SAPA to LAO CAI — Bus, Taxi or Train? ☀️
Getting from Sapa to Lao Cai — to the railway station in Lao Cai city.
- Lao Cai, situated in northern Vietnam near the border, serves as a pivotal transportation hub connecting various destinations such as Hanoi, Ha Giang Province, and even China. The primary railway station in Lao Cai attracts most tourists, offering a range of accommodations in the city center or near the station. While Lao Cai itself isn’t a major tourist draw for foreigners, many pass through en route to other destinations via bus or train.
- In contrast, neighboring Sapa is a bustling tourist hotspot, drawing in large crowds annually. Lao Cai sits at the convergence of the Red River and Nam Ti River, approximately 260 km northwest of Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. Travelers have three options for reaching Lao Cai from Sapa: by local public bus, private taxi, or motorbike.
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From Sapa to Lao Cai you can travel by local public bus, private taxi or motorbike.
- The distance between Sapa and Lao Cai city spans approximately 35 km along QL4 road. For those without their own motorbike or scooter, there are two convenient options for traveling from Sapa to Lao Cai. The most favored choice is hopping on a local public bus, offering an easy and economical journey. The bus ride typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, with tickets priced around $1.30 per person. Operated by Lao Cai Public Bus, these buses depart from Sapa city center (Notre Dame Cathedral) and arrive at Lao Cai Railway Station (Đường Khánh Yên).
- Alternatively, travelers can opt for a private taxi (minivan) or car to reach Lao Cai from Sapa. Several private taxi services are available in Sapa’s city center for immediate hire, or one can pre-book a private minivan online. The journey by private taxi usually takes around 1 hour, with costs ranging from $15 to $35 depending on the vehicle type. Booking bus e-tickets to Lao Cai online is a straightforward process, and instructions are provided for easy navigation.
- For onward travel from Lao Cai to Hanoi, travelers have the option of taking either a train or a tourist bus.
How do I get from Sapa town to Lao Cai?
1. LOCAL BUS from Sapa to Lao Cai
Travelers seeking an affordable and efficient way to journey from the picturesque town of Sapa to the bustling city of Lao Cai need look no further than the local public bus service. Offering convenience and affordability, this mode of transportation provides an excellent option for those looking to explore the region without breaking the bank.
The journey from Sapa to Lao Cai by local bus typically takes between 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing passengers to enjoy scenic views of the surrounding countryside along the way. With frequent departures, travelers have the flexibility to choose a departure time that best suits their schedule.
One of the most appealing aspects of traveling by local bus is the cost. A one-way ticket from Sapa to Lao Cai costs approximately $1.30 per person, making it the most budget-friendly option available. For budget-conscious travelers or those looking to save money for other experiences, this affordability factor is certainly a significant advantage.
Operated by the reputable Lao Cai Public Bus company, travelers can rest assured knowing they are in good hands. Buses arrive directly at the Lao Cai Railway Station, providing convenient access to onward travel options or local attractions.
Booking a ticket for the Sapa to Lao Cai bus is a straightforward process. Upon completing the reservation online, travelers will receive their bus e-ticket via email. This electronic ticket can be easily printed or stored on a smartphone or tablet for convenience. Before boarding the bus in Sapa town, passengers are advised to present their e-ticket at the ticket counter of the station.
In conclusion, for those embarking on a journey from Sapa to Lao Cai, the local public bus offers a convenient, affordable, and reliable mode of transportation. With its budget-friendly fares, efficient service, and ease of booking, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free journey while exploring the captivating beauty of northern Vietnam. Before booking, however, it’s crucial to review all information carefully to ensure a seamless travel experience.
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2. TAXI/MINIVAN from Sapa to Lao Cai
For travelers seeking comfort and convenience on their journey from Sapa town to Lao Cai city, private taxi or minivan services offer an excellent option. With a journey time of approximately one hour, passengers can enjoy a swift and hassle-free ride through the picturesque landscapes of northern Vietnam.
One of the key advantages of opting for private transportation is the flexibility it provides. Travelers can choose their departure time to suit their schedule, allowing for greater convenience and efficiency. Additionally, private taxis or minibusses can accommodate varying group sizes, making them ideal for both solo travelers and larger parties.
