From Da Nang or Hoi An: Bach Ma National Park Trek & Lunch

If you’re looking to escape the bustling city life of Da Nang or Hoi An and dive into Vietnam’s natural beauty, a day trip to Bach Ma National Park might be your perfect adventure. This guided tour promises a blend of scenic trekking, waterfalls, lakes, and stunning panoramic views—all packed into a well-paced 10-12 hour experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to walk through lush forests and visit multiple Five Lakes offers a refreshing break from urban sightseeing. Second, the ascent to Bach Ma Peak provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, lagoons, and even distant beaches. And third, the inclusion of a picnic lunch amid the mountain scenery adds a nice touch of local flavor and convenience.

That said, the tour isn’t designed for everyone. The hiking can involve steep slopes, slippery rocks, and uneven terrain—so it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness. People with certain health conditions, high fear of heights, or physical limitations might want to consider the challenge involved. Overall, if you’re eager for an active day immersed in nature, this experience offers genuine value and authentic scenery in one of Vietnam’s most beautiful national parks.

Key Points

• Impressive Scenic Diversity: Lakes, waterfalls, mountain views, and lush forest make for a visually stunning experience.
• Active Trekking: The route involves 2 km of forest walking, steep slopes, and brook crossings, requiring some physical effort.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Thuan and Lin enhance the experience with interesting facts about nature, history, and local landmarks.
• Authentic Local Lunch: Picnic lunch options are thoughtfully prepared, accommodating dietary preferences like vegetarian and vegan.
• Small Group Setting: Tours are limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Good Value: For $71, the tour offers transportation, entrance fees, guide service, and a memorable adventure, making it a worthwhile investment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Morning Pickup & Journey to Bach Ma

The day begins early, with hotel pickups in Da Nang or Hoi An starting around 6:30 am. The drive is part of the experience, with many travelers appreciating the scenic routes through coastal areas or via the Hai Van Pass (though some prefer the tunnel for safety or weather reasons). The 10-12 hour tour includes transportation, making it easy to relax without worrying about navigation.

Arriving at the Park & First Stop: Ngu Ho Lakes

Our first major stop is the Ngu Ho Lakes, often called the Five Lakes. These lakes are a highlight for many travelers, thanks to their tranquil beauty and the opportunity to swim in natural waters. Reviewers like Annie note how accessible and enjoyable the lakes are, even for those with average fitness levels. The trek to the lakes covers about 2 kilometers, weaving through the forest, with a few tricky spots supported by ropes and hiking sticks provided by the guides.

The lakes’ clear waters and peaceful setting make them the perfect spot for a quick cool-down or a rest amidst nature. Several reviews mention the allure of dipping into these lakes, with Annie describing the experience as “a perfect end to an awesome day trip.” The serenity here is genuinely captivating, and many find it a rejuvenating pause before continuing the adventure.

Trekking to Do Quyen Waterfall

From the lakes, the journey continues uphill toward Do Quyen Waterfall, which is about 300 meters high. The trail involves navigating steep slopes and crossing small streams, demanding a decent level of physicality. Yet, many reviews highlight the support from guides like Lin, who help travelers across slippery rocks and tricky terrains.

The waterfall itself is a sight to behold—water cascading down a rugged cliff, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of rushing water. The seclusion of the spot, along with the fresh mountain air, makes it a favorite among those who love nature’s raw power. Holly mentions how she appreciated the cooler air and bird songs that add to the peaceful atmosphere.

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Lunch with a View

After the waterfall, it’s time for a well-earned picnic lunch. Many reviewers, including Uve and Chloe, praise the quality and variety of the food, noting options for vegetarians and the thoughtful packing of lunch boxes. Chloe appreciated the “delicious lunch, tea, coffee, and water” provided, perfect for refueling after a morning of activity.

The setting for lunch varies but is often accompanied by stunning mountain vistas, enhancing the sense of being away from it all. Some travelers mention enjoying their meal while overlooking panoramic views, with Nicolas calling the experience “unforgettable.” The lunch break is also an opportunity to chat with fellow travelers and share impressions of the morning’s scenery.

