The 6 best ecotourism experiences in Vietnam

Literally meaning “three caves”, travelers visiting Tam Cốc-Bích Động will be stunned by the Hang Cả, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba caves that are situated on the Ngô Đồng River in northern Ninh Bình province. Bích Động refers to a beautiful pagoda complex built in the fifteenth century. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and will take your breath away with its limestone mountains, lazy rivers, serene rice fields and bright blue skies. The gorgeous natural beauty makes this area a top destination in Vietnam.

Photo: Thảo Mon

This stunning national park is approximately 150 km. from Ho Chi Minh City making it an easy weekend getaway from the big city. Here you will see many species of tropical birds, wildlife (including poisonous snakes – watch those trails!), and enormous, ancient trees. The humid air is perfumed with the scent of over 100 species of orchids growing in the forest. This park was named Vietnam’s 6th World Biosphere Reserve and tour guides aim to increase environmental awareness with every guided trek.

Photo: Sina Abasnejad

Phan Xi Păng, often Anglicized as Fansipan, is also known as “the Roof of Indochina” for being the tallest mountain in the region at 3,143 meters. This trek is not for the faint of hearted as it’s a challenging ascent, but the summit views are brilliant. Throughout the climb you’ll encounter fields of gorgeous flowers, lush rainforests and bamboo bushes. Treks normally take three days, leaving from Hanoi, and many include a stopover in lovely Sa Pa. If climbing isn’t for you, buy a $22 USD ticket and ride the cable car but beware of the mass of fellow riders at the summit!

Photo: vietnamcoracle

If Phan Xi Păng is a little too daunting, you can easily spend several days touring Sapa, widely known as one of the most beautiful locations in Vietnam. The town is largely made up of ethnic minorities such as the H’Mong, Tay and Dao peoples. 

Photo: sapatoursfromhanoi

Ha Giang province borders China in northern Vietnam. This remote, stunning location is perfect for travelers seeking a multi-day trekking experience. Trekking tours through Ha Giang range from 5-13 days and itineraries include touring breathtaking rice terraces, limestone karsts, and visiting minority villages. The view from the province’s Ma Pi Leng Pass is surreal. Trekking Ha Giang offers an excellent selection of tour packages, from quick hikes to two-week adventures. Note that the price depends on tour length and group size.

Photo: Thoai

Cao Bang is a remote area in the north of Vietnam offering more spectacular views of surrounding mountains, waterfalls, rice terraces, and rivers. Cao Bang Geopark was recently recognized by UNESCO for its historic significance and geological heritage. Fresh air, local culture, and remarkable scenery await the eco-minded traveler in Cao Bang. 

There are numerous companies offering eco-tours in Vietnam but you should still always be mindful of maintaining Vietnam’s natural beauty. As always, take only pictures and leave only footprints!

Photo: Bích Phương

Source Theculturetrip