These off the beaten track destinations in Vietnam are suitable for adventurous travelers who want to leave the tourist path during their trip. Although Vietnam has some very famous sights that are definitely worth visiting, the authentic experience might feel a lot less.
Fortunately, there are still many hidden gems that still retain that rough edge of local life, allowing you to experience Vietnam’s rugged countryside, breathtaking mountain ranges and uninhabited islands. If you are tired of Hanoi’s chaotic traffic or the busy beaches of Nha Trang, read this list of best off the beaten track destinations in Vietnam.
This is not a list of the least visited destinations, but the most unique and amazing destinations in Vietnam that have not yet been discovered by mass tourism.
- Tips before going off the beaten track in Vietnam
- Having a local expert help you
- Overview of hidden destinations
- The 16 Best off the beaten track places in Vietnam
Tips before going off the beaten track in Vietnam
Before we dive into the best places to explore hidden gems and authentic life, here are some tips you need to know.
You don’t need to look too far
Most travelers seeking an off the beaten track experience in Vietnam are looking for unique destinations to get a less touristy experience. However, even in the most touristy areas, you can find hidden gems. Just walk through a small alley in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, take a motorbike tour in Ho Chi Minh City beyond the tourist center, or trek deep into the valleys of Sapa.
How to get around
Traveling to less-visited destinations means fewer transportation options. Getting to the main town is manageable, as buses in Vietnam reach any remote town. But getting around the area may be tricky, and you have three main options:
Driving motorbike: Recommended only for experienced drivers with a valid motorbike license. Vietnam is not the place to start learning, especially in remote areas. If you are experienced, it offers the ultimate freedom to explore.
Motorbike guide: Enjoy the same freedom with added safety. Ride on the back of a motorbike driven by an experienced local who also acts as your guide. They know spots you wouldn’t find on your own, and you can enjoy the scenery without worrying about navigation.
By car: A car with a driver is a good option for those who prefer not to be on a motorbike. It offers comfort, protection from the elements, and ease of carrying your belongings.
What to prepare
The best tip for going off the beaten track is to buy a Vietnamese SIM card for internet access and research. However, don’t rely solely on it, as internet service may be unavailable in remote areas. Download offline maps and offline Google Translate libraries.
Check road conditions and weather forecast
Less-visited places in Vietnam are often less developed and maintained. Check road conditions and ensure it’s safe to travel certain routes. Ask locals or accommodations in the area. Also, check the weather forecast, especially during the rainy season in northern areas, as there is a higher risk of landslides.
Having a local expert help you
Going off the beaten track in Vietnam can be challenging. You might need guides, help booking accommodations in areas with no listings on popular booking sites, and transportation if you don’t drive a motorbike. Local Vietnam specializes in local experiences and can help arrange your off the beaten track adventure. Fill in the form below the article to let us know your preferences, and we will design a trip of a lifetime.
Overview of the best hidden destinations in Vietnam
| Hidden Destination | Description |
|---|---|
| Ha Giang | Beyond the loop, with stunning terraced rice fields and hidden trails. |
| Pu Luong Nature Reserve | A hidden paradise with lush landscapes and terraced fields. |
| Cao Bang | More than just Ban Gioc Waterfall, with hidden valleys and scenic mountain passes. |
| Bai Tu Long Bay | Better than Halong Bay, offering similar scenery without the crowds. |
| Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park | Kingdom of caves and jungles, with adventures from easy to extreme. |
| Mu Cang Chai | A quieter alternative to Sapa with impressive terraced rice fields. |
| Quy Nhon | A laid-back beach town with remote fishing villages and beautiful beaches. |
| Con Dao Islands | A serene alternative to Phu Quoc, with deserted beaches and rich history. |
| Ba Be Lake | Tranquil natural beauty with boat trips, ethnic villages, and jungle treks. |
| Dak Lak | Coffee kingdom of Vietnam with stunning waterfalls and ethical elephant experiences. |
| Kontum | Gem of the Central Highlands with traditional villages and remote excursions. |
| An Giang | Non-touristic Mekong Delta experience with mountains, temples, and Cham culture. |
| Lang Son | Gateway to the Northern Highlands with caves, markets, and cultural blend. |
| Phu Yen | A hidden gem beach destination with deserted beaches and tranquil beauty. |
| Nam Du Island | Unspoiled island escape with pristine beaches and authentic local life. |
| Tuyen Quang | Cultural and natural treasures with ethnic diversity and stunning landscapes. |
The 16 Best off the beaten track places in Vietnam
1. Ha Giang – Beyond the loop
Ha Giang has been a hidden gem for many years, until around 2022, when every backpacker wanted to do the Ha Giang Loop. It is now no longer a secret, but Ha Giang is much more than just the infamous loop. The province is huge, with stunning terraced rice fields in Hoang Su Phi, a few hours’ drive from the main route.
Even close to the loop, you can find roads less traveled by backpacker groups. While 99% of people stay on the same route, there is much more to explore. If you go trekking, you are guaranteed not to find a single tourist on your trail for hours.
