Unique experiences in Vietnam have surged in popularity, captivating both domestic and international travelers. Vietnam boasts a diverse array of unique travel experiences, deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage and varied natural landscapes. Today’s article unveils 10 incredibly famous and distinctive experiential activities across Vietnam that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
1. Basket Boat Ride in the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, Hoi An
The Bay Mau Coconut Forest stands out as a remarkable ecological tourism spot in Hoi An, offering a refreshing green oasis and the chance to explore its expansive waterways. This area also holds significant historical, cultural, and human connections to the Quang region. A quintessential image of this area is the traditional basket boat.
This spot is located in: Group 2, Can Nhan Hamlet, Cam Thanh, Hoi An, Quang Nam.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
- Entrance Fee: 30,000 VND ($1.2) per person.
- Basket Boat Rental: 150,000 – 200,000 VND ($6 to $8) per boat, depending on the type and number of people. Each basket boat can accommodate 2 to 4 people.
As you sit in the basket boat, local villagers, with their intimate knowledge of the coconut forest and its way of life, will expertly paddle you through the waterways. They’ll share captivating stories about the forest, its inhabitants, the daily activities of the locals, and the traditional folk songs of Quang Nam. You can even try paddling yourself to fully appreciate the skill and enjoyment of this unique experience.
Furthermore, you can engage in other activities such as fishing, coconut harvesting, making coconut pancakes, or enjoying a refreshing fresh coconut drink. These activities provide deeper insights into the lives of the Cam Thanh people and offer opportunities for genuine interaction and connection with the local community.
2. Da Nang: Sunrise SUP
Sunrise SUP in Da Nang is a top Vietnam experience. It belongs on your travel plan. Man Thai beach gets busy around 4:30 AM. You can enjoy the stunning sunrise over the sea. You also swim and explore coral reefs. The early morning atmosphere is peaceful.
The sea here is usually calm. Gentle waves make SUP easy. Even beginners can enjoy it. Before starting, you get a life vest. You also receive basic skills training. Each SUP board holds up to two people. The price is about 200,000 – 350,000 VND ($8 to $13) per board for two.
3. “Flying Over Water” with Flyboarding in Nha Trang
Flyboarding, also known as “hydroflighting,” is a lesser-known yet thrilling Vietnam experiential tourism option in Nha Trang. You can enjoy the exhilarating feeling of hovering over the water with this exceptional ocean sport, which also grants impressive views of Nha Trang’s stunning coastline from above.
The price to experience flyboarding in Nha Trang is on the higher side, hovering around 940,000 VND ($36) per person for a flight of roughly 30 minutes. This is an activity that may require some practice to master. Participants will receive basic operating instructions and practice sessions before their actual flight.
4. Paragliding to Admire Vietnam’s Natural Beauty
If you’re looking for an adventurous, experiential activity in Vietnam and aren’t bothered by heights, paragliding is a compelling choice. Paragliding’s worldwide presence as an activity doesn’t diminish the immersive experience it offers within Vietnam’s majestic natural environment.
Within just a few dozen minutes in the sky, you can enjoy a poetic panorama stretching from plains to hills, and from coastal areas to magnificent mountain ranges. Today, numerous picturesque paragliding spots dot the S-shaped land, attracting many tourists seeking this experience:
Mountainous Vistas from Above
Specifically, if your desire is to witness spectacular mountains, several locations stand out. For instance, you might consider Doi Bu near Hanoi. Alternatively, Khau Pha Pass and La Pan Tan commune in Mu Cang Chai offer breathtaking views. Furthermore, Langbiang Mountain in Da Lat provides a different but equally stunning experience. Finally, Nam Vien Mountain in Hoa Binh is another excellent choice. These destinations all provide chances to admire Vietnam’s impressive natural landscapes from an aerial viewpoint, ranging from vibrant green meadows to the remarkable patterns of terraced rice fields.
Coastal and Island Panoramas
In contrast, for those who are drawn to coastal and island scenery, Son Tra in Da Nang is a renowned spot for paragliding. Here, as you soar to an altitude of approximately 600 meters, you can gaze upon the beautiful city of Da Nang spread out below, alongside the long, captivating stretches of turquoise sea. Notably, this activity is particularly popular and attracts a large number of participants, especially during the summer months.
Regarding the expense, the cost for a paragliding experience in Vietnam can fluctuate depending on the specific location you select. On average, expect to pay between 1,000,000 and 3,000,000 VND ($39 to $116) for one paragliding experience. The experience of witnessing Vietnam’s beauty from the sky is widely considered to be well worth the investment for a memorable adventure.
5. Witnessing Vietnam’s First Sunrise in Phu Yen
Phu Yen boasts a 189 km long coastline with numerous bays, beaches, lagoons, and reefs, creating pristine ecological landscapes. But did you know that Phu Yen also has another captivating destination: Mui Dien (Cape Dien) – renowned as the easternmost point of Vietnam? Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to witness the very first rays of sunrise in Vietnam.
The location of Mui Dien is approximately 35 km north of Tuy Hoa city, specifically in the Hoa Tam commune, which is part of the Dong Hoa district. To reach Mui Dien, you’ll pass through the Vung Ro historical site – a former base for “no number” soldiers during the American War. The road is quite deserted and peaceful, with only the sounds of the sea waves and birdsong.
Around 5:00 AM, the sky begins to reveal hues of pink. The initial pink tones progressively morph into orange and then yellow, resulting in a brilliant array of colors. And then, the magical moment arrives. The sun slowly emerges from the sea, radiating a shimmering aura. You’ll feel as if you’re in a fairyland, with only you and the dawn. Don’t forget to capture this moment to cherish the memory!
To experience this activity, you can rent tents and equipment here for 80,000 VND (about $3) per person. You’ll be lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves, gaze at the starry sky, and savor Phu Yen’s culinary specialties such as fish cake noodle soup, crispy pancake with jumping shrimp, and jellyfish noodle soup.
6. Exploring Mekong Delta Floating Markets
The Mekong Delta has many waterways. It’s known for fruit and quiet villages. The area is also characterized by a complex web of rivers and canals. If you visit the Delta, see a floating market. This is a unique experience. Not every region has them. Well-known floating markets consist of Cai Rang, Cai Be, and Phung Hiep.
Cai Rang market is the busiest. It attracts many visitors. They come from Vietnam and other countries. You explore the market on small boats. These boats float on the water. Locals busily trade goods there. Shopping and eating happen on boats. The boats are full of farm products.
Visiting these markets lets you see the lively life of the kind local people. They are friendly and welcoming. They will chat and share their culture. Their way of life is tied to the water. The cost of this activity is not too high.
7. Adventuring in Son Doong Cave
For a truly valuable experiential travel adventure in Vietnam, consider a journey into Son Doong Cave, the biggest cave on Earth. Its location is within Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, which is in Quang Binh province. The cave stretches approximately 9 km in length, with an average height of 200 m and an average width of 150 m. It features two massive dolines, creating “skylights” that allow sunlight to penetrate and foster primeval forests within the cave.
During the Son Doong Cave expedition, you’ll trek, hike, swim, kayak, and use ropes to navigate challenging terrains. You’ll be captivated by the cave’s stunning landscapes, including colossal stalagmites, shimmering stalactites, crystal-clear underground lakes, and lush green forests. You’ll also have the chance to capture photos of the magical rays of sunlight and mist within the cave.
Participating in a Son Doong Cave expedition is a unique travel experience found only in Vietnam. You’ll have the opportunity to discover a natural wonder of Vietnam, enjoy the fresh and comfortable atmosphere, and bond with new friends. This is an incredible way to experience Vietnam from a fresh and exciting perspective.
To ensure visitor safety, Son Doong Cave explorations are only available from January through August each year, with particular attention to:
- The spring months, encompassing January to March, provide a special occasion to see the radiant sunlight illuminating the cave’s entrance.
- From April to May is the ideal time to admire the cave’s beauty with vibrant wildflowers and mystical cloud layers within the cave.
- When summer arrives, between June and August, those who venture into the cave can swim in its streams and subterranean pools.
