After months of stay-at-home orders, many are feeling ‘lockdown fatigue’ with pent up anxiety, stress, and boredom. We’re all looking forward to the day when travel restrictions are lifted to venture outdoors for some sunshine, fresh air, and get the body moving again.
Escape to Nature
Since domestic flights are limited along with social distancing restrictions, vaccine and negative-Covid test requirements, taking a short road trip by car might be the next best option to get your dose of wanderlust and nature. Fortunately, Vietnam is blessed with many natural parks and reserves, some of which are only a few hours from key cities. And if you’re concerned about safety and hygiene, visiting these remote places will surely mean less crowds with plenty of space to explore.
Spending time in nature releases hormones that relate to the pursuit of joy and connecting to calm
With the prolonged lockdown having a mental toll on many, a nature getaway is a much needed break and can help improve your mental and physical wellbeing. According to research studies, spending time in nature can reduce stress hormones, improve feelings of happiness and creativity, and lower heart rate and blood pressure.
Six Nature Getaways
Accessing nature is only a few hours a way by car or motorbike. These recommended destinations that can be visited as a day trip or for a longer stay from Ho Chi Minh City, Danang/Hue, and Hanoi. Make sure to check for Covid-19 travel requirements and restrictions before you travel since regulations can change without notice.
From Ho Chi Minh City
Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere
About a 2-hour (50km) drive from Ho Chi Minh City, Can Gio covers an area of 72,000 hectares of wetland. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Can Gio is home to more than 200 species of fauna and 52 species of flora. A short drive from the city, Can Gio is a perfect eco-adventure day trip for those seeking a quick nature getaway. Activities include trekking through the mangrove forest, a paddle boat ride in Gian Bat Lagoon, and opportunities to observe the wildlife in this area including monkeys, gibbons, and alligators.
Travel Tip: An alternative to traveling by car is a relaxing speedboat tour to Can Gio organized by Les Rives River Experience.
Cat Tien National Park
A 3-4 hour drive (150km) from Ho Chi Minh City, Cat Tien National Park has become a popular destination for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. It is one of six UNESCO biosphere reserves in Vietnam and is home to a vast array of wildlife and botanical species. Popular activities include trekking, biking, bird watching, and a night safari for viewing wildlife in their natural habitat. There is also a Bear Rescue Station which is a favorite attraction for children.
Travel Tip: There are numerous types of accommodations available from homestays, lodges, to hotels. For an immersive jungle experience, we recommend The Forest Floor Lodge, an eco-hotel located inside the park offering comfortable accommodations and guided activities.
From Hanoi
Ba Vi National Park
Originally a French hill station, Ba Vi National Park is about a 2-hour drive (55km) west of Hanoi. Situated at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level, Ba Vi has a comfortable, cool climate year round. The scenic forested jungles against the majestic backdrop of the Ba Vi mountain range is ideal for both outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to unwind in nature. Popular activities include trekking, biking, camping, cultural explorations of ethnic villages, historical relics, and pilgrimage sites.
Travel Tip: For a comfortable, luxurious stay, we recommend Melia Ba Vi Mountain Retreat, located within the park. The spacious grounds with wide-spread bungalows offer a perfect retreat for small groups and family getaways.
Mai Chau
A 4-hour drive (140km) from Hanoi, Mai Chau is nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by rolling hills and rice paddy fields. Mai Chau is a popular ecotourism destination offering a balance of adventure and cultural immersion. Adventure activities include trekking and biking through mountainous terrains and villages, kayaking in Hoa Binh Lake. The trekking and biking excursions pass through scenic countryside and local villages, offering a glimpse into the local life of various ethnic groups.
Travel Tip: For those seeking a soft-adventure or family travel, we recommend at least 3 days to truly appreciate the natural surroundings and cultural experience. For convenience and comfort, we recommend either Mai Chau Ecolodge or Avana Retreat. Both offer traditional-style bungalow accommodations that are well-spaced and situated among rural landscapes with rice paddies and nearby villages. They also organize private excursions and provide free bike rentals.
From Danang / Hue
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and best known as home to Song Doong Cave, the largest cave network in the world. Located in northwest Vietnam, Phong Nha is a 5-hour drive (260km) north from Danang. The park covers an expansive area of 123,000 hectares and is rich in geological biodiversity with impressive limestone karst and 104km of underground caves and river network. The main attractions are the caves and grottoes. Popular activities include scenic riverboat cruises, ziplining, kayaking, mountain biking, and forest trekking. For adventure seekers, there are caving excursions offered exclusively through Oxalis Adventure.
Travel Tip: Phong Nha is an adventure paradise with a wide-range of outdoor activities. We recommend at least 3 nights stay. Chap Lap Farmstay and Phong Nha Farmstay offer comfortable accommodations and can assist with organizing your tour programs and excursions during your stay.
Bach Ma National Park
Situated mid-way between Hue and Danang, Bach Ma National Park can be visited as a one day excursion. As a former French hill station, Bach Ma, referred to as the ‘Dalat of Central Vietnam’ is a protected biosphere known for its pleasant climate with forested jungles and waterfalls. Ideal for botanical and wildlife enthusiasts, the park is home to diverse flora and fauna along with over 1,700 animal species, of which 69 species are on the Red List of Endangered Species, including the red-shank douc langur. It is also a bird watcher paradise with as many as 358 bird species identified in the park. There are numerous trails for all levels with treks to the summit for spectacular panorama views or hikes through the jungle passing by scenic waterfalls and lakes for a complete nature immersion.
Travel Tip: We recommend hiring a guide at Bach Ma National Park if you are keen to learn about flora, fauna, and wildlife at the park. Or alternatively purchase a day tour which includes transport and guide to maximize your experience.
