Silver Waterfall Sapa Vietnam
A breathtaking cascade named for its shimmering appearance, nestled amidst Sapa's misty mountains. A must-see natural wonder.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy softer light.
Silver Waterfall Sapa Vietnam
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy softer light.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking cascade named for its shimmering appearance, nestled amidst Sapa's misty mountains. A must-see natural wonder.
"The waterfall is beautiful and definitely worth a short stop."
🎯 Free Entry After 4:30 PM
Save money by visiting after 16:30 for free admission. :moneywithwings:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The path involves stairs, so wear sturdy shoes for a comfortable climb. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Silver Waterfall
Sapa, Lao Cai Province, Vietnam
Witness the powerful cascade of water, named for its shimmering, silver appearance. A truly breathtaking natural wonder.
Scenic Staircase Walk
Path to the waterfall viewpoint
Enjoy a well-maintained staircase with comfortable gaps, making the climb enjoyable and offering great views.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Viewpoints around the waterfall
Soak in the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys, often shrouded in mist.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Silver Waterfall
Getting to Silver Waterfall
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry After 4:30 PM
Save money by visiting after 16:30 for free admission.
:moneywithwings:👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The path involves stairs, so wear sturdy shoes for a comfortable climb.
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the Shimmer
The waterfall's name comes from its silver-like appearance; try to capture this effect.
:camerawithflash:🛵 Motorbike for Freedom
Rent a motorbike for a flexible and scenic journey from Sapa town.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry After 4:30 PM
Save money by visiting after 16:30 for free admission.
:moneywithwings:👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The path involves stairs, so wear sturdy shoes for a comfortable climb.
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the Shimmer
The waterfall's name comes from its silver-like appearance; try to capture this effect.
:camerawithflash:🛵 Motorbike for Freedom
Rent a motorbike for a flexible and scenic journey from Sapa town.
💧 Splash or Dip
Bring extra clothes if you fancy a refreshing splash or dip in the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Silver Waterfall to be a beautiful and worthwhile stop, praising its majestic views and the enjoyable, well-maintained path. The free entry after 4:30 PM is a significant plus for budget travelers. While the walk is manageable, some note the stairs can be steep, and the waterfall's flow is best during the wet season.
"The waterfall is beautiful and definitely worth a short stop. It’s only about a 15–20 minute walk round-trip from the main road. The path includes a short stair climb, a small bridge, and then a descent back toward the road.
At the entrance there is a small fee: 30k VND for adults and 10k VND for children. If you arrive after 16:30, entry is free.
A quick, easy, and enjoyable visit! 🌿💧"
Rave Galili
"Quick break enjoy the water, bird, leave, and wind sound
Plenty of stairs, proper stairs, and the fence, the gap between each stair is perfect, making the walk enjoyable, you know some waterfalls have no convenience gap making your knees not happy, but this one is NICE
Nice way to have a short break here
Thank you"
Yoga Ria Bali
"We came by motorcycle. Approximately 25mins from SaPa town. The view is majestic. They have plenty seats to enjoy the view. We paid a fee for 2 pax, can't recall how much. If you bring extra clothes, you can dip your feet or get a quick splash. The staircase is proper & safe."
Najatul Athirah Mohd Fadli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Silver Waterfall (Thac Bac) is located about 25 minutes by motorbike from Sapa town. Many visitors opt for a private motorbike rental or join a guided tour that includes this stop.
Some tours might also offer private car options.The most popular way to travel from Hanoi to Sapa is by overnight train, which is often recommended for comfort and convenience.
Alternatively, sleeper buses are also available and can be more budget-friendly.While Sapa town is beautiful, Silver Waterfall is a bit too far to walk comfortably. It's best to arrange transportation like a motorbike, taxi, or join a tour.
Within Sapa, you can rent motorbikes for independent exploration, hire local guides with motorbikes, or book private tours that cover multiple attractions like Silver Waterfall and the Cloud Dragon Skywalk.
Yes, the drive to Silver Waterfall offers stunning views of the mountainous landscape and terraced fields, often described as 'dreamlike' and 'breathtaking.'
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small entrance fee for Silver Waterfall. Adults typically pay around 30,000 VND, and children around 10,000 VND.
