Travel in Vietnam is usually very budget-friendly, which includes the transportation needed to explore the corners of this unforgettable gem in South East Asia. Hanoi to SaPa is one journey many travelers take, from the bustling streets of the chaotic capital to the wide green hills full of rice fields. The overnight bus from Hanoi to SaPa might not be the easiest bus ride you’ll ever take, but it sure does have it’s fantastic benefits.

If you’re on a shoestring budget through Vietnam, this overnight bus from Hanoi to SaPa counts as your accommodation for the night. Or, if you’re running out of days for everything you want to do in Vietnam, taking the overnight bus to SaPa from Hanoi is a perfect way to save a few extra hours.

So if you’re thinking of catching the bus from Hanoi to SaPa overnight here’s everything you need to know, plus what to expect and the pros and cons of this bus ride into Vietnam’s northern mountains.

If you plan to trek around SaPa, make sure you choose the right tour guide!

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How do I book the overnight bus from Hanoi to SaPa and how much does it cost?

There are many storefronts around Hanoi that will book you the overnight bus to SaPa. They all offer similar itineraries and prices. I mean, what is there really to offer on a bus from Hanoi to SaPa?

To make it even easier, Central Backpackers Hostel is able to book for you on the spot and handles everything. They even allow you to have a shower and happy hour beer after you have checked out. Pretty cool right?! Read on below for the best hostels in Hanoi!

Roughly, the cost of an overnight bus from Hanoi to SaPa is $13 USD. You shouldn’t want to go much lower than that. It is common for buses, especially overnight buses, to overbook. This leads to passengers sleeping in the aisles, or in the case of a good travel buddy of mine, sleeping in the luggage compartment. Always, and I do mean always, confirm you have a seat when you book.

 

How long does the overnight bus from Hanoi to SaPa take?

It doesn’t take long, in fact, it’s barely long enough from Hanoi to SaPa to justify an overnight bus.

On average, you’re looking roughly 6-7 hours from the capital to SaPa. However, it is common for the driver to turn off the bus and allow a few more hours sleep to the passengers. This does make the bus quite hot and stuffy.

 

What should I expect from the overnight bus from Hanoi to SaPa?

• You’ll be picked up from your hostel, or other designated meeting spot at a certain time. Make sure you arrive a few minutes early to show your ticket and get settled – being rushed isn’t ever fun.
• It’s roughly 324km from Hanoi to SaPa, so why does it take around 6.5 hours by bus? It’s a windy road – very windy. And the drivers don’t seem to slow down much on the curves. Making the corners seem intense at times.
• I’m 6 foot tall, and while these reliable seats were comfortable enough, there wasn’t much room to stretch my legs. Due to the constant winding of the roads, I found myself scrunched up in a ball at the base of my seat when I woke up.
• The bus from Hanoi to SaPa is basically a rolling hostel. There will be most likely snorers and pretty inconsiderate passengers – playing music or turning lights on late at night. That kind of thing. I have tips below for how to combat these problems.
• There usually is a bathroom, but always check it works before missing out on that valuable bathroom break when the bus stops.

 

What are some tips for catching overnight buses – Hanoi to SaPa

Overnight buses can be tough – and getting to SaPa by bus from Hanoi is one of the more challenging ones I’ve taken. Here are a few tips I always use myself to help have the best nights rest I can while swaying along the highways of northern Vietnam.

• These buses are commonly overbooked. Make sure you are guaranteed a seat, and if you want to be extra safe, ask for something in writing.
• Waking up to a loud person climbing down a bunk bed ladder is a terrible way to wake up. While earplugs are a common tip, I prefer headphones and play soft, soothing music as background noise.
• An eye mask is great if there are constant lights flashing on and off – this includes passing street lights.
• The temperature can fluctuate from hot to cold quickly with the number of passengers. And when the bus turns off for an extra three-hour nap when you reach SaPa, it’s always good to have one or two layers of clothing to take off.
• Some kind of sleeping aid works wonders for me. I may wake up feeling quite drowsy, but once that wears off, I’m happy I got a much more sound sleep with the sleeping pills. Melatonin is also a great way to help the chances of uninterrupted sleep.
• A blow-up sleeping pillow is so worth it. It helps so much in getting comfortable and you’re less likely to wake up with a stiff neck.
• Make sure you take all your belongings. Due to being drowsy, I have left a phone, articles of clothing and food on overnight buses. It helps to create a small checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything.

 

So, I arrived in SaPa very early in the morning, what can I do?

The buses get into SaPa from Hanoi around 3am, and you’re allowed to sleep to roughly 6am. Even at 6 in the morning, there’s not much going on in this sleepy town. You can begin the short day trip to Cat Cat Village, or get ready for the larger, more challenging trek through northern Vietnam.

One thing I would suggest, book accommodation that accepts early check-in. Stunning View Hotel was great for this. We arrived at their door around 6:20am and there was something at reception we could sit with, and even if your room isn’t ready to check in, you can leave your backpacks at the hotel and begin exploring as the sun rises over the distant mountains. As the hotel name suggests, there is a pretty nice sunset view from the rooftop terrace.

If you’re looking for the best budget-friendly hostels in Hanoi, look no further!

 

Is the overnight bus to SaPa from Hanoi really worth It?!

In my eyes, yes, the night bus to SaPa from Hanoi is worth it if you want to save money on a place to sleep and time as you’re traveling through the night. These are the two main reasons I love overnight buses (and other transport).

But it isn’t for everyone. If you’re taller than me, you may have trouble even fitting on the seat, let alone being comfortable enough to sleep. There’s usually some sort of noise and/or stray light that threatens to keep you up all night. The roads are usually bumpy and windy.

The night bus heading to SaPa, no matter where you come from, will most likely challenge you. But still, to me, the positives outweigh the negatives – as long as you’re prepared for as much as you can be.

 

How can I book my bus from Hanoi to SaPa?

Most commonly, you can visit a local tourist shop (there are many dotted around Hanoi). You can also book through your accommodation. Many hostels and hotels will handle everything for you.

Sometimes, these services do book out, especially in peak season. You can book online if you want to secure your ticket early to be safe! Just check out the box below!

 

Have you caught the overnight bus from Hanoi to SaPa? Or any night time travel for that matter? Let me know in the comments below!

 

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Further Reading on travel in Vietnam

• Explore Hue’s abandoned water theme park – Ho Thuy Tien
• Lan Ha Bay is another great Vietnam destination from Hanoi
• Visit Da Nang – Vietnam’s underrated city!

 

Thanks for reading!

Happy and safe travels,

Ben – Horizon Unknown