Vietnam is not just about pretty rice fields and quiet beaches, the kind of adrenaline rush it can offer is wonderful. If you are an adventure junkie, you are going to have the time of you life while you are here but if you are not, you might find yourself turning into one because honestly, who can resist having this much fun?
Here’s a list of the most fun adventure activities that you must try on your Vietnam holiday:
1. Trek Mount Fansipan
This is probably one of the most adventurous things you could do in Vietnam. Mount Fansipan is the highest peak which is at an altitude of 3143 meters and it would take you about 3 days to actually make it to the top. You can also do a short trek if you are not in for the complete trek. There are many hiking trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls. It is always better to do this with a local guide because the area has a lot of dead signal zones so it would help to have someone who knows their way around.
The terrains are not all smooth so be prepared for some intense physical activity. Although the trek is quite challenging, you will come across some of the prettiest spots in the whole country while you are climbing. The fun part about getting to the top is chasing clouds which is something Mt. Fansipan is well known for. You can literally see yourself chilling amongst clouds while you’re on top and it is truly fascinating.
Where to do this: Sa Pa
2. Sandboarding
Sandboarding in Mui Ne is an extremely fun way to spend your mornings. Waking up at sunrise and heading over to the dunes which are mind-blowingly massive and just playing around with your boards is not something you get to do every day. This is definitely something you should check out while you are in Vietnam. Mui Ne is sometimes called the sports capital of the country for obvious reasons and sandboarding here is definitely an experience of a lifetime. You don’t really have to be a pro with surfboards, you will be able to figure it out once you’re out there trying to balance.
Where to do this: Mui Ne
3. Kayaking
Halong bay is everyone’s favorite spot in Vietnam but kayaking here is what makes it all the more special. This is not just any other boat ride you take. You can kayak your way around the world’s biggest caves and see these colossal limestone formations up close and that is honestly a breathtaking experience. You can also enjoy this activity at other parts of the country like Dalat where you can choose to fall in waterfalls for an ultimate adventure.
Where to do this: Halong Bay, Dalat
4. Scuba Diving
This might be the first thing that pops up when you hear about Vietnam but thanks to its many untouched beaches, diving here has become an absolute treat. With stunning visibility, you can discover a diverse range of aquatic species like bamboo shark and barracuda while you’re here.
There are plenty of dive spots that are constantly opening up along the coast-line. You can also experience the reef life and the marine life that comes with it. What’s better than scuba diving is scuba diving in the right place where you can actually see some fun stuff underwater and trust me Vietnam will not disappoint you.
Where to do this: Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Hoi An
5. Caving
This is the epitome of adventure when you are in Vietnam. It is definitely for the faint-hearted because this expedition will take a toll on you but its worth every minute. You can explore the magnificent Hang Son Doon which is the largest cave in the world if you’re up for it. The experience is so special because only tour company has the authority to take people in there and let’s just say, its not your everyday activity. It involves walking on difficult surfaces but the journey is truly blissful. You can also choose to explore smaller caves with a guide if you want to experience the art of caving.
Where to do this: Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh
6. Kitesurfing
You can call this a much more intense version of surfing but this is as extra as it gets when it comes to having fun in the ocean. Take your surfing skills to another level by hanging from a kite while you’re trying to balance yourself on water. It’s pumps up your adrenaline like nothing else. Might not be something you can master in one go but its a lot of fun to even just try it out.
Where to do this: Mui Ne
7. Cliff Jumping
Cliff jumping is probably one of the most exhilarating adventure sports out there and it is something everyone should try doing at least once in their lifetime. The best part about cliff jumping in Vietnam is that you get to take that leap of faith to jump into one of the most beautiful waterfalls with this clear turquoise water. It is slightly terrifying when you think about diving into a waterfall but honestly you’d be doing yourself a favor by doing this.
Where to do this: Nha Trang
8. Mountain Biking
You are sorted with toning your calf muscles during your vacation if you are into biking. The series of picturesque hills that this country has to offer to make it the best spot to get your gear on and just explore the place with a bike. It’s a fun way to stay active and find hidden gems as well. Carry a bottle of water and you are good to go!
Where to do this: Sa Pa, Hoi An, Fansipan, Lai Chao
9.Canyoning
Those who’ve done this before know that this is not as easy as it looks but its a whole lot of fun. Being able to fit in a bunch of cool adventure activities is what makes it interesting. YOu can abseil, swim, hike, jump, slide or do whatever you feel like doing.
Dalat is a great place to learn the art of canyoning because the routes are fairly simple and even a beginner can easily enjoy this without being overwhelmed.
Where to do this: Dalat
10. Ride a motorbike from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City or vice versa
Riding a motorbike in Vietnam is an adventure sport in itself and you will know why once you get there. Riding across a country on a motorbike is as exciting as it gets because the scenery is unbelievably stunning and they make the perfect vacation backdrops.
You can DIY your itinerary and stop wherever you feel like and do your own thing and there’s nothing more fun than having complete freedom to explore a country on your own terms.
Vietnam sure knows how to keep you on your toes. The activities you get to do here are endless and everything you do just feels very natural and calming in some sense. Getting into adventure sports is one of the best ways to cut yourself off from your everyday life and just enjoy living life to its fullest.
Head over to Pickyoutrail.com to craft your own itinerary or you can pick your favorite Vietnam Packages that’s available on their website. You can also speak to their in house destination experts who can help you plan your vacation efficiently. Happy planning and don’t forget to pack your shoes!
