looks even lusher and greener than the rest of the year. To be sure, Sapa in spring is a photographer's paradise. This is also a quieter time in Sapa, and solo walking and hiking trips can be very fruitful. The local tribes also set up shop in the central markets, which are accessible and colourful all year round, but more so in the spring. The market tour brings with it sapa’s tropical fruits and flowers, like plums, peaches, apricots etc. As the cherry blossom blooms, which in itself is a magnificent sight, and days become warmer and more pleasant, accommodations are more accessible and cheaper, as are tourist guides that flock the place. 

Weather in Sapa
The winter months of Sapa often get considerably chilly, owing to the town;’s proximity to China and its cold winds. Temperatures can drop to freezing points, an of late; these months witness snow in Sapa. Temperatures in this month range from a high of 12-15℃, to a low of 5-7℃. Precipitation is at its lowest, and January is the coldest month of the year. Sunny days are less in winters, and rain falls to just 25 mm on average.

Things to do in Sapa in Winter
While the falling snow on terraced mountains is a picturesque sight in itself, hiking and trekking in these months are dangerous and best if avoided. Visibility lessens considerably, and although people do the trek to Fansipan, it is best to wait for a clearer day. December is the onset of winters, and the chill doesn’t yet entirely set in the town. With much clearer and sunny days, December sees a flock of tourists visit Sapa to enjoy the winters and snowfall. As a result, Sapa is increasingly becoming a sought after Christmas and New Year destination, and restaurants and pubs considerably cash in on the festivities. Because January and February can be harsh, it is advisable to look for sturdier and well-furnished homestays and guest houses, that have a good heating arrangement. However, these can be pricey, so one must plan ahead.

Weather in Sapa
One of the two seasons during which one must travel to Sapa, the months of September-October-November mark the autumn season, as the weather becomes drier and more temperate. The average temperature during the autumn months ranges from 20-23℃ in the day and around 15℃ in the night. November brings with it milder and colder temperatures, as the town readies for winters, with an average low of about 10℃. While it is still quite rainy in September and October, with maximum precipitation of about 277 mm, these months have enough sunny days.

Things to do in Sapa in Autumn
The autumn season in Sapa is conducive to hikers and trekkers because of the dry climate. This is harvest season in Sapa, and its beautiful terraces are bustling with golden paddy ready to be harvested. As one hike atop its mountainous landscape, Sapa brings tourists a rich tapestry of curling terraces and ribbon-like hills- truly a photographer’s dream. This weather is also conducive to motorbike tours, as roads are drier and safer. It is also less busy in Sapa around this time, with a reduced footfall of tourists. Accommodation in Sapa is much cheaper than the cities, and autumn allows for comfortable and less expensive stats at Sapa. This is also one of the best time to hike atop Vietnam’s highest peak, Fan Si Pan, as visibility is high and chances of rainfall are low.