Sapa Herping Tour

Tour Itineraries

Tailor-Made Herping Tour (Private Tour): At Viet Herping, we recognize that every traveler’s needs are unique. That’s why our Sapa Herping Tour offers fully customizable wildlife and herping adventures tailored to your schedule. Whether it’s a spontaneous trip or a planned journey, our expert guides and flexible itineraries guarantee you an unforgettable experience exploring the stunning reptiles and amphibians of Vietnam. Don’t wait—book your herping Vietnam adventure today!

Contact us on WhatsApp to start planning.

 

Introduction

Discover Sapa’s Stunning Scenery and Rich Biodiversity

Nestled in the majestic Hoang Lien mountain range, Sapa is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant biodiversity. Our Sapa herping tour invites you to explore lush forests, terraced rice fields, and misty valleys where rare reptiles and amphibians thrive. This region’s unique ecosystems provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable wildlife encounters on a Vietnam herping tour.

Experience the Best of Wildlife with Viet Herping

Join Viet Herping on a journey through Sapa’s diverse habitats, where expert guides lead you to discover elusive snakes, colorful frogs, and fascinating lizards. Our tours are designed to showcase the incredible herpetofauna of Northern Vietnam, offering an authentic and immersive experience that highlights why Sapa is a top destination for herping Vietnam enthusiasts.

 

Feature Activities

1. Herping in Sapa: Discover Unique Reptiles and Amphibians

Embark on a unique wildlife adventure with Viet Herping! Our specialized Sapa Herping Tour introduces you to the fascinating world of reptiles and amphibians found in the natural habitats around the picturesque villages and accessible trails of Sapa. Explore and photograph a wide array of species, including rare frogs, vibrant lizards, and elusive snakes that inhabit this rich region. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or wildlife photographer, you'll find our guided experience educational, responsible, and unforgettable, highlighting Sapa’s remarkable biodiversity.

2. Hike to the Summit of Fansipan Mountain

Experience the excitement of trekking to the summit of Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views and immerse yourself in the diverse local culture and ecosystems during this guided hiking experience. This trek blends outdoor adventure with a deeper appreciation of local conservation efforts and eco-tourism initiatives in the Sapa region.

3. Visit Silver Falls, Love Falls & Brave the Dragon Cloud Glass Bridge

Discover the captivating beauty of Silver Falls and Love Falls, two iconic natural attractions near Sapa. Enjoy scenic walks, admire the cascading waters, and refresh your senses in these serene settings. Then, test your courage at the Dragon Cloud Glass Bridge, an exhilarating attraction providing stunning aerial views of the lush valleys and dramatic landscape below.

4. Visit Cat Cat Village & Explore the Ancient Ta Phin Monastery

Explore the authentic charm of Cat Cat Village, a vibrant community where you can meet local residents and learn about traditional cultures, crafts, and daily life. Continue your journey by visiting the tranquil Ta Phin Monastery, an ancient historical site surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, offering a serene environment for reflection and exploration. This tour blends nature, culture, and history, enriching your Sapa adventure with meaningful experiences.

 

Snake Species You May Encounter

Non-venomous Snakes:

  • Euprepiophis mandarinus – Mandarin Ratsnake

  • Gonyosoma coeruleum – Green Trinket Snake

  • Hebius chapaensis – Chapa Keelback

  • Lycodon meridionalis – Vietnamese Large-toothed Snake

  • Lycodon chapaensis - Namdong wolf snake

  • Oreocryptophis porphyraceus vaillanti – Bamboo Rat Snake

  • Ptyas major – Chinese Green Snake

  • The snakes listed here are just a small sample of the many non-venomous species you can discover in this area.

Lycodon chapaensis, the Namdong Wolf Snake, displaying its distinct banded pattern and sharp eyes on the forest floor during a herping tour in Vietnam.

Lycodon chapaensis - Namdong wolf snake

The Namdong Wolf Snake (Lycodon chapaensis) impresses with its sleek, banded pattern and strikingly sharp eyes. Found mostly near the forest floor in protected areas, this elusive snake offers a thrilling discovery for herpers exploring Vietnam’s wilderness. Its unique appearance and secretive behavior make every sighting a memorable highlight in any herping adventure.

Vibrant Euprepiophis mandarinus, Mandarin Ratsnake, with striking orange and black markings, seen in its natural habitat during a Vietnam herping tour. Experience wildlife with Viet Herping in Vietnam.

Euprepiophis mandarinus – Mandarin Ratsnake

The Mandarin Ratsnake (Euprepiophis mandarinus) captivates with its vibrant orange and black pattern, reminiscent of traditional Asian art. This non-venomous serpent gracefully moves through the undergrowth and low branches in Vietnam’s national parks. Spotting this stunning snake during a herping tour offers a remarkable glimpse into the country’s rich reptile diversity and an unforgettable wildlife experience.

 

Venomous Snakes:

  • Ovophis anitae – Anita’s Pit Viper

  • Ovophis makazayazaya – Makazayazaya Pit Viper

  • Ovophis tonkinensis – Tonkin Pit Viper

  • Protobothrops jerdonii – Jerdon's Pit Viper

  • Protobothrops mucrosquamatus – Brown Spotted Pit Viper

  • Rhabdophis hmongensis – Hmong Keelback

  • Trimeresurus gumprechti – Gumprecht’s Green Pit Viper

  • Trimeresurus stejnegeri – Chinese Green Tree Viper

Close-up of Protobothrops jerdonii, Jerdon's Pit Viper, camouflaged in forest leaf litter during a Viet Herping tour, perfect for Vietnam wildlife watching and Vietnam wildlife tours.

Protobothrops jerdonii – Jerdon's Pit Viper

Jerdon's Pit Viper (Protobothrops jerdonii) captivates with its rugged beauty and distinctive markings, perfectly camouflaged amidst forest leaf litter. Encountering this elusive pit viper in the national park offers an exciting and intimate glimpse into Vietnam’s rich herpetofauna. This rare sighting enhances any Vietnam wildlife tour or Vietnam wildlife watching experience, making every herping adventure unforgettable.

Ovophis anitae, Anita’s Pit Viper, resting on the forest floor with detailed patterns, captured during a Viet Herping herping tour in Vietnam wildlife tour and wildlife watching.

Ovophis anitae – Anita’s Pit Viper

Anita’s Pit Viper (Ovophis anitae) enchants with its subtle yet intricate patterns and robust body, blending seamlessly into the lush forest floors. Discovering this elusive snake during a herping tour provides a rare chance to appreciate Vietnam’s diverse reptile life. Its quiet presence adds depth and thrill to any Vietnam wildlife tour or Vietnam wildlife watching expedition in protected national parks.

 

Primitive Viper

Azemiops feae - Fea Viper

A companion of ours was lucky to find this snake species during his field trip in Northern Vietnam. This is perhaps the dream snake of many who come to Vietnam in search of it, and fortunately, this species can also be found in this area. We hope that together, we will have the opportunity to find this snake on a herping tour with Viet Herping.

 

Amphibian Species You May Encounter

 

Why Choose the Sapa Herping Tour for the Best Herping Spots in Vietnam?

  1. The Sapa Herping Tour is a distinctive and thrilling wildlife experience, offering specialized access to some of the best herping locations around Sapa, Vietnam. Surrounded by the impressive landscapes of the Hoang Lien Mountains, this tour allows you to explore and photograph a rich variety of reptiles and amphibians in their natural habitats.

  2. As you venture along carefully selected trails and village outskirts in Sapa, our experienced guides will assist you in spotting endemic reptile and amphibian species unique to this region. Whether observing elusive snakes, vibrant frogs, or rare lizards, the tour provides a remarkable opportunity for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike.

  3. Combining wildlife exploration, adventure, and stunning vistas of local villages, the Sapa Herping Tour offers an exclusive and memorable experience. Join Viet Herping to explore the remarkable biodiversity and natural beauty of the Sapa region in a responsible and unforgettable way.