Reaching Vong Hai Dai: The Summit with Panoramic Views

The climb continues toward Bach Ma Peak, known locally as Hai Vong Dai. Standing at 1,448 meters, this is the highest point in the park and offers sweeping views across the region. From here, you’ll see landmarks like Lang Co Beach, Hai Van Pass, Truoi Lake, and even Cau Hai lagoon.

Many reviews praise this part of the trek, emphasizing the payoff of reaching the summit. Zinnia calls the vistas “absolutely stunning,” while Annie notes the experience of seeing “the 360-degree views from Hue to Da Nang.” On clear days, this spot provides a perfect photo opportunity and a sense of achievement.

Return Journey & Drop-Off

After soaking in the views and perhaps taking a few more photos, the group begins heading back to the starting point. The entire day wraps up around 5:00-5:30 pm, with the driver returning travelers safely to their hotels. The journey back offers time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights, often with some final conversations about favorite moments.

Why This Tour Works Well

The knowledgeable guides like Thuan and Lin are a key part of why many reviewers rate this experience highly. They don’t just lead the walk—they share insights into the park’s flora, fauna, and history, making the trek more meaningful. For example, Annie mentions getting close to endangered Red Shanked Douc monkeys, which adds a wildlife viewing element that many adventure travelers love.

The scenery is another major draw. From pristine lakes to roaring waterfalls and mountain panoramas, the natural diversity keeps each step interesting. Several travelers highlight how the views from Bach Ma Peak are well worth the effort, especially on clear days when the entire region unfolds before you.

The value for money is also notable. The price of $71 includes transportation, entrance fees, a guided service, bottled water, and a delicious picnic lunch. For those seeking a full day of activity and scenery without the hassle of planning logistics, this package offers excellent convenience.

The small group size (limited to 10 participants) means you’ll enjoy a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions, take photos, or simply soak in the landscape at your own pace.

Challenges to Keep in Mind

While the tour offers many rewards, some aspects require consideration. The terrain can be rugged, with steep slopes and slippery rocks, making it unsuitable for travelers with mobility issues, certain health conditions, or a fear of heights. As Holly warns, “there were some really tricky parts of the climb,” so proper footwear and a good level of fitness are recommended.

Weather can also impact the experience. Several reviews mention that rains and fog can obscure views or make paths slippery. The tour takes place rain or shine, so packing rain gear and sturdy shoes is advisable. That said, even in less-than-ideal weather, the lush scenery and fresh mountain air make it worthwhile.

Transportation is another factor—some travelers found the long drive (up to 10 hours round-trip) a bit tiring but still worth it for the scenery and adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This guided trek to Bach Ma National Park offers an authentic taste of Vietnam’s natural splendor. It’s most suitable for active travelers who enjoy hiking, stunning vistas, and a chance to see waterfalls and lakes away from crowded tourist spots. The experience balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights, making it a well-rounded day out.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, good value, and scenic landscapes will find this tour rewarding. Be prepared for some physical effort—wear appropriate footwear, bring rain gear, and be ready to embrace the rugged terrain. Those with certain health limitations or a fear of heights might want to consider their comfort level before booking.

Overall, it’s a fantastic way to connect with Vietnam’s natural beauty, enjoy a picnic amid mountain peaks, and return with memorable photos and stories from a day well spent in the wild.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with comfortable transfers from Da Nang or Hoi An.

How long is the entire day? Expect the tour to last around 10 to 12 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon return.

What should I wear? Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended due to rugged terrain, and packing rain gear is advisable since the tour takes place rain or shine.

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old, given the physical nature of the trek.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated? Yes, the picnic lunch can cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences, with thoughtful packing by the guides.

What level of fitness do I need? A moderate level of fitness is recommended. The trek involves some steep slopes and slippery sections, but many travelers with average fitness levels find it manageable.

Can I see wildlife? While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, several reviews mention encounters with local animals, including endangered species like the Red Shanked Douc monkeys.

In essence, this tour offers a genuine adventure into Vietnam’s less-trodden natural wonders. It’s perfect for those craving a mix of physical activity, scenic beauty, and cultural storytelling—an authentic escape that leaves you with lasting memories of Bach Ma’s breathtaking landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: