In a country with such outstanding landscapes, trekking in Vietnam is a must-do experience for adventurers! The region which offers the most possibilities for sporting activities and in this case hiking and treks is undoubtedly the north of Vietnam. In addition to offering a variety of levels of treks, it is the perfect place for authentic meetings with the local tribes and experiencing the majestic landscapes that make up the personality of Vietnam..
Perched at an altitude of 1,600 meters, Sapa is the starting point for numerous treks of all levels. Not far from the Chinese border, it is among magnificent landscapes of rice terraces and ethnic villages that you embark on your adventure trekking in Vietnam. Take the winding paths along the mountain passes, or climb with a little more difficulty the steep paths which cross the dense forests. Trek options can last from just a few hours to a few days with overnight in traditional homestays.
Not far from Sapa, if you are fond of heights and intense effort, then Mount Fansipan, also known as "the Roof of Indochina" is the place for you. From its height of 3,143 meters which dominates the region, you will have a breathtaking scenic spectacle as your reward upon reaching the summit. But before that you will have to climb the mountain, passing through forests, flat areas, steep slopes and sleeping in local huts for one or two nights according to your pace. One of the harder treks in Vietnam, the experience is definitely worth the effort!
*Please note that since 2016 it is now possible to ascend Mount Fansipan in a cable car which is very popular with tourists.
Even further north, in the magnificent province of Ha Giang from where you can see the hills of China, you will find drier, rockier, and steeper landscapes which will enchant you just as much. In the province of Cao Bang, the villages of Meo Vac and Bao Lac are also the starting points for trekking in Vietnam. Throughout your treks in this region, you will be surrounded by magnificent landscapes dotted with rice terraces, streams and traditional houses in complete isolation. The waterfalls, coming from the top of the mountain, will offer a most enchanting background sound as you walk. You can also meet the famous Black Lolo ethnic tribe and observe scenes of their daily life such as cooking and weaving.
If you venture to the island of Cat Ba, stay there at least two nights to take part in some treks in the forest and climb the mountains whose summits will give you a breathtaking view of the bay with reliefs similar to that of Halong. Cat Ba is a great place to balance some relaxing with trekking in Vietnam.
To the south of Hanoi, Mai Chau is a charming little valley surrounded by green mountains and crossed by rivers. The villages of the White Thai ethnic group are ideal access points to discover the surrounding landscapes on foot and experience trekking in Vietnam. Many paths wind between the rice fields, or sink into the rainforest, up to you to choose what kind of trek you want to do. From a simple walk to 15 km sport trekking, there is something for everyone!
In most national parks, you will have a wide range of treks of all levels to immerse yourself in nature while doing some exercise at the same time. To name just a few, you have the area of Ba Be National Park with its immense lakes, the surroundings of Ninh Binh with its "Halong Bay on Land" or Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park with its amazing caves. The opportunities for trekking in Vietnam are endless!
Contact your Shanti Travel Expert to find the best destinations and routes for you when trekking in Vietnam!
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