10 Best Hostels in Sapa for Backpackers | A guide to cheap accommodations in Sapa for Backpackers

Exploring the best hostels in Sapa is a must for backpackers and budget travellers seeking amazing and affordable stays. Nestled in Vietnam’s northern highlands, Sapa boasts many hostels, homestays and guest houses to adapt to every adventurer’s dream.

While in Sapa, we changed four different accommodations from the town centre to remote villages, ensuring that we found the best cocoons, the most affordable, and only the top hostels.

From the lively vibes at AnhDuc Homestay to the peaceful mountain views at Sapa Soul, each place offers unique experiences and a genuine taste of local culture.

Whether we’re trekking through terraced rice fields, discovering ethnic minority villages, or simply relaxing with stunning views, Sapa has it all.

In this guide, we share our top picks for budget-friendly hostels that guarantee comfort, adventure, and authentic connections. Let’s dive into the budget accommodations in Sapa, each offering a perfect mix of communal living, local insights, and an ideal base for our next great adventure.

Essential Guide to Hostels in Sapa

Hostels in Sapa offer the perfect chance to get to know the local culture. Most of the time, these budget accommodations are hosted in local houses or run by tribal members.

So for the price of nuts you will get a unique experience in Sapa, like we had. It’s not a secret that we love the Vietnam Highlands, and you will get more details by reading our guide about why Sapa is worth visiting for us.

We spent five fabulous days in Sapa, hopping from one accommodation to another to better understand the facilities and offer the most comprehensive accommodation guide to Sapa.

Hostels and Guest houses are always the bridge to meet other travellers. You will find new friends, and that’s what makes the adventure memorable. Most of the hostels in Sapa have rustic decor and few modern comforts, but all have a big heart, which attracts most backpackers to Sapa.

These are some of the things you should consider before booking a hostel in Sapa:

Resources we used for travelling in Vietnam

PRICE

Of course, the price is the first sort everyone does, but with very low prices, everyone competes at the same level. In Sapa the difference between a guesthouse private room and a bed in a dorm might be only $1, so worth having your own comforts.

You can find hostels in Sapa from $1.5, and private rooms as low as $3 (Pea Homestay was our choice for a budget hostel in Sapa). Bear in mind that only a few hostels have AC, and some of them offer heaters instead, as in winter, at night, it gets cold.

AREA TO STAY

Sapa is well spread out, and you might end up staying in a remote village. Even though it can be the most interesting experience, you need to take that into account to rent a motorbike too.

Hostels near the centre of Sapa are quite affordable, and the price goes from $5 to $10. You will stay at walking distance from the main square reducing transportation costs and time travelling. For the best experience, check out the area of Ta Van or read more on our guide about where to stay in Sapa.

ATMOSPHERE

We select the hostels based on two factors: price and location, but whichever hostel ticks the box for the best atmosphere wins.

Hostels like Hmong Sister House, Pea Guesthouse, or Mega View attract a young/mature audience keen to meet other travellers. If you are up for an adventure with other people, stay at one of these fun hostels in Sapa.

CLEANLINESS

We select the hostels based on two factors: price and location, but whichever hostel ticks the box for the best atmosphere wins.

When booking a hostel in Sapa, check the box regarding the cleaning. As far as we noticed, only a few were good to stay, and most of them were the ones run by locals, community managers and homestays.

Best hostels in Sapa | Brief Solutions

The best hostels in Sapa we recommend

We have listed the best hostels in Sapa, considering every aspect. The guide below provides information regarding distances from the centre, rooms, views, and landscape, which is essential for planning a Sapa itinerary.

Tavan Chopai Homestay

Get a beer and sit by the open terrace bar. The view at Tavan Chopai Homestay is one of a kind. On a clear day, you can see Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in Indochina.

Just 6.59km from the city centre, Tavan Chopai Homestay, run by Lo and his Giay ethnic family, is one of the best hostels in Sapa. It offers backpackers an experience steeped in the rich culture and natural beauty of northern Vietnam. 

Lo’s family provides warm hospitality and deep local knowledge, making this homestay the perfect base for your Sapa adventure. You can book your day trek directly here, exploring the fields and the valley.

Each evening, join other guests for a family dinner, sharing stories and experiences in a communal, friendly atmosphere. With a superb 9.1 rating from 369 reviews on Hostelworld, Tavan Chopai Homestay ensures your travel experiences in North Vietnam will be unforgettable.

Tavan Chopai Homestay Key points:

• Local Vibes and give back to the community
• Make friends eating at the homestay.
• Reliable Wi-Fi
• The highest rated hostel in Sapa
• Late Check-in and Check-out

Hoa’s Homestay Sapa

Nestled in the heart of Pho’s village, where 99% of the population are Black H’Mong people, Hoa’s Homestay offers backpackers an unforgettable Sapa experience.

