Trekking through the Terraced Landscapes of Sapa
For a long time, the terraced rice fields in Sapa have become one of the most unique and remarkable sights that inspire many people to witness them firsthand. Nestled amidst the majestic mountains and nature, these beautiful and evenly-distributed rice fields have been customized by the locals to suit their highland agricultural practices. This is the perfect blend of harmonious coexistence between human life and nature.
Trekking through the terraced landscapes of Sapa
Not only can you enjoy the picturesque landscape, but trekking through the terraced landscapes of Sapa is one of the experiences in Vietnam that offers a great adventure and sports experience. It is a challenging and adrenaline-pumping activity that allows you to navigate the hills and valleys while relaxing in the lush surroundings and breathing in the fresh mountain air.
Sapa Highland is home to many different ethnic groups, including the Hmong, Dao, and Tay people. By trekking through the villages, you can experience their traditional way of life and learn about their customs and beliefs.
In Sapa, September to October are ideal months for trying this experience in Vietnam since the weather is cool, it is not the busiest travel period of the year, and the rice plants in the terraced fields are at their prime. If you visit from late August to September, you will see the vibrant and lush green rice fields. And if you come around mid-September to early October, you will witness the fragrant ripe and golden rice fields, and the locals busy with the harvest.
Overnight Stay in a Halong Bay Junk Boat
Halong Bay, an emblem of Vietnam's tourism, is a UNESCO heritage site and was one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. An overnight stay on a Halong junk boat will give you a more intimate and authentic experience of the bay.
Have a close look at Cua Van fishing village
Halong Bay is captivating with its impressive landscape of thousands of limestone islands rising out of the emerald waters of the sea, each with its unique and fascinating shapes. Hiding among these islands is the ecosystem of Halong Bay, filled with surprise caves, stunning beaches, and of course, the local people who have lived in the bay for generations.
Amidst the bay area, you will find floating fishing villages. These small villages with only a few dozen households are intimately linked to their lives at sea year after year. When having this experience in Vietnam, you can join the locals on a boat ride to take in the scenery or try your hand at fishing. Visit Halong and experience the space and activities of the long-established community in the bay will provide you with another perspective on human life. Some fishing villages we recommend here are Cua Van, Ba Hang, Vung Vieng, and Viet Hai.
Experiencing Rural Life with a Homestay in Mai Chau
Spending time immersed in the rural life of Mai Chau can be one of the most unique and rewarding experiences in Vietnam. This picturesque gem is a well-known getaway destination from Hanoi's capital. The beauty of Mai Chau lies in its tranquil natural surroundings, featuring lush rice paddies, verdant rolling hills, and misty mountains that blend together seamlessly.
A perfect sight of Mai Chau With Love Homestay
The local culture is equally captivating, with a pleasant community that welcomes visitors with open arms. Visitors can immerse in the traditional way of life, from sampling homemade rice wine to hearing enchanting traditional folk songs and dances of ethnic minorities living in the area.
In addition to being a peaceful retreat destination, Mai Chau is also the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can partake in activities such as trekking through the scenic countryside, cycling along charming village paths, exploring local markets, and savoring traditional dishes prepared by the hospitable hosts. These experiences in Vietnam provide a genuine cultural encounter that perfectly encapsulates Mai Chau.
Witnessing the Ethereal Beauty of the Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc waterfall is one of Vietnam's most prominent waterfalls. This waterfall is recognized as one of the cross-border waterfalls with half of it falling within Vietnamese territory and the other half in China. It is distinctive not just because of its position, but the cascading falls are also a mesmerizing sight to behold as they plunge down into the river below.
Strolling around the stream of Ban Gioc waterfall
To admire the might of the falls, you can visit Ban Gioc between the months of June and September. During this time, the water flow of Ban Gioc is powerful and awe-inspiring - best for having this experience in Vietnam. From October to May, the flow is gentler, and the weather is pleasant to visit the site. Ban Gioc offers a refreshing and pleasant environment with a crystal clear stream. Visitors can explore the area of Ban Gioc on foot or by boat.
