1. Bus / Van to Sapa
2. Bus + Train to Sapa
3. Taxi / Car to Sapa
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From Mai Chau to Sapa by tourist bus, train, minivan or private taxi.
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- The travel distance from Mai Chau to Sapa in Lao Cai spans approximately 500 km by land route through Hanoi. A convenient option to journey from Mai Chau to Sapa is via tourist bus through Hanoi, involving two steps – a bus to Hanoi and another bus from Hanoi to Sapa. This bus journey typically takes about 9-12 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $21 to $36 per person (for both bus legs). Multiple bus companies operate between Hanoi and Sapa, providing travelers with flexibility. Alternatively, travelers can opt for a bus+train combination, with trains departing from Hanoi to Lao Cai. As there are no direct trains to Sapa from Mai Chau due to the absence of train stations in both locations, travelers must board a train from Hanoi. The bus+train route via Hanoi and Lao Cai takes approximately 16 hours. Upon arrival in Lao Cai, travelers can take a local bus or taxi to Sapa, which is about 35 km away. Private transportation options, such as minivans or cars, can also be booked through Hanoi. There are no direct flights between Mai Chau and Sapa. Secure your bus/train tickets or private taxi/car from Mai Chau to Sapa online.
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- Sapa in Lao Cai province stands as a charming small town nestled at an altitude of 1,500 m. Historically, Sapa served as a spa town frequented by the French during the 19th century, leaving behind colonial buildings like the local church. Today, Sapa ranks as the most sought-after destination in northern Vietnam, boasting numerous indigenous villages inhabited by ethnic groups. Among them, the Black Hmong are prominent, recognized for their distinctive hemp clothes dyed with indigo. Sapa also serves as a gateway to Vietnam’s highest mountain, Phansipan, and offers opportunities for immersive homestays in the Muong Hoa Valley. Travelers have three popular routes from Mai Chau to Sapa – Lao Cai, with the fastest option being via Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. As weather conditions in Sapa can be unpredictable, it’s advisable to prepare accordingly by referring to our article on Weather in Sapa.
| Transfer Mode – Mai Chau to Sapa: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bus / Minivan | 9-12 hours | $22-36 |
| Bus + Train (via Hanoi, Lao Cai) | 16 hours | $20-160+ |
| Private Car / Taxi | 9-12 hours | $160-250 (vehicle) |
How do I get from Mai Chau to Sapa (Lao Cai)?
1. BUS from Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi)
1.step – Bus / Minivan from Mai Chau to Hanoi
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- from Mai Chau to Hanoi you can travel by bus or minivan
- travel by bus from Mai Chau to Hanoi takes about 3-4.5 hours
- bus ticket from Mai Chau to Hanoi costs about $12-14/pp
- bus companies from Mai Chau to Hanoi: Grouptour, Truly Ha Giang
- there is no railway from Mai Chau to Hanoi
2.step – Bus / Minivan from Hanoi to Sapa
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- from Hanoi to Sapa you can travel by various seat or sleeper buses or minivans
- travel by bus or minivan from Hanoi to Sapa takes about 5.5-6 hours
- bus ticket from Hanoi to Sapa costs about $9-22/pp
- bus companies from Hanoi to Sapa: InterBus Lines, Hason Haivan, Sapa Express, Sao Viet, Hung Thanh, Eco Sapa…
- Book bus e-tickets from Mai Chau to Sapa online on 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜
- You can change your travel route and book bus tickets for Hanoi > Sapa…
2. BUS + TRAIN from Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi, Lao Cai)
1.step – Bus from Mai Chau to Hanoi
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- from Mai Chau to Hanoi you can travel by bus/minivan
- travel by tourist bus/minivan from Mai Chau to Hanoi takes about 3-4.5 hours
- one-way bus ticket from Mai Chau to Hanoi costs about $12-14/pp
- bus companies to Hanoi: Grouptour, Truly Ha Giang
- there is no railway from Mai Chau to Hanoi, the only way is to travel by bus
2.step – Train from Hanoi to Lao Cai
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- there is no direct train from Hanoi to Sapa, but trains to Lao Cai
- Lao Cai is about 35 km from Sapa town
- travel by night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai takes about 8 hours
- train ticket from Hanoi to Lao Cai by Vietnam Railways costs about $7-18/pp
- the most cheapest is a seat train, tourist sleeper trains cost about $32-147/pp
- regular trains + tourist sleeper trains (Oriental Express, Fansipan Express, Violette Train, Livitrans…)
- Book your train tickets from Hanoi to Lai Cai online on 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜
3.step – Bus/Taxi from Lao Cai City to Sapa town:
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- from Lao Cai town you can travel by local public bus to Sapa town
- travel by local public bus from Lao Cai to Sapa takes about 1-1.5 hour
- bus ticket from Lai Cai to Sapa costs about $1.30/pp
- you can also take a taxi to Sapa town from Lao Cai
- Book bus e-tickets from Lao Cai to Sapa town online on Baolau ➜
3. PRIVATE CAR / TAXI to Sapa (with stop in Hanoi)
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- you can also travel by private minivan + car/taxi from Mai Chau to Sapa via Hanoi (2 steps)
- you can book private minivan from Mai Chau to Hanoi and various taxi vehicles from Hanoi to Sapa
- taxi companies to Sapa from Hanoi: Ouros Travel, Dichung Taxi, Grouptour, VTS Taxi, Tiim Group, Booking Car…
- travel by private car/taxi from Hanoi to Sapa costs about $160-250/pp (vehicle, car)
- it is possible to search and book your private car, taxi or minivan with 12go.asia
❓ FAQ + TIPS – Travel from Mai Chau to Sapa / Lao Cai:
1. How to book and buy tickets from Mai Chau to Sapa?
2. How long does it take from Mai Chau to Sapa?
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- Travel by bus/minivan from Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi) takes about 9-12 hours.
- Travel by bus+train from Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi, Lao Cai) takes about 16 hours.
- Travel by private car/taxi Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi) takes about 9-12 hours.
3. Are there some tourist sleeper trains to Lai Cai from Hanoi?
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- Yes, there are night sleeper tourist trains to Lai Cai from Hanoi, regular sleeper train of VR and private tourist trains. Travel by sleeper train from Hanoi to Lao Cai takes about 8 hours. Book train tickets for these trains online in advance. More informations about these trains > 10 Luxury Trains to Lao Cai.
4. What is the price of transfer from Mai Chau to Sapa?
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- Travel by bus/minivan from Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi) costs about $22-36.
Travel by bus+train from Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi, Lao Cai) costs about $20-160+. - Travel by private car/taxi Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi) costs about $270-350 (vehicle).
- Travel by bus/minivan from Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi) costs about $22-36.
5. What is the travel distance from Mai Chau to Sapa?
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- Travel distance from Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi) is about 500 km by bus, train via Hanoi.
6. What is the fastest way of transport from Mai Chau to Sapa?
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- The fastest way of transport from Mai Chau to Sapa is to travel by private car/taxi or minivan via Hanoi.
7. Is there a direct train from Mai Chau to Sapa?
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- There is no direct train from Mai Chau to Sapa. Mai Chau and Sapa have no railway stations. If you want to travel by train you have to go to Hanoi and from Hanoi you can travel by train to Lao Cai. Lao Cai is about 35 km from Sapa town.
8. Is there a flight from Mai Chau to Sapa?
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- There is no flight, Mai Chau and Sapa have no airports, it is not possible to travel by plane.
9. Where you can travel by bus from Sapa?
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- You can travel and visit the most beautiful rice terraces in northern Vietnam – Mu Cang Chai (it takes about 4 hours). You can also travel by bus to Ha Giang and visit Dong Van Karst Global Geopark, Lung Cu Flag Tower or Ma Pi Leng Pass. Ha Giang province is one of the most fascinating provinces in the north, mountain passes, valleys and amazing nature. You can also go back to Hanoi.
10. Is there also another travel route how to reach Sapa from Mai Chau?
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- Teoretically you can also travel via Moc Chau and Son La towns in the northwest of Vietnam. There are some local buses from Mai Chau to Moc Chau – Son La and Sapa. But this option takes a lot of time and bus schedules of these local buses between these towns are very limited. It is better and fast to travel via Hanoi.
