According to many locals, Tam Dao is a miniature of Sapa. However, except for the cool climate and the mountain-based location, the two sites are intrinsically different.
Location & Climate
According to many locals, Tam Dao is a miniature of Sapa. However, except for the cool climate and the mountain-based location, the two sites are intrinsically different.
Tam Dao means Three Islands, a mountain range located about 75km North of Hanoi. The significant shorter distance from Hanoi to Tam Dao compared with Sapa gives the national park many advantages. One can easily combine the visit to the mountain retreat area with a road trip from Hanoi. The cool climate and extensive green is another advantage, especially in the summer when Hanoi always seems overheated. Unlike tropical parks in Vietnam such as Cuc Phuong or Cat Tien, Tam Dao represents a different type of fauna and flora that adapts to its cooler and drier air.
Qué ver
Tam Dao is more for a relaxing retreat than an intense adventure. Accommodation facility is readily available, as well as restaurants and easy walks. The road that leads from lowland to highland is breath-taking: those that are into physical activities can never afford to miss a biking tour.
Tam Dao specialties are numerous and one should not leave the mountain resort without trying Lon Man- a special kind of pork and Su Su- delicious in both its fruits and its leafy vegetables. In winter time, be prepared with warmer clothes since it can get quite cold. During the summer, it is pleasantly sunny but avoid sun burn by applying plenty of sun block before hitting road.
Cómo llegar
If you drive from Hanoi, follow the highway that leads to Noi Bai airport. As you pass the toll just before the airport, turn left to highway 2. As you reach Vinh Yen, turn right to Highway 2B and follow the street sign that points to Tam Dao.
Public transportation is also available from Hanoi by contacting one of the following agents. They are all run by the same bus company that departs from Hanoi at 5.30 in the morning and leaves Tam Dao at 4 p.m. Return ticket costs 160,000 per person (about $8).
Office 1: 93 Hong Ha street, Ba Dinh
Tel: 043.717-1444
Office 2: 32 Nguyen Cong Tru, Hai Ba Trung
Tel: 043.976-3999
Office 3: 124 Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay
Tel: 043.754-6593
You can also book a private car with one of the reliable Hanoi taxi companies. In Hanoi Old Quarter, a few travel agencies also offer biking tours to Tam Dao.