Overlooking the stunning Muong Hoa Valley and its famous terraced fields, this homestay immerses you in charming natural scenery and local culture. With a 9.5 rating on Hostelworld, it’s celebrated for its hospitable atmosphere and spectacular views.

Imagine waking up to a panoramic view of the valley from your balcony, enjoying a cup of coffee as the morning mist rises.

Every evening, gather for a family dinner featuring delicious local cuisine and “happy water,” perfect for socialising and meeting fellow travellers. Hoa’s Homestay provides practical amenities like a 24-hour front desk, free WiFi, a shared kitchen, and a bar.

Accommodations range from private ensuite rooms to mixed dorms, all designed for comfort. Despite being a bit removed from town, the scenic beauty and communal dinners make it a must-stay.

Hoa’s Homestay Sapa Key points:

• Spectacular valley views
• Family dinners every night
• Comfortable rooms with river views
• Friendly and welcoming hosts
• Top-rated with 9.5 on Hostelworld

Hmong Sister House and Trekking

Hmong Sister House and Trekking, located 6.24km from Sapa’s city centre, offers backpackers an authentic Hmong cultural experience. Nestled on a hilltop, this hostel provides a peaceful retreat with stunning nature views and a true taste of local village life.

Wake up to the serene beauty of the landscape and join diverse trekking tours, from easy trails to challenging 2-day treks, immersing yourself in the natural wonders of Sapa.

Staying here means becoming part of a Hmong family, sharing home-cooked meals and learning about their unique traditions. With a variety of room options, including private rooms and mixed dorms, Hmong Sister House is perfect for solo travellers and groups alike.

This hostel is often fully booked due to its popularity, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

Hmong Sister House Key Points:

• Authentic Hmong cultural experience
• Diverse trekking and handicraft tours
• Peaceful hilltop location with breathtaking views
• Home-cooked meals and family dinners
• Comfortable rooms with hot showers and free towels

PEA Homestay

For our final night in Sapa, we stayed at Pea Homestay, a charming retreat just 7.6 km from Fansipan Legend Cable Car Station. Nestled amidst lush gardens, Pea Homestay offers breathtaking views and a welcoming atmosphere.

Despite the simple comforts of a bed on the floor, the experience was enriched by the chance to connect with fellow travellers and immerse ourselves in the local home environment.

To be honest, the bed wasn’t comfortable, but the overall experience was very nice, and it was easy to reach the centre of Sapa just by motorbike.

I spent the afternoon playing with Pea, the owner’s son, and it was one of the most genuine interactions I had while in Southeast Asia. The hostel section is among the private rooms, separated by curtains, but the privacy is, of course, limited. Take this into consideration.

The price for a double room is the cheapest we found in Sapa, only $3 per night. Work out the maths, as it is one of the most budget-friendly options we have ever paid for.

While at Pea Guesthouse, we met other adventurers and embarked on a memorable motorbike road trip to the Silver Waterfall and Sapa Mountain Pass.

PEA Homestay Key points:

• Fantastic garden views
• Comfortable, allergy-free units
• Close to key attractions like Sa Pa Lake and Ham Rong Mountain
• Great for socialising with fellow travellers

Mega View Homestay

Mega View Homestay, just 0.47km from the city centre, is the perfect retreat for travel couples, backpackers, and families in Sapa. Located under the charming Old Street of Sapa town, it offers easy access to famous attractions and stunning mountain views, including the towering Fansipan peak.

With cosy private rooms and dorm beds, this homestay ensures a comfortable and friendly stay right in the heart of Sapa.

Wake up to breathtaking views from the rooftop and start your day with a trekking tour through picturesque villages. Mega View Homestay provides air-conditioned rooms, hot showers, and free WiFi throughout the property, making it an ideal base for your Sapa adventure.

Relax in the spacious waiting hall, enjoy Netflix, and socialize with fellow travellers.

The warm hospitality of Diego and his wife makes every stay special, with guests raving about their helpfulness and the homestay’s welcoming atmosphere.

Enjoy the best value with rooms like the Superior Twin Room Private Ensuite, perfect for couples, and the affordable Standard 8 Bed Mixed Dorm Ensuite, starting at just $3.

Mega View Homestay Key points:

• Central location, 3-minute walk to Sapa central
• Beautiful mountain views from the rooftop
• Cosy private rooms and affordable dorm beds
• Friendly and helpful owners
• Air-conditioning, hot showers, and free WiFi

Sapa Capsule

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in Sapa, Sapa Capsule is the perfect choice. We stayed here for one night after arriving from Hanoi on a 6-hour sleeper bus, and it was ideal. Located within walking distance from the centre of town, it offers cosy and well-equipped capsules for just $6 per night.

Although the capsule is a bit tight for two people, it’s perfect for solo travellers. The hostel features good water pressure, hot showers, nice facilities, a garden, and a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy a beer with a view.

We recommend it for one or two nights, especially if you’re planning to leave your valuables while trekking in Sapa.

Sapa Capsule Key points:

• Walking distance to the town centre
• Great water pressure and hot showers
• Garden and rooftop terrace with mountain views
• Affordable at $6 per night

Sapa Soul | Our favourite place in Sapa

Sapa Soul was our favourite place to stay in Sapa. It offers an incredible atmosphere and direct contact with the H’Mong Tribe people.

Located 20 minutes from Sapa town, this budget accommodation features two guesthouses, Sapa Soul and Sapa Soul Two, both with stunning views over the river and Ta Van Village area.

We stayed one night in a budget double room with a mountain view and shared bathroom, which was very clean. The view from the patio and garden is unmatched, with a powerful waterfall visible on the other side. Our stay included a fantastic breakfast and a delightful dinner.

The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, organising treks and local activities right from the homestay. The food is delicious, with great vegetarian options, and the communal atmosphere makes it easy to connect with other travellers.

Sapa Soul offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a must-stay for anyone visiting Sapa.

Sapa Soul Key points:

• Mountain views from every angle
• Clean and cosy budget rooms
• Fantastic breakfast and dinner options
• Quiet location, 20-minute ride to Sapa town
• Lovely garden and patio
• Delicious food

AnhDuc Homestay

AnhDuc Homestay is one of the best hostels in Sapa for backpackers, offering a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and social experiences. Located 5.85 km from the city centre, it faces the mountains and river, providing breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.

The lodge features a garden, terrace, and free on-site parking, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

The rooms are furnished but cosy, with private rooms and dorms equipped with linens, blankets, and mosquito nets. Guests have access to shared bathrooms with towels and shower facilities.

The friendly staff, fluent in Vietnamese and English, assist with luggage storage, motorbike rentals, and tour arrangements, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay.

Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the peaceful surroundings, Anh Duc Homestay offers an authentic Vietnamese experience combined with the comforts of home.

The family running the place is known for their warmth and hospitality, making you feel like part of the family. This homestay is perfect for those seeking a blend of traditional Vietnamese life and the typical backpacking adventure.

AnhDuc Homestay Key points:

• Stunning mountain and river views
• Garden and terrace for relaxation
• Helpful and attentive staff
• Family dinners for easy socialising

ZiZi Mekhoo Sapa Homestay | Party Hostel in Sapa

ZiZi Mekhoo Sapa Homestay is one of the cheapest and cleanest dorms in Sapa, offering a unique blend of adventure and cultural immersion.

Nestled in the Ta Van area, it’s the perfect spot to start your DIY trekking tours and soak up a more local atmosphere. While there’s not much around, a 15-minute motorbike ride gets you to the town centre.

Located 6.24 km from the city centre and 8 km from Sapa town, this homestay offers an authentic experience with breathtaking mountainside views, fresh air, and a peaceful environment.

You’ll have the opportunity to participate in local life and learn about the cuisine and culture. Some rooms come with breakfast included, making it a great value.

Reviews highlight the incredible location, delicious home-cooked food, and the welcoming atmosphere. Booking in advance can get you a very low price, at just £1.50 a night, it’s a fantastic budget option for backpackers.

ZiZi Mekhoo Sapa Homestay Key points:

• Stunning views and fresh air
• Trekking and hiking trips are available
• Volunteer opportunities with local children

Sunny Sapa Homestay

Sunny Sapa Homestay is another great option if you want to stay close to the town centre. It isn’t one of the cheapest in our guide, but it’s worth every penny. Located just 700m from the central square and next to Cat Cat Hotel, it’s perfect for resting and visiting tourist attractions.

This small, quiet hostel offers a prime location with mountain views. It offers free essential personal items like toothbrushes, towels, shower gel, shampoo, and slippers.

The rooms are clean and airy, equipped with TVs, hairdryers, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Friendly staff will serve you attentively, ensuring an impressive vacation in Sapa.

Sunny Sapa Homestay offers various room options, including private ensuites and mixed dorms, making it perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families alike.

Sunny Sapa Homestay Key points:

• Prime central location with mountain views
• Clean, airy rooms with essential amenities
• Friendly and attentive staff

FAQ | Best hostels in Sapa