Nature in Vietnam is incredibly diverse and beautiful, making it a top destination for nature lovers. The country’s long, narrow shape stretches from the lush, mountainous north to the fertile plains of the south, encompassing a wide range of climates and landscapes. From breathtaking mountains and terraced rice fields to dense jungles and expansive wetlands, Vietnam’s natural beauty is truly remarkable.
- Types of nature in Vietnam
- Challenges facing nature in Vietnam
- National Parks in Vietnam
- Best nature in Vietnam
- Dong Van Karst Plateau
- Phong Nha National Park
- Halong Bay
- Pu Luong Nature Reserve
- Ban Gioc Waterfall
- Muong Hoa Valley
- Con Dao Islands
- Yok Don National Park
- Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
- Cuc Phuong National Park
- Ba Be Lake
- Tram Chim National Park
- Phu Quoc Island
- Hai Van Pass
- Pu Mat National Park
- Bidoup National Park
- Cat Tien National Park
Types of nature in Vietnam
Vietnam’s nature is as varied as its geography. In the north, you’ll find towering mountains and stunning terraced rice fields. Central Vietnam boasts lush jungles, pristine beaches, and unique coastal landscapes. In the south, the expansive wetlands of the Mekong Delta and tropical forests create a rich and diverse ecosystem. This variety offers a unique experience in each region, making Vietnam a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Challenges facing nature in Vietnam
Deforestation in Vietnam
Vietnam once had vast forests covering much of the country. However, deforestation has significantly reduced these areas, primarily due to logging and the conversion of land for plantations such as rubber and coffee. This deforestation has led to habitat loss and environmental degradation, posing a severe threat to the country’s biodiversity. While efforts are underway to reforest and protect remaining areas, deforestation remains a pressing concern for Vietnam’s natural heritage.
Wildlife in Vietnam
Vietnam is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including species like tigers, elephants, and various primates. However, many of these animals are now endangered due to habitat loss and hunting. Traditional beliefs and superstitions also contribute to the decline in wildlife, with some animals being hunted for their supposed medicinal properties. Conservation efforts are critical to protecting Vietnam’s unique fauna.
National Parks in Vietnam
To combat deforestation and protect wildlife, Vietnam has established numerous national parks. This initiative was championed by Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam’s most famous leader, who recognized the importance of conservation early on. Cuc Phuong National Park, the country’s first national park, stands as a testament to these efforts. Today, Vietnam’s national parks are crucial for preserving its natural heritage and biodiversity.
Read more about: National Parks in Vietnam.
Best nature in Vietnam
Vietnam boasts some of the best natural landscapes in Southeast Asia. From stunning rice terraces and majestic mountains to serene beaches and dense jungles, the best nature in Vietnam offers something for every type of traveler. Here are the top 15 beautiful and unspoiled places to explore:
1. Dong Van Karst Plateau (Ha Giang)
Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Global Geopark, boasts some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in Vietnam. The area is renowned for its dramatic karst formations, deep valleys, and winding roads that offer breathtaking views at every turn. In addition to the remarkable scenery, the plateau is home to unique cultures of ethnic minorities who have lived in harmony with this rugged environment for centuries.
The best way to explore the Dong Van Karst Plateau is by embarking on the Ha Giang Loop, a route that takes you through all the key areas of this incredible landscape. The loop can be done by motorbike—either self-driving or riding on the back—or by car. This journey typically takes at least three days and provides ample opportunities to immerse yourself in both the natural beauty and cultural richness of Ha Giang.
2. Phong Nha National Park (Quang Binh)
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the largest national park in Vietnam and a paradise for nature lovers. This park is famous for its dense jungles, which look like they’ve been plucked straight out of a movie. The park is also home to an extensive cave system, including Hang Son Doong, the world’s largest cave, as well as hundreds of other spectacular caves.
When visiting Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, you can engage in a range of activities to explore its natural wonders. From easy jungle walks and well-lit cave tours to more challenging jungle treks and caving expeditions that involve swimming in underground rivers and abseiling, there is something for everyone. For the more adventurous, multi-day trips are available, allowing for camping deep in the jungle or even inside a cave, making it a prime destination for those who want to experience the best nature in Vietnam.
