Introduction

Located in the northeastern mountainous region of Vietnam, Bac Kan is blessed with majestic landscapes that are rarely found elsewhere. Among these, the Sam Chiem Steppe is particularly noteworthy.

Sam Chiem Steppe looked down from a hill

Sam Chiem Steppe looked down from a hill

Sam Chiem (or Slam Chiem) Steppe is a complex of endless green meadows and hills. It is one of the most beautiful grasslands in Vietnam, with charming scenery and a variety of activities to enjoy. Asia King Travel will lead you to see each beauty of the steppe.

Sam Chiem Steppe’s Location

Sam Chiem Steppe is located in Ngan Son District, Bac Kan Province, Vietnam. The nearest town is Bac Kan City, which is about 50 kilometers away. It is situated 200 kilometers away from the capital Hanoi.

Road to Sam Chiem Steppe

Road to Sam Chiem Steppe

Sam Chiem Steppe is at an altitude of 1,000 to 1,200 meters above sea level. It is part of the Tay Con Linh National Park, which is home to a variety of plant and animal life. The steppe itself is covered in a vast of green grass, with scattered big trees.

How to get to Sam Chiem Steppe

From Hanoi, we can reach Sam Chiem Steppe with this route:

Hanoi to Bac Kan City: The distance is approximately 160 kilometers via National Highway 3, which passes through Thai Nguyen. You will arrive in Bac Kan City in 2 or 3 hours.

Bac Kan City to Sam Chiem Steppe: Take National Highway 3 towards the Northeast for about 26 kilometers. You'll then reach the intersection of Deo Giang Victory Relics. Turn left onto Highway 279 and continue for about 19 kilometers. Look out for signs leading to Sam Chiem Steppe, then turn right to reach your destination.

With long travel distance, we recommend you go by car. You will need strong engine transportation if you want to reach the top or high places.

You can also travel by motorbike for more thrilling experiences

You can also travel by motorbike for more thrilling experiences

Best time to visit Sam Chiem Steppe

Due to its significant elevation, Sam Chiem Steppe has a cool and temperate climate. The average temperatures range from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius. It is a wonderful spot to escape from the summer heat.

Therefore, the best time to visit Sam Chiem Steppe is from April to October. This avoids the extremely hot weather in Vietnam, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and exploring. Wildflowers might also be in bloom during this time, adding another layer of color and beauty to the scenery.

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Things to do in Sam Chiem Steppe

Hiking and Trekking

Sam Chiem Grassland is an ideal place for you to walk around. The gentle hills and beautiful grasslands are breathtaking. Trails are available for people of all age groups and hiking levels, ranging from a casual walk to a demanding climb. The views from the tops of the hills looking down are worth every step.

Sam Chiem Steppe has trails for hiking

Sam Chiem Steppe has trails for hiking

Picnicking

Don't hesitate to pack some food and head straight to Sam Chiem Steppe for an unforgettable picnic experience. You'll be able to unwind in a stunning natural setting while breathing in the fresh air. It's the perfect getaway to de-stress and recharge yourself. Grab some friends or go with family to create precious memories together.

A great destination to hang out with friends

A great destination to hang out with friends

Photographing

Sam Chiem Steppe presents an optimal location for those seeking natural scenery. You can capture stunning green landscapes during sunrise or sunset. Use a telephoto lens to spot wildlife, and get up close for macro shots of flowers and insects. Including local people in your photos can provide valuable cultural context. On a clear day, don't forget to take photos of the night sky.

Sam Chiem Steppe is full of stunning backgrounds

Sam Chiem Steppe is full of stunning backgrounds

Camping

Camping is the activity most people choose when coming to Sam Chiem. Imagine pitching your tent amidst the endless green meadows, with the gentle breeze rustling the grass. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and disconnect from the everyday hustle.  As the sun dips below the horizon, paint the scene with vibrant hues in your mind's eye.

There's nothing more wonderful than witnessing the sunrise on the steppe

There's nothing more wonderful than witnessing the sunrise on the steppe

Visiting local villages

There are several ethnic minority villages located near Sam Chiem Steppe. Visiting these villages is a great way to learn about the local culture and way of life. You can also try some traditional food and buy souvenirs.

Relaxing with the rural lifestyle

Relaxing with the rural lifestyle

Food around Sam Chiem

If you talk to locals from the surrounding villages, they might offer a taste of local cuisine. These dishes are mostly traditional dishes of the Tay people. Some of them can be mentioned as:

Smoked buffalo meat: A specialty of the ethnic minorities in the mountainous regions of northern Vietnam, this dish involves marinating buffalo meat with spices and then smoking it over an open fire.

Sticky bamboo rice is a culinary adventure for the senses

Sticky bamboo rice is a culinary adventure for the senses

Five-colored sticky rice: This vibrant dish uses natural ingredients like turmeric, beetroot, and butterfly pea flowers to create colorful sticky rice. The dish gets its name from the five distinct colors of the sticky rice: white, yellow, red, green, and black (or purple).

Bamboo sticky rice: Sticky rice cooked inside bamboo tubes over an open fire. The bamboo imparts a unique flavor and aroma to the rice. You can taste the sweetness of the sticky rice mixed with the fragrance of bamboo. 

Conclusion

Sam Chiem Steppe serves as a remarkable ecological treasure within Vietnam.  This captivating expanse offers a haven for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers. A visit to Sam Chiem Steppe promises a profound connection with nature and a deeper appreciation for Vietnam's diverse tapestry. Contact us to see great opportunities to admire this lovely grassland.

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