The Ultimate List for Adventure Tourism in Vietnam

Vietnam is so much more than a country ravaged by war and imperialism. Home to some of the most stunning locations in the world, Vietnam is an absolute delight for tourists looking for an adventure. Adventure tourism in Vietnam is slowly gaining momentum and attracting thrill-seekers from different corners of the world. Visitors can explore some of the biggest caves in the world or go for Sandboarding at the White Sand Dunes of Miu Ne.

Here is the ultimate list of adventure tourism in the country.

1. Expedition in the world’s biggest caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

The ideal way to start the adventure tourism in Vietnam is with a visit to the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Located in the Quang Binh Province, the national park has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park has close to 400 million years old karst mountain formations, extraordinary cave formations, and a beautiful serpentine underground river.

Three to four days expedition at Hang Son Doong cave, the world’s biggest cave, or camping at Hang En caves are preferred by many tourists. Apart from cave exploration, visitors can go for forest trekking or mountain biking.

Address: Bố Trạch District, Quang Binh Province 511860, Vietnam

Opening time: 6am - 6pm

Best time to visit: April to August

2. Create your version of Vietnam Motorcycle Chronicles

Exploring Vietnam on a motorcycle is truly a solo traveler’s dream adventure. One might find several backpackers and travelers exploring the country on two wheels, stopping at the destinations they like. Usually, most travelers opt for Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), covering the entire length of the country. However, offbeat travelers choose to head up towards the Northern Provinces.

Another popular route is the Hai Van Pass between Hue and Hoi An, with a breathtaking view of the ocean.

Best time to travel: February to April

P.S: Travelers can either buy a local motorcycle or rent them from major cities like Hanoi, HCMC, or Dalat.

3. Exploring the rice fields of Mai Chau on a cycle

Close to the hectic metropolis of Hanoi, lies the rustic and pastoral village – Mai Chau. Surrounded by beautiful rice paddy fields, the village is a welcome change from the noise and crowd of the busy metropolis. Tourists interested in exploring the gorgeous rural Vietnam head towards Mai Chau, making it a popular destination.

Of course, a trip to Mai Chau is not complete without riding a bicycle through the emerald fields. Also, visitors can go for shopping, or boating at the Hoa Binh Lake.

Address: Mai Châu District, Hoa Binh, Vietnam

Opening time: Open 24 hours

Best time to visit: October to April

Rustic and Pastoral Village

Relax at Mui Ne

4. Sandboarding at Mui Ne

Adventure tourism in Vietnam includes the novelty, Sandboarding. This adventure sport is similar to snowboarding and is very popular among the tourists visiting the Red Sand Dunes close to Mui Ne. However, a cluster of tourists prefer the vibrant White Sand Dunes for adventure sports like these.

For a spectacular view, tourists must visit these places during the sunset. The sandboards are available on rent from the local vendors.

Address: Thành phố Phan Thiết, Bình Thuận, Vietnam

Opening time: The White Sand Dune and Red Sand Dunes are open 24 hours. But, Sandboarding is subjected to time constraints.

Best time to visit: October to April (preferably during sunset)

5. Trekking in Sapa

Once a popular French hill station, Sapa is an important hub for adventure tourism in Vietnam. The area is well-known for its beautifully green terrace farms, and its trekking paths. Among the popular spots, Muong Hoa Valley is probably most visited by the tourists.

A day or two walking through the trekking trails of the area can be a mesmerizing experience. Besides trekking, visitors can learn about the ethnic groups residing in the area while staying at the local homestays.

Address: Sapa, Lao Cai, Vietnam

Opening time: Open 24 hours

Best time to visit: March to May, and September to mid-December

Trekking in Sapa

Saigon Cu Chi Tunnels

6. Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels of HCMC

One of the popular attractions of HCMC is exploring the Cu Chi tunnels that were used by the Vietnamese soldiers during the war. Spread in the area of 40km (25mi), these tunnels were used as hiding spots for the Vietnamese army. These tunnels also house hospitals, supply routes and living quarters.

Passing through the narrow passages could be a bit intimidating, and is not recommended for visitors with claustrophobia. It is recommended to hire a guide for exploring the tunnels better.

Address: Củ Chi, Hồ Chí Minh 733814, Vietnam

Opening time: 7am - 5pm

7. Traveling through the Dong Van Plateau in Northern Vietnam

An offbeat destination of Vietnam, the Dong Van Plateau is home to some of the most stunning landscapes. Located in the northern Vietnamese provinces, the area has everything starting from terraced paddy fields to deep canyons. Close to the Chinese borders, the Dong Van Plateau is an interesting location for adventure tourism in Vietnam.

One can hire a motorbike or opt for a conducted tour to explore the region. The area has been recognized by UNESCO as a geological park. Visitors are required special permits to visit remote Vietnamese provinces like Ha Giang bordering China. But, the region is worth the visit.

Address: Ha Giang province, Vietnam

Best time to visit: October to November, March to April

Rice Fields in Northern Vietnam

Cruising on Ha Long Bay

8. Cruising through Ha Long Bay

The Halong Bay, a World Heritage Site, and its surrounding islets are popular among tourists who like water sports. Towering islets with its limestone pillars and small forest growth give this region an edgy and sporty feel.

Travelers can go for kayaking, or hop on to cruise for a sea adventure. Ha, Long Bay is connected to Hanoi via expressway.

Address: Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam

Best time to visit: October to December

Without a doubt, Vietnam is an exciting destination ideal for tourists looking for adventure. Here are some honorable mentions, which are also worth a visit:

• Canoeing in Dalat

• Hiking up the Marble Mountains In Da Nang

• Boating at Trang An In Ninh Binh