2. Pu Luong Nature Reserve – A hidden paradise
Pu Luong is a small nature reserve with no big towns nearby, making it an ideal off the beaten track destination in Vietnam. There are no train stations, bus services, or domestic airports close by, which preserves its serene environment. Recently, the area has seen some development with stunning new lodges and retreats, some with pools overlooking the rice fields. However, everything is well regulated by the local government. You won’t find huge resorts and hotels here; only a small area can be developed. For those seeking a more authentic experience, there are homestays run by ethnic Tay families.
The area is breathtaking, combining the jungles of Cuc Phuong and Phong Nha with the terraced rice fields of Sapa. The valley is flanked by towering mountains covered in jungle, with terraced rice fields in between. Scattered throughout the valley are small ethnic villages, mainly Tay people living in traditional stilt houses. A small river runs through the valley, with locals using specially built waterwheels to irrigate the rice fields, allowing for two harvests a year. The stunning scenery, remote location, and well-regulated development make Pu Luong a hidden gem and a hidden paradise.
3. Cao Bang – More than the Ban Gioc Waterfall
Cao Bang is a province that is rarely visited by tourists, making it a perfect off the beaten track destination in Vietnam. Most people only know Ban Gioc Waterfall, the most stunning waterfall in Vietnam, and therefore the only place they visit. However, Cao Bang is home to many hidden gems. One of the most stunning off the beaten track places is Phong Nam Valley, near Ban Gioc Waterfall. This place looks like a scene from a fantasy movie, with towering mountains, small local villages, a beautiful stream, and vast rice fields.
But there’s much more to see in Cao Bang. In the west, near Ha Giang province, you’ll find Bao Lac, accessible via mountain roads where you won’t see any tourists for hours. A notable highlight is the Me Pia Pass, with its many hairpin turns winding down the mountain. To fully explore these hidden gems in Cao Bang, you’ll need at least three days, but it’s recommended to stay longer for a truly authentic experience.
4. Bai Tu Long Bay – Better than Halong Bay
Halong Bay is on most travelers’ bucket lists when visiting Vietnam, but it’s often crowded with cruise boats and tourists. Fortunately, there is a better alternative: Bai Tu Long Bay. Located right next to Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay offers similar scenery but with far fewer boats and overcrowded sights. You can enjoy kayaking to explore hidden lagoons, relaxing on remote beaches, and visiting caves tucked away on the islands.
For the more adventurous travelers, another alternative is Lan Ha Bay. While not as quiet as Bai Tu Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay is less touristy than Halong Bay. The big difference is that Cat Ba Island is right next door. On Cat Ba, you have more options than just cruising through the bay. You can go hiking through its national park, rent a motorbike to drive to viewpoints, and even go rock climbing. This variety makes Lan Ha Bay a unique destination for those seeking an off the beaten track experience in Vietnam.
5. Phong Nha – Kingdom of caves & jungles
Phong Nha is not close to any major tourist cities, situated roughly halfway between Hoi An and Hanoi. This is likely the main reason it remains off the beaten track in Vietnam. The park offers an authentic jungle experience that looks straight out of a movie, with an abundance of caves, including Hang Son Doong, the largest cave in the world. While visiting this cave comes with a hefty price tag of $3000 for a 5-day expedition, there are many other caves to explore that fit the average traveler’s budget.
Easily accessible caves include Phong Nha Cave, which requires a 30-minute boat trip through stunning countryside and jungle, and Paradise Cave, known for its massive chambers and impressive stalactites and stalagmites. For more adventurous options, there are caves that offer abseiling, swimming, and long jungle treks. Multi-day adventures often include camping in the jungle or inside a cave, providing an authentic experience of Vietnam’s hidden gems.
Read here our list of best caves in Phong Nha.
6. Mu Cang Chai – A non-touristic alternative to Sapa
Sapa is hugely popular for its stunning terraced rice fields, but for those seeking a less touristy destination with equally impressive scenery, Mu Cang Chai is the place to go. The terraced rice fields in Mu Cang Chai are even more impressive than those in Sapa. While it sees more tourists during harvest season, it remains quiet for the rest of the year. The roads are less developed, and visiting during the summer rainy season requires caution. However, the spectacular views and authentic experience make it a worthwhile destination off the beaten track in Vietnam.
7. Quy Nhon – A laid back beach town
Quy Nhon attracts mainly domestic tourists, with few foreign travelers visiting this relaxed beach town. The city offers a calm atmosphere, excellent food, and less chaotic traffic compared to other Vietnamese cities. The surrounding area features remote fishing villages with beautiful beaches, where small basket boats are used by fishermen. Quy Nhon is perfect for travelers looking for a more relaxed and local beach experience away from the typical tourist spots.
8. Con Dao Islands – A serene alternative to Phu Quoc
While Phu Quoc is known for its overdeveloped tourist attractions, the Con Dao Islands offer a tranquil escape. The main island, Con Son, is the only place with accommodation, featuring small resorts and hotels. Most beaches are deserted, with no tourists, restaurants, or bars, providing a peaceful and authentic experience. Besides the pristine beaches, the islands have a rich history with sites from the French colonial period and the Vietnam War. The Con Dao Islands also feature a national park for hiking and seasonal turtle nesting, making it a unique destination in Vietnam.
