Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2027

VMM is where Vietnamese trail running began. More than 5,000 runners from 50 countries descend on Sa Pa every September to run through the golden Muong Hoa terraces, H'Mong, Red Dao and Giay villages and the ridges of the Hoang Lien Son range. Five distances from 10K to 100K; the 70K and 100K carry a UTMB Index and ITRA points. September weather is sunny but hot in the valleys and can turn to heavy rain – the race is famous for its mud.

Athletes must be 18 on race day (16 for distances ≤ 21 km with parental consent). Mandatory kit is checked at bib collection and randomly on course: charged phone, emergency blanket, whistle, minimum 1 litre capacity (2 litres for ≥ 70 km), headlamp with spare batteries for any distance starting or finishing in the dark, and a personal cup (no disposable cups at aid stations). Littering outside aid stations, cutting the course or receiving assistance outside designated zones means disqualification. Bib transfers are allowed up to 30 days before the race for a 100,000 ₫ fee; 50 % refund up to 60 days before, none after.

From Hanoi: overnight train to Lao Cai (8 h) plus a 1 h bus, or a 5.5 h limousine/sleeper bus on the Noi Bai – Lao Cai expressway. The organiser runs a Hanoi shuttle (add-on). In Sa Pa the start lines are 3–15 km from the centre, with free shuttles from 2 am.

Sa Pa sells out on race week – book three months ahead. Central hotels 500,000–2,500,000 ₫; homestays in Ta Van and Lao Chai right on the course 200,000–600,000 ₫. Topas Ecolodge (the 100K start) is usually full by March.