Seeking a vacation of knowledge, excitement, and authentic cultural exchanges? Then this is the tour you need to experience! Spend the day traveling to and exploring Sapa Vietnam’s ethnic minority markets. They are a colorful exchange of customs and wares, and a highly unique experience.

Sapa, Vietnam is quickly becoming one of the nation’s most popular destinations, and rightfully so. With well-organized rice terraces that are practically works of art; idyllic villages with friendly locals happy to serve as your guide; and easy access to popular hiking destinations, it’s no wonder that more and more travelers are beginning to seek the region out.

More Than A Market

What are Vietnam’s minority markets, and why are they so special? Although they sell the typical items you would expect to find in many of the world’s outdoor markets, ethnic minority markets are frequented by some of the nation’s 54 recognized indigenous groups. Here, the traditions of Old Vietnam are not only alive and well, they are beautifully on display.

Depending on what day you take your tour, you can anticipate exploring one of the following markets:

• Bac Ha Market (held on Sunday) - The region’s biggest market is frequented by Flower Hmong (Red Hmong), Black Dao, Tay, Nung, La Chi, Phu La and other minority groups in their quest to sell and purchase livestock, homewares, extraordinarily intricate textiles and jewelry, and more. The journey to this market can be especially grueling for sellers, so they make the most of their trip and use it as both a business day and a community day — exchanging news and spending time with friends.

• Coc Ly Market (held on Tuesday) - Flower Hmong (Red Hmong), Black Dao, Nung, Giay and Tay peoples flock to this riverside market. With the flowing Chay River in the background, this medium-sized market is once again a combination of business and community. Livestock, handicrafts, and produce are exchanged, as are laughs and lively conversations.

• Coa Son Market (held on Wednesday) - Flower Hmong (Red Hmong), Black Dao, Phu La, Mong, and Chinese merchants all frequent this medium-sized marketplace. Although markets are always busy places anywhere in the world, this particular Vietnamese ethnic market is less visited by tourists, making it an even more authentic experience than most. Though you’ll find the usual livestock, farming tools, and local produce, a distinct highlight of this market is the handmade brocade fabrics. Talk about a memorable memento!

• Can Cau Market (held on Saturday) - You’ll find Flower Hmong (Red Hmong), Blue Hmong, Dzay, Nung, Phu La, and even Chinese merchants (thanks to the close proximity to China’s border) at this smaller market. The trip can be tiresome making the hustle and bustle especially welcome, because it will instantly revive and excite you. Essentially rolling down a hillside, you’ll find food stalls near the top of the hill, and livestock and dogs near the lower level of the valley.

A Different Kind of Outdoor Adventure

Whether you find yourself in the sipping the local corn wine (brace yourself, it is very strong), deciding which textile or handicraft to take home, or nibbling on fresh regional delicacies, you’re sure to have an amazing adventure at Vietnam’s ethnic minority markets. They’re an incredible way to travel the land, get acquainted with indigenous peoples, and take part in everyday community activities. Doing what the locals do is easy (and safe) when you let your Anywhere Local Expert manage your vacation’s tours, accommodations, and transportation. The sooner you add this awesome activity to your Vietnam travel itinerary, the sooner you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of this colorful markets.

Please bring a rain-jacket