Canyoning Dalat Tours: 9 Steps

Are you curious about canyoning in Da Lat but have never done it before? We have your back! Here’s a beginner-friendly, detailed guide to help you know what to do from start to finish.

Step 1. Arriving in Dalat – Adventure Awaits

Nestled in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Dalat is unlike any other part of the country. You’re basically stepping into a tropical version of the Alps, with its pine forests, misty mountains, and cool air.

After hearing rumors of its world-famous canyoning, you might arrive with a mix of excitement and nerves, not knowing quite what to expect. But no worries, getting there is simple — hop on a bus, ride a motorbike through winding mountain roads, or take a quick flight to Lien Khuong Airport. Once in Dalat, let the adventure vibes sink in. This town is your gateway to an experience you’ll be talking about for years!

Step 2. Picking the Right Canyoning Da Lat Crew

With so many companies offering Dalat Vietnam canyoning tours, the hardest part might be choosing who to trust with your adventure. Look for companies with glowing reviews, small group sizes, and a strong emphasis on safety.

Vietnam Backpacker Hostels is a crowd favorite for its off-the-beaten-path routes and hands-on guides who are pros at easing beginners into the action. Book your spot online or through your hostel, and get ready to gear up. The canyoning Dalat price is just $82 per adult — an investment in both adrenaline and peace of mind.

Check out the details here: Splash & Dash: Da Lat Canyoning Challenge

Step 3. Gear Up and Training

The day begins early as you meet your guides and the group. After a quick introduction, you’ll be handed your gear — helmets, gloves, harnesses, ropes, and wetsuits.

Even if this is your first time canyoning, there’s no need to stress. The guides start with a thorough safety briefing and a hands-on practice session on dry ground. You’ll learn how to rappel down a slope, control the ropes, and navigate tricky terrain. By the time you’re done, you’ll feel like an abseiling pro — or at least confident enough to take on the day.

Prepare all the necessary equipment

Step 4. Into the Jungle – The Adventure Begins

Your Da Lat canyoning tour starts with a trek through Dalat’s lush forests, where every step feels like peeling back a new layer of adventure. Towering pine trees stretch toward the sky, the sound of rushing water grows louder, and the air is filled with anticipation. More than just a simple warm-up, this hike is your introduction to the wild beauty of Dalat, a perfect combination of calm and excitement before the real action begins.

Step 5. The Big Drop – Your First Waterfall Abseil

Standing at the edge of a waterfall, you might feel both thrilled and terrified at first. But rest assured! The guide attaches your harness, gives you a reassuring nod, and tells you to lean back.

Step by step, you descend into the thundering cascade. The water splashes around you, the mist clings to your face, and the adrenaline pumps through your veins. Once your feet touch solid ground again, you’ll be laughing out loud — half in relief, half in sheer joy. That is the moment you realize why everyone raves about canyoning in Dalat.

Let the water splash around you

Step 6. Leap of Faith – Cliff Jumping Time

Next comes the part that will test your courage: cliff jumping. You’ll start small with a quick jump, just enough to get a taste of the thrill.

As your confidence grows, the jumps get bigger and bigger until you plunge straight into a narrow canyon. The guides are there to coach you through it, but the leap is all yours. It doesn’t matter whether you scream or stay silent; you’ll emerge from the water feeling like a true adventurer.

Step 7. Surviving the “Washing Machine”

Just when you think you’ve done it all, you face the infamous “Washing Machine.” This 50-foot abseil into a swirling cascade of water feels like being caught in a storm.

Again, the canyoning Dalat guides help you navigate the narrow rocks and control your ropes until the final drop, where you let go and plunge into the churning pool below. It’s wild, intense, and downright unforgettable — a challenge that’ll leave you grinning ear to ear.

Just let loose and have fun

Step 8. Zipping Into the Finish Line

After the physical intensity of rappelling and jumping, the zipline section feels like pure fun. You’ll glide over the canyon, soaking in the views and catching your breath. It’s a moment to savor! Each zipline gets a bit bolder, and as you reach the last one, you’ll be ready to let loose and enjoy the ride.

Step 9. Celebrating with a Feast

As your Dalat canyoning tours wrap up, the guides treat you to a well-deserved picnic. Bread, fresh fruits, and Vietnamese snacks are spread out for the group, and a cold drink in hand never tasted better.

Sitting by the canyon, swapping stories with new friends, you’ll feel a deep sense of accomplishment. After all, you have conquered Dalat’s waterfalls, faced your fears, and had the best time of your life!

