"Cloud hunting" is one of the unique tourism activities in Sa Pa. However, to be able to capture the fanciful cloud scenery, visitors need some experience and important notes.
From October to April next year, Sapa enters the beautiful "cloud hunting season". According to experiences from locals and tour guides, the best time of the day to hunt clouds in Sapa is after rain, at dawn or dusk. At that time, the temperature is low, the clouds drop, and a sea of clouds will appear, causing the small town to be immersed in fog.
Photo: Fatherland
However, the weather in Sapa is erratic, not to mention that the climate in the commune is sometimes different from the areas on the highlands. Therefore, please check the weather forecast before going cloud hunting. Upon arrival, you also need to ask the local people directly to have the most accurate update on the rain and sunshine situation during the day.
In addition, to experience a convenient "cloud hunting", visitors should note some of the following tips:
Comfortable attire
Tourists coming to Sa Pa should choose comfortable clothes suitable for the weather. In autumn-winter cold weather, it is recommended to prepare a warm coat to protect the body. The terrain here is also hilly and steep, you need to use sneakers to be able to move easily.
Preparation of food and vehicles
Sometimes visitors have to wait for a period of time to encounter clouds. Therefore, bring water and snacks so you don't go hungry, and help avoid bleeding due to thin air when at high altitudes.
Moreover, cloud hunting sites can be located far from the center, so it's a good idea to learn the right means of transportation in advance, so as not to fall into a passive position.
It is also important to have photography equipment such as a camera or a phone with a camera ready. Good equipment will help visitors capture wonderful moments of clouds, sky and landscape. It is better to bring a power bank to avoid running out of battery.
Places to 'hunt' clouds in Sapa
Note, only certain coordinates in Sa Pa have beautiful scenery, clouds appear often and frequently.
Photo: Trieu Quang Hung
Fansipan Peak
With an altitude of 3,143m, Fansipan peak is a familiar place for "cloud hunter" believers. From October to the end of November every year, the clouds on the "roof of Indochina" are floating and beautiful. Therefore, many tourists will choose this time to visit.
Sa Pa Gate of Heaven
The Sapa Gate of Heaven is located on the way to the top of Fansipan. It has a panoramic view of a large area and a great spot for cloud hunting. From here, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley below and the surrounding peaks covered in clouds.
Photo: TCDLTPHM
Ham Rong Mountain Peak
With an altitude of more than 1,800m, the peak of Ham Rong Mountain offers a great view of the entire town of Sapa dimly in the mist, and at the same time has an ideal "cloud hunting" rate from dawn to dusk.
Deep Sour Village
Cac Chua village at an altitude of 1,700m is a place to see the clouds covering Sa Pa. This village is also less affected by tourism, retaining its pristine and wild beauty.
Photo: Pham Ngoc Bang
Lao Chai village
Lao Chai village is located along the Muong Hoa valley. This place not only has beautiful terraced fields but is also an impressive cloud hunting spot. Sunrise in Lao Chai is the ideal time to watch the clouds, when the light gradually appears and the clouds cover the mountain and forest landscape, creating a fanciful picture.
According to Zing