Hoang Su Phi

Hoang Su Phi is one of the most spectacular but least-travelled areas in northern Vietnam – with mountains covered in lush rice terraces.

Hoang Su Phi District is a pleasant contrast to the rocky plateau of Meo Vac, Dong Van and Yen Minh. The mountainous landscape is covered in thick forests broken up by small tea farms and the iconic, staircase-like rice terraces that Vietnam is so famous for. The road to Hoang Su Phi winds its way along high mountain passes offering fantastic views of the valleys below.

To catch the rice crop at its most striking there are several good times to visit this area. The of the crop cycle starts in May, corresponding with the start of the rainy season. At this time of year you can see local farmers working to prepare the fields and plant the young rice crops. In September and October the area is at its most beautiful, with the rice fields in harvest season, full of colour.

If you happen to find yourself visiting this area over a weekend, join the local Hmong, Red Zao, Nung and Tay ethnic minorities at the Sunday market, watching them haggle for cattle on the banks of the Chay River.