Have you ever dreamed of camping amidst a sea of clouds, where the morning rays pierce through the misty veil? Tà Xùa is the perfect destination to turn that dream into reality. Discover detailed tips and guides for camping on Tà Xùa mountain to chase clouds for a truly unforgettable adventure!
Tà Xùa is not just a highland commune in Bắc Yên district, Sơn La province; it’s also famously known as the “Paradise of Clouds.” This scenic gem attracts travelers, especially backpackers and nature enthusiasts, with its thrilling experiences like motorbike expeditions, golden rice field sightings, and, most importantly, cloud chasing.
Cloud chasing guide for adventurers at Tà Xùa
Where Is Tà Xùa and How to Get There?
Tà Xùa is located at an altitude of nearly 3,000 meters above sea level in Bắc Yên district, Sơn La province. It borders Trạm Tấu district (Yên Bái province), creating a majestic mountainous region with spectacular natural scenery.
Quick overview of Tà Xùa:
- Location: Tà Xùa, Bắc Yên, Sơn La province.
- Coordinates: 21.28°N, 104.47°E.
- Altitude: 2865m.
- Key activities: Trekking, camping, cloud chasing.
- Ideal duration: 3 days and 2 nights.
- Top cloud hunting spots: Dinosaur spine, Háng Đồng, Windswept Peak (Three Wind Summits), Lonely Apple Tree, etc.
- Best cloud chasing season: October to April (Lunar calendar).
Best Time to Visit Tà Xùa for Cloud Chasing
The best time to camp and chase clouds in Tà Xùa is between October and April in the lunar calendar. During this period, the weather often features light drizzle, low temperatures, and high humidity—perfect for clouds to form and linger around the mountain peaks. While clouds can be found year-round at Tà Xùa, your chances of capturing the best views are much higher during this season.
The best months for cloud chasing at Tà Xùa
For added assurance, connect with local residents or homestays to inquire about weather conditions before setting out.
How to Travel to Tà Xùa?
Traveling to Tà Xùa can be done using two main modes of transportation: motorbikes or buses.
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Motorbike: Perfect for those seeking the thrill of conquering winding mountain roads.
- Recommended route: Hanoi → Sơn Tây → Trung Hà Bridge → Thu Cúc → Thu Cúc Intersection (QL 32) → Turn left to Phù Yên → Bắc Yên (QL37) → Tà Xùa (approx. 200 km).
- Along the way, you can stop by Phú Thọ tea hills or Mộc Châu if you have extra time.
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Bus: A safer and more comfortable option, especially for long-distance travelers.
- Catch a bus at Yên Nghĩa or Mỹ Đình bus stations.
- Once you arrive in Bắc Yên, rent a motorbike to cover the remaining 14 km of mountainous roads to Tà Xùa.
Top Attractions and Activities at Tà Xùa
Tà Xùa offers more than just cloud chasing—there are plenty of fascinating destinations to explore:
- Dinosaur Spine at Háng Đồng: The most iconic spot for cloud chasing.
- Windswept Peak: Offering panoramic views of Tà Xùa and surrounding areas.
- Golden Rice Fields at Xím Vàng: A treat for autumn enthusiasts.
- Sea of Clouds: Indulge in the breathtaking view of cloud formations.
- Lonely Apple Tree: A symbolic and picturesque tree atop Tà Xùa.
- Stairway to Heaven: A unique trail leading to the mountain peak.
Small map around Tà Xùa
During Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), you can immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, sampling traditional cuisine alongside locals.
When fog engulfs Tà Xùa commune, venture higher toward spots like Xím Vàng or Háng Đồng for better cloud sighting opportunities.
Where to go in Tà Xùa?
Cloud formations at Tà Xùa often last until 10–11 AM, giving you ample time for photography and sightseeing.
After chasing clouds, stop by Phố Núi Restaurant in Bắc Yên for a taste of local specialties.
Accommodation Options: Camping or Homestays?
There are two main accommodation options at Tà Xùa:
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Camping: Perfect for fully immersing yourself in nature, stargazing, and participating in campfire activities.
- Prepare essentials like tents, sleeping bags, camping lights, and other necessary gear.
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Homestays: More comfortable and convenient, with breakfast services and protection from adverse weather.
- Recommended homestays: Ngỗng Hostel, Tà Xùa Hill Homestay, Homestay Y Xoa, Trà Mây Tà Xùa Inn, Pơ Mu Homestay, Tú Mỵ Homestay, HOAN SAN HOMESTAY TÀ XÙA, HomeStay Tà Xùa Mùa Trứ.
