Sa Mu: Conquering the 2,756m mountain peak amidst the clouds of the Northwest

Located in Son La province, Sa Mu peak with an altitude of 2,756m is one of the challenging but also extremely attractive trekking routes of the Northwest mountains. This place attracts nature lovers because of its wild beauty, diverse terrain and magical primeval forest that changes with each season.

Challenging trekking journey

The journey to conquer Sa Mu is not for the unprepared. Recently, Anh Tho (born in 2002) completed the trip with a different route, increasing the difficulty of the challenge. Instead of choosing the popular route of 8km up and 12km down, she chose the opposite direction.

"I climbed back 12 km, without a motorbike taxi to reach the top and had to go another 2 km to get down to the hut. It can be said that the route I took was like climbing 2 peaks. I climbed from 8 pm to the top at 9 pm, and got down to the hut at 11:46 pm," Anh Tho shared about her memorable journey.

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Although not in the top 15 highest peaks in Vietnam, the beauty of Sa Mu is still a strong attraction. Overcoming slippery, muddy roads in cold weather and without phone signal, the reward is majestic natural scenery that few people have the opportunity to admire.

"To admire these natural sceneries, if you don't overcome yourself, you will probably never see them with your own eyes in this life," Anh Tho expressed.

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The beauty of Sa Mu through the seasons

The Sa Mu trekking route is likened to a "four-season picture" in the middle of the jungle, each season has its own charm, creating a special attraction that few places have.

March - April: This is the time when rhododendrons bloom, dyeing the mountainsides in romantic pink and purple.
September - November: Maple forests begin to change leaves, covering the space with brilliant yellow and red colors, creating a European autumn scene in the heart of the Northwest.
December - February: Sa Mu enters the ideal cloud hunting season. Visitors can watch the sea of clouds drifting in the characteristic chilly weather.

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The mysterious primeval forest

The journey to the top takes visitors through primeval forests, where the vegetation changes dramatically with altitude. The moss-covered trails, gnarled ancient trees and the mist that covers the path create a magical, mystical atmosphere.

In early November, when the weather starts to get cold, the fog makes Sa Mu even more mysterious. This is an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the wild nature and fully experience the majesty of the mountains and forests.

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Information you need to know for your trip

To have a complete trip, participants need to prepare carefully in terms of physical strength and equipment.

Physical strength: The route requires good endurance due to steep, slippery terrain, especially on rainy days.
Clothing: Bring thermal clothing, waterproof jacket, gloves and good grip trekking shoes.
Essential items: Flashlight (if traveling at night), hiking sticks, energy snacks and drinking water are essential.
Note: Cell phone signal is almost non-existent in the forest, so it is necessary to inform relatives in advance of the schedule.