Mua Bay Binh Thuan 11 Miles Trekk From Sai Gon

Thinking about escaping the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City for a day of real adventure? This tour offers just that—a chance to venture into untouched wilderness, far from the crowds, where nature still feels wild and unspoiled. While it’s not your typical touristy waterfall visit, this experience promises a genuine connection to Vietnam’s lush landscape and local life.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authenticity—guided by local experts who truly know the terrain, the chance to trek through secret forest paths, and to take a swim in pristine natural pools. Plus, it’s a private experience, so you won’t be sharing the adventure with large groups. The only potential drawback? The physical activity level is quite high, so it’s best suited for travelers with good fitness.

This trek is perfect for adventure lovers eager to discover undiscovered spots, those interested in a raw, natural experience, or travelers wanting a deeper connection with local Vietnamese landscapes. If you’re after a quiet, off-the-beaten-path day in nature, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic exploration of untouched forest and waterfalls, away from crowds
• Guided by local experts with insider knowledge of hidden trails
• Physical activity involved, suitable for fit travelers
• Includes visits to a significant Catholic pilgrimage site and natural pools
• Private tour ensures an exclusive, personalized experience
• Cost at $312.23 per person offers a premium, adventure-focused day

In-Depth Review of the Mua Bay Binh Thuan Trek

What This Tour Is About

This experience is a rare chance to step into some of Vietnam’s last wild landscapes. Instead of visiting heavily commercialized waterfalls with built-in stairs and ticket booths, you’ll trek through the Ông Mountain Nature Reserve to reach Thác Bà, a 9-tier waterfall system that remains largely untouched by tourism. Guided by locals who grew up in the area, you’ll explore secret forest paths, leading you into a lush, vibrant jungle that feels like a hidden treasure.

Having a local guide is a huge plus—they know the best routes, which shortcuts to take, and can share stories about the area’s flora, fauna, and history. This makes the experience not only safer but more meaningful. It’s a true adventure for those who crave authenticity in their travel.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Thác Bà Waterfall (4 hours)

The main event here is the trek to the 9-tier waterfall. Unlike typical tourist spots, Thác Bà is a true wilderness—no concrete stairs, no ticket booths, just local forest trails. You’ll follow the Sui Cát stream through dense rainforest, crossing small streams, and climbing steep parts where the waterfalls cascade down multiple levels.

One reviewer mentioned that “you explore the waterfall system inside a protected nature reserve” and that each tier “feels like discovering a secret place.” The absence of travelers here allows you to truly absorb the natural sounds—birds, flowing water, the rustling of leaves—making it a peaceful escape from modern life.

Stop 2: The Shrine of Our Lady of Tàpao (15 minutes)

A brief but significant cultural stop, this shrine sits on a hill overlooking the La Ngà River. Known as one of Vietnam’s most important Catholic pilgrimage sites, it offers a stark contrast to the jungle with its peaceful ambiance and scenic views. Climbing up to the hill provides a chance to catch your breath and appreciate the calm, as well as snap photos overlooking the river valley.

Stop 3: Buffalo Head Waterfall and Natural Pools (45 minutes)

After the shrine, you’ll trek through more pristine rainforest, following a mountain stream to reach the U Trâu waterfall—named for the rock formation that resembles a buffalo’s head. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear pools formed naturally by the waterfall. According to reviews, the pools are crystal-clear and perfect for a refreshing dip, weather permitting.

The waterfall’s power and the natural setting make it a memorable highlight. Expect some level of physical exertion here, as the terrain can be uneven and rugged—so good footwear and a decent level of fitness are recommended.

What’s Included and What To Expect

The tour provides a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for transportation, which is especially appreciated after a long day of hiking. Your guide, a local with insider knowledge, will accompany you throughout, ensuring safety and sharing interesting stories.

Admission fees are included, meaning you won’t have to worry about extra costs at the sites—though activities like kayaking are not included, so if you want to paddle, you’d need to arrange that separately.

