From Hue: Bach Ma National Park Tour with Picnic Lunch

Exploring Vietnam’s natural beauty often means venturing off the beaten path, and this Bach Ma National Park tour from Hue certainly ticks that box. While I haven’t personally done the trip, based on multiple glowing reviews, it’s clear this experience offers a fantastic mix of scenic views, engaging guides, and authentic encounters with Vietnam’s lush landscapes.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s led by knowledgeable guides like Khanh and Tram, who bring the park’s stories vividly to life. Second, the stunning vistas from the Hai Vong Dai Tower promise breathtaking panoramas of mountains, lagoons, and the sea. Third, the chance to relax with a picnic lunch beside the Five Lakes or take a refreshing dip in clear waters makes it a well-rounded day.

A potential consideration is the physical aspect of the trip. While the tour involves some light trekking, the car transfers between spots help reduce fatigue, but good shoes and a moderate level of fitness will improve your experience.

This tour suits nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those looking for a day of scenic adventure just outside Hue. If you’re eager to see Vietnam’s lush landscapes beyond temples and city streets, this trip is a compelling choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Natural Encounters: Visit waterfalls, lakes, and viewpoints in a true jungle setting.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Khanh and Tram enhance the experience with insights and friendly service.
• Breathtaking Views: Panoramic vistas from the Hai Vong Dai Tower are among the highlights.
• Valuable Experience: For $42, you get a full-day outing with transportation, admission, and a picnic—offering great value.
• Comfort & Convenience: Car transfers between stops mean less walking for some parts, but sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Authentic Food & Refreshments: Enjoy a picnic lunch and coffee beside the Five Lakes, with optional swimming.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Bach Ma National Park Tour

The Pickup and Journey

The day begins with a hotel pickup in Hue, making life simple and hassle-free. The journey to Bach Ma National Park takes you to Phu Loc Town, where the adventure begins. Transport is by car, which helps keep the trip comfortable and allows the guides to focus on sharing stories and tips along the way. The total time spent on the road is manageable, giving you more time to enjoy the sights.

Visiting the Bach Ma Exhibition House

Your first stop is the Bach Ma National Park exhibition house. Here, you’ll learn about the park’s formation, its ecological significance, and the ongoing conservation efforts. Reviewers like Despoina appreciated the guides’ knowledge, mentioning how guides like Tracy “knew the place really well” and explained everything clearly, making the visit both educational and engaging.

The Hai Vong Dai Ocean Viewing Tower

Next, you’re headed to the Hai Vong Dai Tower, an 800-meter granite-paved walk from the parking area. Once at the top, the panoramic vistas are the real highlight—think mountains stretching into the distance, lagoons, and the distant sea. Travelers consistently mention how breathtaking and magical the views are, with some describing it as “stunning” and “a must-see in Vietnam.” The tower’s vantage point grants a perfect photo opportunity and a moment of quiet awe.

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The Five Lakes and Picnic

From the tower, the tour continues to the Five Lakes, a series of cool, clear bodies of water. Here, you can choose to swim or relax on large rock formations beside the lakes. Reviewers loved the refreshing dips—Despoina described the lakes as “really magical,” with some spots perfect for taking a dip and cooling off in the heat.

A picnic lunch and coffee are served on the rocks near the lakes, offering a relaxing break in nature. Guests like Santiago and Zoe raved about the delicious lunch and the unbeatable setting, making it a highlight of the day.

Rhododendron Waterfall and Lady Buddha Statue

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to the Rhododendron Waterfall, standing over 300 meters tall. The sight of vibrant blooming Rhododendrons along streams and cliffs impresses nature lovers. The waterfall is a popular photo spot and offers a chance to enjoy the cool spray and lush surroundings.

Shortly after, you’ll visit the Guan Yin Buddha Statue, carved from white marble. Reviewers appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and the stories behind the statue, which add a touch of spirituality and cultural context to the natural scenery.

Return to Hue

After a full day exploring, the group is transported back to Hue, ending your adventure with plenty of memories and photos of Vietnam’s lush mountain landscapes and waterfalls.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $42 per person, this tour covers so many highlights—transportation, entry fees, a guided experience, and a picnic lunch. It’s a comprehensive way to see Bach Ma’s top sights without the hassle of planning multiple transfers or figuring out logistics.

Guests consistently mention that the guides make the experience memorable, with reviews praising their friendliness and knowledge. Tram, in particular, was described as “very helpful, super friendly,” making the experience feel personal and engaging.

The tour strikes a balance between active sightseeing and relaxing moments, making it suitable for a range of travelers, except those with mobility issues or pregnancy, as the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring comfortable shoes—especially since reviewers noted the path to the tower involves walking on granite and sometimes slippery surfaces. A hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are essential for protection against the sun and bugs. If you enjoy photography, a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage will help capture the views from the tower and waterfalls.

The best time for this tour is during the dry season when weather conditions are more predictable, but be prepared for changing weather—some reviewers mentioned bringing a raincoat or umbrella.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those keen on authentic outdoor adventures. It’s also ideal if you want a well-organized, value-for-money day trip with plenty of scenic highlights.

While it isn’t suited for everyone—due to the physical activity involved—most travelers who enjoy light trekking, stunning vistas, and cultural touches will find it rewarding. Families with children who can handle some walking may also enjoy it, provided they’re prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Hue, along with all transportation between the sites.

How long is the tour? Expect a full-day experience, with the itinerary covering several stops from morning until late afternoon or early evening.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear if you want to swim, camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for everyone? It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, heart problems, or vertigo due to the physical aspects of the trip.

What’s included in the price? The fee covers all entry fees, transportation, a guided experience, picnic lunch, coffee, bottled water, and travel insurance.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How physically demanding is the tour? It involves some trekking, mainly on granite paths, with some slippery spots—good shoes will make a big difference.

Are there opportunities to swim? Yes, at the Five Lakes, you can swim or relax on rocks, which guests find especially refreshing on hot days.

Final Thoughts

This Bach Ma National Park tour from Hue offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and outdoor activity. It’s particularly good for travelers seeking an authentic experience away from crowded tourist spots, with the comfort of guided commentary and organized logistics.

The views from the tower alone make the price worthwhile, but the added adventures at waterfalls and lakes make it a truly memorable day. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge elevate the experience, ensuring you leave with both beautiful photos and stories to tell.

For anyone wanting to escape the city, breathe fresh mountain air, and witness Vietnam’s stunning landscapes firsthand, this tour delivers a compelling and authentic experience.

In summary, this tour is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who appreciate nature and scenery, value good guidance, and want a full day of exploring Vietnam’s lush mountain terrain without the stress of planning. Its combination of views, water, and local flavor makes it a strong contender for a memorable day trip from Hue.

You can check availability for your dates here: