Sapa in November: Weather, Trekking & Travel Tips

Sapa in November is cool, clear, and breathtaking. The rice harvest has just finished, leaving the terraces golden-brown and peaceful. Crisp autumn air makes trekking comfortable, and clear skies often reveal stunning views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. November is one of the best months to explore Sapa before the deep winter chill sets in.

1. Weather in Sapa in November

• Average daytime temperature: 12–20°C (54–68°F)
• Night temperature: 8–12°C (46–54°F)
• Rainfall: ~40–60 mm across 5–7 days (light showers possible)
• Humidity: 70–75%

Weather verdict: November is cool, dry, and clear. It’s excellent trekking weather, though nights are cold — bring warm layers.

2. Why Visit Sapa in November

• Perfect trekking climate — cool and dry, no muddy trails.
• Clear skies — great for mountain and valley photography.
• Post-harvest landscapes — golden-brown terraces and peaceful villages.
• Cultural festivals — ethnic minorities prepare for winter with lively markets.
• Fewer tourists compared to peak harvest months.

3. Best Things to Do in Sapa in November

Seasonal Highlights

1. Trekking – Explore Lao Chai, Ta Van, Y Linh Ho, and Ta Phin villages.
2. Fansipan Peak – Clear weather makes November one of the best months for views. Take the cable car or hike for the adventurous.
3. Markets – Bac Ha and Can Cau markets are vibrant with ethnic minority culture.

Year-Round Experiences

• Sapa Stone Church in town.
• Herbal baths in Dao minority villages.
• Street food at the Sapa night market.

4. Festivals & Events in November

• Traditional Winter Markets – Villagers stock up before cold season, making weekly markets more lively.
• Buckwheat Flower Festivals (Ha Giang nearby) – While not in Sapa, many travelers combine trips to see the pink flower fields in Ha Giang during November.

5. Where to Stay in Sapa in November

• Luxury: Hotel de la Coupole – Stunning design, heated rooms, spa.
• Mid-range: Sapa Horizon Hotel – Comfortable, with great views.
• Budget: Village homestays in Ta Van – Authentic experience, cozy fireplaces.

6. What to Eat in Sapa in November

• Salmon hotpot (lẩu cá hồi) – Warm, hearty meal for cool evenings.
• Grilled skewers – Street food favorite: pork, corn, sweet potatoes.
• Sticky rice (xôi ngũ sắc) – Five-colored sticky rice, a specialty of northern highlands.

7. Suggested Itinerary for November

3 Days in Sapa

• Day 1: Explore Sapa town, Stone Church, night market.
• Day 2: Trek Lao Chai – Ta Van, overnight in homestay.
• Day 3: Fansipan Peak cable car, herbal bath in Ta Phin.

5 Days (Extended)

• Add Bac Ha Sunday Market.
• Trek further to Ban Ho or Nam Cang for off-the-beaten-path villages.

8. Travel Tips for November in Sapa

• Bring warm jackets and sweaters — nights get chilly.
• Trek in late mornings for clearer skies and warmer temperatures.
• Expect less greenery compared to summer, but stunning golden-brown landscapes.
• Book transport (train/bus from Hanoi) in advance — November is still popular with international tourists.

9. Related Guides (Internal Links)

• Vietnam in November – Weather & Best Places to Visit
• Hanoi in November
• Ha Giang in November
• Ha Long Bay in November
• Ninh Binh in November
• Full Sapa Travel Guide