The Best Outdoor Things to Do in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country of stunning natural beauty and captivating culture. With its rugged mountain ranges, lush jungles, and spectacular coastline, it’s no wonder that outdoor activities are some of the most popular things to do in Vietnam. From exploring ancient Buddhist temples to kayaking in Halong Bay, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant country.

From thrilling adventures to relaxing retreats, here are the best outdoor activities that you can enjoy in Vietnam.

Discover Ancient Buddhist Temples

Vietnam is home to some of the most stunning ancient Buddhist temples in Asia. These temples are a testament to the country’s rich religious and spiritual history, and many of them are still in use today. Visitors can explore these beautiful temples and discover the fascinating stories behind them.

One of the most popular temples to visit is the Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue. This seven-story pagoda is the tallest in the country, and its history dates back to 1601. Another popular destination is the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, which was built in 1070 and is the oldest university in Vietnam.

Exploring these ancient temples is a great way to get a glimpse into Vietnam’s past and appreciate its unique culture.

Go Hiking and Trekking

Vietnam is home to some of the most stunning mountain ranges in Asia, and hiking and trekking are popular activities for visitors. From the rugged terrain of the highlands to the rainforests of the south, there are plenty of trails to explore.

One of the most popular hiking destinations is the Fansipan Mountain in the northwest. At over 3,000 meters high, it’s the highest peak in Vietnam and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Another popular trail is the Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang province, which boasts breathtaking views of the Nho Que River.

There are also plenty of guided trekking tours that offer a great way to explore the country’s natural beauty and get off the beaten track.

Go Kayaking and Canoeing

The stunning coastline of Vietnam is a great place to explore by kayak or canoe. There are plenty of tours available, and many of them offer great views of the country’s beautiful islands. One of the most popular destinations is Halong Bay, where visitors can kayak through the turquoise waters and explore the limestone islands.

Canoeing is also a popular activity in Vietnam. One of the best places to go is the Mekong Delta, where visitors can explore the floating markets and the bustling canals. There are also plenty of rivers and lakes that are perfect for a leisurely afternoon paddle.

Go Diving and Snorkeling

Vietnam is home to some of the best diving spots in Asia, and there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to explore the country’s coral reefs and colorful marine life. The stunning islands of Con Dao and Phu Quoc are popular destinations for scuba divers, and there are plenty of shallow reefs that are perfect for snorkeling.

The waters around Nha Trang are also home to some of the best dive sites in the country. Here, visitors can explore colorful coral gardens and spot a variety of sea life, including clownfish, sea turtles, and sea horses.

No matter what your level of experience, there’s something for everyone to enjoy underwater in Vietnam.

Go Caving

Caving is a great way to explore Vietnam’s hidden underground world. From the limestone caves of Ninh Binh to the ancient river tunnels of Phong Nha, there are plenty of caving adventures to be found in this beautiful country.

One of the most popular caving destinations is Hang Son Doong in Quang Binh province. This enormous cave is the largest in the world, and visitors can explore its enormous chambers and spectacular rock formations. Another popular destination is Hang En, which is home to some of the most breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites in the world.

Caving is a great way to experience the beauty of Vietnam’s underground world.

Go Camping and Glamping

Camping is a great way to explore Vietnam’s stunning countryside. From the highlands of Sapa to the rainforests of Cat Tien National Park, there are plenty of camping sites to choose from.

Many of these sites offer the chance to go glamping, which is a great way to experience the outdoors in style. Some of the most popular glamping spots include the beaches of Phu Quoc, the jungles of Cuc Phuong National Park, and the sand dunes of Mui Ne.

Whether you’re looking for a rustic camping experience or a luxurious glamping getaway, there’s something for everyone in Vietnam.

Go Cycling and Mountain Biking

Cycling and mountain biking are great ways to explore Vietnam’s stunning countryside. From the coastal roads of the south to the mountain trails of the north, there are plenty of routes to choose from.

One of the most popular destinations is the Ho Chi Minh Trail, which winds through the highlands of the north. This route offers stunning views of the countryside and a chance to explore some of Vietnam’s most remote villages. Another popular route is the Mekong Delta, where visitors can explore the bustling markets and floating villages.

Whether you’re looking for an easy ride or an adrenaline-filled adventure, there’s something for everyone on two wheels in Vietnam.

Go Rock Climbing

Vietnam is home to some of the best rock climbing spots in Asia, and there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to explore the country’s rugged terrain. One of the most popular destinations is Cat Ba Island in the north, which is home to some of the most spectacular sea cliffs in the world.

Another popular destination is Phong Nha National Park in Quang Binh province, which offers some of the best climbing routes in the country. Here, visitors can explore the park’s limestone caves and towering cliffs.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Vietnam.

Go Bird Watching

Vietnam is home to more than 800 species of birds, and it’s a great place for bird watchers to explore. From the tropical forests of the south to the highlands of the north, there are plenty of areas to spot some of the country’s colorful feathered friends.

One of the most popular destinations is the Tam Cung National Park in the central highlands. Here, visitors can spot hundreds of species, including some rare and endangered birds. Another popular spot is the Cuc Phuong National Park, which is home to over 300 species of birds.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced bird watcher, there’s something for everyone in Vietnam.

Go Fishing

Vietnam is a great place to go fishing. From the rivers of the north to the coastal waters of the south, there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to explore the country’s abundant marine life.

One of the most popular destinations is Ha Long Bay, where visitors can catch a variety of fish, including barracuda, grouper, and snapper. Another popular spot is the Mekong Delta, where visitors can catch catfish, carp, and other fresh water species.

Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking for a fun day out, there’s something for everyone in Vietnam.

Go Surfing and Kitesurfing

Vietnam is home to some of the best surfing and kitesurfing spots in Asia. From the waves of Mui Ne to the swells of Phu Quoc, there are plenty of destinations for visitors to explore.

One of the most popular spots is the Long Hai Beach in Vung Tau province, which is home to some of the best waves in the country. Another popular destination is the Phu Quoc Island, which is perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing surf session or an adrenaline-filled adventure, there’s something for everyone in Vietnam.

Go Horse Riding

Horse riding is a great way to explore Vietnam’s stunning countryside. From the beaches of the south to the highlands of the north, there are plenty of trails to explore.

One of the most popular destinations is the Mai Chau Valley in the northwest. Here, visitors can explore the lush countryside on horseback and spot some of the area’s unique wildlife. Another popular spot is the Hoi An Beach in the central region, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing ride along the coastline.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there’s something for everyone in Vietnam.

Summary

Vietnam is a stunning country with a wealth of outdoor activities to enjoy. From exploring ancient Buddhist temples to kayaking in Halong Bay, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant country. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure or a relaxing retreat, there’s something for everyone in Vietnam.