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5 ways to experience Vietnam

Experiencing Cambodian culture as we cycle along the Mekong Delta | Lachlan Gardiner
Experiencing Cambodian culture as we cycle along the Mekong Delta | Lachlan Gardiner

For adventurous travellers seeking an experience in an exotic destination rich in culture, history and geographic splendour, few can resist the lure of Vietnam. Stretching down the southeast coast of Asia, Vietnam is full of magnificent emerald mountains, bustling cities, lush jungles, laid-back river villages and rich historical legacies. With so many experiences to be had, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in this spectacular country.

How many, exactly?

We’ve narrowed down the top 5 ways to experience Vietnam. Find out how you can visit the mountains on foot and interact with friendly locals, or visit the highlights of Vietnam by bike and cycle through rural villages. With eco retreats, multi-activity adventures, and more rest assured, whatever your travel style is, there’s an adventure waiting for you.

  1. Trek through Vietnam

Friendly village children in Ha Giang, Vietnam

Vietnam offers excellent trekking opportunities in the north that allow travellers to experience a range of pretty landscapes firsthand – from the cascading rice paddies, soaring limestone mountains and the deep highland valleys. One of the most spectacular regions to trek is the remote region between the Tay Con Linh and the Song Chay mountain ranges. Famous for its picture postcard scenery, minority villages and dramatic mountain trails, there is no shortage of fun to be had in this region. This rugged adventure explores a beautiful part of largely untouched Vietnam offering rustic landscapes with stunning views while exchanging with the communities and staying in homestays along the way.

Experience It!

Trek in the beautiful valleys in Vietnam's remote northwest on the 6-day Ha Giang Hike & Homestays. Departing daily from October to April, this is your chance to experience an area of stunning natural beauty home to diverse ethnic minority hill tribes. Book your space now

  1. Cycle through Vietnam

On the coastal roads from Hue to Hoi An, Vietnam |  <i>Richard I'Anson </i>

Vietnam is one of the leading travel destinations in South East Asia, thanks to its distinctive culture, fascinating history and incredible geography. Its buzzing cities, ancient towns and rural villages are studded with limestone mountains, deep-green countryside, tranquil highlands and palm-fringed beaches. One of the most spectacular ways to discover this diversity is to soak it all in while in the saddle. Exploring the unspoilt charm of this country off the beaten path and on two wheels allows travellers to experience Vietnam’s friendly, welcoming and hospitable culture firsthand. As you cycle by small countryside towns, be prepared to meet curious and friendly locals, where invitations to visit their homes are a frequent occurrence.

Experience It!

Join Vietnam By Bike Tour, a 14-day exploration of the Vietnamese coastline. Beginning in Hanoi, you’ll explore the spectacular Ninh Binh and Halong Bay and pass through ever-changing landscapes along the highlands, beaches and coconut groves before making your way to Ho Chi Minh City. Find out more

  1. Relax in a Vietnamese Eco Retreat

Accommodation views from Topas Ecolodge in Sapa |  <i>Sarah Hunt</i>

If you want to relax in the pristine and untouched environments of Vietnam, then a stay at an eco-lodge is a must. Experience the highlights of northern Vietnam including the ethnic communities, deep valleys and breathtaking mountain scenery. After only a few days soaking up the mountain views of the Hoang Lein National Park, you can be guaranteed you’ll leave refreshed and rejuvenated. The Topas Ecolodge in the Sapa region of Vietnam is largely untouched by the modern ways of life – which means no distractions from the panoramic vistas and exciting day walks available in the area.

Experience It!

Discover North Vietnam's fascinating ethnic minority groups and stunning terraced landscapes on the Sapa Eco Retreat trip with World Expeditions. Learn More

  1. Join a multi-activity adventure

Kayaking on the peaceful waters of Lan Ha Bay |  <i>Julie Hauber</i>

If your idea of the perfect trip is one that challenges your mind and body each day and is jam-packed with adventures, activities and exhilaration, then a multi-activity adventure in Vietnam is a must! Taking active adventures as you travel gives you a real opportunity to experience the diverse landscape of the country. If you can’t choose between exploring national parks on foot, cycling the rural roads or kayaking the tranquil bays, then why not do it all? Vietnam provides the perfect destination where active travellers can have their cake and eat it too!

Experience It!

Join on the Hike, Bike and Kayak Vietnam trip and paddle, cycle and trek around northern Vietnam as you gain a fascinating insight into the diverse cultures of this wonderful country. Find out more

  1. Combine Vietnam with Cambodia by Bike

Exploring the ruins of Angkor Wat by bike is a unique way to discover the UNESCO listed site |  <i>Lachlan Gardiner</i>

You are also curious about neighbouring South Asia countries? Combining Vietnam and Cambodia, this cycling adventure brings you from the fast-paced city of Ho Chi Minh City to the famed temple complex of Angkor Wat. Following the quieter roads to the Cu Chi Tunnels, we'll cross through to Cambodia and on to the traditional seaside fishing village of Kep, taking in the lush green countryside and fertile rice fields. Absorb the French-inspired architecture of Phnom Penh before visiting the renowned complex of Angkor – the flat roads around the temples make exploration of the area ideal by bike!

Experience It!

If you want to uncover the varied landscapes and cultural delights of Vietnam and Cambodia, join the Ho Chi Minh to Angkor Wat experience. Take in the sights of Indochina at the handlebar level. Find out more

 

sapa, trekking, Vietnam

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