Trekking Tour: Bach Ma National Park Day Trip from Hue

Trekking Tour: Bach Ma National Park Day Trip from Hue

Imagine spending a day exploring one of Vietnam’s most treasured natural areas, where lush forests, scenic mountain vistas, and cascading waterfalls unfold around you. For $98 per person, this Bach Ma National Park day trip offers a well-rounded adventure, combining cultural insights, wildlife spotting, and invigorating hikes. Led by friendly English-speaking guides, you’ll be picked up in Hue and taken directly into Vietnam’s wilderness — a chance to escape the city bustle and reconnect with nature.

What we love about this tour is how it balances spectacular views with engaging activities. The trip includes a climb to the summit for panoramic vistas and a visit to the interesting Five Lakes, where you can swim in cool streams. The highlight for many is the Do Quyen Waterfall, a stunning cascade that promises a memorable photo opportunity and a break from the heat. The second thing that stands out is the chance to learn about the Do Quyen flower — a local botanical curiosity that adds a botanical touch to the adventure.

One potential consideration is the physical nature of the tour. It involves hiking and walking in a forested environment, so it’s best suited for those in good health with comfortable, sturdy footwear. Also, on public holidays, there’s an extra charge of 100,000 VND per person, which is something to keep in mind if you’re traveling during peak times.

This trip is perfect for nature lovers, active travelers, and those seeking a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s biodiversity. If you enjoy scenic mountain landscapes and outdoor adventures, you’ll find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The top of Bach Ma offers panoramic sights of Lang Co beach, Hai Van pass, and the dam.
• Diverse Ecosystem: The park is home to vibrant flora and fauna, with birdwatching opportunities along the trails.
• Adventure & Relaxation: From hiking to swimming in cool lakes and streams, there’s a balance of activity and leisure.
• Authentic Experience: Guided by local English speakers, you gain insights into the natural and cultural significance of Bach Ma.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transport is in a high-quality, air-conditioned vehicle, with picnic lunch and bottled water included.
• Family-Friendly (with caveats): Not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, but great for active middle-aged explorers.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: From Hue to Bach Ma

The day kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel or meeting point in Hue, where an air-conditioned van whisks you away toward Bach Ma National Park. The drive typically takes about an hour, giving you time to get excited about what’s ahead and chat with your guide about what to expect.

Arriving at the Park: First Impressions and the Showroom

By 9:00 AM, you arrive at the park’s entrance and visit the Bach Ma Showroom. Here, you get a brief introduction to the park’s history, geography, and the unique Do Quyen flower, which the guide explains is endemic to the region. This adds an educational layer that enriches the experience, especially for those interested in Vietnam’s botanical diversity.

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Climbing to the Summit: Panoramic Views

At around 9:30 AM, the real adventure begins with a hike up to Vong Hai Dai, the summit of Bach Ma. The climb isn’t overly strenuous but enough to get your heart rate up, and the path is well-maintained. Once at the top, you’ll be treated to unobstructed views of Lang Co beach, the Hai Van pass, and the dam below. Many travelers mention feeling a sense of calm and awe at these sweeping vistas, often citing them as the highlight of the trip.

Exploring Five Lakes: A Refreshing Stop

After descending from the summit, the tour continues with a visit to the Five Lakes cascade system. Here, you can swim in the clear, cool waters — a refreshing break that also offers great photo opportunities. The lakes are surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature photography or simply relaxing with your feet in the water.

Lunch in Nature

By noon, everyone gathers for a picnic lunch provided as part of the tour. Sitting on a big rock or at a designated picnic area, you dine on simple but satisfying fare, often with a view of the forest or lake nearby. It’s a good time to chat with fellow travelers and share impressions of the morning.

Trekking to Do Quyen Waterfall

In the early afternoon, the group heads out for the Do Quyen Waterfall hike. This majestic cascade is the tour’s main highlight for many, thanks to its stunning views and powerful flow. The walk takes about an hour, winding through forested trails that showcase Vietnam’s vibrant plant life. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the waterfall looked — it felt like discovering a secret spot,” which perfectly captures the sense of adventure.

Final Stop and Return to Hue

After exploring the waterfall, you’ll have a chance to see the large Buddha statue on the mountain before heading back to the parking lot. The return journey departs at around 4:30 PM, giving you time to reflect on the day or review your photos.

Practical Aspects: Comfort and Value

Transport is in a high-quality, air-conditioned van, which makes the long day more comfortable. The tour includes bottled water, wet tissues, and a picnic lunch, enhancing convenience and hydration. The group size tends to be moderate, allowing for personalized attention from guides.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviews highlight the breathtaking views from the summit and the waterfalls as truly special. One traveler mentioned, “The scenery from the top was so clear — I could see forever,” capturing why the panoramic viewpoint is so popular. Others appreciated the informative guides, who shared insights about local flora like the Do Quyen flower, making the experience both enjoyable and educational.

Some noted that the hiking can be demanding in the heat or for those with mobility issues, though generally, the trails are manageable with proper footwear. A few reviewers mentioned that the extra fee on public holidays is worth considering, especially if you’re traveling during peak times.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for active travelers who enjoy hiking and outdoor exploration. It’s perfect if you’re looking to see Vietnam’s natural landscapes beyond the usual city sights. Families with children over 6 who are comfortable with walking will find it manageable, but it’s not ideal for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchairs. Travelers seeking a mix of adventure and scenic beauty will find this tour rewarding.

Final Thoughts

The Bach Ma National Park day trip offers a well-paced, visually stunning experience that combines spectacular mountain views, waterfalls, and biodiversity. It’s a fantastic way to escape the hustle of Hue and get a true taste of Vietnam’s wilderness. The value lies in the variety of activities — from hiking to swimming — and the chance to learn about local flora and fauna.

While it’s physically active, the tour caters to those who are reasonably fit and enthusiastic about outdoor pursuits. The included transportation, guide, and picnic make it a convenient and cost-effective way to explore this ecological treasure.

If you’re after an authentic, nature-filled day with memorable scenery, this tour is a strong choice. Just remember to wear sturdy shoes, bring your camera, and prepare for some invigorating outdoor fun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for children over 6 years old who are comfortable with walking and hiking. Very young children or infants may find the physical activity too demanding.

What should I bring on the trip?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a camera, sunscreen, water, a jacket, gloves, and trekking gear are recommended for a comfortable experience.

Are there any extra charges?
Yes, there’s a 100,000 VND surcharge per person on public holidays like Dec 31-Jan 1, Apr 29-30, May 1-2, Dec 24-25, and during the Lunar New Year.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, typically starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon, with about 2 hours of sightseeing, hiking, and lunch.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
No, it’s not wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the trails and terrain.

What is included in the price?
Transport in a high-quality air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, a picnic lunch, bottled water, wet tissues, and local travel insurance.

Exploring Bach Ma National Park on this day trip offers an excellent balance of adventure, scenery, and cultural insights — perfect for those who love the outdoors and want a taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: