Kayaking in Vietnam offers a unique perspective on the country’s stunning natural beauty. Whether paddling through serene bays, exploring hidden caves, or navigating the intricate waterways of the Mekong Delta, kayaking allows you to connect with Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and experience its rich cultural heritage.
1. Halong Bay
The undisputed champion of kayaking in Vietnam is Halong Bay. Its emerald waters, dotted with thousands of limestone karsts, provide an otherworldly backdrop for paddling adventures. Kayaking here allows you to get up close and personal with the islands, exploring hidden bays and lagoons inaccessible to larger boats. Some tours even take you through caves to reach secret bays, adding a touch of adventure to your experience.
Kayaking is a fantastic complement to a Halong Bay cruise, offering a more intimate and active way to explore the bay. You’ll see more than you would from the boat and reach places that are off-limits to larger vessels. Some kayak trips also include visits to floating pearl farms or other aquaculture operations, where you can witness local life and perhaps even interact with the friendly residents. And with its calm waters and lack of strong currents, Halong Bay is an ideal location for kayakers of all levels.
2. Cat Ba & Lan Ha Bay
Adjacent to Halong Bay lies Lan Ha Bay, a hidden gem with similar stunning scenery but fewer crowds. The large island of Cat Ba sits within the bay, offering opportunities for kayaking directly from the island or joining organized tours.
Cat Ba Island, with its numerous accommodations, is an excellent base for exploring the bay without the need for a cruise. So, unlike Halong Bay, where kayaking is typically part of a cruise experience, Cat Ba allows you to rent a kayak and explore independently. This is perfect for those who prefer a more flexible and self-guided adventure. Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay also provides access to beautiful beaches, many of which are only reachable by water. You can even combine kayaking with other activities like trekking and cycling on Cat Ba Island for a well-rounded experience.
3. Ba Be Lake
Nestled within Ba Be National Park, Ba Be Lake is Vietnam’s largest natural lake. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush jungles, this serene destination offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The lake itself is relatively untouched by tourism, providing a sense of peace and isolation as you paddle through its calm waters.
The main village around the lake, Pac Ngoi, is the starting point for most kayaking adventures. While the lake is too vast to circumnavigate entirely by kayak, it’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon paddle, especially later in the day when the temperatures are cooler and the setting sun paints the sky with vibrant colors.
4. Phong Nha
For those seeking adventure and adrenaline, Phong Nha is the ultimate kayaking destination in Vietnam. The park is home to numerous rivers and caves, offering a variety of kayaking experiences.
You can rent kayaks along the Son River, which meanders through the park’s lush jungles and picturesque countryside. This is a great option for nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in the tranquility of Phong Nha’s landscapes.
Another option is to join a guided tour and kayak inside the park’s famous water caves. Phong Nha Cave, the namesake of the national park, is a popular choice, offering a unique opportunity to paddle through its illuminated chambers and marvel at its stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
5. Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta, a vast network of rivers, canals, and islands, is a kayaker’s paradise. The calm waterways and lush vegetation provide a perfect setting for exploration. You can paddle through vibrant floating markets, observe local life along the riverbanks, and even venture into the mangrove forests.
Kayaking in the Mekong Delta is a great way to experience the region’s unique culture and way of life. You can stop at local villages, try fresh fruits from orchards, and visit traditional workshops. With its countless waterways and diverse landscapes, the Mekong Delta offers endless possibilities for kayaking adventures.
6. Hoi An
While Hoi An is renowned for its ancient town and beautiful beaches, it also offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. The Thu Bon River, which flows through the town, provides a scenic route for paddling, with views of traditional villages, lush countryside, and mangrove forests.
Several kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding tours operate in the area, allowing you to explore the waterways and discover hidden gems. You can even paddle to nearby islands or visit the Cua Dai estuary, where the river meets the sea. Kayaking is just one of the many activities you can enjoy in Hoi An, so be sure to plan enough time to experience everything this charming town has to offer.
7. Ha Giang
Ha Giang, with its dramatic mountain landscapes and vibrant ethnic minority cultures, has emerged as a popular destination for adventurous travelers. The Ha Giang Loop, a scenic motorbike route, is a highlight for many visitors. However, amidst the mountains and valleys, kayaking offers a unique and refreshing way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
The Nho Que River, which winds its way through the heart of Ha Giang, provides several opportunities for kayaking adventures. You can paddle near the iconic Ma Pi Leng Pass, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and deep canyons. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider kayaking near Khai Vai or Du Gia, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of the river and surrounding landscapes.
8. Dalat
Dalat, known for its cool climate, pine forests, and picturesque lakes, offers a serene setting for kayaking enthusiasts. Tuyen Lam Lake, surrounded by mountains and greenery, is a popular spot for paddling. The calm waters and scenic surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely kayak trip.
Kayaking in Dalat is typically offered as part of a guided tour, allowing you to explore the lake and its surroundings with a knowledgeable local guide. Some tours even combine kayaking with trekking through the pine forests, offering a more active and immersive experience.
9. Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, boasts a stunning coastline with numerous beaches and bays perfect for kayaking. You can rent kayaks at various locations or join a guided tour to explore the island’s hidden coves and pristine waters.
Keep in mind that kayaking in Phu Quoc involves sea kayaking, which can be a bit different from paddling on lakes or rivers. The conditions are generally calm, especially during the dry season (December to April), but it’s important to be aware of the weather and tides. Don’t forget to apply plenty of sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the strong tropical sun.
10. Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land,” is a picturesque region of limestone karsts, rivers, and rice paddies. While boat tours are the most popular way to explore this area, kayaking offers a more active and intimate experience.
Currently, kayaking is available in Trang An and Cuc Phuong National Park. In Trang An, you can paddle through the same scenic waterways as the boat tours, exploring caves, temples, and stunning natural landscapes at your own pace. In Cuc Phuong National Park, kayaking on the lake provides a peaceful way to observe the park’s diverse wildlife and lush vegetation.
