Vietnam, a true mosaic of landscapes and cultures, is a prime location for photographers. From the mountains of the North to the meandering paths of the South, each region offers a unique visual symphony, a history waiting to be captured.
The North: The Mountainous Soul
Northern Vietnam, with its rugged mountains, terraced rice fields sculpted on hillsides, and lively markets where ethnic minorities don their traditional costumes, is a paradise for landscape and portrait photographers.
Spectacular landscapes of Ha Giang province - Mr Linh's Adventures
Hanoi, the capital, is the perfect starting point to explore the wonders of the North. From there, the mountainous provinces of Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, and Hoang Su Phi will reveal their terraced rice fields, natural masterpieces, particularly spectacular in September-October, when the autumn colors ignite the landscapes.
Ba Be National Park, with its majestic lake surrounded by karst mountains, is an excellent setting for landscape photography. Ban Gioc Falls, on the Sino-Vietnamese border, are among the most impressive in Southeast Asia. These 30-meter-high waterfalls, stretching 300 meters wide, offer a striking natural spectacle, especially during the rainy season (May-September).
Bac Ha Market is a true festival of colors and cultures, where you can capture authentic life scenes. If you are passionate about portraits, the Khau Vai Love Market Festival (May 13, 2026) is a unique opportunity to photograph couples in traditional costumes.
Lan Ha Bay,serene sister of Ha Long Bay - Mr Linh's Adventures
Halong Bay is a must-see, but if you prefer a more intimate experience, the less crowded
Lan Ha Bay will offer equally spectacular karst landscapes. You can also visit
Cat Ba Island, which combines wild nature and traditional maritime life.
The Center: Between History and Nature
Central Vietnam is a subtle blend of history and nature.
Hoi An, the ancient port city, will transport you back in time with its colorful lanterns and picturesque alleys. In the evening, the city lights up, offering magical night scenes where lights reflect in the waters of the Thu Bon River.
A short distance from Hoi An, the
My Son Sanctuary bears witness to the past grandeur of the Cham Empire. This
UNESCO World Heritage site, particularly atmospheric at dawn, offers unique compositions combining ancient architecture and lush nature. For optimal shooting conditions, prefer an early morning visit (opens at 6:30 a.m.), when the morning mist still envelops the temples.
Hai Van Pass, or the Clouds Pass, offers breathtaking panoramas of the coast, with the sea on one side and the mountains on the other.
Street in Hoi An's ancient town - Mr Linh's Adventures Team
The ancient imperial city of Hue, with its Forbidden Purple City and royal tombs, is an open-air history book. Photographers will particularly appreciate the play of light in the pavilions of the Imperial City at sunrise, as well as the reflections on the Perfume River at dusk. The Thien Mu Pagoda offers striking perspectives, especially during the blue hour.
In
Gia Lai province,
villages of the Bahnar, Jrai, and Sedang ethnic groups perpetuate age-old traditions. The communal houses (nha rong) with characteristic roofs are remarkable photographic subjects. For an authentic experience, visit the villages of Plei Phun or Kong Chro, where you can capture ancestral daily rituals and traditional ceremonies. It is recommended to be accompanied by a local guide and to obtain the necessary permissions before photographing the residents.
Phong Nha National Park is home to the legendary Son Doong Cave, a nature gem that will delight photographers passionate about underground photography. Note that reservations are mandatory several months in advance!
The South: Contrasts and ColorsSouthern Vietnam is a land of contrasts, where the red sand dunes of Mui Ne border the Mekong Delta, a labyrinth of canals and rice fields.
Phu Quoc Island, wild and peacefull - Mr Linh's Adventures
The red and white sand dunes of Mui Ne are particularly photogenic at sunrise and sunset, when colors soften and shadows lengthen.
The Mekong Delta is a world apart, where river life sets the pace. The floating markets of Cai Rang and Phong Dien are must-visit places to capture the hustle and bustle of local life. If you have the chance to visit An Giang province in October-December, you can admire the blooming water lilies, a unique spectacle.
Phu Quoc Island, with its white sandy beaches and vibrant sunsets, offers a striking contrast with the rest of the South. Photographers will find joy in scenes of traditional fishing in the early morning, pepper plantations, and flourishing marine life. The night market of Duong Dong allows you to capture the liveliness of local life under unique lighting.
When to Travel to Vietnam: Photographer's Guide
Ban Gioc waterfall, Cao Bang province - Mr Linh's Adventures
The North
- September-October: Verdant or golden terraced rice fields (Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai).
- October-November: Optimal conditions for terraced rice fields (Ha Giang and Mu Cang Chai).
- December-March: Clear skies and mild temperatures, ideal for urban photography in Hanoi.
- March-April: Plum and peach blossoms in the mountains.
- May: Khau Vai Love Market Festival.
- To avoid: June-August (heavy rains) and February (persistent fog).
Paradise cave, Phong Nha-Ke Bang - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Center
- February-April: Optimal conditions, dry and sunny weather.
- January-February: Tet (Lunar New Year) period, decorations and festivities.
- March-April: Best visibility for Phong Nha caves.
- May: Lantern Festival in Hoi An (14th day of each lunar month).
- July-August: Traditional festivals in Hue.
- To avoid: October-November (typhoon risks and heavy rains).
Sunset over Mui Ne - Mr Linh's Adventures
The South
- December-February: Dry season, ideal for the Mekong Delta.
- November-January: Best period for Phu Quoc.
- October-December: Water lily bloom in An Giang province.
- February-May: Optimal conditions for Mui Ne dunes.
- April: Celestial Lady Temple Festival in Can Tho.
- To avoid: May-September (rainy season with daily showers).
Mr. Linh's Tips
Dry season (November-April): Predictable light, better visibility, ideal for street photography. Prepare dust protection equipment.
Rainy season (May-October): Unique opportunities for atmospheric photos, lush landscapes. Waterproof protection is essential. Prefer the hours following rains for dramatic light.
Hmong women, Bac Ha Market - Mr Linh's Adventures
Vietnam: A Photographic Love Affair
An exceptional destination in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is also an unforgettable photographic experience. From grand landscapes to authentic life scenes, through cultural and historical treasures, every moment is an invitation to creativity. So, prepare your camera, let yourself be enchanted by the magic of Vietnam, and bring back images that will make you relive this unique adventure with every glance.