Sapa to Halong Bay: 3 Easy Ways for a Smooth Journey

The mountains and rice terraces of Sapa and the emerald waters and limestone karsts of Halong Bay are the two gems of northern Vietnam. They’re also both must-visit places on a Vietnam tour of the region. Knowing how to travel between them will ensure you have a smooth trip and do not miss out on any of the best attractions of Sapa and Halong Bay.

How Far Is It from Sapa to Halong Bay? About 480km with Location Map

Sapa is in Lao Cai Province in the Northwest region of Vietnam. The mountainous area northwest of Hanoi is close to the border with China and enjoys a cooler climate because of the higher elevation.

Halong Bay is east of Hanoi in Quang Ninh Province. Its 120 km of coastline runs along the Gulf of Tonkin, and the bay covers a wide area of islands, beaches, and emerald waters. From Sapa, the distance to Halong Bay is around 475 km. There are a few different routes to get there, usually taking between 8 and 12 hours.

The Most Affordable Way to Travel from Sapa to Halong Bay Is by Direct Bus: Overnight Bus Recommended

Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel. Overnight buses are high-class shuttles with sleeper berths, air conditioning, WIFI, and other amenities. Besides the low price, you also save on accommodations with the overnight bus. Get on board in the evening, have a good rest, and then wake up at your destination, ready for the next adventure.

The bus from Sapa to Halong Bay

Departure times are available from 05:30 to 23:00. The journey takes between 8 to 10 hours. It’s possible to leave in the morning and arrive the same day, but we recommend making the trip overnight so you can spend your daytime hours exploring. Prices range from 15 to 30 USD.

Selected Overnight Bus Schedule

The Most Exotic Way from Sapa to Halong Bay Is by Train: about 12 Hours

Taking the train in Vietnam is an authentic, local experience. It’s not the fastest way to go, but can be a nice way to see the scenery or get a good night’s sleep for anyone who gets motion sickness. People choose the train for the experience. It’s a slower way to travel, taking around 12 hours to get from Sapa to Halong Bay.

Lao Cai Train Station

There is no direct train from Sapa to Halong Bay. The first step is to take a train from Lao Cai station to Hanoi. From Hanoi, trains run to Haiphong, southwest of Halong Bay. The last stage is a 45-minute taxi ride from Haiphong to your hotel or the Halong Bay cruise embarkation point. The trip costs between 40 and 60 USD.

Train Schedule

Our Most Recommended Way Is Taking a Private Car/Taxi from Sapa to Halong Bay

A private car or taxi is by far the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Sapa to Halong Bay. By car, the drive is only five to six hours. You can arrange door-to-door service being picked up from your hotel in Sapa and taken to wherever you want to go in Halong Bay. Vehicles from spacious sedans to minivans are available with enough room for your travel party and all the luggage.

The most common route travels along the Lao Cai Expressway, CT-105. It’s a modern and well-maintained road, but there may be some steep or winding sections around Sapa.

After going through the mountains in Lao Cai, the route passes through Yen Bai Province. It’s an agricultural area with beautiful rice terraces like Mu Cang Chai and lakes like Thac Ba Lake. Approach Halong Bay, the scenery becomes more coastal, and you’ll start catching glimpses of the waters and limestone karsts as you approach.

Prices depend on the type of vehicle. Modern sedans can be hired with prices starting around 154 USD. A nine-seater luxury minivan is around 386 USD.

Sapa to Halong Bay by private car

Insider Tips to Planning a Halong Bay Tour from Sapa

1. Choose a reputable company for a private car or taxi service. The vehicle should be in top condition with enough space for luggage.
2. Water is often provided on buses and in private cars, but you’ll need to bring your own snacks for the trip.
3. Even though it’s slower, the train can be a good choice for the foggy and rainy weather in winter.
4. Booking your Sapa to Halong Bay transfer 1-2 weeks in advance will help guarantee that everything will be well prepared.
5. Tour packages of North Vietnam often include all domestic transfers. This can often help save additional money. 

7 Days Northern Vietnam Historical & Natural Tour Package

Hanoi – Sapa - Halong Bay - Ninh Binh - Hanoi

Conclusion

Get the most out of your tour of northern Vietnam with smooth travel between Sapa and Halong Bay. The bus is a good way to save money, the train offers a unique local experience, or avoid any hassles and travel in the comfort of a private car. No matter which way you choose, you can be sure to arrive safely.

Seeing both destinations will fill you with the wonders of the diverse landscapes of the region. Get in touch with us to see our tours of northern Vietnam for more details on what to expect, or make the trip to Sapa and Halong Bay part of a larger tour of the country.