Vietnam is a country of majestic landscapes, from misty mountains in the north to tropical islands in the south. Beyond the crowded viewpoints and well-known attractions, Vietnam also possesses various off-the-beaten-path lands that can amaze many tourists. What makes them special is that they remain considerably quieter than Vietnam's major tourist hubs. These places allow tourists to have more meaningful encounters with locals, more time in nature, and to enjoy Vietnam at a slower pace. Let’s explore the top 11 hidden gems in Vietnam with Handspan Travel!

Through this blog post, you will find detailed information on the following destinations.

Bai Tu Long Bay

Bai Tu Long Bay, located northeast of Halong Bay, is one of the outstanding hidden gems in Vietnam that you should not miss. Compared to Halong Bay, this area is more peaceful and less crowded with tourists. It fascinates tourists with the fanciful beauty of natural landscapes, limestone mountains, hundreds of small and big islands, and stunning untouched beaches.

Bai Tu Long Bay

Like other hidden gems in Vietnam, Bai Tu Long Bay appeals to tourists through its natural beauty and various activities waiting to be explored. Let’s see some exciting things to do in Bai Tu Long Bay with us!

Exploring Bai Tu Long National Park

Bai Tu Long National Park is an attractive attraction for both domestic and international tourists. The park is a national biosphere reserve with an extremely rich and diverse flora and fauna ecosystem. 

Bai Tu Long National Park

Visiting the park, you can admire the unspoiled beauty of many islands, such as Ba Mun, Tra Ngo Lon, Sau Nam, Dong Ma, etc. The limestone mountains surrounding large valleys create a rich habitat for different types of plants and animals. Among the caves, Hang Doi (Doi Cave) is the most outstanding cave. The cave has a high biodiversity, with many hundred-year-old ancient trees in the primeval mangrove forest and freshwater puddles. 

Visiting fishing villages around the bay

Visiting fishing villages is also one of the wonderful experiences in Bai Tu Long Bay. Cong Dam fishing village and Vung Vieng fishing village are two places you may want to refer to. Coming to these fishing villages, you will have an opportunity to stay on the boat and do fishing with the fishermen while listening to their stories and appreciating the scenery. 

Vung Vieng Fishing Village

Taking an overnight cruise

Taking an overnight cruise is the best way to explore the splendid nature of Bai Tu Long Bay. Besides adoring the bay’s landscape, you will also have the chance to do kayaking, join a cooking class, do Taichi on the deck, etc. 

Treasure Junk

Now, it's time for you to prepare your luggage and visit Bai Tu Long Bay! If you would like to immerse yourself in a secluded area with fewer tourists, you can refer to our tour: Halong Bay cruise on Treasure Junk (1 night). Also, you can extend your trip to Ninh Binh with our Halong Bay on Treasure Junk & the Ninh Binh extension tour (3 days). 

Y Ty Highlands

Tucked away in northern Vietnam near the Chinese border, Y Ty is also one of the outstanding hidden gems in Vietnam. It is a remote highland destination known for its rugged mountains, terraced rice fields, and villages surrounded by clouds. The landscapes change dramatically throughout the year, from lush green rice terraces to golden fields during harvest season. 

Y Ty

The best time to visit is from September to November and from April to June, as Y Ty is located in the high mountains with extremely cold winters. If you want to catch up with the harvesting season, late August to mid-September is an ideal time. Meanwhile, from after Tet to March is the best time to catch the most impressive cumulus clouds crossing the valley. 

Y Ty rice fields

The area is home to several ethnic communities, such as the H’Mong, Dao, Giay and the Ha Nhi, each one with their traditions, jewelry and architecture. Particularly, the mushroom-shaped houses of the Ha Nhi people (Nha trinh tuong) are attractive to tourists. They also bear deep cultural and historical imprints of the Ha Nhi people. The thick walls made of clay and the roofs covered with thatch are eco-friendly materials that allowed the ancient people in Bat Xat to face the harsh winters.

Nha trinh tuong of Ha Nhi people

For more detailed information about this destination, please refer to our blog post here: Y Ty: Why this plateau near Sapa is one of Handspan’s top 5 mountain destinations. 

Huu Lien

Located in Lang Son Province, Huu Lien is a peaceful valley surrounded by spectacular limestone mountains, forests, and small villages. Like other hidden gems in Vietnam, this destination’s tourism remains relatively low-key. Thanks to the diverse landscapes, including a special-use forest with an area of 8,293 hectares, lakes, caves, rocky mountains, and historical and cultural values, Huu Lien is a destination that you should not miss. 

The area is ideal for travelers who enjoy cycling, trekking, kayaking, and exploring rural landscapes. Spending a night in a local homestay also offers a chance to experience the daily life and hospitality of the Tay communities who live in the valley. Below are some spots that make Huu Lien one of the amazing hidden gems in Vietnam.

Dong Lam Meadow

Dong Lam Meadow, a large land surrounded by mountains, with winding rivers and green lawns, is one of the most appealing places in Huu Lien. The steppe area has an area of nearly 100 hectares with pristine limestone mountains, lush green grasslands, rich vegetation, clear emerald green lakes, waterfalls, and romantic winding streams. Watching horses on the steppe, camping, and kayaking are some things to do here. 

Dong Lam Meadow

Nong Dung Lake

Nong Dung Lake is another spot in Huu Lien Village. The cool and green lake is located in the middle of a large valley, surrounded by green grasslands and majestic limestone mountains. No matter what season you come here, you can relax and enjoy the fresh and peaceful atmosphere. 

Nong Dung Lake

Bac Mo Dam

Bac Mo Dam is about two kilometers from the Dong Lam Plateau. The dam possesses a pristine landscape with clear blue streams and lakes. This is definitely a place for those who want to mingle with nature. 

Bac Mo Dam

Khe Dau Waterfall

Khe Dau Waterfall is an ideal place for trekking lovers. You can go on a fun adventure on the paths up to the fall with different lengths and difficulties, which take you about 1-1.5 hours. 

Khe Dau Waterfall

Besides visiting the above spots, don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn about the daily life of local people, chat with them, and discover their traditional customs.

Overall, Huu Lien Village is among the perfect ecotourism sites where you can experience natural beauty and discover the unique culture of local people. Let’s visit the village and have your own experience!

Bac Son Valley

Bac Son Valley

Bac Son Valley is one of northern Vietnam's most photogenic landscapes, surrounded by limestone mountains and dotted with rice fields and traditional villages. It is also among the hidden gems in Vietnam that you should drop by. Coming to Bac Son Valley, you can admire the lush mountains and picturesque flower fields. Besides, you will also have a chance to interact and immerse yourself in the distinctive culture of the local community. Let’s explore some things to do here with Handspan Travel!

Admiring Na Lay Mountain’s majestic scenery

Standing atop Na Lay Mountain and gazing out over the valley, you will undoubtedly be awmazed by the magnificent natural landscape here. You will see endless stretches of rice fields, the winding silvery Thuong River, bringing cool, refreshing waters to the small stilt houses nestled in the valley below.

View from Na Lay Mountain

Discovering the culture of Quynh Son community-based tourism village

The valley is home to indigenous communities, including the Kinh, Nung, Tay, and Dao, who bring a rich diversity of cultures. Here, you can enjoy the natural scenery while exploring and experiencing the daily lives of the local people.

Quynh Son community-based tourism village

Exploring Tam Canh Pass

Tam Canh Pass is part of the Bac Son Uprising historical site, which was designated a Special National Relic in 2016. Renowned as the most picturesque mountain pass in the Northeast region, it stretches along the flank of a massive mountain, winding and twisting its way through the landscape.

Besides, you can cycle through villages, visit local homes, and explore the surrounding countryside. This allows you to enjoy Bac Son beyond the viewpoint. Let’s visit Bac Son Valley and have your own experience!

