Vietnam's central region, renowned for its historical significance and natural beauty, is also a haven for trekking enthusiasts looking to explore less-traveled trails. While most blogs focus on popular destinations like Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, there are countless lesser-known trails in central Vietnam that offer a more intimate connection with nature and local culture.
Introduction
While popular destinations such as Hoi An and Hue often steal the show, the region also offers lesser-known trekking opportunities that are well worth exploring. In this blog post, we'll unveil the hidden gems of central Vietnam by showcasing unique trekking destinations not often featured in blogs. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of unspoilt nature and discover bush trails that will leave you breathless.
OUR TOP 5 TREKKING SITES IN CENTRAL VIETNAM
Hiking in Bach Ma National Park - Photo : Internet
1- Bach Ma National Park
Located around 40 km south of the city of
Hue, Bach Ma National Park is a haven for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. With its breathtaking mountain scenery, lush tropical forests and picturesque waterfalls, the park offers a multitude of trails for all levels. This hidden gem is home to diverse ecosystems, picturesque waterfalls and breathtaking panoramic views. As you explore the park's lush forests, you'll encounter rare wildlife, including the endangered langur douc. Bach Ma Peak, also known as Hai Vong Dai, rises to an altitude of almost 1,450 meters and offers panoramic views of the Annamite Mountains and the South China Sea.
Hiking ideas in Bach Ma National Park
✓ Bach Ma summit trail: a moderate 5 km trail that takes you to the summit of Bach Ma and its breathtaking panoramic view of the region.
✓ The Five Lakes Trail: This easy 2 km trail takes you to the park's five lakes, hidden gems in the heart of the forest.
✓ Do Quyen Waterfall Trail: This challenging 3 km trail takes you to the Do Quyen waterfall, one of the most beautiful in the park.
Bach Ma National Park - Practical info
✓ Best season: The best time to visit Bach Ma National Park is during the dry season, from March to May. During this period, temperatures are pleasant and the trails are dry.
✓ Accommodation: There are several accommodation options in the park, ranging from rustic lodges to more comfortable hotels. You can also camp in the park, but you must obtain a permit beforehand.
✓ How to get there: Situated between Hue and Da Lat, the park is easily accessible from both cities, either by bus or by private car, shared or otherwise.
Treking in Bach Ma National Park - Photo : Internet
2- Bidoup Nui Ba National Park
Located in the highlands of south-west Vietnam, not far from
Da Lat, Bidoup Nui Ba National Park is a veritable sanctuary for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse flora and fauna and well-maintained trails, the park offers a plethora of options for all levels of experience. Bidoup Nui Ba National Park is home to impressive biodiversity, with over 1,000 plant species and 300 documented bird species.
Hiking ideas in Bidoup National Park
✓ The Discovery Trail: an easy-to-access 3.5 km trail that winds through the forest and offers superb views of the surrounding valleys.
✓ The Cascades Trail: A moderate 6 km trail leading to three superb waterfalls: the Datanla, Elephant and Pongour cascades.
✓ The path of the Bidoup peak : For seasoned hikers, this 22 km trail takes you up to the summit of Bidoup (2,287 m above sea level); a daunting but rewarding challenge, where your efforts will be rewarded by breathtaking panoramas.
Bidoup National Park - Practical information
✓ I
deal season: The best time to visit Bidoup Nui Ba National Park is during the dry season, from October to April. Ideal window: December-April. Temperatures are milder and the trails are protected from slippery mud.
✓ Accommodation: The park offers a wide range of accommodation options, from rustic bungalows to campsites. You can also find hotels and guesthouses in nearby villages.
✓ How to get there: Bidoup Nui Ba National Park is located around 30 km from Dalat, so is easily accessible via National Road 27.
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Watch our video : Dalat Escapades
Exploring Paradise Cave - Photo : Mr Linh's adventures
3- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Famous for its breathtaking caves, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park also offers incredible trekking opportunities. With its mesmerizing karst landscapes, thousand-year-old caves and lush jungle, the park offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from short, easy strolls to more challenging multi-day treks.
Hiking ideas in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
✓ Phong Na Botanical Garden Loop: A moderate 4.1 km trail offering superb views of the jungle and Gio waterfall.
✓ Paradise Cave: A moderate 4.5 km hike to one of the park's largest caves, famous for its spectacular rock formations.
✓ Hang En Cave: A moderate hike of just over 4 km through virgin forest to a hidden cave with an underground river.
✓ Gio Waterfall - Diem Ngam Canh: An easy hike of less than 2 km, offering breathtaking views of Gio Waterfall and the surrounding valley.
For more experienced trekkers, the park also offers multi-day tours, such as the Phong Nha - Ke Bang trek, which traverses the jungle and reveals hidden caves and remote villages.
Phong Nha - Ke Bang - Practical info
✓ Best season: The best time to visit the park is during the dry season, from February to May. Temperatures are warm and sunny, and the trails are dry.
✓ Accommodation: The park offers a wide choice of accommodation, from rustic campsites to luxury hotels. There are also many homestays in the surrounding villages.