Customer Experience: Our Top Priority at Viet Herping

At Viet Herping, your experience is our priority. Our expert guides provide safe handling, personalized support, and professional photography to capture every moment. With flexible scheduling and expert advice, we ensure your Vietnam herping tour is safe, seamless, and unforgettable.


  • Day 1: Arrival and Night Herping

    • Arrival in Sapa – settle into your accommodation

    • Evening briefing about the tour and safety guidelines

    • Night herping session to search for nocturnal reptiles and amphibians such as snakes and frogs

    Day 2: Full Day Herping Exploration

    • Early morning start with breakfast

    • Morning herping hike through forests and streams to find diurnal species including various lizards and snakes

    • Lunch break at a local spot or packed lunch

    • Afternoon herping continues focusing on different habitats

    • Dinner and rest

    • Optional night herping session to spot additional nocturnal species

    Day 3: Morning Herping and Departure

    • Early morning herping session focusing on final species observations

    • Breakfast and check-out from accommodation

    • Departure from Sapa or transfer to next destination

  • Groups of 4 or more: 5% discount

    Returning customers receive a 7% discount

    Contact us for the detailed pricing

 

Included in the tour

    • Luxury Bus:
      Pickup from any location within the Hanoi Old Quarter by a luxury private bus.
      The bus features curtains, spacious seating, and air conditioning for a comfortable ride.
      Advantages: Cost-effective option.
      Disadvantages: Limited overhead luggage space; some bags need to be stored in the undercarriage compartment.

    • Private Car:
      Pickup from anywhere in Hanoi, not limited to the Old Quarter.
      Your luggage stays comfortably inside the vehicle with you.
      The car offers flexibility to stop anywhere along the route at any time.
      Advantages: Personalized service and convenience.
      Disadvantages: Higher cost compared to the bus.

    1. Experienced herping guide with good basic English communication skills

    2. Professional guide support for wildlife photography using a camera

    3. 4K video recording

    4. Complimentary delivery of original raw photo and video files without logos or watermarks after the tour

    5. Guide trained in first aid and ethical wildlife handling

  • 3 Days, 2 Nights

    We pride ourselves on offering a diverse and satisfying dining experience that caters to all guests, whether you prefer vegetarian or enjoy a variety of meats and seafood. Our menus include:

    • Vegetarian Options:

      • Fresh spring rolls, tofu stir-fries, mixed vegetable salads

      • Seasonal vegetable hotpots, steamed buns, mushroom dishes

      • Rice paper rolls with fresh herbs and vegetables

      • Congee with mushrooms and herbs, steamed vegetable dumplings

      • Fruit platters and fresh juices

    • Non-Vegetarian Options:

      • Grilled chicken, beef, and goat meat dishes

      • A wide selection of seafood including shrimp, fish, and local specialties

      • Traditional Vietnamese soups such as pho with beef or chicken

      • Spicy hotpots with mixed meats and seafood

      • Egg dishes, fried or boiled

      • Meat sandwiches and salads

    • Specialties and Variety:

      • Multiple courses including starters, mains, and soups

      • Local favorites like seafood platters and regional hotpots (lẩu)

      • Flexibility to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences—just let us know in advance!

    • Meals Schedule:

      • Day 1: Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 3: Breakfast & Optional Lunch

    Our goal is to ensure you enjoy every meal during your tour, with fresh, delicious, and balanced options tailored to your taste.

  • Our herping schedule is designed to maximize wildlife encounters while ensuring your comfort and safety:

    • Daytime Herping:

      • Usually from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

      • Focus on observing diurnal species such as lizards, snakes, and frogs along forest trails, streams, and clearings

    • Nighttime Herping:

      • Typically from 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM

      • Target nocturnal reptiles and amphibians using headlamps and other safe lighting equipment

    • Flexibility:

      • Herping times may be adjusted based on weather, species activity, and your preferences to provide the best possible experience

 

Click the Contact Us button below and let us tailor a tour designed just for you!

 

Thank you to Kenneth Chin for capturing these stunning images! Follow him on Instagram, explore our products at here, and view his conservation portfolio at here.

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