subject: Walking, Hiking And Trekking Tours: Vietnams Natural Wonders [print this page] If youre looking for some of the most breathtaking scenery to explore on Southeast Asian tours, Vietnam is the place to go. Perhaps one of the most beautiful countries this side of the world, there is much to see here that has no equal anywhere else.
From the Red River in the north to the Mekong River on the south, from the plains to its highest mountains, there is always something new to discover for visitors willing to spend some time getting to know the land through walking and hiking tours. Vietnams rich natural beauty is quickly becoming a favourite for nature lovers and with one visit, it is easy to see why!
Halong Bay
The rising star of luxury nature tours, Vietnams mysterious and majestic Halong Bay is a destination all its own. With 1,600 limestone islands and islets covering an area of over 1,500 square kilometres, this unbelievably beautiful region was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its wide range of biodiversity, contained in an awe-inspiring environment. Take a spin around the bay and go island hopping, exploring the unique features of each magical isletcaves, grottoes and lush landscapes await!
Mai Chau
The newly protected Pu Luong Nature Reserve, near Mai Chau, is home to endangered species such as langurs, leopards, civets and bears, but its especially good for bird watching. The country's rich natural features, wildlife and lush vegetation are here on displaysomething tourists holidaying in its cities hardly ever get to see.
Perfect for walking or hiking tours, Vietnams tranquil villages, rice paddies and markets are also nearby, offering a glimpse of rural life. Mai Chau is also home to amazing caves and grottoes like Mo Luong Cave, Chieu Cave, Pieng Kem Grotto, Lang Cave and Khau Phuc Cave. Lac is also an attraction in itself and most day travellers and overnight tourists go to this village for accommodation and fine homemade fare. Like Lac, Pom Coong is also an ethnic White Tai village that offers 'homestays' to visitors.
Sapa
The Hoang Lien Son range of mountains of Sapa, in Lao Cai Province in the northwest of the country, is another favourite for those who prefer more challenging routes and trails. The country's highest peak, Fan Si Pan (or Phan Xi Pang) is a popular climb for hikers.
Located in the Hoang Lien National Park, an attraction in itself, with its awe-inspiring mountain landscape and forests, the summit of Fan Si Pan takes an average of two days to reach from Sa Pa township. Expect to see many rare and endangered speciessome of which can only be found here.
Marble Mountains of Da Nang
A treasure trove of peaks, caves, tunnels and temples are all just waiting to be discovered in the Marble Mountains of Da Nang. The five famous limestone and marble hills are named after the five elementsmetal, wood, water, fire and earthand are a popular pilgrimage site.
