Landscapes in Vietnam: 7 Most Spectacular Places to Visit

Spanning an area of 2,356 square kilometers, the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark stands out as a unique limestone region in Vietnam.

Here, you can witness remarkable traces that narrate the story of the formation of the earth’s crust. The limestones present were shaped by geological forces and various stages of nature’s evolution.

These limestones make up a significant portion of the geopark’s landscape, accounting for about 80% of the rock formations you’ll encounter.

Hoang Su Phi, a district in Ha Giang, is about a six-hour drive from Hanoi. The landscape here is dominated by steep mountains. You’ll mostly find picturesque valleys dotted with herbs and trees.

The district is known for its magnificent rice fields, which were recognized as a National Heritage site in 2012. These fields are considered one of the most remarkable sights in Vietnam.

In addition to its natural beauty, Hoang Su Phi is home to a unique indigenous community. It’s believed that 12 different ethnic minorities reside here. If you’re interested in exploring diverse cultures and venturing off the beaten path, this place is worth a visit.

Tu San Canyon is a must-visit for its breathtaking landscapes, shaped by millions of years of erosion and geological activity.

This canyon is part of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. It’s thought to be the deepest canyon not only in Vietnam but also in Southeast Asia.

Quan Ba, another notable spot in Ha Giang and the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, is worth a visit. It’s also known as Co Tien Mountain or Mount Fairy poetry.

From afar, Quan Ba Twin Mountain resembles two peaches, a natural masterpiece. This Vietnamese landscape is tied to a heartwarming legend about a devoted couple.

Constructed between 1959 and 1965, the Happiness Road stretches across the Dong Van Rocky Plateau. This road, with a total length of 185 kilometers, connects the Ha Giang township with the remote mountainous districts of Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac.

The road was built with the aim of providing different ethnic minorities with access to the plains, thereby enhancing their living conditions. The Happiness Road, with its winding path, offers scenic mountain views and intriguing road shapes.

Fansipan Mountain, part of the Hoang Lien Son Range, is situated just 9 kilometers from the heart of Sapa Town in Lao Cai Province, Vietnam. It holds the title of the highest point in Indochina.

The journey to the summit offers rewarding views. You’ll pass through a dense jungle and witness the grandeur of the Hoang Lien Son range. Along the way, you’ll encounter peaceful tribal villages and catch sight of wild Azaleas near the peak.

Thanks to the Fansipan Cable Car, reaching the top of this mountain has become a quick 15-minute journey.

Ham Rong Peak, also known as Dragon Jaw Mountain, resembles the head of a dragon. It looms in the early morning mist, creating a mystical atmosphere.

Ham Rong is a haven for flower enthusiasts and garden lovers. It hosts an impressive variety of over 194 different flower species and is home to 6000 orchid plants.

Muong Hoa stands out for its terraced rice fields nestled in the valley. These fields are a testament to the ingenious water rice planting techniques employed by the Dao and Hmong people in the mountains.

The blend of Muong Hoa Valley’s natural splendor and the hard work of the farmers has resulted in captivating paddy fields. These fields, with their mesmerizing patterns of rice paddies, leave tourists spellbound.

Silver Waterfall, one of Vietnam’s most stunning waterfalls, is situated about 15 kilometers from the center of Sapa town. It stands alongside National Highway number 4D and boasts a height of 100 meters.

Visitors often liken the Silver Waterfalls to a massive white dragon, roaring as it descends from the clouds. Its presence significantly enhances the beauty of the neighboring mountains and lush forests.

Nestled in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains of Northwest Vietnam, you’ll find Ta Van village. This village is a welcoming home to the Giay people, one of the ethnic minorities in Sapa.

Ta Van village is also renowned as a popular overnight stop on the Sapa trekking trail. It’s an excellent spot to witness the spectacular terraced rice fields that northern Vietnam is known for.

The O Quy Ho Pass, located in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, is often referred to as the “Heaven Gate.” This pass is situated 2000 meters above sea level, spanning across the Lai Chau province, Sapa, and Tam Duong districts.

For adventurers, this place is a paradise, offering challenging roads and picturesque mountain views. Its unique features have earned it the title of the “King of Passes in Northwest Vietnam.”

Wondering what else to do in Sapa, Vietnam? Here are some suggestions:

• Explore the Sapa Love Market. This market, held every Saturday night in the town center of Sapa, showcases the traditions, customs, and beliefs of the Dao, Hmong, and other ethnic groups.
• Take a trip to Cat Cat Village. Surrounded by rice terraces and rolling green hills, this village is a popular spot for trekking, sightseeing, and experiencing mountain life. Here, you can enjoy the serene views and learn about the unique customs and traditions of the Hmong ethnic group.
• Visit the Sapa Church. This century-old church, located in the heart of Sapa, was built by French colonists in the twentieth century. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the town.
• Spend some time by Sapa Lake. This picturesque lake offers a calm and peaceful spot to relax before the sunset.
• Finally, take a ride on the cable car and funicular trains. Enjoy a relaxing trip with stunning views as you ascend to the summit of Mount Fansipan in just 15 minutes.

Wondering what to do in Halong Bay, Vietnam? Here are some suggestions:

• Visit the Vung Vieng Floating Village. It’s hard to believe, but sea settlements do exist, and you can find one right here in Halong Bay. What’s even more fascinating is that these communities have been residing in Bai Tu Long Bay for generations. Meeting the villagers from this floating village, located northeast of Halong Bay, promises to be a unique experience.
• Explore the Dau Go Cave and Thien Cung Cave. These caves in Halong Bay are home to hundreds of stalactites and other rock formations. With ample lighting, you can appreciate every detail of these caves.
• Hop on a Cruise. There’s no easier way to see all the must-visit spots in Halong Bay than by taking a cruise around the bay.
• Go Snorkeling and Diving near Cong Do Island. Don’t miss the chance to explore what lies beneath the surface of Halong Bay. The marine life here is another sight to behold.

The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is a well-known area famous for its boat cave tours. These tours take you along a river that winds through a valley filled with protruding limestone karst.

On the 23rd of June 2014, Trang An earned the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a recognition it shares with Halong Bay.

But there’s more to Trang An than just limestone karst. The area also boasts beautiful grottos and centuries-old temples. Additionally, you’ll find caves housing hundreds of wine jars, adding to the area’s unique experience.

Tam Coc, located in Ninh Binh, offers an experience similar to Trang An. Here, you can embark on a boat tour that takes you through caves and past towering limestone karst formations.

There are two distinct features that set Tam Coc apart from Trang An. The first is the unique method of rowing the boat using feet, a practice common in Tam Coc.

The second is the passage through what is commonly referred to as the Green Sea. This term is used to describe the lush rice fields that you’ll see during your boat ride, nestled alongside the limestone karst in Tam Coc.

This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Tam Coc and parts of Ninh Binh.

From one side of Hang Mua Peak, you can see the town’s fields and the Red River Delta. It’s a sight that captures the essence of the region’s natural beauty.

On the opposite side, your eyes are treated to the sight of the incredible limestone karst. These formations stretch far into the west, creating a stunning landscape that leaves a lasting impression.

From Hang Mua Peak, you might catch a glimpse of the Van Long Wetlands. This area is situated at the northernmost tip of the Pu Luong-Cuc Phuong limestone mountain range.

Van Long Wetlands holds the distinction of being one of the few remaining intact lowland inland wetlands in the Red River Delta.

The site is characterized by a cluster of limestone karst outcrops. These formations rise dramatically from the flat coastal plain of northern Vietnam.

Ninh Binh holds historical significance as the first capital of Vietnam you must visit, too.

• Start your adventure by climbing the Bich Dong Pagoda. This site offers an elevated view of the fields and surrounding mountains. The pagoda is structured in three layers, each offering a unique sight to behold.
• Next, take a stroll through Bai Dinh Pagoda. After soaking in the magnificent landscape, this site is a must-visit. It’s the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia and houses more than 500 Buddhist statues.
• Venture into the ancient village of Hoa Lu. This place is rich with temples and intriguing remnants from the past. It’s a worthwhile visit, especially for history enthusiasts.
• Finally, rejuvenate yourself with a hike in Cuc Phuong National Park. This natural sanctuary is home to a variety of trees, some of which are over a thousand years old.

The Chay River, located in Phong Nha, Quang Binh, is surrounded by limestone mountains covered in lush vegetation. This setting provides a picturesque backdrop for water sports activities. Opportunities for adventure include kayaking and cruising along the pristine waters of the Chay River.

The Chay River flows into what is commonly known as the Dark Cave, or Hang Toi. This cave is notable for its striking ceiling rock formations. However, to truly appreciate them, you’ll need to bring your own source of light.

Inside the Dark Cave, there’s another unique experience waiting for you. It has a mud bath that is said to have nourishing properties.

Paradise Cave holds the title of the longest dry cave in Asia, stretching an impressive 31.4 kilometers. It has earned the nickname “the Underground Palace” due to its stunning rock formations that seem to defy the limits of human imagination.