Cost-wise, private transportation offers a range of options to suit different budgets. Depending on the vehicle type and specific requirements, prices typically range from $10 to $35 per vehicle for the journey from Sapa to Lao Cai. This pricing structure ensures that passengers can enjoy the comfort and convenience of private travel without breaking the bank.
In Sapa town center, travelers will find several private taxi services readily available, providing easy access to transportation options. For those looking to pre-book their journey, online booking platforms offer a convenient solution. Companies like Tiim Charter, offering vans capable of accommodating up to nine passengers, provide a reliable and efficient service for travelers heading to Lao Cai from Sapa.
Whether embarking on a solo adventure or traveling with a group, private transportation offers a seamless and stress-free way to journey from Sapa to Lao Cai city. With its flexibility, comfort, and affordability, it’s no wonder that many travelers opt for private taxis or minivans to explore the enchanting landscapes of northern Vietnam.
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3. TRAIN from Sapa to Lao Cai?
For travelers considering a train journey from Sapa to Lao Cai, it’s essential to note that such a route doesn’t exist. Sapa, although a charming destination nestled in the northern mountains of Vietnam, lacks a railway connection to Lao Cai.
However, for those keen on experiencing the romance of train travel in this region, the journey from Lao Cai to Hanoi presents an excellent opportunity. The train from Lao Cai to Hanoi is among the most frequented railway routes in Vietnam, offering passengers a chance to traverse the breathtaking landscapes of northern Vietnam in comfort and style.
Departing from Lao Cai Railway Station, located just a short distance from the bustling city center, the train winds its way southward, passing through verdant valleys, terraced rice fields, and quaint villages along the way. The journey provides travelers with a unique perspective on the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the region.
The train from Lao Cai to Hanoi offers various classes of service to suit different preferences and budgets, ranging from basic seating to more luxurious sleeper compartments. Whether opting for an overnight journey or a daytime ride, passengers can sit back, relax, and soak in the scenic beauty of northern Vietnam as they make their way to the vibrant capital city of Hanoi.
Info + Faqs — Travel route from Sapa to Lao Cai:
How to book and buy bus tickets or private taxi from Sapa to Lao Cai?
🥇 Book and buy bus e-tickets or private taxi (minivan) from Sapa to Lao Cai online on Baolau or 12go.asia
(You can also book another tickets, e.g. Lao Cai > Hanoi, Sapa > Ha Giang…)
How long does it take to get from Sapa to Lao Cai?
- Travel by local public bus from Sapa to Lao Cai takes about 1–1.5 hour.
- Travel by private taxi/minivan from Sapa to Lao Cai takes about 1 hour.
What is the travel distance from Sapa to Lao Cai?
- Travel distance to Lao Cai from Sapa is about 35 km by local public bus or private taxi.
How much does it cost to get from Sapa to Lao Cai?
- Travel by local public bus from Sapa to Lao Cai costs about $1.30/pp.
- Travel by private taxi/car from Sapa to Lao Cai costs about $10–35/pp.
What is the cheapest way of travel from Sapa to Lao Cai?
- The most cheapest option of transport from Sapa to Lao Cai is to travel by local public bus, bus ticket costs about $1.30/pp.
Does Sapa have an airport?
- No, there is no airport in Sapa. So it is not possible to travel from Sapa town by plane.
Is there a railway station in Sapa?
- There is no railway station in Sapa, so it is not possible to travel by train to Lao Cai. The closest railway station is in Lao Cai City, from Lao Cai you can travel by train of VR to Hanoi.
How do I get from Sapa to Ha Giang?
- If you want to skip Lao Cai and you want to visit Ha Giang, you can travel by bus from Sapa. Travel by bus from Sapa to Ha Giang takes about 6–8 hours. Read this article: How to get to Ha Giang from Sapa?
Where to stay in Lao Cai? Hotel or guesthouse?
- There are various hotels or guesthouses in Lao Cai city and close to the railway station in the city centre.
- Choose and book your accommodation in Lao Cai online:
Book your hotel/guesthouse in Lao Cai.
Where you can travel and go from Sapa?
- From Sapa you can also travel by bus to Mu Cang Chai. Mu Cang Chai is an impressive place, full of rice terraces, nature and mountain sceneries.
How to travel to Noi Bai Airport from Sapa?
If you want to travel directly to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi from Sapa you can travel by tourist bus or private taxi. Travel time to Noi Bai Airport is about 5 hours, read this article: Sapa to Noi Bai Airport.
