Set in the northwestern part of Vietnam, the province of Lao Cai has various ethnic minority groups, such as Hmong, Tay and Dao. Its extremely complex topography comprises high mountain peaks and passes, deep streams, rivers and extensive valleys.
Nestled on a steep slope, 1,600m above sea level, the popular mountain resort town of Sapa features a suspended bamboo bridge and a gorgeous waterfall. Tourism is centered on hiking up Phan Xi Păng, Vietnam’s highest mountain. Lao Cai province can be accessed by road, rail and water.