Hanoi -Sapa Fansipan hike

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Mt. Fansipan at 3143m, and on the border with China, is Vietnam’’s highest mountain. It is only 9km 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... Has been under the control of at least four countries over the centuries... Unlike other Vietnamese hill towns, different ethnicities cohabitate 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. 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.

Equipment that you should bring

The only thing you should bring yourself is a pair of good walking-boots, or another kind of solid foot-wear. You should have tried them out beforehand, and know that you can walk in them all through the day !

Recommended equipment :

* 2 pairs of thick socks ( for use in the walking-boots)
* Sandals or light footwear ( for use in the evening )
* Sun-cream (with a high factor ; 10-20 )
* Mosquito repellent
* Hat or cap, with a shade
* Bathing suit
* Medicine for your own use (fever, bad stomach etc.)
* 1 warm jacket (fleece-jacket etc.,- for the evenings)
* 1 sweat-shirt
* 1-2 pair of long trousers (loose,- for your comfort)
* 1 pair of short trousers ( for warm days)
* 2 –3 shirts, or T-shirts
* Socks (for use in the evenings, and against mosquitoes)
* Underwear (for the women : also a Bra !)
* Towel
* Toilet requisites