3. Halong Bay
Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders, known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. The bay’s unique landscape has earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list and makes it a must-see for any visitor to Vietnam.
The best way to experience Halong Bay is by taking a cruise. While day cruises are available, a multi-day cruise allows you to fully appreciate the bay’s beauty, with the option to sleep on board. Alternatively, you can take a scenic flight by seaplane for a bird’s-eye view.
However, Halong Bay is heavily touristed, so consider visiting Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay instead. These neighboring areas offer similar stunning landscapes but with fewer tourists, providing a more peaceful experience. Lan Ha Bay can also be combined with a visit to Cat Ba Island for trekking and cycling adventures.
4. Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Thanh Hoa)
Pu Luong Nature Reserve is a hidden gem in Thanh Hoa, offering a fairy tale landscape of terraced rice fields, lush jungles, mountains, streams, and small ethnic villages. This reserve is a perfect escape for those looking to experience Vietnam’s nature at its finest without the crowds found in more popular destinations.
The local government has made efforts to control development in Pu Luong, ensuring it remains relatively untouched. Visitors can stay in stunning lodges with pools overlooking the rice fields and jungle landscapes. Trekking is a popular activity here, though the routes are not as extensive as in Sapa. Nevertheless, the trails offer equally breathtaking scenery, making Pu Luong an excellent destination for nature lovers.
5. Ban Gioc Waterfall (Cao Bang)
Ban Gioc Waterfall, located on the border between Vietnam and China in Cao Bang Province, is one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural wonders. The waterfall cascades down multiple tiers, creating a stunning sight and making it the most beautiful waterfall in the country.
Cao Bang offers much more than just Ban Gioc Waterfall. The region is known for its untouched landscapes and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Exploring the Phong Nam Valley, Angel Eye Mountain, and the Bao Lac area reveals some of the best nature in Vietnam. This area remains largely undiscovered by tourists, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
6. Muong Hoa Valley (Sapa)
Muong Hoa Valley is a breathtaking destination in Sapa, known for its stunning terraced rice fields, the majestic mountains of Hoang Lien Son National Park, and picturesque waterfalls. The valley is traversed by a stream that winds through lush greenery and ethnic villages, making it a must-see for many travelers seeking the best nature in Vietnam.
While Sapa town itself may be overly developed, Muong Hoa Valley remains an incredible place to explore. The best way to experience this area is by embarking on a trekking in Sapa adventure through the valley. A one-day trek offers plenty of sights, but a multi-day trek allows you to go further off the beaten track, encountering fewer tourists. The highlight is an overnight stay at a homestay with an ethnic family, where you can immerse yourself in local culture, enjoy a family dinner, and drink rice wine. The accommodations are basic, but the experience is unforgettable.
7. Con Dao Islands
The Con Dao Islands are a unique nature destination in Vietnam, renowned for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests. This archipelago, located off the southern coast, offers an unspoiled paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Island hopping is a popular activity here, allowing visitors to explore the diverse ecosystems of each island. One of the most remarkable experiences is participating in a turtle tour, where you can watch turtles lay eggs on the beach. This conservation effort highlights the islands’ commitment to protecting their natural wildlife and providing visitors with a truly special encounter with Vietnam’s nature.
8. Yok Don National Park (Dak Lak)
Yok Don National Park, the second largest national park in Vietnam, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to a variety of animals, although many are difficult to spot. Visitors can hike through the park’s dense forests and take boat trips along the river to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.
Yok Don is particularly famous for its ethical elephant tours. The park is home to wild elephants, which are rare and dangerous to encounter, as well as rescued elephants from the tourism and logging industries. These elephants are now free to roam the park, accompanied by their mahouts for protection. This guarantees visitors a chance to see elephants in their natural habitat, providing a unique and responsible way to experience Vietnam’s wildlife.
9. Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (Ninh Binh)
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Ninh Binh, celebrated for its stunning karst landscapes, lush greenery, and serene waterways. This area, often referred to as the “Halong Bay on land,” features dramatic limestone cliffs and scenic valleys that create a picturesque setting.