Ban Gioc has several attractive natural attractions nearby Nguom Ngao Cave and Phat Tich Truc Lam Pagoda making it a worthwhile addition to your travel itinerary when visiting the waterfall. Plus, be sure to sample some of the local delectable specialties such as chestnuts, roasted duck, sticky rice, and grilled stream fish.
Exploring the caves of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park
Phong Nha - Ke Bang is a complex of limestone caves that are hundreds of millions of years old, located in the Ke Bang National Park. The caves are home to stunning natural formations, composed of amazing stalactites and stalagmites, and some of them even have underground rivers and lakes.
Explore the unique geological landscape of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park
This is the second UNESCO World Heritage Site to appear on the list. Its mesmerizing caves and landscapes have earned it the title of a natural wonder of the world, based on geological and landform criteria. In 2015, it was once again recognized by UNESCO as a natural wonder based on its biological and ecological diversity.
With its diverse collection of wildlife, Phong Nha - Ke Bang offers visitors a wide range of experiences in Vietnam to enjoy, such as caving to explore fascinating and unspoiled caves, strolling along the poetic Chay river, trekking through the forest, participating in other sports activities like swimming and ziplining. Camping in the national park has also become a popular activity among visitors in recent years. Whether you are an adventurous traveler or someone who loves to immerse yourself in nature, Phong Nha - Ke Bang has something for everyone.
Uncovering the Cu Chi Tunnels and learning about Vietnam's wartime history
The Cu Chi tunnels are a vast system of subterranean defense tunnels created in the late 1940s. It holds important historical significance in Vietnam as evidence of the perseverance and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during times of war. The Vietnam War was a major conflict of the 20th-century conflict. Studying the construction and use of the tunnels is a worth-trying experience in Vietnam that provides valuable insights into modern warfare.
Discover the surprising at Cu Chi Tunnels
Initially, the tunnels were individual hideouts in various villages. But as the war continued, they were extended and interconnected, forming a complex network of underground tunnels that extended over 250 km. The Cu Chi tunnel system comprises multiple levels, including bunkers, storage rooms, kitchens, workspaces, and an intricate underground road system, complete with ventilation shafts.
Visitors to Cu Chi can immerse themselves in the construction and witness firsthand how they were used both for shelter and combat during the war. The site also showcases historical items like tanks, traps, bombs, etc, and offers activities such as non-smoke cooking, shooting firearms, and savoring the delicious cuisine of Cu Chi. A visit to Cu Chi Tunnels is one of the unique experiences in Vietnam that offers a chance to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam's past and the experiences of those who lived through a devastating war.
Riding through the picturesque landscapes of Ha Giang Loop
The Ha Giang Loop features some of Vietnam's most breathtaking and spectacular natural landscapes. From the towering karst cliffs to the lush green forests and rice terraces, you will be constantly surrounded by stunning views that will take your breath away when having this experience in Vietnam.
Conquer the Pi Leng Pass and admire the emerald Nho Que River
Ha Giang is known for its two famous loops - the Ma Pi Leng Pass and Tham Ma Loop. Ma Pi Leng Pass, aptly named due to its resemblance to the straight nose of a horse, is one of the four great mountain passes in the Northern region of Vietnam. It is a challenging experience in Vietnam with frequent sharp turns and narrow paths that require a skillful rider to navigate. Another impressive and captivating route is the Tham Ma Pass. It consists of four sharp turns that require skill and concentration from the rider to tackle but offer breathtakingly beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Every year, adventurous travelers flock to Ha Giang to explore its wild beauty, natural landscapes, and sense of adventure. However, it is important to prioritize safety when embarking on such a journey. It is recommended to choose a powerful motorcycle equipped with good brakes, to ensure that it is more than capable of handling steep terrain. It is advisable to prepare oneself with good health and protective clothing when joining this experience in Vietnam. Finally, it is essential to travel with a group of experienced companions, which will provide a sense of safety and security, especially in unfamiliar territory. With these precautions in place, anyone can take in the stunning views and enjoy the sheer exhilaration of Ha Giang's winding roads and steep mountain passes.
