Trekking in Vietnam: The 10 best trails to discover

From the misty peaks of the northern mountains to the dense jungles and coastal cliffs of the central and southern regions, Vietnam’s diverse landscapes are made for exploration. With its rich biodiversity, terraced rice fields and remote ethnic villages, the country offers endless possibilities for those who love trekking and nature.

Among the countless routes across the country, there are ten that stand out for their beauty, challenge and cultural depth. These trails take you deep into Vietnam’s most stunning and lesser-known regions. Begin your adventure with Hanoi Voyages. Discover the true spirit of trekking in Vietnam with us.

Vietnam trekking tours: Best trips for adventure travelers

Vietnam is fast becoming one of Asia’s most exciting destinations for trekking lovers. What sets it apart is not just the breathtaking scenery, but the variety of terrains, cultures and climates travelers can experience within a single journey. With all about that, trekking in Vietnam promises unforgettable memories, cultural encounters and raw natural beauty

What makes Vietnam trekking tours truly special is the opportunity to go beyond just nature and discover:

• Ethnic culture: Hike through traditional villages of the H’mong, Tay, Dao and Thai people, where local life remains largely untouched by modern tourism.

• Diverse landscapes: Traverse rice terraces, jungle trails, karst mountains and hidden caves - all in one country.

• Wildlife and biodiversity: Explore national parks like Cuc Phuong or Phong Nha – Ke Bang, home to rare primates, birds and unique limestone ecosystems.

• Off-the-beaten-path adventures: Many trails are still lesser-known, offering quiet, authentic experiences far from the crowds.

• Challenging expeditions: For experienced trekkers, multi-day hikes to places like Son Doong Cave or Ha Giang’s mountain passes offer serious adventure.

And if you’re ready to uncover the most breathtaking trekking trails Vietnam has to offer, keep scrolling - your next adventure might just be a few lines away.

You can also read: Vietnam trekking tours: Top places for adventure seekers

Top 10 trekking trails in Vietnam for your trip

With dramatic mountains, lush valleys and remote ethnic villages, Vietnam is a dreamland for hikers and nature lovers. Below are the top 10 trekking trails in Vietnam - each offering unique landscapes, cultural experiences and unforgettable memories for your journey.

Cao Bang - Valleys and waterfalls

Nestled in Vietnam’s remote northeast and sharing a border with China, Cao Bang Province is a land of rugged mountains, peaceful valleys and culturally rich ethnic villages. Its diverse terrain and unspoiled charm make it one of the most rewarding trekking trails in Vietnam for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Top trekking routes and natural highlights in Cao Bang:

• Mat Than mountain (Angel eye mountain): A scenic trekking spot known for its circular hole through the limestone cliff - great for short hikes.

• Khuoi Ky Stone village: A peaceful Tay ethnic village with traditional stilt houses made of stone, ideal for cultural walks and homestay experiences.

• Ban Gioc waterfall: One of the most majestic waterfalls in Southeast Asia, set along the Vietnam–China border - accessible via a scenic hike.

• Nguom Ngao cave: A spectacular cave system with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, reachable via trekking paths through forest and village trails.

Trekking tip: The best time to go hiking in Vietnam, especially in Cao Bang, is from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry. Bring sturdy shoes, layered clothing and expect limited tourist crowds - a perfect setup for peaceful exploration.

You can also refer: Visit Ban Gioc waterfall: Must-see place in northern Vietnam

Sapa - Rice terraces and ethnic trails

Sapa, located in northern Vietnam at 1,500 meters above sea level, is one of the top spots for Vietnam trekking tours. Surrounded by the Hoang Lien Son range and home to Fan Si Pan - Vietnam’s highest peak - Sapa boasts dramatic landscapes and a rich mix of ethnic cultures.

Trekking here means exploring lush rice terraces, misty valleys and villages of the H’mong and Red Dao people. As one of the most iconic trekking trails in Vietnam, Sapa offers routes for all levels, from short village walks to multi-day mountain hikes.

Top trekking routes in Sapa:

• Fansipan Trekking – Conquer the roof of Indochina

• Muong Hoa Valley – Terraced fields and local life

• Cat Cat Village – Easy walk near Sapa town

• Ma Tra – Ta Phin – Cultural trek through minority villages

Check out more information: Top 7 best tourist attractions in Sapa

Ha Giang - Mountain passes and remote villages

Ha Giang’s rugged terrain features some of the most untouched trekking trails in Vietnam, with towering peaks, poetic valleys and golden rice terraces during harvest season. From September to December, the cool weather and vibrant scenery make trekking here especially rewarding.

Top trekking routes in Ha Giang:

• Chieu Lau Thi Summit – Panoramic mountain views above the clouds

• Suoi Thau Meadow – Gentle slopes and open fields, ideal for a peaceful walk

• Tay Con Linh Mountain – One of the highest and most spiritual peaks in northern Vietnam

• Hoang Su Phi – Stunning rice terraces and hill tribe life

• Sung La Valley – Scenic trails through blooming flowers and traditional villages

You can read more: Ha Giang Loop: Ultimate travel guide for first-time visitors

Mai Chau - Peaceful paths through Thai villages

Tucked between green mountains and rice paddies, Mai Chau is a tranquil escape just a few hours from Hanoi. Known for its gentle trails and warm hospitality, this valley is one of the most accessible and culturally rich trekking trails in Vietnam.

Trekkers can explore charming stilt-house villages, meet ethnic groups like the White Thai, H’mong and Dao and walk through emerald fields and forested hills. Though not as rugged as Ha Giang or Sapa, trekking in Vietnam often starts here for travelers seeking a softer, more intimate adventure.

Pu Luong - Lush forests and rice fields

Located in Thanh Hoa Province, Pu Luong Nature Reserve is a peaceful gem perfect for hiking in Vietnam and exploring off-the-beaten-path nature. The reserve features two contrasting mountain ridges - one with rolling metamorphic valleys, the other with dramatic limestone karsts - creating a diverse landscape of rice terraces, forests and rivers.

Trekkers can follow scenic trails through minority villages like Ban Hang, Ban Hieu, Ban Sai and Ban Kho Muong, where homestays offer a glimpse into traditional life. These quiet routes make Pu Luong one of the most rewarding yet underrated trekking trails in Vietnam.

Cat Ba island - Jungle meets the sea

As the largest island in the Halong Bay region, Cat Ba offers a unique coastal escape for those seeking scenic trekking trails in Vietnam. Nearly half the island is protected by Cat Ba National Park, making it a haven for nature lovers and hikers.

The island is dotted with quiet fishing villages, limestone hills, sandy beaches and forest trails that wind past caves, lakes and waterfalls. Despite its popularity, much of Cat Ba remains untouched - perfect for those who enjoy wild, off-road adventures.

Best time to trek:

• October–November: Cool, dry weather and peak natural beauty

• Avoid June–August (hot), December (cold) and March–April (humid)

Cuc Phuong national park - Ancient forest adventure

📍 Address: Cuc Phuong commune, Nho Quan district, Ninh Binh province

Cuc Phuong is known as Vietnam’s oldest national park - a living museum of biodiversity. Covering 222 km² of primary rainforest, it’s home to ancient trees, caves and over 2,000 plant species - making it one of the most immersive trekking trails in Vietnam for nature lovers.

The most rewarding route is the 30-kilometer trail from the park’s core to Muong village, usually done over two days. Another highlight for hiking in Vietnam is the climb to May Bac Peak (700m), offering panoramic views over the vast jungle canopy.

Best time to visit: November to February (dry season) is ideal for trekking, with pleasant weather and fewer leeches and mosquitoes.

For more details: Guide to visiting Cuc Phuong national park

Phong Nha - Ke Bang - Limestone and jungle treks

📍 Address : Bo Trach and Minh Hoa districts, Quang Binh province

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its dramatic karst formations, underground rivers and one of the largest cave systems in the world. It’s also home to some of the most awe-inspiring trekking trails in Vietnam.

Organized treks through this vast limestone landscape reveal hidden jungle paths, ancient caves and unique biodiversity. A guided hike to Phong Nha Cave offers jaw-dropping scenery, while eco-hikes and night treks give wildlife lovers a chance to spot rare species and visit rescue centers.

Son Doong Caves - The ultimate underground expedition

📍 Address: Son Trach Commune, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province

Son Doong Cave is not just the world’s largest cave - it’s one of the most extraordinary trekking trails in Vietnam. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013, it features an underground river, jungle and surreal rock formations - all hidden beneath the Earth’s surface.

This multi-day expedition is one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences for those passionate about hiking in Vietnam. Along the way, trekkers encounter a surreal environment with its own weather system and ecosystem, including a rare primary forest growing inside the cave.

Ba Be national park - Lakeside trekking and local life

📍 Address: Ba Be District, Bac Kan Province

Recognized as an ASEAN Natural Heritage Site, Ba Be National Park in northern Vietnam is a lush, biodiverse haven perfect for both cultural and nature-based trekking in Vietnam. Narrow trails lead you through dense rainforest, limestone cliffs, ethnic villages and along the shores of the serene Ba Be Lake.

This region offers a mix of gentle walks and more rugged hiking in Vietnam, with highlights including:

• Po Lu Village – A peaceful ethnic Tay village with authentic homestay experiences

• An Ma Island – A spiritual and scenic stop in the middle of Ba Be Lake

• Puong Cave – A limestone cave carved by the Nang River

• Dau Dang Waterfall – A dramatic cascade hidden in the forest

At Hanoi Voyages, we also offer a selection of specially crafted Vietnam tours designed to suit different travel styles, interests and ages - ensuring every moment turns into a meaningful journey. CHOOSE AN IDEA and we will plan a trip together!

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In addition to our pre-designed tours, we can tailor-make trips that perfectly suit your needs. Don't wait any longer - get in touch with us now to plan an unforgettable journey with the best services just for you!

Helpful tips for your Vietnam trekking tours

To make the most of your trekking in Vietnam journey, a bit of preparation goes a long way. From weather awareness to cultural sensitivity, here are some key tips to ensure a safe, enjoyable and respectful experience on the trails:

• Choose the right season: Vietnam's climate varies by region. Avoid the rainy season or extreme heat by planning your trek during the most suitable months for each destination.

• Train in advance: Mountainous routes can be physically demanding. Build your stamina and fitness before the trip to fully enjoy your adventure.

• Respect local culture and nature: Be mindful of local customs, dress modestly in villages and minimize your environmental impact by following Leave No Trace principles.

• Hire a local guide when needed: Especially in remote or challenging areas, a guide enhances both safety and cultural understanding - helping you discover hidden paths and stories along the way.

With its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity and vibrant local cultures, trekking in Vietnam is more than just a hike - it's a journey into the heart of the country. Each trail tells its own story, offering something unique for every kind of traveler.

Inspired to explore? Let Hanoi Voyages guide you to the most unforgettable trekking experiences Vietnam has to offer.