The best way to explore Trang An is by taking a boat tour along the network of rivers and caves. Several routes are available, each offering a different perspective of the landscape. As you glide through the water, you’ll pass through dark caves, lush forests, and ancient temples, making for an unforgettable experience of Vietnam’s nature.
10. Cuc Phuong National Park (Ninh Binh)
Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s first national park, is a significant conservation area known for its rich biodiversity and lush jungles. The park is home to numerous plant and animal species, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts.
Cuc Phuong can be explored in a half-day or full-day trip. For those short on time, a half-day visit is ideal, as it allows you to combine it with other nearby attractions like Trang An. Within the national park, you can explore the jungle by walking, cycling, or kayaking on the lake. This variety of activities provides a comprehensive experience of Vietnam’s natural beauty and the park’s unique ecosystems.
11. Ba Be Lake
Ba Be Lake is the largest natural lake in Vietnam, nestled within the jungles of Ba Be National Park. This secluded spot offers unspoiled nature, with no cities or towns nearby to disrupt the tranquil environment. The lake’s serene beauty and the surrounding lush greenery make it a remarkable destination for nature enthusiasts.
Visitors to Ba Be Lake can enjoy various activities such as boat tours over the pristine waters, visiting ethnic villages, exploring a stunning waterfall, and discovering a massive cave opening. For the adventurous, jungle trekking and cave treks that involve swimming provide thrilling experiences. While not as extreme as the caving adventures in Phong Nha, these activities still offer a lot of fun and excitement.
12. Tram Chim National Park (Mekong Delta)
Tram Chim National Park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers in the Mekong Delta. This wetland ecosystem is home to over 200 bird species, including the rare and endangered Sarus Crane. The park’s diverse habitats, from swamps and grasslands to seasonal floodplains, support a rich array of wildlife.
To explore Tram Chim National Park, you can take guided boat tours that navigate through the park’s waterways, offering close encounters with its avian residents. The park is accessible from major cities in the Mekong Delta, making it a convenient yet immersive nature destination.
13. Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc Island, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is a tropical paradise known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. Although the island has seen significant development, with theme parks, zoos, and large resorts, there are still plenty of unspoiled areas and serene beaches to explore.
For those looking to discover the natural beauty of Phu Quoc, snorkeling and diving tours are available, showcasing the vibrant marine life. Island hopping by speedboat to more isolated, uninhabited islands offers a chance to experience the island’s pristine environments away from the crowds.
14. Hai Van Pass (Da Nang)
The Hai Van Pass is one of the most scenic coastal routes in Vietnam, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains. While the pass itself is man-made, the natural vistas it provides make it one of the best places to experience Vietnam’s nature. Known as the most stunning coastal route in the country, the winding road offers an unforgettable journey.
Made famous by the BBC program Top Gear, the Hai Van Pass can be traveled in several ways. Most people take a one-way trip starting in Hoi An and ending in Hue or vice versa. Adventurous travelers may choose to drive a motorbike or ride with an Easy Rider, a local guide who provides a safer and more informative experience. Another exciting option is an open military jeep, while those seeking comfort might prefer a private car with a driver.
An additional tip: if you love nature, combine your visit with the Son Tra Peninsula in Da Nang, where you can see stunning coastline, guaranteed to see Macaque monkeys, and if you are lucky the endangered red-shanked douc.
15. Pu Mat National Park
Pu Mat National Park is a remote wilderness area in Vietnam, home to some of the world’s most endangered animals, such as the saola. The park features dense jungles, rivers, and diverse wildlife, making it a vital conservation area and a unique destination for nature lovers.
Despite its rich biodiversity, Pu Mat National Park remains off the beaten path due to its remote location. The closest major city is Vinh, but it requires a three-hour drive from there to reach the park. Vinh is not typically included in most travel itineraries, so visiting Pu Mat requires a dedicated effort. However, for those with enough time and a desire to explore Vietnam’s untouched nature, this park offers an extraordinary and rare experience.