Ba Be National Park

Ba Be National Park 

Home to Vietnam's largest natural freshwater lake, Ba Be National Park combines mountains, dense forests, caves, waterfalls, and traditional villages in one destination. It is also among the stunning hidden gems in Vietnam that you should visit. Visiting the park, you can immerse in the pristine nature, explore the rich biodiversity and join exciting outdoor activities. Let’s explore amazing things to do in Ba Be National Park with us!

Boating and kayaking on Ba Be Lake

Exploring Ba Be Lake by boat is one of the must-do activities in Ba Be National Park. Boating and kayaking allow you to admire the surrounding landscapes and navigate the lake's serene waters. Let’s take in the tranquility of the surroundings and visit the various islands and caves within the lake.

Boating on Ba Be Lake

Trekking and hiking

Trekking is one of the most exciting experiences of exploring the splendid landscape of the Ba Be National Park. The park features numerous hiking and trekking trails that allow you to explore its diverse landscapes. You will also have a chance to learn about the local culture and lives.

Ba Be trekking route

Visiting ethnic minority villages

Ba Be National Park is home to several ethnic minority communities, including the Tay, Hmong, and Dao people. Visiting the park, you can learn about the locals’ culture, visit their homes, enjoy local dishes and wines, listen to traditional music, and join their traditional festivals if you come here during festival time, etc.

Local people singing on Ba Be Lake

Wildlife spotting and bird watching

Visiting the park, you will have a chance to see various flora and fauna and birds here. The forests provide habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species. It is inhabited by numerous mammal species, including some rare and endangered ones, such as Delacour's langur, Asian black bear, Asian golden cat, etc. Besides mammals, Ba Be National Park is also home to various bird species. Bird species found in Ba Be National Park include the great hornbill, crested serpent eagle, pied kingfisher, and many more.

Delacour langur in Ba Be National Park

Generally, Ba Be National Park is among the hidden gems in Vietnam that appeal to tourists. For more detailed information about the park, please refer to our blog post here: Ba Be National Park travel guide. 

Ngoc Son Ngo Luong

About 90km southwest of Hanoi in Hoa Binh province, which is now Phu Tho Province, Ngoc Son Ngo Luong Nature Reserve is also among the appealing hidden gems in Vietnam. This lesser-known destination is characterized by limestone mountains, forests, rice terraces, and small ethnic villages. The reserve offers a slower and more immersive experience for travelers who want to get away from busy tourist centers. 

When visiting Ngoc Son Ngo Luong, you should not miss immersing yourself in the cool water of the Mu Waterfall. Nestled amidst lush green forests, this waterfall cascades down the mountain, forming a series of stunning tiers. Its crystal-clear waters stand out beautifully against the backdrop of the Lac Son mountains. At the base of each tier lies a small, calm, and refreshingly cool pool, offering visitors the perfect spot to snap photos or enjoy a dip in the water.

Mu Waterfall

Trekking is one of the best ways to explore the area, with trails connecting villages and passing through forests, valleys, and traditional farmland. Local homestays also provide an opportunity to experience the lifestyle and hospitality of the communities living within the reserve. 

Pu Luong

Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Among the hidden gems in Vietnam, Pu Luong is a more popular destination. However, it still attracts tourists through its stunning natural scenery and diverse cultural characteristics. Its landscape of rice terraces, forested mountains, bamboo water wheels, and traditional villages makes it particularly attractive to travelers who enjoy nature and slow travel. Pu Luong Nature Reserve is an ideal destination to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Coming here, you may not want to miss these featured spots below.

Don Village (Ban Don)

Don Village is home to the Thai people. Coming here, you will be amazed by the traditional stilt houses lying along the foothills, with a roof made of palm leaves. Besides admiring the stunning scenery, you will also have memorable experiences when joining the local's daily life activities.

Don Village

Kho Muong Village

Located deep inside the core area of Pu Luong Nature Reserve, Kho Muong Village appeals to tourists with the tranquillity and unspoiled beauty of nature. When you visit the village, you will find the Thai people's traditional stilt houses interspersed with rice and corn fields, surrounded by undulating mountains. Also, you will have a chance to learn more about the local's life and join rice planting, harvesting, and cultural exchange activities.

