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Vietnam off the beaten path

Q: When to go in Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam is the dry season, which lasts from October until April. There are also differences in climate between the north and the south of the country. The winters are cold and misty in the north, while the south enjoys hot, humid weather almost all year round. Head for the north between September and November, when the temperatures are pleasant, while the best time to visit the south is between December and April. Leave in search of a unique civilization set in a superb landscape.

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What to do in Vietnam?

Someone talks about Vietnam and you automatically think of spring rolls, pointed hats or shoulder yokes, those large sections of bamboo and their two suspended woven baskets. Our collective imagination has been flooded with these images... But do they correspond to the current reality of Vietnam? Even if they are not all representative of life in the cities, they still subsist in the countryside... However, Vietnam cannot be summarized by these few clichés. Its people have come far with a particularly turbulent 21st century. The country is now decidedly turned towards the future: Vietnam changes and evolves. The former children of the “boat-people” are returning to Saigon to fulfil their dreams and seek success. Hanoi has opened superb art galleries... For many, Vietnam consists of mountains and plateaus, Vietnam is marked by two major waterways, the Red River to the north, and the mother of all rivers, the Mekong to the south. Between equatorial plains, temperate plateaus and high summits, you will be awestruck by the tender green rice paddies, the canyons of Red River and the superb Mekong Delta.... And if beyond its people and nature you still need a reason to visit Vietnam, let’s mention gastronomy! Vietnamese cooking is one of the most renowned worldwide, light and refined by the same token: spring rolls of course, but also Pho, Cha cà, Oc nhoi and other delicious meals...

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When to go in Vietnam?

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Start planning your off-the-beaten-track trip to Vietnam

Getting off the beaten track in Vietnam is a great way to discover the less-explored regions of this popular destination. Doing so allows travelers to not only take in amazing landscapes rarely seen by visitors but also meet local people who still follow a traditional way of life.

What's the best way to travel off-the-beaten-track in Vietnam?

When in Vietnam, getting off the beaten path offers many once-in-a-lifetime experiences, though it can require a bit more organization to reach some of these remote locations. The Sapa Valley is around five hours drive north of Hanoi and can be reached by car or by bus from the capital. At the other end of the country, the Mekong Valley is found around 80 miles south of Ho Chi Minh City and is only reachable by boat.

Best off-the-beaten-track activities and experiences in Vietnam

Off-the-beaten-track Vietnam means forgotten natural wonders, diverse ecosystems, and traditional rural villages, all waiting to be discovered by the adventurous traveler.

Explore Cat Tien National Park

Cat Tien National Park is well-known by bird watchers for the rare and diverse species found there but is generally undiscovered by travelers. The park has incredible biodiversity, excellent hiking, and there are primate and bear sanctuaries, both of which are open to visitors.

Venture to the Sapa Valley

Located in the north of the country not far from the Chinese border, this region is home to Vietnam's tallest mountains, with rice terraces carved into lush green hillsides. The valley offers excellent hiking, as well as the opportunity to meet the local indigenous Hmong people.

Witness the lesser-known Bai Tu Long Bay

Halong Bay is one of Vietnam's most visited destinations and, as many agree, a wonder of the world. Have a similar experience but without the crowds by heading to nearby Bai Tu Long Bay, where you can also take a boat ride through spectacular limestone islands and rock formations.

Discover An Binh Island

At the very south of the country in the heart of the lush Mekong Delta is Anh Binh island. Here, intrepid travelers can explore the island on a bicycle, cycling between pretty orchards, palm trees, and through traditional villages.

Soak up the scenery of Ninh Binh

Sometimes called the "Halong Bay on land", Ninh Binh is a valley of verdant rice paddy fields surrounded by spectacular hills and rock formations. This is the perfect spot for walking, cycling, and enjoying the scenery.

Tips for planning an off-the-beaten-track adventure in Vietnam

The distances from northern to southern Vietnam are vast, so be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the country. Trains and buses are available between cities and larger towns; however, to reach more off the beaten track locations, you will need to hire a car or sign up for a tour. The people of Vietnam are some of the friendliest in the world, but many do not speak English, particularly in more remote places. This is where Evaneos' local English-speaking expert guides will be able to help you to communicate.