Ba Be National Park Tour – Vietnam Tour 1001 for Natural Lovers

Welcome to Bac Kan, a land blessed by nature with breathtaking natural beauty of majestic prime forests, vast natural lakes, and rolling mountains. All come together to create an awe-inspiring watercolor painting. If you're a traveler who finds solace and inspiration in the tranquility of nature, then the Ba Be National Park tour should be a must-visit on your itinerary. Join us as we embark on a journey through Ba Be National Park, where the wonders of nature await to captivate your senses and rejuvenate your soul.  

I. Ba Be national park- A song of Nature  

Discover the allure of Ba Be National Park, where every moment is a testament to nature's artwork, from the tranquil embrace of the vast lake to the untamed beauty of the national park and the enigmatic allure of its mysterious caves. Each step unveils a new masterpiece, a testament to the wonders that nature has woven into the fabric of this extraordinary place.  

1. Ba Be National Park Vietnam: From the local lens  

Ba Be National Park beckons tourists and travelers as a familiar yet enchanting retreat, which takes over 200 kilometers away from the bustling streets of Hanoi. This revered destination is renowned for its crown jewel: Ba Be Lake. Nestled in Nam Mau commune, Ba Be district, about 68 kilometers from Bac Kan city, this natural wonder is one of the world's largest freshwater lakes. Its pristine beauty has earned it a spot among UNESCO's top 20 most beautiful freshwater lakes globally.  

Ba Be Lake is the heart of Ba Be National Park, a haven of ecological marvels. Diverse flora and fauna thrive amidst stunning geological formations, creating a tapestry of natural wonders. The park's allure lies not just in its grandeur but also in its unique formations, offering a glimpse into the raw beauty of nature.  

At an altitude of 145 meters above sea level, Ba Be spans over 8 kilometers in length, with a width of about 3 kilometers. Its expansive water surface covers approximately 500 hectares, with an average depth of 20 meters and a maximum depth of 35 meters. Limestone mountains, underground streams, and caves encircle this aquatic paradise, contributing to its rich biodiversity. Ba Be is home to various freshwater fish species, including rare finds like the king carp, green fish, and fried fish, listed in Vietnam's Red List of endangered species.  

The significance of Ba Be Lake extends beyond its natural allure. In 1995, it was recognized by the World Freshwater Lakes Conference in the US as one of 20 crucial freshwater lakes in need of protection. A year later, it became a national historical and cultural relic. In 2011, Ba Be Lake received further acclaim as a Ramsar site, a testament to its global ecological importance.  

Featured tour: Ba Be Lake And Ban Gioc Waterfall Tour

2. Ba Be Lake: a Legend 

Vietnam Ba Be Lake has a legend passed down through generations, explaining its existence and construction. The legend of Ba Be Lake is a cherished tale among the Tay people of Bac Kan province, surrounding the formation of Vietnam's largest natural freshwater lake. This mythical story, steeped in folklore, embodies the aspirations for prosperity, happiness, and noble virtues.  

Long ago, in a humble hut by Ba Be Lake Vietnam, lived a poor widow and her son. One fateful day, returning from the market, the widow encountered a frail, malodorous beggar by the roadside. Moved by compassion, she brought the beggar home and cared for her. In gratitude, the beggar bestowed upon the widow a rice husk, instructing her to scatter ash around her home and share two rice husks to save lives when a great flood would come.  

That night, a deluge swept through the village, submerging everything in its path. Miraculously, the widow's home remained untouched. Recalling the beggar's words, she cast the rice husks into the water, where they transformed into a vast boat. With her son, she rescued the villagers, steering them to safety.  

This timeless legend echoes the spirit of selflessness and compassion, illustrating the enduring power of kindness and the triumph of good over adversity. It is a testament to the deep-rooted values and resilience of the Tay people, offering a glimpse into the cultural richness surrounding the magnificent Ba Be Lake. 

Featured tour: Ba Be Lake 3 Day Tour

3. A glimpse of What to visit in Ba Be National Park?  

In the vicinity of Ba Be Lake, you'll discover natural wonders. Ba Goa Island, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the lake, holds a legend of bravery and gratitude. Other attractions like Puong Cave, Dau Dang Waterfall, Hua Ma Cave, and Don Den ("Cloud Hunting Grounds") atop Hoa Mountain promise diverse experiences, each a testament to the park's captivating beauty.  