✓ How to get there: Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a 45-minute drive from the town of Dong Hoi. Flights connect the provincial capital with Hanoi and HCM-city. Cabs or private cars will take you to the park. There are also bus and train connections.
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Learn more about Phong Nha with our Phong Nha - Ke Bang highlights and travel guide
Hiking in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park - Photo : Mr Linh's adventure
4- Quang Binh province
Quang Binh province may not be as famous as other tourist hotspots, but it's a hidden gem for nature and adventure lovers. The province is renowned for its spectacular caves, such as the world-famous Son Doong Cave. However, Quang Binh has much more to offer than its caves, splendid though they are. Trekking enthusiasts can explore the lush jungles and karst landscapes of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which extends into Quang Binh. They can also follow the Ho Chi Minh trail, which crosses the park and features a variety of landscapes and authentic villages.
But beyond the national park, Quang Binh province also has other hiking trails for you to explore.
Hiking ideas in Quang Binh province
✓ Truong Son Mountains: This mountain range, also known as the Annamite Cordillera, runs through Quang Binh province. The Truong Son Mountains offer hiking opportunities for experienced hikers looking to take on greater challenges and explore unspoilt mountain landscapes.
✓ Quang Trach and Bai Chuoi beach: This region offers magnificent beaches and opportunities for authentic cultural experiences, including the peaceful and serene Bai Chuoi beach, where you can enjoy the tranquil ambience and soothing waves.
✓ Discover the countryside and picturesque landscapes on foot or by bike along local trails, perfect for nature lovers.
✓ Pu Luong Nature Reserve: This reserve lies on the border between the provinces of Quang Binh and Thanh Hoa. It is famous for its spectacular mountain scenery and rice terraces. Hiking trails take you past traditional villages, waterfalls and picturesque valleys.
Quang Binh - Practical information
✓ Best season: The dry season, from April to August, is the best time for hiking in Quang Binh. Temperatures are pleasant and the risk of rain is low.
✓ Accommodation: All types of accommodation are available in the province, from luxury hotels to inexpensive guesthouses. Many villages also offer homestays, a unique way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
✓ How to get there: Dong Hoi airport is the main access point to Quang Binh province. From here, buses and cabs connect the various towns and villages.
Trekking in the jungle of Pu Mat National Park - Photo : Mr Linh's adventure
5- Pu Mat National Park
Nestled in the border region of Nghe An and Ha Tinh provinces, Pu Mat National Park presents itself as a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed by many travellers. Spanning 911 square kilometers, this natural gem is home to an astonishing variety of landscapes, from lush jungles to rugged mountains, as well as breathtaking waterfalls and enigmatic caves, offering a unique trekking experience off the beaten track.
Hiking ideas in Pu Mat National Park
✓ Khe Kem Waterfall Circuit: This is a moderate circuit of around 8 kilometers (4 to 5 hours' walk) that leads to the superb Khe Kem Waterfall, offering breathtaking scenery and a refreshing experience. You'll cross forest trails, streams and wooden bridges.
✓ Pu Mat Mountain Circuit: A challenging 15-kilometer circuit, rewarded by spectacular views from the summit.
✓ Lung Lanh Valley Circuit: A moderate hike of around 12 kilometers through the magnificent Lung Lanh Valley, where you can admire a preserved and diverse natural environment. The trail winds through lush forests, rice terraces and picturesque villages.
Pu Mat National Park - Practical information
✓ Best season: The ideal time to visit Pu Mat National Park is from January to April and July to December, when temperatures are pleasant and rain less frequent.
✓ Accommodation: A variety of accommodation options are available in the park, ranging from rustic campsites to comfortable bungalows. It is also possible to stay in nearby ethnic villages.
✓ How to get there: Pu Mat National Park is accessible by road from the town of Vinh, whose small airport regularly handles flights from Hanoi (55-minute journey). Alternatively, you can get there at an affordable price by bus, leaving from the Nuoc Ngam bus station, which takes just under 5 hours.
Our customers ready for trekking ! Photo : Mr Linh's adventure (customer)
Preparing for trekking
It is advisable to be accompanied by an experienced local guide when trekking or hiking. What's more, before embarking on a trekking adventure, it's essential to be properly prepared:
- ♦ Research: Gather information on weather conditions, terrain and cultural features of the region.
- ♦ Equip: Invest in quality hiking gear, including waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear.
- ♦ Prevent: Prepare a first-aid kit and make sure you're in good physical condition.
- ♦ Preserve: Adhere to "Leave No Trace" principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
► Do not forget to read our Hiking Travel Guide !
Conclusion
The hidden gem of Central Vietnam is a treasure trove of wilderness, authentic cultural immersion and off-the-beaten-track adventures. From the wilderness of Bach Ma National Park to the authentic cultural experiences of Pu Mat province, these lesser-known destinations offer the chance to explore the region's diverse landscapes and connect with its local heritage.
Dare to venture beyond the typical tourist spots, let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of central Vietnam, and create unforgettable memories on these hidden hiking trails.
We wish you happy exploring!