Vietnam boasts an impressive array of national parks, each offering diverse landscapes and wildlife. Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is famous for its massive caves and lush jungle trails. Cuc Phuong National Park, the country’s oldest, is home to endangered primates, ancient trees, and scenic limestone mountains. Cat Tien National Park, located in southern Vietnam, offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities, including gibbons, crocodiles, and rare birds. In the far north, Ba Be National Park features tranquil lakes, waterfalls, and ethnic villages. These national parks provide the perfect setting for trekking, wildlife photography, and eco-tourism adventures.
As Vietnam’s tourism industry grows, responsible travel has become increasingly important. Many eco-lodges and community-based tourism initiatives help preserve local culture and protect the environment. In Sapa and Ha Giang, trekking with local guides from ethnic minority groups ensures that tourism benefits the community. In Hoi An, many businesses promote plastic-free initiatives to reduce waste. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park encourages eco-tourism by limiting visitor numbers to protect its fragile cave systems. By choosing sustainable accommodations, respecting local customs, and minimizing plastic use, travelers can contribute to preserving Vietnam’s natural and cultural heritage.
Water puppetry (múa rối nước) is one of Vietnam’s most fascinating traditional art forms, dating back to the 11th century. Originating in the rice fields of northern Vietnam, this unique performance involves wooden puppets moving over water, controlled by hidden puppeteers behind a bamboo screen. Accompanied by live traditional music, the shows depict scenes from rural life, historical legends, and folk tales. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is one of the best places to experience this captivating art form. Performances showcase mythical dragons, farmers harvesting rice, and humorous interactions between villagers. Water puppetry is an enchanting experience that highlights Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, and its street food culture is one of the best in the world. In every city, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, vendors set up stalls on bustling sidewalks, serving dishes that are packed with flavor and history. Pho, Vietnam’s national dish, is a must-try, with its fragrant broth, rice noodles, and tender beef or chicken. Banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich influenced by French cuisine, is a delightful combination of crispy baguette, pickled vegetables, and savory fillings. Other street food favorites include bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli), banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes), and fresh spring rolls. Each region has its own specialties, such as Hue’s spicy bun bo Hue or Hoi An’s unique cao lầu noodles, making Vietnam a never-ending culinary adventure.
Vietnam is home to some of the most spectacular caves in the world, making it a top destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, a UNESCO-listed site, is the heart of Vietnam’s caving scene, featuring a vast network of underground wonders. The most famous is Son Doong Cave, the world’s largest cave, which boasts its own jungle, river, and weather system inside. Only a limited number of adventurers are allowed to explore it each year, making it a bucket-list experience. Hang En, another remarkable cave, features a massive entrance and a pristine underground river, while Paradise Cave lives up to its name with stunning stalactites and stalagmites stretching over 31 kilometers. For those looking for a more accessible experience, the Tu Lan Cave System offers a mix of trekking, swimming, and spelunking in breathtaking limestone formations.
