Nature-Filled Vietnam Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Ba Be National Park
    5-hour drive (150 miles) from Hanoi

    Marvel at the emerald waters of Ba Be Lake and explore its underwater river, caves, and karsts. Trek along the lush greenery and spot wildlife along the way.

  2. Day 2: Ha Long Bay
    4-hour drive from Ba Be National Park (130 miles)

    Experience the surreal limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay and take a cruise tour to explore its caves, beaches, and floating villages.

  3. Day 3: Tam Coc
    5-hour drive from Ha Long Bay (95 miles)

    Take a sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong River and marvel at the cascading karsts and rice paddies of Tam Coc. Visit Bich Dong Pagoda and watch the sunset at Hang Mua Peak.

  4. Day 4: Phong Nha National Park
    7-hour drive from Tam Coc (225 miles)

    Feel awe-struck at the stunning caves of Phong Nha, the world's largest cave system. Thien Duong Cave, also known as Paradise Cave, is a must-see. Join an eco-tour and raft through the underground river of Phong Nha.

  5. Day 5: Bach Ma National Park
    4-hour drive from Phong Nha National Park (120 miles)

    Explore the diverse flora and fauna of Bach Ma National Park. Hike to the Do Quyen Waterfall, enjoy the panoramic view from Bach Ma Peak, and visit the Five Lakes.

  6. Day 6: Da Nang
    2-hour drive from Bach Ma National Park (55 miles)

    Relax at the My Khe Beach, visit the Marble Mountains, and marvel at the Golden Bridge of Ba Na Hills.

  7. Day 7: Cat Ba Island
    4-hour drive from Da Nang (135 miles)

    Enjoy the island vibes of Cat Ba and its scenic beaches, caves, and jungles. Take a boat tour to Lan Ha Bay, and try kayaking, snorkeling, or cliff jumping.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Ba Be National Park (1 day, $15)
  • Ha Long Bay Cruise (1 day, $30-50)
  • Tam Coc (1 day, $10)
  • Phong Nha National Park (1 day, $20)
  • Bach Ma National Park (1 day, $10)
  • Da Nang (1 day, $10)
  • Cat Ba Island (1 day, $15)
  • Total Estimated Costs (7 days): $120-160

Useful Tips

If you have more time, visit Sapa for its rice terraces and ethnic villages, or Dalat for its flower gardens and waterfalls. If you have less time, skip Bach Ma National Park or Cat Ba Island. Avoid traveling during Vietnam's busy holiday seasons or extreme weather conditions.

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