Silver Waterfall, also known as Thac Bac Waterfall, is a stunning natural attraction near Sapa, cascading down the slopes near the iconic Tram Ton Pass. This impressive waterfall, located in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, offers you a chance to witness the raw power and beauty of nature. At an elevation of 1,800 meters above sea level and just 14 kilometers from Sapa Town, the Silver Waterfall is an great trip while exploring the region.
About the Silver Waterfall
The Silver Waterfall, or Thac Bac in Vietnamese, is a very nice sight along the Tram Ton Pass, the highest mountain pass in Vietnam. Plunging from a height of approximately 200 meters, the water cascades down multiple levels, creating a mesmerizing display of mist and foam. Its name aptly describes the shimmering, silvery appearance of the water as it descends through the lush greenery.
You can walk along a path with stairs that lead partway up the waterfall on both sides. There is a bridge that crosses the waterfall, providing a great spot for taking photos. This path allows you to see the waterfall from different angles: you can walk up the stairs, cross the bridge, and then take the stairs down the other side. The stairs don’t go all the way to the top, but they offer good viewpoints.
Despite the stairs, bridge, and entrance fee, the area around the Silver Waterfall remains natural and unspoiled, unlike some other waterfalls in Vietnam that have been overly developed. As you explore, you might notice salmon and sturgeon farms halfway up the mountain.
Visiting information
Entrance fee and hours
- Entrance Fee: 20,000 VND per person
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where is the Silver Waterfall
The Silver Waterfall is located on the 4D Highway in San Sa Ho Commune, Sapa District, Lao Cai Province. It’s about 14 kilometers from Sapa Town, and the drive typically takes around 30 minutes without stops.
How to get there
You have several options for reaching the Silver Waterfall:
Car with driver
Renting a car with a driver from Sapa is the easiest way to reach the Silver Waterfall. While a taxi is an option, renting a car with a driver allows more flexibility to explore other attractions along the Tram Ton Pass. You can visit the Silver Waterfall and nearby Love Waterfall in half a day, or rent the car for a full day to explore more of the region, including villages and terraced rice fields in the Muong Hoa Valley.
Rent a scooter
Renting a scooter in Sapa Town is a budget-friendly option. Scooter rentals start at around 100,000 VND per day, with fuel costing approximately 50,000 VND. Riding a scooter offers the freedom to stop and enjoy the views along the Tram Ton Pass. However, you will need a valid license, and the journey can be challenging for inexperienced drivers.
On the back of a motorbike
If you want the thrill of riding a motorbike without the hassle of driving, consider hiring a motorbike driver. This option combines safety and convenience, as your driver will also act as a guide, showing you the best stops that you might not find on your own. You can extend this trip to a full day to explore more than just the Silver Waterfall and the Tram Ton Pass.
Best time to visit the Silver Waterfall
Best time of the year
Yes, there is a best time of the year to visit this waterfall in Sapa. The look of the Silver Waterfall changes dramatically between the two main seasons. The rainy season, or wet season, starts around May and ends around November, with the most rain from June to August. During this time, the rain feeds the waterfall, making it visually more stunning and powerful.
The dry season runs from December to April. Especially in the last months of March and April, which are some of the best weather months to visit Sapa, the waterfall is less powerful due to the lack of recent rain. However, there is still water flowing all year round, ensuring the waterfall is always a beautiful sight.
Best time of the day
The Silver Waterfall is one of the more popular waterfalls around Sapa, due to its location on the famous Tram Ton Pass and its easy access from the road. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning. The site opens at 9:00 AM, so arriving at opening time will give you a quieter, more peaceful experience.
Is it worth visiting Silver Waterfall
The Silver Waterfall is a pleasant and picturesque waterfall, though not the most stunning in Vietnam or even the best in Sapa. However, its location along the Tram Ton Pass and its easy accessibility make it a worthwhile stop. When combined with other nearby sights like the O Long Tea Hills, Love Waterfall, and various viewpoints, the Silver Waterfall becomes part of a really enjoyable half-day trip. It offers a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area without taking up your whole day.
