I met Sung when I signed up for a 3 day hike through the mesmerizing rice terraces of Sapa. When our bus arrived from Hanoi that morning, I remember catching a glimpse of Sung for the first time. A tiny woman, no more than 4 ft tall, who patiently waited right at the foot of the door for our arrival. In a voice, way louder than her body size, she asked us if we were beginner, intermediate, or advanced hikers. In that instance, I wondered to myself how this adorably tiny woman, in tiny green rain boots, could even tackle the steep, slippery slopes herself. But within the first hour, she proved me wrong. Sung was the toughest one of all out of our group!
Sung grew up in a small H’mong village in the heart of Sapa. Her family was too poor to afford a proper education for her and she taught herself English solely by leading tours, ever since she was a child, and picking up the language from travelers! Because Sung and I shared a common native language, we were able to relate to one another on a deeper level. We cried and laughed together our first night in her village as we shared homemade rice wine and a delicious family style dinner and stayed up to witness the most spectacular sunrise over the rice fields.
She shared very personal stories about her life with me - her many struggles with poverty, her disruptive relationship with her husband who recently passed away from cancer, leaving her alone to care for her children. Despite all the struggles, she told me that she was happy with job and her only dream was to be able to go to school and study English properly. She told me that she loved her job because it allowed her to connect with people from around the world. I hold her that she deserved the world!
Sung is loved by so many travelers that many have returned time and time again to see her. I hope that one day, you will have the opportunity to meet this incredible soul as well.
Sung’s Story:
Her itinerary:
Bus Tickets from Hanoi to Sapa:
It takes about 5.5-6 hours and the bus departs from various stations in Hanoi.
Cost between $12-$22/ person
Sang will greet you personally once your bus arrives in Sapa.
2 days and 1 night = $50 / person
3 days and 2 nights = $75 / person
This includes a homestay guide for the tour and all meals but does not include drinks.
Tours are for 7-8 people. Private tours are an additional $30 extra / person.
As you hike the breathtaking terraces of Sapa, you will see shifting rice fields, buffaloes, chickens, and other livestock in the area.
Day 1: You will walk for about 12 to 13 km
Day 2: Expect to walk for about 6 to 7 km
Day 3: If you book for 3 days, 12 to 13 km on day 1, about 14 km on day 3, and 5 km on day 3.
Sung will also personally work with your comfort level. Please let us know if you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced hiker and we will set up your itinerary based on. your preference.