You will have the best moments of your life

Canyoning Dalat: People Also Asked

Is Dalat canyoning worth it?

Yes. Canyoning in Dalat is widely regarded as a must-do adventure thanks to the abseiling down waterfalls, cliff jumping, and natural water slides amidst stunning landscapes. Many travelers highlight it as a standout experience in Vietnam and praise the professionalism of the guides. 

How much is canyoning in Dalat?

The cost of canyoning tours in Dalat typically ranges from $75 to $82 per person. This price generally includes all necessary equipment, professional guides, transportation, and meals.

Where is the best place to go canyoning?

Dalat is considered one of the premier destinations for canyoning, especially due to the Datanla Waterfalls, which provide an ideal setting for the sport. The combination of accessible canyons and beautiful scenery makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced adventurers. 

Is it canyoning or canyoneering?

The terms “canyoning” and “canyoneering” are often used interchangeably. “Canyoning” is more commonly used in Europe and Australia, while “canyoneering” is the preferred term in the United States. Both refer to the activity of exploring canyons using techniques like walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling (rappelling), and swimming.

Let Vietnam Backpacker Hostels Take You There!

Ready to leap into crystal-clear pools and rappel your way through Dalat’s stunning canyons? Contact Vietnam Backpacker Hostels today! With our trusted local connections by your side, you can turn your canyoning Dalat experience into a story worth telling.

• Website: https://vietnambackpackerhostels.com/
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Both options have their advantages, but the right choice depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Let’s break it down further.

Inside The Cu Chi Tunnels: Vietnam’s War Against The U.S.

The Cu Chi Tunnels are a massive network of underground passageways over 220 kilometers long, built during wartime near Ho Chi Minh City.

These tunnels are an important part of Vietnam’s history 

A Quick Overview

In the 1940s, during Vietnam’s fight for independence from French rule, locals began digging small tunnels by hand. These early tunnels connected villages and homes, giving people a safe place to hide and move without being seen. Only simple tools like buckets and shovels were used during the construction, and the soil was carefully hidden to avoid detection.

How Were These Tunnels Built?

As mentioned, the tunnels were dug slowly over decades using nothing but hand tools. They were built in three layers:

• First layer (3 to 4 meters deep): Easy to access for quick movement
• Second layer (5 to 6 meters deep): Safe from most bombs and attacks
• Third layer (8 to 10 meters deep): The most secure, nearly impossible for enemies to destroy

Each layer had hidden air vents, doors, and trapdoors, so outsiders would find it almost impossible to navigate.

The Tunnels in The War

By the time the Vietnam War began, the tunnels had evolved into an underground city for the Viet Cong, the guerrilla forces fighting against South Vietnam and the U.S.

As a crucial part of their strategy for survival and attack, the Cu Chi Tunnels were used by Viet Cong soldiers to hide from enemies, launch surprise attacks, treat the injured below ground, and even sleep, cook, and store supplies.

Most importantly, since the tunnels connected different areas, soldiers could move and communicate with each other entirely in secret. The Cu Chi Tunnels were even linked to the famous Ho Chi Minh Trail, which allowed supplies to flow from northern Vietnam to the south.

A Huge Challenge for The U.S. Forces

As expected, these tunnels were a nightmare for the U.S. forces. Most American soldiers struggled to fit inside, and the passages were filled with traps designed to stop intruders.

To combat this, the U.S. sent specially trained soldiers called “Tunnel Rats” into the tunnels. They had to crawl through the cramped, dark, and dangerous spaces, not knowing what they’d find — booby traps, enemies, or dead ends.

Can You Visit The Cu Chi Tunnels Today?

Yes. Today, Cu Chi Tunnels are open for visitors. Some sections have been widened to fit modern tourists (many of whom are much taller than the Viet Cong fighters).

Walking through these narrow spaces gives you a powerful sense of how tough life must have been underground. You’re basically stepping into a living piece of history to learn about the Vietnamese’s ability to adapt when the odds are stacked against them. 

Cu Chi Tunnels Tour vs No-Tour: Which Is Better?

All in all, if you want the full experience, a Cu Chi day tour is the clear winner.

A Cu Chi Tunnels tour is a much better option

A Cu Chi Tour Makes All The Difference

Choosing a Cu Chi tunnels tour half day lets you unlock the full story behind this underground marvel. You will learn exactly how these tunnels were dug by hand, why they were essential for guerrilla warfare, and how they became a lifeline for the Viet Cong. The guides also demonstrate fascinating historical details you are unlikely to learn on your own.