9. Ba Be Lake – Tranquil natural beauty
Ba Be Lake, the largest natural lake in Vietnam, is located in Ba Be National Park. This remote area lacks cities or large towns, offering a peaceful retreat. The main highlight is a boat trip on the lake, visiting ethnic villages, a massive cave opening, and waterfalls. For the adventurous, guided tours explore hidden caves, jungle treks in the national park, and kayaking on the lake. Ba Be Lake provides an authentic experience with nature and local ethnic communities, making it a hidden gem worth exploring.
10. Dak Lak – Coffee kingdom of Vietnam
Dak Lak, located in the Central Highlands, is home to ethnic minorities and holds historical significance as the site of the last major confrontation between North and South Vietnamese armies. The area features beautiful waterfalls and is famous in Vietnam for its coffee plantations, mostly managed by ethnic communities. Lak Lake is a peaceful spot where visitors can explore ethnic villages and enjoy boat trips.
Another highlight is Yok Don National Park, the only place in Vietnam offering an ethical elephant experience. The park is home to wild elephants and released elephants from the logging or tourist industry, who now roam freely under the care of mahouts.
Exploring Dak Lak by Easy Rider tour is highly recommended. Easy Riders are motorbike drivers who also act as local guides, offering an authentic experience as they share their extensive knowledge of the area while driving you around on the back of a motorbike.
11. Kon Tum – Gem of the Central Highlands
Kon Tum, near the border of Laos and Cambodia, is a hidden gem and one of the most off the beaten track destinations in Vietnam. Traditional ways of life are preserved in the indigenous villages surrounding the city. From Kon Tum City, you can embark on exciting excursions to remote corners of Vietnam, visiting national parks, stunning mountain landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, and local ethnic villages.
The area is home to various ethnic minority communities who warmly welcome visitors. Due to its remote location, Kon Tum sees few travelers, ensuring an authentic experience. A trip through the Central Highlands, including Dak Lak, offers an amazing alternative to the more beaten coastal route.
12. An Giang – Non touristic Mekong Delta experience
The Mekong Delta is vast, comprising multiple provinces with many non-touristic places to explore. Instead of popular destinations like My Tho, opt for An Giang, known as the “land of the seven mountains” and one of the most off the beaten track destinations in the Mekong Delta.
The most famous mountain is Sam Mountain, home to religious temples and pagodas. An Giang is also the land of the Cham people, an ethnic minority in Vietnam, adding cultural diversity to your experience. The province features mysterious underwater forests, religious buildings, waterways from the Mekong, and unique festivals, providing an authentic Mekong Delta adventure.
13. Lang Son – Gateway to the Northern Highlands
Lang Son, located in northeastern Vietnam near the Chinese border, offers a unique off the beaten track experience with its rugged mountains and lush landscapes. This less-visited province is perfect for those seeking an authentic, non-touristic adventure.
Key attractions include the stunning Nhi Thanh and Tam Thanh Caves, the historic Mac Dynasty Citadel, and the bustling Dong Kinh Market. Lang Son’s picturesque landscapes, such as Mau Son Mountain, are ideal for hiking and enjoying panoramic views. Its proximity to China adds a fascinating cultural blend, making Lang Son a compelling destination for exploring beyond typical tourist trails.
14. Phu Yen – A hidden Gem Beach Destination
Phu Yen is a province located south of Quy Nhon and north of the famous beach city Nha Trang. Phu Yen is even more non-touristic than Quy Nhon, as even local Vietnamese travelers seldom visit this area. The province features some of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, often completely deserted, providing a truly authentic and peaceful beach experience.
Adding Phu Yen to your Vietnam itinerary might require some effort, as it is not conveniently located between popular tourist destinations. Getting around Phu Yen, including visiting its beaches, is more challenging and usually limited to private transportation like cars or motorbikes. However, the stunning coastal scenery and tranquility make it a hidden gem worth the journey.
15. Nam Du Island – Unspoiled island escape
Nam Du Island is located in the Gulf of Thailand, off the southern coast of Vietnam. Part of the Nam Du Archipelago, this island is known for its pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush greenery. Nam Du Island remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, offering a tranquil and non-touristic retreat.
Visitors to Nam Du can enjoy activities such as snorkeling and exploring the island’s secluded beaches. The island’s charming fishing villages provide an authentic local experience, and the seafood here is exceptionally fresh. For those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful island paradise, Nam Du Island is an ideal off the beaten track destination.
16. Tuyen Quang – Cultural and natural treasures
Tuyen Quang is a province located in northern Vietnam, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. The province is home to various ethnic minority communities, each with its unique traditions and customs. Tuyen Quang offers a genuinely authentic experience for travelers interested in exploring Vietnam’s cultural diversity.
The province boasts several natural attractions, including the Na Hang Nature Reserve, which features picturesque lakes, towering limestone karsts, and dense forests. Tuyen Quang’s historical sites, such as the Tan Trao Historical Site, provide insight into the country’s revolutionary past. The province’s remote location and lack of major tourist infrastructure make it a perfect off the beaten track destination for those seeking an unspoiled and authentic experience.
