Vietnam is an exceptional destination for the ones who prefers a bit of diversity on their vacation. You can choose to sightsee in one of the big cities in the country, visit museums, sit in cafés and go to restaurants. One of the most popular things to do in Vietnam is to visit one of many beaches by the coastline, where you can relax with a cocktail in your hand. But if you prefer to be more active and seek out adventure, here are 5 things you should do in Vietnam:
1. Trekking in Sapa
A view of trekking trip in Sapa
Sapa lies in the northern parts of Vietnam and is well known for their rice terraces and lush, green landscape. This popular destination is not only beautiful, but serves as the perfect place if you prefer long hikes (you can also do short ones). Wander around some of the highest mountains in Vietnam, visit the ethnic minority in Sapa and walk through breathtaking landscapes. There are several guides in Sapa which will happily help you with your planning. You can also go trekking without a guide, but it is usually advised to do the longer ones with one. If you are not used to go trekking, always go with a guide. Better to be safe than sorry.
2. Kitesurf in Mui Ne
Mui Ne Beach – The Kitesurfer’s Dream
If you are heading to Mui Ne, you will not be able to avoid all the kitesurfers. This is a highly popular activity on the beach and you will find yourself tempted to try. There are plenty of kitesurf schools here so you can join in on the fun anytime – with or without experience. Whenever you feel tired you can just kick back on the beach, enjoy the sun, perhaps with a drink in your hand.
3. Ride the Hai Van Pass
Hai Van Pass
A must do for the adventurous ones! Hai Van Pass lies in Hue, the former capital of Vietnam, and is a famous winding road that you might have heard from the show “Top Gear”. Usually people drive this on their rented motorbikes, but if you prefer, you can also ask a local to drive you. There are usually companies that can assist you with this matter. This road will guaranteed give you a bit of an adrenalin kick, cruising down while also admiring the stunning scenery (keep your eyes on the road though!). It takes about 20 minutes to reach the top of Hai Van Pass and you will be rewarded with an incredible viewpoint. Sounds pretty good, right?
4. Sandboarding in Mui Ne
Ride on the famous sand dunes in Mui Ne
Mui Ne is quite the adventurous place to be. First you have kitesurfing and now you can also go sandboarding. Mui Ne is famous for its sand dunes and that itself is a sight that one must visit. But for the adventurous ones, it does not stop there. Rent a sandboard and slide down the pristine sand dunes, just in time for sunrise. It is the perfect temperature to do it since the sand will not be too hot. Usually the tour guides will have sand boards for you to rent so go with a friend or two and start sliding down. Do not miss out on this fun and unique opportunity – your adrenaline will undoubtedly kick in.
5. Go canyoning in Dalat
The washing machine was the most intense rappel while canyoning Dalat
Dalat is not only the perfect place to go to if you want to see Vietnam’s beautiful waterfalls, you can also go canyoning here! It is tougher than it looks like, but so much fun. An activity that will most certainly satisfy the ones who are looking for adventurous things to do in Vietnam. There are many tour companies that can assist you and soon enough you will be swimming, hiking and sliding down waterfalls in Dalat.
If all of these activities sounds amazing to you (it does to us), you should start planning your trip to Vietnam! Before heading over here, remember to apply for a Vietnam visa. You have three options to choose from when applying for a Vietnam visa and they are: E-Visa, Visa on Arrival or go to your nearest Vietnam Embassy or Consulate. Note that the E-Visa is only available for certain countries in the world.
