The best ecotourism experiences in Vietnam

Taking a bike ride through the natural landscapes of Vietnam is one of the many ways to practice ecotourism on your next visit here.

Ecotourism is growing in Vietnam as visitors are increasingly concerned with minimizing their impact on the beautiful lands they pass through. Do you fancy an adventure that respects the planet? Here are the best ecotourism experiences in the country.

1. Navigating along the Ngo Dong River in Ninh Binh

Travellers visiting Tam Coc-Bich Dong will be amazed by the caves of Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba on the Ngo Dong River in the Ninh Binh province. Bich Dong refers to a magnificent complex of pagodas built in the 15th century. This area is a Unesco World Heritage Site and will take your breath away with its limestone mountains, lazy rivers, serene rice paddies, and brilliant blue skies. The stunning natural beauty makes this area a top eco-destination in Vietnam.

>> Read more: Visit Tam Coc Ninh Binh in 2 or 3 days, what to see and do?

2. Trekking in Cat Tien National Park

This national park is about 150 km from Ho Chi Minh City, making it an easy weekend getaway from the big city. Here you will see lots of wildlife - including poisonous snakes, so watch out for those trails and huge old trees. The humid air is fragrant with the scent of more than 100 species of orchids growing in the forest. This park has been named Vietnam's sixth World Biosphere Reserve and the tour guides aim to increase environmental awareness with each guided hike.

3. Boating on Ba Be Lake

This beautiful lake is the largest in Vietnam. Nestled in the middle of the mountains, Ba Be Lake is located Northeast of Hanoi. Early morning boat trips can take you out onto the gentle waters to watch the mist lift or you can watch a romantic sunset in the evening.

>> Read more: Ba Be Lake, a green jewel in North Vietnam

4. Visiting Cuc Phuong National Park

Another glorious destination in Northern Vietnam, Cuc Phuong National Park lies 120 km Southwest of Hanoi. Here you will see thousand-year-old trees, lush forests, ancient caves, and small lakes - it is a wonder to behold.

>> Read more: Cuc Phuong national park to visit in Ninh Binh

5. Cycling in Mai Chau town

This enchanting city is perfect for anyone looking for an authentic local experience in Vietnam. Similar to the personalized homestays in Sa Pa, the people of Mai Chau offers lovely homestays and the opportunity to experience local culture and cuisine. Traditional music performances are also organized in the evening by the locals.

>> Read more: The wild getaway in the peaceful Mai Chau Valley

6. Hiking through Ha Giang

Ha Giang province borders China in Northern Vietnam. This remote location is perfect if you are looking for a multi-day trekking experience. Treks through Ha Giang last from five to 13 days and routes include visiting rice terraces, limestone karsts, and visiting minority villages. The view from Ma Pi Leng Pass is surreal.

>> Read more: Visit Ha Giang in 3, 4 or 5 days, what to see and do?

7. Cycling and trekking tours in Sapa

While Phanxipan is a little daunting, you can easily spend several days visiting Sapa, widely known as one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam. The city is largely made up of ethnic minorities such as the H'Mong, Tay, and Dao.

Phanxipan is also known as the roof of Indochina for being the highest mountain in the region at 3,143m. This trek is not for the faint-hearted as it is a tough climb, but the views at the top are stunning. Throughout the climb, you will encounter beautiful flower fields, lush tropical forests, and bamboo bushes. Treks normally take three days from Hanoi, and many include a stopover in Sapa. If rock climbing isn't for you, take the cable car - but beware of the mass of other climbers at the top. Departing from Hanoi, this two-day trek takes you up the mountain through the jungle and is led by local H'Mong guides.

>> Read more: What to do in Sapa in 2 or 3 days?

8. Biking in the Mekong Delta

These multi-day tours begin in Ho Chi Minh City in the South, a bustling metropolis with a population of nearly 9 million. Watching the city fade into the distance as you pedal through beautiful natural surroundings is an incredible sight in itself. Whether you choose to visit for one day or more, you'll pass through sugar cane fields, banana plantations, narrow country roads, and canals. It's the perfect getaway from the big city for anyone who loves bikes.

9. Eco-adventures in Cao Bang

Cao Bang is a remote area in Northern Vietnam, offering more spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, rice terraces, and rivers. Cao Bang Park has been recognized by Unesco for its historical importance and geological heritage. Pure air, local culture, and remarkable landscapes await the eco-traveller. Many multi-day tours from Hanoi will take you to Cao Bang and other mountain towns such as Dong Van and Tam Son, as well as an abundance of scenic waterfalls, hidden caves, and pristine lakes.

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