Explore Ba Be Lake  

Vietnam Ba Be Lake offers a multitude of experiences for visitors, including renting canoes, kayaks, SUPs (stand-up paddle boards), or taking a dugout boat ride. Departing from Ba Be Lake or Nang River, you can choose from various options:  

• Motorboat: Ideal for groups (accommodating 12 locals or up to 10 foreign guests). Prices range from 300,000 VND to 1 million VND based on duration (2 to 8 hours) and route.  

• Kayak and SUP: These newer services cost around 1.2 to 1.5 million VND for a group of 3 boats per day (accommodating up to 2 people per boat)

For a comprehensive experience, consider a Ba Be National Park tour from Hanoi that combines SUP, kayaking, and trekking through the national forest. Package tour prices to Ba Be Park range from 2 to 3 million VND per person on weekends.  

Dugout boats offer a traditional means of exploration, typically carrying 2-3 people. These boats are an integral part of the Tay people's cultural heritage.  

Destinations around Ba Be Lake:  

• Pac Ngoi Village: Home to the Tay ethnic group, this village boasts ancient stilt houses, offering a glimpse into traditional Tay architecture. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies like bamboo-tube rice and grilled fish and participate in activities like fishing and canoeing.  

• Hua Ma Cave: Located in Ba Be National Park, this cave features impressive stalactites and is steeped in local legends.  

• Dau Dang Waterfall: Located on the Nang River between Bac Kan and Tuyen Quang, this waterfall is over 1,000 meters long with three distinct tiers. It is also home to the rare fried fish species, some of which can weigh several tens of kilograms.  

• Ao Tien: This small lake spans approximately 3 hectares and is connected to Ba Be Lake and nearby caves through underground waterways. Despite being located about 100 meters from Ba Be Lake, Ao Tien is always full of water. The area surrounding the lake is peaceful, quiet, and shrouded in mystery, inviting visitors to explore its secrets.  

• Puong Cave: This cave is situated on a mountain with a length of 300 meters and an altitude of about 30 meters. Visitors can admire the colorful stalactites and explore the underground river and white sand. It's advisable to bring a flashlight to fully appreciate the cave's beauty.  

• An Ma Temple: A spiritual destination dedicated to Buddha, Lord Son Trang, and Mau Thuong Ngan. Festivals are held here in early spring, offering a lively atmosphere and cultural insights.  

• Highland Markets: Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting highland markets, which offer unique items and provide a glimpse into the beauty of highland traditions. These markets operate on specific lunar days, including Nam Cuong Market (2nd, 7th, 12th, 17th lunar days), Quang Khe Market (3rd, 8th, 13th, 18th lunar days), Khang Ninh Market, and Cao Thuong Market (4th, 9th, 14th, 19th lunar days), and Cho Ra - Ba Be Town Market (5th, 10th, 15th, 20th, 25th, 30th of the lunar calendar).

  

II. Ba Be National Park Tour: Explore the completed travel guide  

1. Choose the best time to explore the beauty of Ba Be National Park  

Ba Be Lake beckons travelers throughout the year. Each season offers a unique allure. From April to October, the rainy season sets in, bringing a lush, verdant landscape. Conversely, the dry season, spanning November to February, can be chilly, with temperatures plummeting to around 0 degrees Celsius in some areas, occasionally adorned with a delicate frost.  

For those seeking the optimal climate, the best time to visit Ba Be Lake is from February to April, when the weather is comfortably cool, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. During this period, the region comes alive with cultural festivities, particularly on January 9th and 10th, when vibrant festivals celebrate the rich traditions of the local ethnic groups.  

Spring is a time of festivity, with the 9th and 10th days of the first lunar month marked by lively folk activities and games such as boat racing, traditional performances, archery, and animal competitions. It's a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's cultural tapestry.  

Summer, on the other hand, draws visitors seeking respite from the heat. The cool mountain air, the verdant forests, and the pristine lakes provide a refreshing escape from the sweltering summer sun.  