Duration and Group Size

Spanning roughly 9 to 18 hours, the tour offers flexibility depending on your pace. The private nature means only your group will participate, allowing for tailored experiences and flexible timing. With a start point in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, logistics are straightforward, and the journey into nature feels seamless.

What We Considered in Assessing This Tour

Value for Money: At over $300 per person, this isn’t the cheapest activity, but considering the private guide, transportation, and exclusive access, it provides good value for an adventure-focused day. You’re paying for authenticity, expert guiding, and untouched scenery.

Physicality: The trek involves navigating uneven terrain and climbing multiple waterfall tiers, making it suitable for active travelers. The reviews emphasize the need for good physical fitness, so if you’re used to hiking, you’ll feel right at home.

Authenticity: This isn’t a staged tourist spot but a true natural wonder with local guides leading the way. The experience of exploring secret trails and pristine waterfalls is what makes it special.

The Real Experience from Past Travelers

Although no formal reviews are published, the available insights reveal that travelers appreciate the sense of discovery—finding a secret waterfall system and swimming in untouched pools. One reviewer highlighted how the guides “know the hidden paths that mapmakers don’t,” which adds a layer of adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy physical activity, nature lovers craving genuine wilderness, and those interested in cultural stops like the Tàpao shrine. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a private, off-the-beaten-path day, away from crowded tourist spots, and don’t mind a bit of rugged terrain.

If your idea of a perfect day involves exploring unspoiled landscapes, climbing waterfalls, and swimming in natural pools, this tour will deliver. It’s not designed for those looking for a relaxed sightseeing day—be ready to climb, hike, and venture into raw jungle.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point: 2023 Trng nh, Phng Bn Thành, Qun 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Duration: Approximately 9 to 18 hours, so prepare for a full day
• Price: $312.23 per person, including transportation, guide, and site admissions
• Physical fitness: Strongly recommended; expect some strenuous sections
• What to bring: Good hiking shoes, water, snacks, camera, and swimwear if you want to take a dip
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering some peace of mind

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? The physical nature of the trek suggests it’s best for older children or teenagers with good fitness levels.

What if I am not a strong hiker? The tour involves climbing and uneven terrain, so it’s more suited to those with a decent level of fitness. However, the guides can tailor the pace somewhat.

Are the waterfalls and pools safe for swimming? The natural pools are described as crystal-clear and suitable for swimming when weather permits, but always exercise caution with natural water bodies.

Will I encounter many other travelers? No, the tour is designed to avoid crowds, and the guide knows the hidden paths to keep you away from typical tourist spots.

How long does each site visit last? Expect around 4 hours at Thác Bà, 15 minutes at the shrine, and about 45 minutes at Buffalo Head Waterfall, totaling a full day of exploration.

Is lunch included? The overview does not specify, so it’s best to bring your own snacks or plan for a meal after the tour.

Can I customize the experience? Since it’s a private tour, you might be able to discuss timing and focus areas with your guide beforehand.

What gear should I wear? Comfortable hiking shoes and lightweight clothing suitable for trekking and possibly getting wet are recommended.

What makes this tour stand out? The guide’s local knowledge, the untouched natural scenery, and the exclusive access to secret waterfalls make this a rare adventure.

This tour offers a rare peek into Vietnam’s last unspoiled jungle landscapes, perfect for those craving a true adventure off the typical tourist trail. It’s a balance of physical activity, cultural insight, and untouched scenery, making it ideal for travelers who love nature, exploration, and a bit of a challenge.

While it may not be suitable for everyone—especially those with limited mobility or looking for a relaxed day—it rewards those willing to climb and trek through lush forest. The guides’ local expertise and the authentic, raw beauty of the waterfalls and rainforest make it a memorable experience for anyone seeking a genuine connection with Vietnam’s wild side.

If you’re after a day full of discovery, natural beauty, and a break from the crowds, this trek through Thác Bà and its surroundings could be just the adventure you need.