Stay at homestays in Tà Xùa
Essential Items for Cloud Chasing at Tà Xùa
To ensure a smooth camping and cloud-chasing trip, pack the following essentials:
- Clothing: Warm clothes, windbreaker jackets, scarves, socks, sleepwear, and raincoats.
- Footwear: Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers.
- Backpack: A specialized mountain backpack.
- Medications: Basic medicines and bandages.
- Food: Dry snacks, fruits, coffee, and tea.
- Personal items: Toilet paper, hand sanitizer, toothbrush.
- Electronics: Phone, portable chargers, camera, video devices.
What to bring when chasing clouds at Tà Xùa
If you’re camping, remember to bring:
- Tent, mats, tarpaulin covers.
- Sleeping bag or blanket, inflatable mattress (if available).
- Folding seats and tables.
- Battery-operated camping lights, flashlights.
- Camping stove, cooking pots, grill, BBQ skewers.
- Plates, cups, cutlery, knives for chopping and peeling, grilling seasonings.
- Trash bags.
Suggested 2-Day-1-Night Itinerary for Tà Xùa Cloud Chasing
Here’s a detailed two-day, one-night itinerary for your Tà Xùa adventure:
Day 1: Hanoi – Tà Xùa
- 5:30 AM: Gather at the meeting point.
- 6:00 AM: Depart for Tà Xùa.
- 8:30 AM: Stop at Đồng Quang Bridge for sightseeing.
Check-in at Đồng Quang Bridge
- 8:45 AM: Continue the journey to Thanh Sơn Tea Hills, Phú Thọ.
- 9:50 AM: Arrive at tea hills, rest, and take photos.
Short rest at Thanh Sơn Tea Hills in Phú Thọ
- 10:15 AM: Proceed to Thu Cúc (QL32), stop to refresh.
- 11:00 AM: Reach Bắc Yên town, have lunch, and shop for supplies.
Lunch in Bắc Yên town
- 12:00 PM: Begin the ascent to Tà Xùa, enjoy roadside landscapes.
Scenic S-shaped road for adventurers
- 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Arrive at “Paradise of Clouds Tà Xùa,” buy chicken and marinate with seasonings.
- 6:30 PM: Visit Windswept Peak to view the sunset near the Lonely Apple Tree.
Sunset and cloud chasing at Windswept Peak
- 6:30 PM: Return to the campsite, set up tents, enjoy BBQ, campfire activities, and stargazing.
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Day 2: Tà Xùa – Hanoi
- 4:30 AM: Wake up, freshen up, eat instant noodles.
- 5:00 AM: Head to Camel Mound for sunrise.
Early morning sunrise preparation at Camel Mound
- 5:48 AM: Enjoy the sunrise at Camel Mound.
Magnificent sunrise at Camel Mound
- 7:30 AM: Visit Dinosaur Spine for cloud chasing.
Finally arriving at Dinosaur Spine
- 10:00 AM: Stop at Thảo Coffee for a break.
- 1:00 PM: Depart for Hanoi, stopping by Phú Thọ tea hills for sightseeing.
- 7:00 PM: Arrive in Hanoi, have dinner, and conclude the journey.
Cloud Chasing Tips for Tà Xùa
To successfully chase clouds at Tà Xùa, keep in mind:
- Weather forecasts: Choose rainy nights with cold temperatures and sunny mornings.
- Understand the terrain: Study sunrise directions, paths, and photography angles.
- Equipment preparation: Bring a camera, lenses, and filters (if available).
- Time allocation: Spend several days during the cloud season to maximize your chances.
Estimated Cost for 2-Day-1-Night Camping Trip to Tà Xùa
The cost for a 2-day-1-night trip to Tà Xùa is approximately $23 (USD) per person, including:
- Fuel: $5.50.
- Food: $5.10.
- Tent and sleeping bag rental: $4.20.
- Meals on the road: $4.20.
- Miscellaneous expenses: $4.20.
Important Notes for Camping and Cloud Chasing in Tà Xùa
- Prepare personal items and medications.
- Use a sturdy motorbike suitable for mountainous roads.
- Check your motorbike’s brakes, tires, and oil condition.
- Bring warm clothes for chilly night temperatures.
- Buy firewood in Bắc Yên town; it’s scarce on Tà Xùa.
- Monitor weather forecasts to avoid sunny and dry days.
- Drive cautiously when the road is foggy or slippery.
- Avoid honking and give way to others.
- Maintain clean surroundings by disposing of waste properly.
We wish you a successful and memorable camping trip at Tà Xùa mountain! Be a responsible and respectful traveler to help preserve the beauty of this “Paradise of Clouds.”