11. How to travel solo in Vietnam?
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- Discover the wonders of solo travel in Vietnam as you explore ancient temples, cruise through scenic landscapes or karst sceneries, hike various national parks and ethnic villages and connect with the warm-hearted locals, creating a personalized journey of cultural immersion and breathtaking experiences.
12. What are the most interesting things or facts about Vietnam?
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- Vietnam, a country with a captivating allure, is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, including the mesmerizing limestone karsts of Halong Bay, the terraced rice fields of Sapa, and the bustling waterways of the Mekong Delta. Its rich history unfolds through ancient temples in Hanoi, the imperial city of Hue, and the Cu Chi Tunnels, providing a glimpse into Vietnam’s resilience during wartime. The country’s vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality further enhance the allure of this Southeast Asian gem. Read this: 15 Interesting Things of Vietnam.
13. What to expect from Vietnam Culture?
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- Expect a vibrant cultural tapestry in Vietnam, characterized by traditional values, a strong sense of community, and a deep-rooted respect for family. You’ll encounter a fusion of French, Chinese, and indigenous influences in art, architecture, and cuisine. Traditional water puppetry, folk music, and dance performances showcase the country’s artistic flair. The importance of rituals and festivals in daily life adds a colorful dimension, while the warmth and friendliness of the Vietnamese people make for a welcoming and enriching cultural experience.
14. What is the weather in Vietnam and what to expect?
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- Weather in Vietnam varies with a tropical climate featuring distinct wet and dry seasons. In the north, the dry season (October to April) brings cooler temperatures, while the wet season (May to September) is marked by higher humidity and heavy rainfall. Central Vietnam experiences a dry period (January to August) with lower humidity and a wet season (September to December) characterized by increased rainfall. In southern Vietnam, the dry season (December to April) offers warm temperatures, while the wet season (May to November) brings higher humidity and occasional heavy rainfall. For accurate information, check local forecasts.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Sapa ➜
3 Ways of Transfer from Mai Chau to Sapa:
| 1. BUS from Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi) | |
|---|---|
| A) Bus / Minivan from Mai Chau to Hanoi | |
| Travel Time | About 3-4.5 hours |
| Bus Ticket Cost | About $12-14/pp |
| Bus Companies | Grouptour, Truly Ha Giang |
| B) Bus / Minivan from Hanoi to Sapa | |
| Travel Time | About 5.5-6 hours |
| Bus Ticket Cost | About $9-22/pp |
| Bus Companies | InterBus Lines, Hason Haivan, Sapa Express, Sao Viet, Hung Thanh, Eco Sapa… |
| 2. BUS + TRAIN from Mai Chau to Sapa (via Hanoi, Lao Cai) | |
| A) Bus from Mai Chau to Hanoi | |
| Travel Time | About 3-4.5 hours |
| Bus Ticket Cost | About $12-14/pp |
| Bus Companies | Grouptour, Truly Ha Giang… |
| B) Train from Hanoi to Lao Cai | |
| Travel Time | About 8 hours |
| Train Ticket Cost | About $7-18/pp for Vietnam Railways trains, $32-147/pp for tourist trains |
| Train Companies | Oriental Express, Fansipan Express, Violette Train, Livitrans… |
| C) Bus / Taxi from Lao Cai City to Sapa town | |
| Travel Time | About 1-1.5 hours |
| Bus Ticket Cost | About $1.30/pp |
| Transport Options | Local public bus or taxi |
| 3. PRIVATE CAR / TAXI to Sapa (with stop in Hanoi) | |
| Transport Options | Private car / taxi with stopover in Hanoi |
| Taxi Companies | Ouros Travel, Dichung Taxi, Grouptour, VTS Taxi, Tiim Group, Booking Car… |
| Private Car / Taxi Cost | About $160-250/pp (vehicle, car) |
🎫 Book your bus/train tickets from Mai Chau to Sapa + Schedule:
(You can change your travel route, eg. Hanoi to Sapa/Lao Cai, Sapa to Mu Cang Chai…)
Ha Long > Phong Nha｜Danang > Hanoi｜Mai Chau > NinhBinh｜Hanoi > Moc Chau｜HaiPhong > Danang｜Tuy Hoa > Saigon｜Hanoi > Quy Nhon