Twelve kilometers from Sapa’s center is the Silver Waterfall. The idyllic location of this vacation spot is off the beaten path, making it an ideal retreat for introverted self-reflectors and those seeking solitude.

Locals refer to the Silver Waterfall as Thac Bac. Deep in a rural heartland of pine forests and mountains, Thac Bac serves as a natural oasis for wildlife and visitors.

You’ll notice a bridge across the waterfall where tourists take photos and admire the Silver Waterfall’s mystique and gravitas. Underneath, engaged readers lose themselves in their pages. Silence is everywhere. The only sound you’ll hear is the thundering water bouncing off the slick, jagged rocks before being washed away in a wall of white.

Visiting Silver Waterfall in Northern Vietnam

Thac Bac, Sapa. Photo:

Thac Bac waterfall can be found just off Highway 4D. Reaching a height of 200 meters, Thac Bac is an amazingly tall feature and can be seen (and heard) from kilometers away. It also represents a major stop while touring along the Tram Ton Pass and neighbor O Quy Ho Pass. These wind past the Hoang Lien mountain range located by Sapa.

There are two staircases located on each side of Thac Bac. Visitors can climb up to 30 meters and observe the breathtaking view below. On a clear day, you can see Sapa town in the background.

Remember to take your camera with you as you’ll regret not capturing the wonderful sights. In addition to the immersive nature, you can also visit a gift shop and purchase ethnic souvenirs such as hats, towels, purses, rings, and herbal teas. Communities have been based around Thac Bac for centuries – something that is reflected in the commerce of the local area.

Winters are incredibly cold at Thac Bac (and Sapa in general) so make sure you take appropriate clothes with you. One benefit of visiting at this time, however, is the atmospheric mist that develops on the surface of the water.

Getting There to Thac Bac

Thac Bac, Sa Pa. Photo: fotosjcavalheiro

Thac Bac is a 30-minute drive from the center of Sapa town. Beware that the roads here aren’t very well maintained and there are regular cracks and potholes along the way! Upon arrival, you’ll have to pay a 20,000 VND fee to gain access to Thac Bac. These proceeds help fund the conservation of the area.

The stunning Thac Bac waterfall is one of Vietnam’s natural gems. It may be a little out of the way, but the effort to get there is certainly worth it.