(Source: VnExpress International) Yen Bai Province offers a diversity of attractions: terraced fields, mountain peaks, hot springs, Thac Ba Lake, Mu Cang Chai, and Ta Xua Peak, all of which draw tourists year-round. Nestled in the northwest, the province lies approximately 160 kilometers from Hanoi and shares borders with Tuyen Quang, Phu Tho, Lai Chau, Son La, Lao Cai, and Ha Giang provinces.
Here are the top places to visit in Yen Bai, Vietnam:
NGHIA LO TOWN
The town is home to the vast Muong Lo, the second-largest field in the northwestern mountainous region. Muong Lo is also famous for its hot springs, which draw visitors and locals alike seeking relaxation. Additionally, Nghia Lo has Shan Tuyet tea, a Vietnamese tea made from the leaves of old-growth trees in the mountains of northwest Vietnam, where the forests are over 1,200 meters above sea level.
History enthusiasts will find interest in Nghia Lo’s historical sites, including Cang and Nghia Lo Fort. These sites were officially recognized as National Historical Monuments in 1996. They contain valuable documents and artifacts that provide insights into the period of French colonial domination and the imprisonment of war captives during that time.
Image: The beauty of Nghia Lo Town in Yen Bai.
Nature lovers can explore Thia Stream, which is also known as “Tears Stream” locally. It is situated in the northern area of the Muong Lo. During the watering season, the stream bed widens to nearly one hundred meters.
THAC BA LAKE
Thac Ba Lake stands as one of the three largest artificial lakes in Vietnam, originating from the construction of the Thac Ba Hydroelectric Plant. Spanning nearly 20,000 hectares, the lake sprawls across Yen Binh and Luc Yen districts.
Thac Ba has over 1,300 islands, both large and small. Nestled within the heart of the limestone mountains lies a cave system waiting to be explored. A visit to Thac Ba Lake offers not only the opportunity to witness the marvel of the Thac Ba Hydropower Plant, but also a chance to experience spiritual enrichment at the Thac Ba Mother Goddess Temple, a sacred site recognized as a provincial historical and cultural relic in 2004.
Image: Thac Ba Lake with its diverse plants.
KHAU PHA PASS
Khau Pha Pass, known as one of Vietnam’s four great passes, connects the districts of Mu Cang Chai and Van Chan. However, what sets this pass apart is the experience it offers during the ripening rice season. Every harvest season, adventure seekers flock to Khau Pha Pass for an adventure: paragliding over the rice fields. The takeoff point stands atop a hill, situated at an elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level. Each traveler is accompanied with a seasoned pilot.
Image: Travelers can observe the panoramic view of terraced fields of Yen Bai while paragliding above them.
The duration of each flight ranges from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on weather conditions. Prices for this experience vary between VND2 million to VND2.5 million ($78 to $98) per person, depending on the day of the week.
TU LE COMMUNE
Tu Le Commune in Van Chan District is home to Vietnam’s longest zipline route, located within the Aeris Hill adventure game area, which opened in 2020. This zipline adventure spans two stages, totaling a length of 1.2 kilometers. The first stage stretches nearly 1 kilometer, offering visitors a panoramic view of the Tu Le Valley. The second stage concludes at a designated bus stop from which guests can ride back to the amusement park.
Image: The ziplining experience at Tu Le.
For safety reasons, visitors weighing under 50 kilograms will carry an additional 10-kilogram sandbag to ensure a smooth glide along the route. Each person can expect to spend approximately 2 minutes completing both stages of the zipline adventure.
MU CANG CHAI
Mu Cang Chai is beautiful year-round. April and May mark the watering season when the terraced fields become mirrors reflecting the sky. In September and October, Mu Cang Chai turns golden, attracting photographers and tourists. Even in winter or spring, Mu Cang Chai blooms with to day (prunus cerasoides) flowers. Key destinations in Mu Cang Chai include Thai Village, the La Pan Tan terraced fields, Che Cu Nha Commune, and De Xu Phinh Commune.
Image: During the watering season in Mu Cang Chai, farmers plant seedlings, forming green-white patches across the landscape.
TRAM TAU DISTRICT
Tram Tau has gained recognition for its scenery and a range of activities for tourists to enjoy. Visitors have the opportunity to explore nature, including mountains and forests, and learn about the culture of the local Hmong and Thai ethnic groups. The area offers adventure activities as well as options for community-based and resort-style tourism experiences.
Image: The natural hot mineral pool in Tram Tau.
TA XUA PEAK
Ta Xua serves as the natural border between Yen Bai and Son La provinces, boasting an altitude of approximately 2,800 meters. Among the 15 highest mountain peaks in Vietnam, Ta Xua features narrow, steep roads flanked by deep abysses on either side. Travelers have the option to reach the peak by motorbike, car or different trekking routes available from both Yen Bai and Son La provinces.
Image: The sunset at Ta Xua captured from a local homestay.
Explore Vietnamese tours with Vietnam Amusing Tours
Whether you’re seeking a short day trek or a multi-day adventure through different regions, we tailor each tour to your needs. Let us help you experience the natural beauty of Vietnam and create unforgettable memories along the way.
Our expert guides lead you through immersive cultural activities, adventure-filled nature tours, and serene wellness retreats, ensuring a unique and personalized travel experience. At VietnamAmusingTours, we pride ourselves on creating bespoke tours tailored to your preferences, providing unparalleled service and attention to detail. Discover the beauty, history, and warmth of Vietnam with us, and make your journey truly memorable. Book your adventure today with VietnamAmusingTours on Here or Exploring list tours of Us! and on Tripadvisor.
