A country with many rivers, lakes, and marine and island resources, Vietnam is very strong in the development of tourism with water sports: sea paragliding, scuba diving... and especially kayaking.

Tu San Gorge (Ha Giang)
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Quang Binh)
Halong Bay (Quang Ninh)
Han River (Danang)
Phu Quoc Island (Kien Giang)

1. Tu San Gorge (Ha Giang)

Before, conquerors of the rocky plateau of Dong Van could only stand on Ma Pi Leng Pass to gaze at the bright green Nho Que River at the foot of the mountain. Right now, the river in Tu San Gorge has become one of the "best" places for kayaking in Vietnam with an unforgettable poetic landscape.

>> Read more: Ma Pi Leng Pass, the biggest challenge on the Dong Van plateau

The Nho Que River flows into Vietnam in the territory of Seo Lung village, Lung Cu commune of Dong Van district, then crosses the Tu San gorge and flows along the Ma Pi Leng pass. Tu San is known as the deepest river gorge in Southeast Asia with an altitude of 1,500 m and a depth of 700-900 m.

However, it is not easy to get to the boat dock on the Nho Que River. From Ma Pi Leng pass, follow towards Meo Vac until the sign says Xin Cai, continue about 5-7 km, and you will see Nho Que Wharf 1. You need to walk about another 2 km to get off at the wharf near the river and rent a kayak for about 50,000 VND (1.8$), then paddle at your leisure in this area.

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

2. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Quang Binh)

The Phong Nha-Ke Bang world natural heritage has become a favourite kayaking destination for domestic and international tourists in recent years. With a landform including majestic caves, clear blue rivers, streams, magnificent mountains, and forests, this place is ideal for visitors to relax in a boat, enjoying glorious landscapes that nature has favoured for the land of Quang Binh.

>> Read more: Top 10 things to do in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

For kayaking, visitors generally have two options. One is the journey on the Son River - a poetic and peaceful branch of the Gianh River in Quang Binh Province. On two sides of the river are villages nestled in the majestic mountains. While rowing quietly on the river, you can contemplate the spectacular hilly mountains.

The second option is to explore part of the Phong Nha cave. It is the largest wet cave in the world with an extensive underground river system and thousands of stalactites of all shapes and sizes.

Visitors will be able to kayak in the depths of the cave and feel the cool air emanating from the cave and the steam. With a self-guided exploration program, you can stop at Bi Ky Cave to take in the scenery or anchor a boat on the sandy beaches, laid back, and take in the beauty of the cave.

On average, the price of a kayak is around 100,000 VND ($3.6)/hour for 2 people. When navigating Phong Nha Cave, you should equip yourself with an extra flashlight to easily see the beautiful stalactite system inside and wear discreet clothing against the many insects living in the cave.

3. Halong Bay (Quang Ninh)

As one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, Halong Bay has long been a favourite destination. You can take a boat to visit the bay, swim or explore the caves. But the most interesting thing is kayaking, which glides through islands of all sorts of interesting shapes on the bay.

Halong Bay has long been chosen by foreign tourists as one of the most beautiful kayaking destinations in Vietnam thanks to its cool climate and majestic poetic landscape. Visitors are free to steer their small boats out to the wider seas. Or if you are fond of cave exploration, Luon, Co, Ba Trai Dao, Dau Be, and Ba Ham caves are suitable places for kayaking enthusiasts.

The feeling of sitting on small boats and then gently surfing the calm water to enjoy the beauty of the limestone mountains up close must be an unforgettable experience.

>> Read more: 27 Best things to do in Halong Bay, Vietnam

In addition to beautiful caves, visitors can also spend time discovering the villages and the life of the fishermen in the region. For each kayak, you will pay a rental fee of 50,000 VND ($1.8) for 2 people.

4. Han River (Danang)

The poetic Han River has become the symbol of Danang City, the most liveable city in Vietnam. You can not only enjoy its beautiful landscape from the shore but also kayak on the river, watching the sunset over the city from a different angle.

>> Read more: What to do and see in 1 or 2 days in Da Nang?

If the vast sea brings a wild feeling, while surfing the Han River, you will see a modern and vibrant city. Especially when it is late afternoon, the sunset gradually falls on the horizon, the city begins to sparkle with coloured lights.

It can be said that the Han River is one of the special places for kayaking that should not be missed. With the route starting from the Dragon Bridge to the Han River Bridge and then turning around, you will fully enjoy the beauty of the Danang River and the dynamic and modern life on both sides. The fee for one person is 100,000 VND (about $3.6).

5. Phu Quoc Island (Kien Giang)

This tourist paradise is favoured by nature with pristine islands, a clear blue sea to the endless stretches of white sands. Despite many fascinating marine experiences, don't forget to spend a few hours kayaking on the sparkling waves of Phu Quoc.

On this island, there are many attractive kayaking spots, among which Sao Beach (Bai Sao) and Cua Can River are favourite choices for many tourists. Bai Sao with its calm sea and cool breeze is a place where you can relax. You can also choose to lay in the sun and have a great vacation.

>> Read more: Travel story at Bai Sao, the star of the beaches at Phu Quoc Island

If you like kayaking on the river, then Cua Can is a very good suggestion. Located in the Phu Quoc rainforest, the water of this meandering river is clean and clear, so you can watch schools of fish swimming around. On two sides of the river are gardens, and fishing villages resting peacefully in the sun, painting a beautiful picture.

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