Modern Vietnam is a million miles from its war-torn past.
Jungle-cloaked hills that once shook with the sound of combat are now the serene setting for adventurous hikes to remote villages, lofty lookouts, tumbling waterfalls, and the summit of Indochina’s highest mountain. With plenty of local guides and trekking agencies on hand to assist you along the trails, all you really need to do is pick a route—and set out.
Many of Vietnam’s top hikes are best attempted with local support. The tropical terrain can be challenging, the weather can be unpredictable, and local guides are essential for arranging meals and accommodation in hill-tribe communities. By combining a trek with a village homestay, travelers can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the captivating culture that first put Vietnam on the travel map.
With its towering topography, the mountainous north of the country offers the best trekking opportunities, but there are routes all over the country, from the Chinese border to the lowland jungles near Ho Chi Minh City. Here’s our pick of the top treks in Vietnam.
1. Cultural Treks from Sapa
Easiest hikes for beginners
Distances vary, 1–2 days, easy
Hill-tribe treks from Sapa are a core part of the tourist experience in northern Vietnam, and hiking here is increasingly popular. However, there are still rewarding experiences to be had if you go with a guide who speaks the languages of local minority groups, allowing for a deeper connection with the diverse communities in the region.
Expect not to stray too far from the beaten path—most popular villages have entry fees, souvenir shops, and a business-like approach to tourism. Prefer treks to Sin Chai, Cat Cat, Ban Ho, and Y Linh Ho, which lead to less crowded areas. For a more authentic experience, consider an overnight trek with a local homestay, or explore more remote locations such as Bac Ha or Ba Be National Park.
2. Tribal Treks Around Bac Ha
Best treks for tribal encounters
7–10km (4–6 miles), 1–3 days, easy to moderate
Bac Ha, a charmingly unspoiled hub for hikes to villages of 11 tribal groups, remains a mystery as a trekking base. To experience local life more authentically, go with a local guide and stay overnight in villages nestled among the emerald hills.
For an easy day hike, try the 8km (5-mile) trek through the Flower Hmong village of Thai Giang Pho to the Tay village of Na Lo. For a great overnight route, tackle the 10km (6.2-mile) hike through rice paddies and misty hills to the Dzao villages of Nam Det and Nam Khanh. Aim to return to Bac Ha by the weekend to experience local markets showcasing tribal culture.
3. Fansipan
Best mountain trek
9–20km (5.5–12.5miles), 1–3 days, moderate to difficult
Standing at 3147m (10,326ft), Fansipan, Vietnam’s highest mountain, presents a satisfying challenge. Though the paths are rugged and frequent rain can make conditions slippery, the breathtaking views across the Tonkinese Alps are rewarding.
The summit is most easily accessed from the Tram Ton pass, with local buses available from Sapa. More challenging trails begin from the villages of Cat Cat and Sin Chai, often requiring camping for one or two nights. Guides are mandatory for safety in this rugged terrain, though some may attempt the trek solo. Completing the ascent in a day is possible but taking two or three days allows for a more enjoyable journey.
4. Ba Be National Park
Best treks for escaping the crowds
Distances vary, from 1 day, moderate
Ba Be National Park offers a treasure trove of what the Vietnamese highlands have to offer: limestone peaks, misty valleys, and diverse wildlife, all intertwined with vibrant local culture. Best of all, Ba Be remains largely undiscovered, providing an authentic trekking experience.
These treks offer a deep dive into mountain culture, complemented by visits to dramatic waterfalls and explorations of tortuous cave systems. Homestays overlooking tranquil lakes make for unforgettable overnight experiences.
5. Cat Ba National Park
Best island adventure trek
Distances vary, 1–2 days, moderate
The scenery in Cat Ba National Park is characterized by vibrant greens and diverse habitats. This breathtaking landscape is best explored on foot, starting from the park headquarters at Trung Trang. Hiring a guide isn’t obligatory, but they can enhance your experience by helping you spot rare wildlife.
The “easy” route is a short, strenuous hike to Ngu Lam peak, while the more challenging 9km (5.5-mile) trek across the park leads to the picturesque fishing village of Viet Hai, a great place to experience local hospitality. Cat Ba is also an ideal destination for climbing, with numerous operators offering guided trips.
6. Cat Tien National Park
Best trek in southern Vietnam
2–26km (1.2–16 miles), 1–3 days, moderate to difficult
Often overlooked, the south of Vietnam holds exceptional trekking opportunities. Cat Tien National Park spans 72,000 hectares (177,916 acres) of lowland tropical rainforest, teeming with rich biodiversity.
Guides can be arranged through local lodges for treks, including the popular half-day hike in search of golden-cheeked gibbons during their early morning vocalizations. Visiting the Dao Tien Endangered Primate Species Centre enhances the primate encounter experience and contributes to conservation efforts.
7. Mai Chau Villages
Best easy hikes near Hanoi
5–18km (3–11 miles), 1–2 days, easy
Located just 135km (84 miles) southwest of Hanoi, the township of Mai Chau is surrounded by verdant rice fields, offering scenic yet accessible hiking trails. The White Thai villages are known for their colorful textiles, showcasing local craftsmanship.
For an ideal hike, consider the 18km (11-mile) trek from Ban Lac village to Xa Linh village, where a local guide can assist with navigation along the slippery trails. Arranging transportation for your return is necessary, and visiting during the week can help you avoid weekend crowds.
8. Cao Bang
Best off-the-beaten-track treks
Distances and durations vary, moderate to difficult
Tucked away near the Chinese border in the far northeast of Vietnam, Cao Bang is a destination for discovering rural communities untouched by mass tourism. Trekking with a guide and opting for village homestays ensure that your travel dollars benefit the local economy.
While easy strolls to attractions like Ban Gioc Waterfall and Nguom Ngao Cave are accessible, effective exploration of outlying villages calls for local support. Most treks here span multiple days, requiring guides to facilitate overnight arrangements.
