Vietnam TravelHiking Vietnam: Trails That Offer More Than Views

Explore the Diversity of Ba Na Hills

Nestled near Da Nang, Ba Na Hills not only boasts French colonial architecture but also trails that offer a panoramic vista of the Central Vietnamese coastline. The cable car ride to the starting point itself is an experience, claimed to be one of the longest in the world. Once at the top, hikers can explore a range of paths, each winding through remnants of French villages and offering glimpses of the lush landscape and exotic wildlife. The well-paved paths make this a suitable hike for all ages, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the breathtaking scenery and historical elements. Along the way, visitors can explore the reconstructed French village complete with quaint cafes and wine cellars that evoke a bygone era. For the adventurous, the newly opened Golden Bridge held up by giant stone hands is a must-see. The area also offers a fantasy park with games and rides, perfect for families looking to blend hiking with entertainment.

photo: ANSHUMAN MISHRA

Trekking the Fansipan, “The Roof of Indochina”

Fansipan in Sapa is perhaps the most famous hike in Vietnam. Standing at 3,147 meters, it’s the highest peak in Indochina, attracting those who wish to conquer its summit. The challenge is tough, but the pathways lined with bamboo forest and occasional orchid blooms make the journey picturesque. For those less inclined to rigorous hikes, a cable car can take you to the top, where the views are just as rewarding. The summit offers an unrivaled view of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, stretching beneath the clouds. On clear days, hikers can see all the way into China’s Yunnan province. Local guides often share tales of the spirits believed to inhabit the mountain, adding a mystical element to the trek. Those who ascend on foot will find rustic tea houses along the path where they can rest and savor local brews.

Uncover the Hidden Paths of Cuc Phuong National Park

As Vietnam’s oldest national park, Cuc Phuong boasts an incredible biodiversity, including limestone karst mountains and dense tropical forest. Located in Ninh Binh province, this park offers several trails that vary in length and difficulty but are all rich in wildlife spotting opportunities. Hikers might glimpse rare langurs, vibrant butterflies, and myriad bird species. The park is also home to prehistoric caves and a thousand-year-old tree, which are accessible via well-marked trails, adding a historical and educational twist to your hike. For botany enthusiasts, the park’s endangered primate rescue center provides a unique opportunity to learn about conservation efforts. The rainy season transforms the landscape into a lush, green wonderland, highlighting the rich ecological tapestry that thrives in this protected area. Birdwatching here is particularly rewarding, with the chance to spot some of the 300 bird species that call this park home.

Adventure in the Marble Mountains

photo: Eswaran Subramaniam

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five marble and limestone hills located in Da Nang, each named after the five elements. These mountains harbor caves, tunnels, and Buddhist sanctuaries, accessible through stairs carved into the mountainsides. Climbing these stairs, hikers will find pagodas and statues hidden in caves, as well as panoramic views of the surrounding plains and coastline from various vantage points. This site combines physical challenge, spiritual exploration, and cultural education in one memorable excursion. Each mountain offers a different journey and story, reflecting the element it is named after, with Water Mountain being the most visited due to its stunning temples and views. The caves often contain altars dedicated to Buddhist and Hindu deities, providing insight into the religious syncretism prevalent in Vietnamese culture. Exploring these mountains gives a unique perspective not only on Vietnam’s geography but also on its spiritual practices.

Experience the Ethereal Beauty of Bach Ma National Park

Situated in Hue, Bach Ma National Park offers trails that lead to waterfalls, viewing platforms, and remnants of French colonial villas. The park’s highest point at Bach Ma summit provides spectacular views of the lagoon and sea at Lang Co beach. The trails here are enveloped in mist more often than not, creating an ethereal atmosphere as you trek through sub-tropical forests. This area is known for its biodiversity, including rare animals like the saola, which hikers might be lucky enough to spot. With elevations ranging from sea level to 1,450 meters, the park offers a variety of ecosystems to explore, from montane to coastal. The park’s “Five Lakes” trail descends past a series of waterfalls and swimming holes, providing a refreshing respite from the humidity and a chance to observe aquatic life up close.

Journey Through Cat Ba National Park

For those who favor island scenery, Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong offers rugged, scenic trails that traverse dense jungle and rocky peaks. The park is part of the larger Cat Ba Archipelago and is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. One of the popular hikes leads to the top of Cannon Fort, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the karst limestone islands of Halong Bay. The area is also home to the endangered Cat Ba langur, making it a significant site for wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s varied terrain challenges hikers of all skill levels, and its proximity to local villages offers cultural exchanges with the island’s residents. Adventurers can explore hidden caves and isolated beaches, making each hike a discovery of its own. The fort itself is historically significant, having been used by both French and Japanese forces during the 20th century.

Discover the Tranquility of Ta Nang – Phan Dung

photo: Chang Duong

Linking Lam Dong and Binh Thuan provinces, the Ta Nang – Phan Dung trail is renowned for its rolling grasslands and deep valleys. The trek spans approximately 55 kilometers and offers one of the most picturesque routes in Vietnam, showcasing everything from dense jungles to wide-open pastures. This trail is less commercialized, offering a serene experience that feels a world away from the bustling cities. It’s an idyllic escape for those looking to immerse themselves in Vietnam’s natural beauty. The varying elevations along the trail offer changing landscapes that are both a photographer’s and a hiker’s dream. Camping along the trail is common, allowing hikers to witness both sunset and sunrise in a stunning setting. This trek, while challenging, rewards the determined hiker with unparalleled views and a profound sense of accomplishment.

Traveling through Vietnam on these trails offers more than just physical activity—it’s a journey through the heart of the country’s natural beauty and cultural tapestry. Each hike presents unique challenges and rewards, from the historical insights of Marble Mountains to the breathtaking views from Fansipan. Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or cultural enrichment, Vietnam’s hiking trails provide all these experiences, woven into the landscapes that make each step memorable. These paths aren’t just routes through the country; they’re gateways to understanding Vietnam’s spirit and enduring allure. With each trail offering its own story, your hikes through Vietnam are sure to leave lasting impressions that go far beyond the physical landscapes.