3 days 2 nights discover the largest freshwater lake in Vietnam

Ba Be Lake is one of the most famous lakes in Vietnam, which is listed on the top 100 biggest freshwater lakes in the world. At the end of 2004, this destination is recognized as one of the ASEAN Heritage Garden. Along with the unique features of geography and high values of biodiversity, Ba Be Lake is renowned as the largest freshwater lake in Vietnam.

Ba Be Lake, which also features incredible biodiversity, stunning geological treasures and gorgeous primary forests. In places like this, careless tourism can bring human disturbances and endanger the local heritage and culture, while thoughtful and responsible tourism can provide excellent support to conservation projects in the area and help the economies quality of life of the local population. 

Photo by Pilip

Here we offer a number of guides to travel to Ba Be Lake so you can visualize your trip before departing here. Ba Be Lake promise you a great time exploring virtually untouched natural beauty, including lakes, caves, mountains and jungles.

3-days small group tour will help you discover natural freshwater lake in Vietnam with exceptional biodiversity. In places like this, careless tourism can bring human disturbances and endanger this heritage, while thoughtful tourism with a controlled impact can provide excellent support to conservation projects in the area and help the economies of local people.

Interesting activities you can experience at Ba Be

Photo by foody

Trekking: Ba Be is considered by both native Vietnamese and visitors to be one of the best trekking in Northern Vietnam.  The whole district is dominated by the Pia Booc mountain range rising to a height of 1527m.  It is the combination of the scenery, from the karst outcrops clad in rich vegetation to the paddy fields carpeting the lower slopes of the Na Nghe mountains; the rich variety of flora and fauna; and the rich cultural diversity which together make this a unique and rewarding location.  Local guides are a wealth of invaluable knowledge; as well as keeping you safe, they know the which routes to take for the best sightseeing and wildlife spotting.

Kayaking: Kayaking is the best way to explore the breathtaking beauty of Ba Be Lake. Paddle through the islets; discover hidden caves; visit fishing villages.  You can get closer to the limestone karsts, and find some secret corners of Ba Be lake and the Nang river.

An added benefit of kayaking is that they can get you up close to karsts and into the caves that aren't suitable for bigger boats. The lack of engine also makes this an eco way to travel without causing air or noise pollution. 

When kayaking, suitable clothing is a must; it is essential to wear a life jacket, and we recommend wearing a t-shirt and shorts or a swimming suit in summer, warmer clothes in winter, wet shoes, hat, sun cream and sunglasses. A dry bag is extremely useful for storing your camera, insect repellent, water.

Photo by Arian Zwegers

Biking: Ba Be is great for exploring by bicycle. The main roads around the national park are mostly in good condition and don't see much traffic. One day cycling around the park should enable you to visit Hua Ma Cave, Thac Bac Waterfall and some villages.

Car hire and motorbike taxis can also be arranged in Ba Be. Motorbike taxis (xe om) can be a good way to explore the park as the drivers usually know the best spots.  Be sure to clearly agree your plans and price in advance.

Homestay: Ba Be is home to a great diversity of ethnic people including three main groups of Hmong, Dao and Tay.  They do not live in a central town but live in hamlets scattered through the valleys, still living by fishing and farming.  Ba Be lake shore is where the ethnic minority people gather to trade, selling their farming products such as fish, rice, corn and fruit in addition to some local handicrafts.

Photo by booking 

Spending time boating on the lake, visiting ethnic minority villages, observing their daily activities and living in a homestay will enable visitors to understand more about their culture, and taking the opportunity to help with farming or making handicrafts would enhance their appreciation.  A local guide will show you around the lake, the jungle, the villages, telling wonderful stories about their culture and traditions, and may even invite you to join their family activities. 

What to eat at Ba Be Lake?

Photo by Catt

Ba Be's food specialities are another reason to relish your stay in the area. There are too many to mention but boiled chayote cooked with sesame or lon cap nach (literally pig carried under the arm) which are home pigs raised in the field or forest. Barbequed meat and fish and a huge variety of vegetables, together with dumplings, bamboo tube rice, noodles and eggs may all be part of the feast you can enjoy at the table of your host.

How to travel from Hanoi to Ba Be lake?

Ba Be national is located 240 kilometres northwest of the capital city Hanoi, and can be reached by local bus, shuttle bus, motorbike or private car.

For those who prefer privacy, booking a private car is best choice for an ideal trip from Ha Noi to Ba Be lake. Of course, private car will cost more than public vehicles.

The traveler can rent or buy a motorbike to discover nature on the way and make it more of an adventure.

Buses are ideal option for budget travellers. There is only one option for you to get Ba Be from Ha Noi by local bus: From My Dinh station at 2:15 p.m look for the local bus to Ba Be, (Thuong Nga company). This is the only one that will take you direct all the way to Ba Be.

In addition, you can choose Vietnam Typical Tours' Ba Be lake tours to have a complete and perfect journey from Hanoi without having to worry about preparing anything. All services in the journey of discovery are prepared for you by the tour operators of Vietnam Typical Tours.