(Source: VnExpress International) Vietnam is the land of diverse traveling experiences. From canyoning in Da Lat to diving in Nha Trang, these seven experiences handpicked by U.K. travel magazine Wanderlust show the wilder side of Vietnam. In a story published on April 9 it listed the seven, which will at least bring you out of your comfort zone if not make your heart race.

1. Cave exploration in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh Province

Quang Binh has thousands of caverns, including the Son Doong Cave, the world’s largest cave passage. The Phong Nha cave system stretches 45 kilometers and features dry caves, underground rivers and limestone formations. Visitors can opt for boat tours or multi-day expeditions involving climbing, swimming and camping inside the caves. The national park is also home to over 150 mammal and 300 bird species, including several discovered only in 2024.

Best time to go: December to March.

Image: Cave exploration in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh Province. 

2. Trekking among rice terraces in Sa Pa Town, Lao Cai Province

Sa Pa, which is a trekking hub in northwest Vietnam, is known for its natural beauty. Its highlights include Fansipan Peak, Muong Hoa Valley, terraced rice fields, and ethnic minority villages. Treks range from short half-day walks to multi-day hikes. Those who prefer not to trek up Fansipan can still enjoy the panoramic views from a cable car that climbs over 3,100 meters above sea level.

Best time to go: October to April.

Image: Trekking among rice terraces in Sa Pa Town, Lao Cai Province. 

3. Coral diving in Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province

With its marine ecosystem, Vietnam offers great diving opportunities, and Nha Trang stands out thanks to its favorable conditions and tourism infrastructure. The Hon Mun Marine Protected Area is known for coral reefs and sea life, perfect for beginners. Experienced divers can explore the more challenging Hon Rom site. Local dive centers provide training, equipment and guided tours.

Best time to go: February to October. 

Image: Coral diving in Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province. 

4. Canyoning and rock climbing in Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province

Da Lat is not just a mountain town; it is also a hotspot for adventure sports. Canyoning at Datanla Waterfalls involves rappelling down cliffs, swimming in streams and sliding down rock chutes, all under supervision. Other options include forest biking, kayaking on Tuyen Lam Lake, hiking up Langbiang Mountain, and riverside camping.

Best time to go: November to June.

Image: Rock climbing in Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province. 

5. Kayaking in Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province

Beyond cruises, Ha Long Bay offers kayaking tours that take visitors through limestone caves and cycling trips to explore fishing villages. Illuminated caves like Sung Sot and Trinh Nu offer well-lit paths for easy exploration and sightseeing.

Best time to go: September to November, and March to May.

Image: The beauty of Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province. 

6. Sandboarding and kite surfing in Mui Ne Town, Binh Thuan Province

Mui Ne’s sand dunes are a place for sandboarding. The coastal winds from November to March also make it a spot for kitesurfing, a wind-powered water sport for adrenaline seekers. Several local centers offer kiteboarding lessons and equipment rentals by the hour or day.

Best time to go: November to March.

Image: Sandboarding and kite surfing in Mui Ne Town, Binh Thuan Province. 

7. Rock climbing in Huu Lung District, Lang Son Province

Hidden in the limestone valleys of northern Vietnam, Yen Thinh (Huu Lung) has become a go-to for international rock climbers. With over 180 bolted routes, ranging from beginner to expert level, it includes vertical walls, 3D overhangs and cave climbs. Though still developing in terms of services, the area attracts climbers with its beauty and safety standards. Climbers should bring an 80-meter rope and at least 16 quickdraws.

Best time to go: December to February.

Image: Mountains in Huu Lung District, Lang Son Province. 

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