In addition to a rich history and culture, Vietnam has several hiking trails for the adventurer. Depending on one’s expertise, the hikes span from easy walks to long-distance treks. Vietnam offers a unique landscape for hikers to hike through terraced rice paddles, highland valleys and mountain ranges. The experience is unique as one walks through striking sceneries, national parks, the coastline and nature reserves. The following are some of the best places to hike while in Vietnam
Lang Biang Mountain in Da LatÂ
The Lang Biang Mountain offers a variety of activities including hiking, camping, and rock climbing. It also offers an excellent view of Dalat city and the Silver and Golden streams.
Ta Nang – Phan Dung
The trail from Ta Nang goes through 3 provinces namely Lam Dong, Ninh Thuan, and Binh Thuan. A hiker can cover the forested area in 3 days while enjoying the picturesque views of hills, pine forests and natural green fields that are surrounded by clouds and fog.
Sapa
The popularity of Sapa is due to the unique opportunity to create your perfect hike depending on your skill level. Sapa has a dense network of trails and hikers can link the trails as they enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery of beautiful mountain villages and terraced rice paddles. The trails range from the easiest to the hardest.
Cat Tien National Park
Located in the south of Vietnam, the park is a popular hiking destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The park offers hikers the rare opportunity to spot gibbons, the more than 40 butterfly species in the park and over 79 reptile species. Some hikers have reported spotting elephants and tigers too!
Yen Tu in Quang NinhÂ
The magical Buddhist stories and beautiful scenes make Yen Tu a must visit hiking destination while in Vietnam. Every shrine and temple has an incredible story behind it, and those interested in Buddhism can enjoy its rich history. The trek is not very challenging and hikers can enjoy the stunning temples while learning about the incredible history of the shrines along the way.
Cat Ba National Park in Hai PhongÂ
The 18-kilometer hike in Cat Ba National Park offers hikers the chance to see incredible animals like the civets, deer, and macaques. The views as one takes the 6-hour hike are also unbelievable.
Ban Gioc in Cao Bang
A trek to the Ban Gioc waterfall introduces hikers to the incredible mountain scenery, vast landscapes of the Karst Mountain, rice terraces, meandering rivers, and deep gorges. The beautiful hike ends with a fantastic view of the gorgeous waterfall.
En Cave in Quang BinhÂ
En Cave is the 3rd largest cave in the world and is popular among young trekkers in Vietnam. The trek offers hikers stunning natural views, walks through several streams and villages. It’s also your opportunity to see 300-year-old fossils found in the cave. A short distance from the cave is the Son Doong Cave with the largest cave passage you may ever go through!
Ba Na Hill in Da Nang
The Ba Na Hill resort offers short scenic trails for those looking for something simple. The resort is a replica of a French colonial town that offers short trails with incredible waterfalls and overlooks.
Don’t forget to carry enough water, food, a first aid kit and camping gear especially for the longer hikes. Some of the trails can be mentally challenging, and you will need to prepare physically before starting any of the hikes. For an even awesome experience, bring a friend or a group of friends.