8. Conquering Fansipan Peak – The Roof of Indochina
For travelers desiring a challenge and a deep experience of Vietnam’s untouched natural beauty, Fansipan, often called the “Roof of Indochina,” stands out as a remarkable destination. As the highest mountain in Vietnam, located in the Hoang Lien Son range, Fansipan experiences all four seasons, each with its own distinct charm that will captivate you with Vietnam’s scenic allure.
You can go to Fansipan by trekking or taking the cable car. If you choose to trek, it will take you 2 to 3 days to ascend and descend the mountain, with the support of a guide and camping services. The views will encompass picturesque terrain, featuring bright flower carpets and rough, uneven cliffs.
Choosing the cable car provides a considerable saving of both time and energy, enabling you to reach the peak of Fansipan in roughly 15 minutes. You’ll be able to admire the broad landscapes of the Hoang Lien Son range, the Muong Hoa valley, and Sapa from above while seated in a cabin with clear walls. The cable car provides a quick and convenient way to travel without worrying about physical exertion or time constraints.
The price to experience the Fansipan summit differs based on the method you select. Trekking will cost approximately 2,000,000-3,000,000 VND (about $77 to $116) for entrance tickets, mountain climbing fees, guide services, and camping. If you choose the cable car, you’ll spend around 800,000 VND ($30) on the cable car and mountain railway tickets. You should also budget for meals and souvenir shopping at the summit.
9. Jeep Riding on the Sand Dunes of Mui Ne
Jeeps are an ideal mode of transport for easily navigating the various tourist spots in Mui Ne. You can rent 4-seater or 6-seater Jeeps for a price ranging from 550,000 VND to 600,000 VND ($21 to $23) for a 4-location tour lasting approximately 4 – 4.5 hours. For cost savings, consider renting Jeeps at restaurants near the tourist area rather than at hotels or resorts.
The sand dunes are among Mui Ne’s most captivating attractions. You’ll experience the thrill of riding Jeeps up and down towering sand dunes, “gliding” through incredibly refreshing winds. You can also challenge yourself with sandboarding or sand surfing. It’s best to visit the sand dunes in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the harsh midday sun and crowds.
Besides the sand dunes, you can also visit other attractions such as Hon Rom, Bau Trang (White Lake), Fairy Stream, the Fishing Village, Ong Dia Rock beach, the Wine Castle, Ke Ga Cape, and the Poshanu Cham Towers. Each location has its own unique charm and will enchant any visitor. You can also indulge in delicious fresh seafood dishes or enjoy refreshing cocktails.
10. Explore The Trang An Landscape Complex
If you’re seeking a compelling experiential tourism activity in Vietnam, the Trang An Landscape Complex – Southeast Asia’s first mixed World Heritage site – is an unmissable destination. Located in Ninh Binh province, roughly 100km from Hanoi, this region features remarkable natural beauty alongside a deep and varied cultural history.
Trang An offers numerous fascinating attractions, including the ancient capital of Hoa Lu – the former political center of the Dinh and Early Le dynasties; Tam Coc – Bich Dong – often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on Land” with its magnificent caves and vast rice paddies; and the Hoa Lu Special-Use Forest – home to a diverse ecosystem and many rare flora and fauna species.
However, the highlight of Trang An is the boat trips along the river, passing through mystical caves and picturesque landscapes. You’ll marvel at towering limestone karsts, lush green forests, vibrant lotus fields, and ancient pagodas. You can also opt to rent a kayak, which gives you the freedom to discover Trang An at the speed you desire.
Visiting Trang An not only allows you to admire breathtaking natural scenery but also to delve into the history and culture of Vietnam. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor Ninh Binh’s culinary specialties, such as mountain goat meat, ant egg sticky rice, fermented pork roll, or Thanh Hoa-style steamed rice rolls.
Travelers to Vietnam can discover a wealth of engaging experiences through its community-based tourism. By actively participating in the daily existence of local people, visitors acquire a more profound insight into the country’s abundant cultural values and traditions. From homestays to craft workshops, a diverse range of activities allows for authentic cultural exchange.
To prepare your trip, visit: Things to know before travel to Vietnam – Exploreve