The images of this cave that I encountered on the internet left a strong impression on me. However, photographs can only capture so much. An actual visit to the Paradise Cave promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Son Doong Cave, located in Central Vietnam, holds the title of the world’s largest cave. It’s often referred to as “Vietnam’s Great Wall” due to its vast size and the breathtaking landscapes within. The scale of Son Doong Cave is so immense that it could accommodate a 40-story building!

This natural wonder is a place I eagerly anticipate visiting. Describing the beauty of Son Doong Cave in words is challenging. To better convey its magnificence, I recommend this virtual tour of Son Doong Cave from NatGeo.

Indeed, Quang Binh is an adventurer’s paradise. Here are a few activities that promise fun and excitement:

• Experience the thrill of ziplining and kayaking in the Chay River. Before venturing into the dark cave, enjoy splashing in the river’s vibrant blue waters.
• Refresh yourself with a spring bath in Nuoc Mooc. This is a great way to cool off from the tropical heat.
• If you’re a beach lover, consider a holiday at Bao Ninh Beach. For those who prefer the sea over freshwater, Bao Ninh offers a relaxing beach experience.

Pongour Falls, the most renowned waterfall in Da Lat, boasts a cascade that is 40 meters high and 100 meters wide. Its unique features include a terraced shape and polished steps, which contribute to its picturesque appeal. Situated in the heart of a forest, Pongour Falls promises a truly refreshing experience for visitors.

Elephant Waterfall is another stunning waterfall located in Da Lat. Standing at a height of 30 meters, its waters crash into a plunge pool filled with boulders. For those seeking a closer look, you can climb the boulders surrounding the pool.

In Da Lat, another waterfall, Datanla Falls, awaits your discovery. While it may not match the size of Elephant and Pongour Falls, locals believe it possesses a unique charm absent in the other waterfalls mentioned. The presence of a bridge near the waterfall could be the distinguishing feature. It seems to lend a romantic narrative quality to Datanla Falls.

Planning a trip to Da Lat, Vietnam? This major town in the central mountainous region offers more than just waterfalls.

• Consider a visit to the Phouc Pagoda. This intricately detailed and vibrant pagoda is a sight to behold. Its beauty is captivating even in photos, so imagine the impact it will have when seen in person.
• Take some time to unwind beside Xuan Huong Lake. This is the perfect spot to catch a sunset and capture stunning photographs of the lake as it mirrors the colorful sky.
• Why not spend a day at the Valley of Love? This garden is filled with heart motifs, making it a fun and whimsical place to explore. You can even navigate a heart-shaped garden maze. It’s a great activity to enjoy with friends or family if they’re joining you on your trip.
• Finally, don’t miss the Dalat Flower Gardens. Home to more than 300 varieties of flowers, there’s always something in bloom to admire.

A visit to the Red Sand Dunes in Phan Thiet might give you the impression of traveling in a Middle Eastern desert, thanks to the surrounding reddish-brown sands.

Here, you can enjoy sand-sledding to your heart’s content. The cost is just 10,000 VND to 20,000 VND for plastic cards. However, be cautious of scammers who may try to sell these cards at inflated prices.

On the other side of the forest in Phan Thiet, near the Red Sand Dunes, you’ll find a lighter version of the dunes. This time, they are a yellowish-white color. These sand dunes lead to a small lagoon adorned with blooming lotus flowers. They offer excellent opportunities for adventure and photography.

One of the most exciting landscapes to see in Phan Thiet is the Fairy Stream. Often compared to a miniature version of the Grand Canyon in Arizona, this area features soft red sand and towering limestone rocks.

For a more immersive experience at the Fairy Stream, consider exploring the area barefoot. The creek in the Fairy Stream is only a few centimeters deep, making it safe to walk through without shoes.

Beyond the thrill of sledding at the dunes, Phan Thiet offers a variety of other experiences:

• Explore ancient structures. In Phan Thiet, you’ll find the Ancient Po Shanu Cham Towers. These are considered significant cultural landmarks of the ancient Champa Kingdom, dating back to the 8th century.
• Experience kite surfing at Mui Ne beach. This beach, with its 15 kilometers of sandy shores, is ideal for water activities such as kite surfing, surfing, and sunbathing.
• Discover the colorful boats in Mui Ne. The local fishing village is home to a multitude of vibrant boats. It’s a fantastic spot to capture images of the daily life of Vietnamese people at sea.
• Ascend Ta Cu Mountain. If you’re seeking a change from the seaside, consider a two-hour hike up Ta Cu Mountain. Here, you’ll encounter limestone caves, lush rainforests, and ornate Buddhist structures, offering a different perspective of Phan Thiet.