However, entry is free if you arrive after 4:30 PM.While specific official opening hours aren't always listed, the waterfall is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's worth noting that entry becomes free after 4:30 PM, suggesting it's open until at least sunset.
No, tickets for Silver Waterfall are typically purchased on-site at the entrance. Booking in advance is generally not required for this specific attraction.
The main 'discount' is that entry is free after 4:30 PM.
Some tour packages might bundle entry fees, but for individual visits, the free entry window is the best way to save.The entrance fee is typically per person. For example, a fee for 2 people was mentioned, implying individual charges.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk involves a well-maintained staircase with proper steps, making it enjoyable and not too strenuous on the knees. It's a short round-trip walk, about 15-20 minutes.
While you can get close enough to feel the spray and hear the sounds of the water, swimming directly in the main cascade might not be advisable or permitted. You can dip your feet or get a quick splash.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. The 'silver' appearance is most noticeable when the light hits the water just right.
Yes, there are plenty of seats available around the waterfall area, allowing visitors to relax and soak in the majestic scenery.
The waterfall is named 'Silver Waterfall' (Thac Bac) because the water appears to shimmer like silver as it cascades down, especially when viewed from a distance or in certain lighting conditions.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The viewpoints along the staircase offer great perspectives of the waterfall. The bridge crossing also provides a good vantage point.
Look for angles that capture the full cascade and the surrounding misty mountains.For capturing the water's movement, a slightly longer exposure can create a silky effect. Consider using a tripod if possible, especially in lower light conditions.
Drone photography is possible and can offer unique aerial perspectives of the waterfall and the Sapa landscape.
Always check local regulations regarding drone usage before flying.Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful, soft light. Midday sun can be harsh, but the mist can sometimes diffuse the light nicely.
Focus on the powerful flow of the water, the 'silver' shimmer, the lush green surroundings, and the dramatic mountain backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of a family trip, combine Silver Waterfall with other accessible attractions like the Cloud Dragon Skywalk or a gentle walk through Cat Cat Village. Ensure you have snacks and water, and be prepared for the cooler mountain air, even in warmer months.
💰 Budget Travelers
For transportation, consider renting a motorbike for the day to reach the waterfall and other nearby sights, which is generally more economical than hiring a private car or taxi for short distances. When exploring Sapa, look for local eateries and street food stalls for delicious and affordable meals, like the famous Banh Mi.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to capture the well-designed staircase and the panoramic views from the various viewpoints. Drone photography can provide breathtaking aerial shots, showcasing the waterfall's scale within the valley. Remember that Sapa's weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for mist, which can add a mystical quality to your photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Sapa's Misty Charm
When visiting attractions like Silver Waterfall, the mist can enhance the sense of mystery and beauty. However, it's also worth noting that during the wet season, the mist can be more persistent, while drier periods might offer clearer, more expansive views of the rice terraces and peaks. The interplay of mist, sunlight, and the vibrant green of the rice paddies is a signature element of the Sapa experience.
For travelers, understanding this misty characteristic is key to managing expectations. While you might not always get crystal-clear panoramic views, the unique atmospheric conditions are part of what makes Sapa so special and photogenic. Embrace the fog; it often adds a magical touch to the already stunning scenery.
Navigating Sapa's Terrain: Trails and Steps
Beyond the immediate waterfall area, Sapa is famous for its trekking routes through rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. These treks can range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, often involving muddy paths, steep inclines, and uneven ground, especially during the wet season. Wearing appropriate footwear, like sturdy hiking boots or trainers, is highly recommended for any exploration beyond paved paths.
For those interested in more adventurous exploration, consider the Cloud Dragon Skywalk, which offers a different perspective of the landscape and can be combined with a visit to Silver Waterfall. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions, as Sapa's mountain climate can be unpredictable.
Budget-Friendly Sapa: Tips from Travelers
Accommodation in Sapa offers a wide range, from budget-friendly guesthouses starting around $16 per night to more luxurious eco-lodges with stunning views. Many travelers recommend booking accommodations with mountain or rice field views for an immersive experience.
Transportation costs can also be managed. While private tours are convenient, opting for local buses or shared taxis for longer distances, like from Hanoi to Sapa, can significantly reduce expenses. For local travel, renting a motorbike offers flexibility at a reasonable cost. Eating local street food and dining at smaller, family-run restaurants is also a great way to experience Vietnamese cuisine affordably.
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