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2. Select suitable means of transportation to visit Vietnam Ba Be Lake  

Getting to Ba Be Lake and Bac Kan, located approximately 200km from Hanoi, offers several transportation options for visitors to choose from: 

Private Vehicles: Many travelers opt for private vehicles, offering flexibility and comfort for a personalized journey. This mode of transportation allows you to enjoy the scenic route and take in the picturesque landscapes at your own pace. However, it's essential to adhere to speed limits and traffic regulations for a safe trip.  

Coach: Passenger buses are a safe and efficient choice for reaching Ba Be Bac Kan. At Yen Nghia or My Dinh bus stations in Hanoi, you can find bus companies offering routes to Ba Be Bac Kan, such as An Binh, Qbus, and Thuong Nga. Ticket prices typically range from 200,000 VND to 250,000 VND per way. This option is suitable for travelers seeking a cost-effective and convenient means of transportation.  

Air Travel: For visitors from the southern region of Vietnam, taking a bus or a quicker and more convenient option, a flight to Hanoi, followed by a transfer to Bac Kan, is advisable. This option allows for more efficient travel, especially for those with limited time.  

Additionally, travelers can explore various tour itineraries offered by travel agencies like World Mate Travel, providing tailored experiences and seamless travel arrangements.  

3. Book Ba Be National Park tour: Should or Should not?  

Booking a Ba Be National Park tour can be a convenient and enriching way to experience this natural wonder, but whether it's the right choice depends on your preferences and travel style. Here are some considerations when deciding whether to book a tour:  

Advantages of Booking a Ba Be National Park Tour:  

• Convenience: Tours often provide hassle-free travel arrangements, including transportation, accommodations, and guided activities, saving you time and effort in planning.  

• Local Insights: Guides can offer valuable insights into the park's history, culture, and ecology, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the area.  

• Safety: Joining a tour with experienced guides can enhance your safety, especially when exploring remote or less-traveled areas of the park.  

• Group Experience: Tours can be a great way to meet like-minded travelers and share experiences, creating a sense of camaraderie.  

Advantages of Self-Travel:  

• Flexibility: Traveling independently allows you to create a personalized itinerary, adjusting your schedule and activities based on your interests and pace.  

• Cost Savings: Self-travel can be more budget-friendly, as you have more control over your expenses, such as accommodations and meals.  

• Authenticity: Exploring Ba Be National Park on your own can provide a more authentic and immersive experience, allowing you to interact with locals and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.  

4. Grab exclusive tips to stay at Ba Be National Park:   

When planning your visit to Ba Be National Park tour, keep in mind these exclusive tips to enhance your experience:  

• Dress for the Weather: The mornings and evenings at Ba Be Lake can be chilly, even during summer. Be sure to pack a jacket or sweater to stay warm.  

• Protect Yourself: Bring mosquito and insect repellent cream to shield yourself from bites, especially during outdoor activities.  

• Plan Your Meals: Food and grocery stores are limited in the village, so it's wise to pack snacks and drinks. Pre-ordering meals can also ensure you have enough to eat.  

• Boat Experience: Don't miss the opportunity to explore Ba Be Lake by boat. Tickets are available for 100,000 VND per person, offering a unique perspective of the park's beauty.  

• Respect Local Customs: When visiting sacred sites in Ba Be, dress modestly and respectfully to honor local customs and traditions.  

• Responsible Tourism: Practice responsible tourism by keeping the park clean and preserving its natural beauty. Avoid littering and follow designated trails.  

• Shop Wisely: If you plan to buy local specialties as gifts, compare prices in different places and choose reputable sellers to ensure quality and authenticity.  

• Safety First: Whether you're driving or participating in activities, prioritize safety by following traffic laws and taking precautions to protect yourself and others.  

 

In conclusion, Ba Be National Park offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that appeals to all types of travelers. Whether you prefer the convenience of a guided tour or the freedom of independent exploration, Ba Be Lake Vietnam promises unforgettable experiences. From its stunning landscapes to its rich folklore and legends, Ba Be National Park is a must-visit destination that showcases the best of Vietnam's natural and cultural heritage. Contact World Mate Travel, the best travel agency in Vietnam, because we create the best-fit tour for your needs.