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Best Things To Do In Cat Cat Village: Experience Nature & Unique Traditional Culture

Thursday, November 30, 2023 Places to visit & things to do Nguyen Hien

Do you want to explore a unique cultural village in Sapa where you can experience the traditional life and crafts of the H'Mong ethnic group? Do you want to admire the beautiful natural landscape of valleys, rivers and waterfalls of Cat Cat village, one of the most famous destinations in Sapa? If so, you should not miss the following article, where you will be guided in detail about how to get there, things to do in Cat Cat Village, where to stay, what dishes to try, and some tips to make your trip more convenient. Join Autour Asia to explore the typical traditional Cat Cat Village, Sapa, Vietnam.

1. Where's Cat Cat Village, and how to get there?
2. Highlights things to do in Cat Cat Village
3. The best tips for enjoying Cat Cat Village Sapa Vietnam.

1. Where's Cat Cat Village, and how to get there?

Address : San Sa Ho, Sa Pa Town, Lao Cai Province, Vietnam

Entrance ticket price :

Adult : 90.000 VND/per
Children : 50.000 VND/per

Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zdQ2xniyvQs4CZCMA

Cat Cat Village Sapa is a picturesque village located at the foot of Hoang Lien Son mountain, about 2 km from Sapa center, inhabited by the H'Mong and Dao ethnic communities, famous for its natural beauty scenery and rich cultural heritage. Cat Cat Village was formed from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century, when the French discovered the beauty of this place and chose it as a vacation spot. Visiting the Cat Cat tourism village, whose name is derived from CatScat given by the French, you will certainly be fascinated by the beautiful natural landscape here and immerse yourself in the journey of discovery, and experience the best things to do in Cat Cat Village.

If you are wondering how to get to Cat Cat Village, don't worry because the village is in a very convenient location, you can easily join the Cat Cat Village Trek, a popular activity for tourists who want to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Sapa. You can start from the center of Sapa town, follow the signs to the village, or join a trekking tour with a local guide who will show you the way. The Cat Cat Village trek will take about an hour along a trail that offers stunning views of the spectacular terraced fields, lush greenery and the soothing sound of the village's waterfall. Along the way, you will also be warmly welcomed by a smile or a greeting from some friendly local people.

Besides, you can also choose the easiest and most comfortable way to get to Cat Cat Village, Sapa, Vietnam, which is to take a car with a cost of 100,000 VND/ person/ way. Or you can choose a more economical and flexible way to get to the village by renting a bicycle or a motorbike with a cost of about 100,000 VND to 200,000 VND per day. In Sapa town, you can easily find many rental shops for bicycles and motorbikes. Come take a look and choose the type of vehicle that best suits you.

2. Highlights things to do in Cat Cat Village

a. Cat Cat Village trek on the paved road.

One of the most interesting and wonderful things to do after passing through the entrance gate to Cat Cat Village is to stroll on the poetic stone-paved roads that have become smooth over time to enter the village. This road is a part of the Cat Cat Village trek, an activity that helps you experience observing and enjoying the peace, charm, and authenticity of daily life in Cat Cat Village, Sapa. Walking around the village, you will see on both sides of the road the traditional houses made of wood and stone of the ancient H'Mong people, small stalls selling souvenirs surrounded by colorful flowers and fruit trees.

You can also observe the daily life of the villagers and their activities to preserve their customs and traditional crafts, such as weaving, dyeing and making handicrafts. You will also see the Cat Cat Village waterfall from afar, a beautiful sight that flows from the mountain to the river. Coming here at dawn or dusk, when the space is quiet, it is time for the “feast of the senses” to enjoy the panoramic view of the valley and the surrounding mountains with breathtaking beauty, listen to the gentle sound of water, and feel the refreshing cool breeze on your skin.

b. Explore the H'Mong village & shop for local handicrafts.

The deeper you go inside, the more Cat Cat tourist village offers you countless opportunities to explore the unique culture and architecture of the H'mong ethnic, who have lived in this area for centuries. The H'mong people's house is called "Trinh House", made of wood and stone, decorated with colorful fabrics and patterns. The house has three doors, the main door in the middle is usually only opened on important occasions such as weddings, funerals, and holidays, and the remaining two doors are on the two sides. If you find a lovely, attractive house during Cat Cat Village trek, do not hesitate to ask the homeowner's permission to visit and explore their house. Stepping inside the house, you will not only chat and listen to local people's stories about the typical architectural features of ethnic house construction but also learn about and participate in some activities about their daily lives, such as farming, making corn wine, pounding rice or playing musical instruments.

One of the most attractive things to do when visiting Cat Cat Village is to shop for unique and exotic local handicrafts made by the skilled and talented artisans of the village at a "friendly" price. Some of the most popular crafts here include hand-weaving brocade fabrics, planting flax, weaving, embroidery, clothing made from natural materials such as hemp and linen, and forging agricultural tools. These items are exquisitely crafted with intricate designs and vibrant colors, expressing the creativity and artistic sensibility of the H'Mong people.

Best things to do in Cat Cat Village - Shop local handicrafts

You can buy a number of products such as clothes, bags, hats, scarves, jewelry and souvenirs for your relatives or yourself to keep your trip memorable at Cat Cat Village. Don't be afraid to bargain when making purchases with friendly and hospitable sellers who will be happy to share their stories and knowledge with you.

Products local handicrafts in Cat Cat Village Sapa

c. Cat Cat Village Waterfall - Mountain Majesty, River Elegance.

Another interesting and outstanding destination located at the end of Cat Cat tourist Village that you cannot miss is to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Cat Cat Village waterfall. After trek around Cat Cat village, you will admire a breathtaking sight, the majestic waterfall, about 100 meters high, flows from the mountain to the graceful river, creating a picturesque scene. The waterfall originates from Hoang Lien Son mountain, surrounded by green vegetation, flows through three streams, and then falls into the river like a silk strip of the jungle.

Standing from afar, hearing the sound of the waterfall flowing like a welcoming song, inviting visitors to come closer to the waterfall. Whether you stop at some bridges next to the Cat Cat Village waterfall or some resting areas to enjoy the scenery, admire the natural beauty of the waterfall, it will all be an extremely wonderful experience. Approaching the waterfall, you will feel the strong flow of water and the fresh, clean scent of fresh air.

Why not go to : Trekking Fansipan Vietnam - The Unforgettable Adventure

d. Enjoy the Best Things to do at the Giant Water Wheel.

Cultural & historical symbols - Giant Water Wheel

One of the cultural and historical symbols of the H'Mong people in Cat Cat village, Sapa, Vietnam, is the giant water wheels. Located near the Cat Cat Village Waterfall, the water wheels are made of wood and bamboo from the 19th century, have a height of about 10 meters, a width of 5 meters, and use the energy from the water flow from the waterfall for irrigation and milling purposes.

Besides the main purpose, the water wheels in Cat Cat Village are also a source of entertainment and relaxation, and the villagers here often gather around them to chat, sing with each other. Currently, the giant water wheels are still working well and are a popular destination for tourists. Observe carefully to see how the water wheels move and feel the force of the water spraying, and listen to the realistic sound of the creaking. You can also keep some beautiful photos of the water wheel, which demonstrate the harmony between nature and human creativity and skillfulness.

e. Cat Cat Village: A Culinary Adventure in the Heart of Sapa

Coming to a new place without trying local specialties means you've never been there. Cat Cat Village is no exception, not only enchanting tourists with its peaceful and romantic scenery but also with many delicious local dishes. During your journey to explore Cat Cat Village Sapa, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the diverse cuisine of the Northwest region, such as:

Smoked buffalo meat: This is one of the most famous and sought-after specialties when tourists come to Cat Cat Village. This dish is mostly served in almost every homestay and Cat Cat hotel Sapa. This dish is made from buffalo muscle, without tendons or excess fat, the meat is sliced lengthwise at a thickness of 5cm. The people skillfully marinate the meat with spices from chili, ginger and Mac Khen, a type of wild pepper from the Northwest mountainous region. Smoke the meat from charcoal or wood stoves and then hang it in the kitchen for a long time, the dish has a light smoky aroma and is wealthy in flavor.

Smoked buffalo meat Cat Cat Village

Corn wine: Corn wines in the Northwest region in general and in Cat Cat Village in particular, is one of the best wines in Vietnam. From the yellow corn kernels and the forest leaf yeast, along with the harmonious combination of traditional and modern fermentation methods, corn wine has an irresistible aroma, becoming a wonderful gift containing all the flavors of life and nature in Cat Cat Village Sapa for your friends and relatives.

Corn Wine Cat Cat Village Sapa

Thang Co: This is one of the dishes that contributes to promoting the local cuisine of the Northwest to domestic and foreign tourists. Traditionally, the dish is cooked from horse meat and horse organs, the ingredients are marinated with rich spices, stewed in a large pot typical of the H’Mong people. To get the clear broth, the natural sweet taste but still retain the fatty, buttery, and nutty flavor, the cook must meticulously skim the foam continuously. Enjoying Thang Co hot with some dishes such as corn, rice, sticky rice, etc. will bring you different emotions and the strong flavors of the Northwest

Thang Co

Besides, there are other delicious dishes that you should try, such as bamboo-tube rice, black chicken, grilled stream fish… These are all dishes that have satisfied many guests from all over the world. It is one of the best things to do when visiting Cat Cat village.

f. Stay for the night in Cat Cat Hotel, Sapa.

If you want to extend your stay at Cat Cat Village Sapa, you can book a room at one of the Cat Cat hotel Sapa below. The list we provide are all cozy, comfortable, and convenient accommodations with panoramic views of the village and mountains. Most of the hotels here offer restaurant services, gardens, Wi-Fi and free shuttle service. Best of all, you can also join the hotel's sightseeing and Cat Cat Village trek tours, from cultural encounters to trekking adventures, you'll be on a journey of discovery to other attractions such as Y Linh Ho Ban, Lao Chai Ban, Ta Van Ban and Muong Hoa Valley.

Cat Cat Garden Hotel

Address: 79 Fansipan, San Sa Ho Commune, Lao Cai, Vietnam (0.65km from Cat Cat Village)

Number of stars: 3*

Number of rooms and suites: 10 rooms

Check-in from: 11h30

Check-out until: 11h00

Price range: from 560,000 VND (from 24 USD)

Phone: +84 33 382 7466

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bjPXLykNBE9AeTaj7

Sapa Catcat Hills Resort & Spa

Address: 86 Fansipan, Fansipan Commune, Lao Cai, Vietnam (0.54km from Cat Cat Village)

Number of stars: 4*

Number of rooms and suites: 100 rooms

Check-in from: 14h00

Check-out until: 12h00

Price range: from 1,400,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND (60 USD - 86 USD)

Phone: +84 88 929 1661

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sSooFfr2inH5L4WQA

Sapa Riverside Ecolodge & Spa

Address: Ta Van Giay Village 2, Ta Van commune, Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam (6.2km from Cat Cat Village)

Number of stars: 3*

Number of rooms and suites: 10 rooms

Check-in from: 14h00

Check-out until: 12h00

Price range: from 500,000 VND (22 USD)

Phone: +84 34 949 3883

Web: https://sapariverside.com/

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FTwqFyV7BdVwUr8v5

Sin Chai Ecolodge

Address: Sin Chai Village, Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam (1.11km from Cat Cat Village)

Number of stars: 4*

Number of rooms and suites: 10 rooms

Check-in from: 14h00

Check-out until: 12h00

Price range: from 2,000,000 VND (86 USD)

Phone: +84 97 400 0964

Web: https://sinchaiecolodge.com/

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kGckjVpcXJb95TGK8

3. The best tips for enjoying Cat Cat Village Sapa Vietnam.

Tips to enhance experience in Cat Cat Village

To fully immerse yourself in the charming beauty of Cat Cat Village and make the most of this exploration trip, here are some effective tips to enhance your experience:

Plan Ahead: Check the weather forecast before you start your journey of discovery and choose the best time to visit. Cat Cat Village has a humid subtropical, and temperate climate typical of the Northwest region. Therefore, this place has a cool, pleasant, and attractive atmosphere in any season of the year. However, you should still choose to visit Cat Cat Village in the spring and autumn, when the weather is less rainy and the scenery is beautiful, which is favorable for experiencing countless best things to do in Cat Cat Village. Avoid the rainy season, which can make the roads slippery and muddy.
Choose appropriate clothing: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are suitable for Cat Cat Village trek or walking. Bring a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Also, bring a jacket or sweater, as the temperature can drop at night. At Cat Cat Village Sapa, there is also a service to rent traditional costumes of the H’Mong ethnic group. You can try this service and take some beautiful photos as souvenirs.
Be adventurous: Try some of the exciting activities that Cat Cat Tourism Village offers, don’t limit your exploration journey, such as riding a motorbike, cycling, kayaking, or waterfall crossing. Wander through the narrow alleys of the village, admire the traditional stilt houses, and observe the locals doing their daily work. You will have a chance to see the village from different perspectives and have some fun and excitement.
Support the local economy: Take some time to admire the exquisite handicrafts created by the H’Mong people, reflecting their rich heritage. From intricately woven fabrics to skillfully carved wooden artifacts, buy some souvenirs from the local shops and stalls, which sell a variety of handicrafts, clothes, and accessories made by the H’Mong people. By doing so, you will help support their livelihood and preserve their culture.
Enjoy the trip: Join hands to experience all the meaningful and memorable activities here with the locals in Cat Cat Village, Sapa. Walk through the lush rice fields, climb up the dreamy hills, enjoy the traditional dishes, and immerse yourself in the culture of the H’Mong people through simple conversations with the villagers.
Respect nature and local customs: Dress modestly, respecting the customs and traditions of the H’Mong people. Avoid loud noises and be mindful of your impact on the environment, dispose of trash properly, and avoid damaging the natural surroundings of the village.

Cat Cat Village is a destination that you should not miss in your Sapa travel itinerary. Come to Cat Cat Village, and you can witness the majestic beauty of the mountains and the elegance of the rivers, a truly charming destination that promises an authentic experience of the unique and graceful culture of the H’Mong people. Whether you want to trek, taste, learn or relax, you will find the best things to do in Cat Cat Village. You want to have an unforgettable trip to Cat Cat Village, Contact Us to get advice and book a tour with the best quality service.

Take a look at our : Discover 11 Best Places To Visit In Sapa, Vietnam
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