Vietnam is a top tourist destination with millions of visitors flocking there yearly. With resorts and hotels popping up all over the country and upgraded roads, travelling through Vietnam is now easier than ever. Visitors are charmed by its friendly and welcoming locals, delicious culinary efforts and beautiful landscapes. From the rice paddies in Sapa in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south, Vietnam’s varied and lush landscape is breathtaking.
Getting to Vietnam
You can reach Vietnam through one of its three international airports; Hanoi, Hoi An and Da Nang. If you are in a neighbouring country, you can also make your way across the border from Laos or Cambodia on land, this, however, is a much longer journey. Once in Vietnam, there are several modes of transport that can take you to your destination including buses, trains and taxis.
Travelling to Vietnam requires either a tourist or business visa depending on your reason for travel. This will need to be arranged prior to travel. If you’re travelling for a shorter period of time, some people are able to travel visa-free but you need to hold a certain passport such as a British passport. If you’re not sure where to start and it’s all a bit confusing, let eVisa-Vietnam.com sort everything out for you. An easy and hassle-free way to pay for your visa, they’ll do all the legwork for you so you can focus on planning your adventure.
1. Ha Long Bay
Vietnam’s gem in the north, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is no doubt number one of the list. With over 1,600 limestone islands and islets to explore, Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most recognised destination. Surrounded by emerald green waters, blue lagoons and caves, you can reach Ha Long Bay by car or minibus. If you’re looking for something different, try taking an adrenaline-pumping seaplane trip from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.
2. Fansipan Mountain in Sapa
The highest mountain in the Indochina Peninsula standing at 3,143m, Fansipan is a hiker’s dream. Spend two days trekking up the mountain to arrive at the peak for sunset. Soak up the view above the clouds while you catch your breath. You can also take the cable car up and down the mountain to get the beautiful view without the hard work.
3. Cuc Phuong National Park in Ninh Binh Province
Located in the Ninh Binh Province, the Cuc Phuong National Park is home to thousands of endangered flora species. As Vietnam’s largest nature reserve, there are several hiking trails and tours available throughout the park. You can also visit the ethnic Muong Hill tribe while in the area where you can see traditional waterwheels and stilt houses.
4. Sand Dunes of Mui Ne
You don’t expect to see the desert-like landscape in the middle of Vietnam but that’s exactly what you’ll find at the sand dunes in Mui Ne. The sand dunes are not only a photographer’s paradise but you can take part in a number of activities such as sandboarding, quad biking and kite flying.
5. Tram Chim National Park in Dong Thap Province
A perfect destination for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts, the park sees over 60,000 birds fly to Tram Chim every year between December and May. Taking a boat through the park is the best way to take in the wildlife. Boat rides range from 45 minutes to over two hours. You can also enjoy cycling, trekking and fishing during the off-peak season.
6. Mekong Delta
The famed Mekong Delta locally known as The River of Nine Dragons is lined with villages and markets. You’ll see Buddhist shrines, rice plantations and fish farms along the riverside. There’s a number of fantastic day trips to the river from Ho Chi Minh City.
7. Phu Quoc Island
Off the coast of southern Vietnam, you’ll find some of the country’s prettiest and most beautiful beaches. Engulfed by white sands, palm trees and tropical rainforests, Phu Quoc Island is one not to be missed. Head to Long Beach on the west coast of the island to relax and enjoy incredibly fresh seafood.
8. Son Tra Peninsula in Da Nang city
Only 10km from Da Nang, the naturally beautiful Son Tra landscape is covered with flora, sands and tranquil waters. To get stunning views of Son Tra, take the road from Da Nang to Lang Co beach through the Hai Van Pass. You can either rent a motorbike for the day or book a tour from your hotel or hostel.
9. Ba Vi National Park in Hanoi capital city
Roughly 58km from downtown Hanoi, Ba Vi National Park is renowned for its three-peaked mountain. With forest trails, hiking routes, natural hot springs and slopes between the mountain summits, the park is an amazing getaway from the city. The fresh air and beautiful backdrop of rainforest and clouds result in a picture-perfect view.