Kho Muong Village

Son - Ba - Muoi Village

This area is also known as the Cao Son area, located on the Pha He, Pha Chen Mountain peak, at 1200 meters above sea level. Therefore, it is pretty isolated from other villages on the mountain foot and has not been influenced by modern architecture from the outside. Passing through steep and winding slopes, you can enjoy the peaceful rhythm of life amidst the majestic natural scenery in the three villages. Coming here, you will find traditional stilt houses with many characteristics of the ancient Thai people. 

Son - Ba - Muoi Village

For more detailed information about Pu Luong Nature Reserve, please refer to our blog post here: Pu Luong travel guide. 

Ly Son Island

Located off the coast of Quang Ngai Province, Ly Son Island is a small volcanic island known for dramatic coastal landscapes, turquoise water, volcanic cliffs, and offshore rock formations. Its relatively remote location and untouched beauty make the island one of the hidden gems in Vietnam. 

Ly Son small island

Travelers can explore volcanic landscapes, visit temples and historic sites, snorkel in clear waters, and try fresh seafood. The island is also famous for its garlic cultivation, an important part of the local economy and identity. 

When visiting the island, you should not miss these spots below. 

Thoi Loi Peak

This is one of the island district's five extinct volcanoes, featuring a rocky promontory that overlooks the sea. Rising approximately 170 meters above sea level, the peak encompasses a massive crater containing a freshwater lake that supplies the island district.

Hang Cau

Hang Cau features sheer cliffs on one side and a beach with fine white sand on the other. Shaped by the wind and waves, the cliffs display distinctive forms, while colorful coral reefs lie just offshore.

Hang Cau

To Vo Arch

Another iconic landmark on Ly Son Island is the To Vo Arch, located on the eastern side of the island. In reality, it is a natural rock arch standing over two meters tall by the sea.

To Vo Arch

Here’s more detailed information about Ly Son Island: Ly Son travel guide. 

Con Dao Island

Con Dao

For those who are interested in discovering Vietnamese history and enjoying the pristine beauty, Con Dao Island is undoubtedly among the hidden gems in Vietnam that are worth visiting. Con Dao has long and white sandy beaches, a beautiful ocean world with colorful coral reefs, and primary rainforests with rich flora and fauna. When coming to Con Dao, you should not miss these activities below.

Diving, snorkeling, and watching corals

One of the activities you should not miss in Con Dao is diving, snorkeling, and watching corals. Con Dao consists of different sub-islands such as Bay Canh, Tai, Tre, Trac, or Cau, etc., where the convergence of coral reefs is the highest density in Vietnam. Among these sub-islands, Tai is the most suitable and wonderful place to explore marine life. The types of coral reefs here are various, including branches, slabs, and blocks with diverse colors and shapes.

Fishing

Fishing is also a favorite activity in Con Dao. It has various types of fish, such as mackerel, grouper, plaice, etc., due to the number of islands. To catch different types of fish, you will need different types of bait. After fishing, you can enjoy your achievement as well as watching the scenery of the sea and islands.

Exploring small islands

Con Son Bay has a system of 14 big and small islands close or far away from each other. All of the islands create magnificent scenery that you cannot take your eyes off. Besides, on this island, you can easily find beautiful beaches, forest ecosystems, and diverse mangroves.

Watching turtles laying eggs

Watching turtles laying eggs is an exciting activity you should not miss when you are in Con Dao. Hon Bay island, known as the best eco-island in Con Dao and the most significant marine turtle conservation site in Vietnam, is the most suitable island to watch. The island has the highest number of turtles that lay eggs in Con Dao.

Turtle laying eggs in Con Dao

Visiting Con Dao Prison

Con Dao Prison is built by the French to detain particularly dangerous prisoners for the French colonial regime, such as political prisoners, prisoners under the death penalty, etc. When you visit the prison, you will have a chance to learn about Vietnamese history during wartime. 

Con Dao Prison

Let’s visit Con Dao and have your own experience! For more detailed information, please refer to our blog post here: Con Dao travel guide. 

Xeo Quyt Relic Site

Xeo Quyt Relic Site is also among the hidden gems in Vietnam, located in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. This place is not only a breathtaking freshwater wetland area that boasts a rich biodiversity but also a historical site with significant value.

Xeo Quyt Relic Site

Coming to the relic, you can immerse yourself in the beautiful natural scenery, stroll along the trails, or sit on a dinghy that weaves along the canals under the 50-year-old cajuput trees. Besides, don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn about the fascinating history dating back to the Vietnam War. Let’s explore amazing things to do in the Xeo Quyt Relic with us!

Exploring the historical and cultural sites

When visiting Xeo Quyt Relic, don’t miss out on the opportunity to delve into the relic’s history by exploring the remnants of tunnels and bunkers used during the Vietnam War. Follow your guide through hidden passageways and learn about the forest's strategic importance during the conflict. 

Learning about the Xeo Quyt Forest’s diverse ecosystem

Visiting the Xeo Quyt Relic, you can also have a chance to learn about the Xeo Quyt forest’s diverse ecosystem. In addition to 20 hectares of cajuput forest, the remaining 30 hectares are an extremely diverse system of mangrove forests and vines. Besides the biodiversity in flora, the forest’s fauna is also rich.

Picnicking and relaxation

Xeo Quyt Relic has a quiet, peaceful, spacious, and airy space; therefore, this spot is extremely ideal for picnicking and relaxation. Let’s find a serene spot amidst the trees or along the water's edge for a peaceful picnic.

Boating in Xeo Quyt Relic site

Whether you're seeking adventure, history, or simply a peaceful retreat into nature, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable experience unlike any other. It’s time to include Xeo Quyt in your itinerary to explore the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. Detailed information about this site can be found here: Exploring Xeo Quyt Relic Site. Also refer to our Mekong Delta tour packages here: Mekong Delta (12 tours).

Tra Su Cajuput Forest

Tra Su Cajuput Forest

Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Tra Su Cajuput Forest is also among the worth-visiting hidden gems in Vietnam. This spot has an important effect on the water environment and climate regulation for the entire Bay Nui region, home to many precious animals and plant species in Vietnam's special-use forest system. Let’s explore this spot with us!

Learning about the forest’s flora system

Learning about the forest’s flora system is one of the amazing things to do here. With a total area of 850 hectares, most of the plants living here are Melaleuca. The trees are about ten years old, with an average height of 5 - 8 meters. Besides Melaleuca, the forest also possesses 140 species of plants.

Taking a boat tour

Taking a boat tour through the waterways is one of the most wonderful experiences in the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest. Local boat operators will guide you through the flooded forest, providing an up-close view of the cajuput trees and the diverse flora and fauna. You can choose a motorboat or a dinghy. 

Taking a boat tour in the Tra Su Cajuput Forest

Bird watching

The deeper you come into the forest, the more species of birds you will see. The forest is home to various bird species, including storks, herons, and other water birds. Don’t forget to bring binoculars or stop by the observation deck and use the telescope to take a closer look at the birds in the forest.

Bird watching in the Tra Su Cajuput Forest

Exploring the Khmer people’s life

Besides admiring the charming landscape and learning about the ecosystem, you can also have a chance to explore the life of the Khmer people who live near the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest. Visiting Khmer people’s villages, you can discover different handicrafts passed down from generation to generation by the Khmer ethnic people, such as silk and brocade weaving, beekeeping, cajuput essential oil production, etc.

Generally, whether you're a nature lover, a bird enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Tra Su Cajuput Forest promises an unforgettable journey. Please refer to our blog post here for detailed information about the forest: Exploring Tra Su Cajuput Forest. 

In conclusion, you have just known detailed information about the top 11 hidden gems in Vietnam. If you'd like to build a trip around some of these lesser-known destinations, don't hesitate to contact our team to tailor an itinerary beyond the usual highlights.