Vietnam, with its amazing beauty and cultural wonders, holds in its heart a treasure trove of hidden gems, waiting to be discovered.
These destinations require a little more effort - like a long day hike or a night's sleep in unspoiled nature to fully immerse yourself in their beauty, but they leave special impressions on your mind. life.
As travelers seek new destinations, there is an opportunity to promote sustainability initiatives and prioritize long-term conservation of these pristine landscapes.
Pù Luông - The Enchanting Terraced Fields
Nestled in Thanh Hoa province, about 150 km from Hanoi, Pù Luông is a gift of nature, boasting unique landscapes and the charm of Black Thai and White Thai ethnic villages. Life here unfolds at a leisurely pace, a stark contrast to Vietnam's bustling cities that most tourists frequent.This natural reserve takes pride in its meticulously terraced fields, creating an irresistibly beautiful image from mountaintop views. Easily recognizable are farmers and buffalo tending to vast rice paddies. It's akin to what you see on Vietnamese postcards, only more stunning and mysterious, reminiscent of Sapa.
Pù Luông is also renowned for the spectacular Hiệu Waterfall, where two streams converge, forming a large lake. It's an ideal spot for a refreshing massage and relaxation after a short mountain hike.
- Distance from major city: Hanoi - 150 km
- How to get there: No direct public buses from Hanoi; approximately a 4.5-hour drive
- Best time to visit: Autumn, from September to November, when the rice fields turn golden. The green season is from February to May.
Ba Bể - Tranquil Waters of Vietnam's Largest Lake
The Ba Bể National Park, a tropical oasis with a diverse ecosystem, offers a transformative journey for nature enthusiasts emphasizing a deep connection with the environment. A system of rivers, lakes, and lowland forests, Ba Bể unveils a natural masterpiece rich in cultural significance seemingly untouched by time.The heart of the park, Lake Ba Bể, glistens like a gem amidst lush greenery, a place where the soul can unwind in the tranquility of nature. It's the largest and highest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, standing 178 meters above sea level, stretching 8 km long and 500 meters wide.
It encompasses over 23,000 hectares of stunning waterfalls, deep rivers, valleys, lakes, and caves, all nestled amidst towering mountains. In 2011, the park was recognized as an internationally important wetland area, ranking third in Vietnam and 1938th globally.The park harbors a variety of rare plant and animal species, many of which are endangered. From the elusive François' langur to vibrant orchids, the park showcases remarkable biodiversity requiring careful conservation. It's also home to the Tày people, one of the largest ethnic minorities in northern Vietnam, offering a unique cultural experience.
- Distance from major city: Hanoi - 240 km
- How to get there: Book a private tour or drive approximately 6 hours from Hanoi
- Best time to visit: While winter is dry and cold, Ba Bể's forests stay lush and beautiful year-round. Occasional storms may occur from July to October.
Đắk Lắk - Vietnam's Coffee Capital
Situated amidst the lush landscapes of the Central Highlands, Đắk Lắk stands out as the pulsating heart of Vietnam's coffee culture. Blessed with fertile soil, an ideal climate, and a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in coffee cultivation, this province is a visual delight with expansive green plantations.
Coffee plantations in Đắk Lắk stretch impressively, creating an eye-catching landscape with vibrant green hues. The coffee farmers here, passionately producing high-quality beans, contribute to a multi-million-dollar industry. Working from dawn to dusk, they ensure each cup of coffee brewed carries the flavor of Vietnam's rich coffee culture.
A visit to Đắk Lắk offers a special opportunity to immerse in the art of coffee processing. From the earthy aroma wafting through the air upon arrival to the refreshing taste of freshly brewed coffee, every step becomes a sensory journey.Each sip of coffee not only combines the artful skill but also represents a sustainable relationship with the environment and the local community.
- Distance from major city: Ho Chi Minh City - 320 km
- How to get there: Đắk Lắk has a domestic airport connecting to various parts of Vietnam. Direct buses also run from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang.
- Best time to visit: March, when coffee flowers bloom, coinciding with the Coffee Festival lasting a week in Buôn Ma Thuột.
Cái Bè - Colorful Riverside Town
Cái Bè, a charming town along the Mekong River, is renowned for its lively floating market. The town provides an insightful glimpse into the gentle riverside life, where traditions and commerce unfold seamlessly.The boats filled with fresh produce, colorful flowers, and local handicrafts represent the heart of this town. Activities commence at sunrise, with lively chatter among traders and the aromatic scent of exotic fruits, making it the perfect way to welcome a new day.
Beyond the floating market lies the allure of an extensive canal system, cool fruit orchards, lush rice fields, and traditional thatched houses. All of these embody classical traditions passed down through generations. Cái Bè is not just a journey back in time; it's also a fantastic culinary experience — from savory river prawns to enticing bowls of bún riêu, each dish tells a story of fertile land and the culinary finesse of the locals perfected over time.
- Distance from major city: Ho Chi Minh City - 105 km; Can Tho - 70 km
- How to get there: Take a bus from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho; there are also boat tours available from Can Tho.
- Best time to visit: During the peak water season from September to December, when visitors can go fishing on traditional boats and wander through fruit orchards. The dry season from January to April is the time for rice harvesting.
Côn Đảo and the Turtle Conservation Mission
Côn Đảo, an unspoiled archipelago off the southeast coast of Vietnam, is a hidden gem with natural beauty, rich history, and a serene atmosphere. The allure of this island lies in its pristine landscapes, where emerald blue waters meet fine white sand and dense forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna.Côn Đảo is also famous for its commitment to conservation.
The archipelago has well-protected clean beaches, creating excellent diving spots for enthusiasts and responsible travelers. Côn Đảo is also known for its turtle conservation efforts, with clean beaches serving as nesting grounds. Local organizations and volunteers continuously monitor nesting activities, protect nests, and assist hatchlings on their journey to the sea.
Côn Đảo is a shining example of how tourism can coexist with conservation efforts. The presence of these turtles — witnessing them nest on the sandy shores or observing tiny hatchlings embark on their journey into the ocean — creates a marvelous experience, fostering an appreciation for the value of protecting the ocean and its marvelous creatures.
- Distance from major city: Ho Chi Minh City - 230 km; Can Tho - 177 km
- How to get there: Regular flights from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho to the island's domestic airport. There are also ferry services from Vung Tau for a different adventurous experience.
- Best time to visit: The coolest weather from September to January, while June, July, and August may experience strong winds. Turtle nesting season occurs from mid-August to early December.
Cát Tiên - Mystical Primeval Forest
Cát Tiên, an untouched oasis in the heart of Vietnam, serves as a marvelous natural museum near Ho Chi Minh City. With a gentle pace amidst the lush forest, where tradition and nature intertwine, Cát Tiên is a destination for souls seeking exploration.Under the serene backdrop of dawn, the primeval forest of Cát Tiên comes to life with the harmony of exotic trees and diverse ecosystems. It's a pure space where the melodic songs of birds blend with the babbling of brooks, creating a unique natural symphony.
Exploring Cát Tiên is not just a journey into the past but also an adventure in the mystical world of nature. Every step takes you through narrow paths in the forest, where ancient trees and flowing streams bear witness to the essence of life.
- Distance from major city: Ho Chi Minh City - 150 km
- How to get there: By car from Ho Chi Minh City, or utilizing local travel services.
- Best time to visit: Every season has its charm, but from November to March is considered the ideal time to avoid rain and experience the cool atmosphere of the forest.