Experiencing the Floating Life of the Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta is a region with numerous small villages and towns where the residents predominantly rely on the river for their livelihoods. A boat ride along the Mekong River is a remarkable means to discover this region. It offers an opportunity to witness their way of living, and working, and how they interact with the river in their daily lives.
Gliding on the water surface amidst the familiar palm trees of the Mekong Delta river
The Mekong Delta is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including mangroves, coconut palms, rice paddies, and numerous bird species. The floating markets are a unique feature of the Mekong Delta, and they attract many tourists each year. Having this wonderful experience in Vietnam, you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery, watch the sunrise or sunset, and visit some of the floating markets where locals sell their produce and goods.
Embarking on the path of exploration, one can venture to visit the quaint villages on the island, the coconut candy factories, and the skilled artisans who fashion intricate objects from the versatile fruit. You can also wander through verdant gardens, tranquil rice fields, and expansive fruit gardens, and visit bee farms to witness the art of beekeeping. Plus, what's a visit without indulging in a delectable lunch under the shade of towering trees or sipping on sweet honey tea, all while soaking in the enchanting melodies of the locals from the riverine regions? The floating life of the Mekong Delta offers a truly authentic and immersive experience in Vietnam, one that is not easily found elsewhere.
Interacting with Endangered Primates at Cuc Phuong National Park
Cuc Phuong is Vietnam's first national park. It covers a vast area of 25,000 hectares and is home to a typical tropical rainforest with abundant greenery all year round. The park has a highly diverse range of flora and fauna, including numerous endangered primates like langurs and gibbons.
A delacour’s langur is enjoying its life in Cuc Phuong National Park
There are many species of plants and animals with a high risk of extinction that have been discovered and preserved here, among which the delacour’s langur is considered an icon of Cuc Phuong forest. By visiting the park and observing the primates in their natural state, you can learn more about their behavior and habitat.
It is recommended to have this experience in Vietnam between December to May, which is the dry season and offers comfortable temperatures. The most spectacular time to visit is May when the park is filled with enchanting and colorful butterflies, showcasing a captivating butterfly forest that seems to belong to a fairy tale. It is fascinating to see millions of these butterflies displaying their bright and striking hues.
Unveiling the Charms of Hanoi's Old Quarter by Cyclo
The last on the list of best experiences in Vietnam is the cyclo ride in Hanoi capital. Cyclo is a traditional mode of transportation in Vietnam that can give you a sense of local culture and tradition. Riding on a cyclo allows you to see the old streets of Hanoi up close, with its unique architecture, people, and culture.
Cyclo offers a unique way to feel the Hanoi vibe
Before the multiple changes with the introduction of scooters and cars, the Cyclos with the passenger seated at its front were once a ubiquitous sight on the streets of Hanoi. However, nothing has been able to replace the deep connection between the image of the Cyclo and the capital city of Hanoi. Hanoi Old Quarter is a bustling area that is full of history and character. By taking a cyclo tour, you will get to explore the hidden alleys, narrow streets, and bustling markets that make up this charming neighborhood.
Riding on a cyclo is an authentic and unique way to explore Hanoi's capital. Take your time to admire the scenery and people passing by, stopping at famous tourist destinations and savoring the renowned street food of Vietnam's capital city. Let yourself be captivated by the vibrant life of the streets and the bustling atmosphere of Hanoi's old town.
All of the recommended experiences in Vietnam, featured on this blog, are carefully handpicked to offer you the best of both worlds - the essence of Vietnam's top destinations, coupled with exciting activity suggestions. By exploring these destinations, you will get to relish the sights and sounds of Vietnam like never before. Be sure to save this article to your Vietnam travel checklist and complete the activities you love. And if you are a first comer, please contact us for the best Vietnam package tour. Best regards from the New Asia Tours!