The best Cu Chi tour packages from reputed providers like the Vietnam Backpacker Hostels are also convenient, as they already include transportation to the site, tickets, and a well-planned itinerary. You won’t waste time figuring out logistics or accidentally skipping important areas.

Still, there’s a small downside: you’re on a fixed schedule. The trip might feel a bit rushed as a result, not to mention the slightly higher expenses. But the value of expert knowledge makes up for it.

Check out the details and Cu Chi Tunnels tour price here: Cu Chi Tour 1 Day. 

Self-Guided Visit: Freedom Without the Full Story

On the one hand, exploring the tunnels on your own can sound appealing. You get to move at your own pace, linger where you want, and avoid the crowds of a tour group. It’s also cheaper since you’re not paying for a guide or package.

Unfortunately, here’s the catch: without a guide, you miss the deeper story. The tunnels are filled with a rich history that isn’t obvious unless someone explains it to you.

Yes, signs and plaques give basic information. However, unlike a Cu Chi Tunnels tour, they can’t explain how fighters used clever tactics to survive or how the tunnels connected entire regions. Ultimately, you’ll leave with only a surface-level understanding of what makes the Cu Chi Tunnels so remarkable.

What to Expect On A Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Here’s what’s in store for you on a fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels tour:

Explore the booby traps, tunnel entrances, and more

Booby Traps

One of the first things you’ll see on the Cu Chi and city tour is the Viet Cong’s booby traps. Your guide might even ask for volunteers to demonstrate how they worked (don’t worry, it’s safe).

You can see rotating trapdoors hiding spike-filled pits and devices designed to impale intruders. Even more, to ensure the traps caused maximum damage, the spikes were often coated in animal manure to infect the wounds. More precisely, they did not aim to kill but to wound —forcing the enemy to rescue their injured comrades and creating distractions.

Squeezing Through Tunnel Entrances

The entrances to the tunnels are a test of physical dexterity. You’ll find small, rectangular openings and hidden burrow-like holes, many of which have eroded over time.

The iconic rectangular hole, perfect for a photo op, is surprisingly tiny. If you’re petite, getting in and out might be a breeze. But for those with larger body sizes, it’s a challenge — you might even need a helping hand to wiggle out!

As you can see, these entrances were intentionally built small to prevent larger American soldiers from entering. Standing beside one makes it obvious why the tunnels were so effective at keeping the Viet Cong safe.

Breathing Mounds and Disguises

As you explore the best Cu Chi tunnel tour, you’ll spot small mounds sticking out of the ground; they are breathing vents that provide fresh air to the tunnels. The Viet Cong disguised them to look like tombs and tricked enemy soldiers into leaving them alone.

When American forces discovered the vents, they tried filling them with gas and water, even sending in dogs to flush out the Viet Cong. But the fighters adapted: they used pepper bombs to confuse the dogs or placed items from American soldiers near the vents to mask their scent.

The Firing Range

If you’ve ever wanted to fire a live weapon, this is your chance. At the firing range, you can choose from iconic guns like the AK-47. Bullets cost about $2.50 each), and you’ll need to buy at least 10.

For some, it’s an exciting way to connect with history. For others, the noise alone is overwhelming. Either way, it’s an optional stop that adds a memorable touch to your best tour Cu Chi tunnels.

Sign up for Our Cu Chi Tunnels Tour Today!

Spend just 6 hours with us (from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and experience the very best of the Cu Chi Tunnels! 

Contact Vietnam Backpacker Hostels today

Our tour has everything covered: bottled water to keep you refreshed, entrance fees, convenient pick-up and drop-off service, and a friendly, knowledgeable English-speaking guide. All you need to do is show up, immerse yourself in the adventure, and let us handle the rest.

Ready to join? Contact us here:

• Website: https://vietnambackpackerhostels.com/
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Bach Ma National Park is one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking destinations. However, for many international backpackers, planning a Bach Ma National Park tour can feel overwhelming. How do you explore this natural wonder while staying on budget and getting the most out of your visit?

In this guide, we have curated everything you need to know about visiting Bach Ma National Park, from the best time to go and must-see spots to insider tips and budget-friendly options. Keep scrolling for details!

Why Bach Ma National Park Is An Excellent Destination

The beautiful view of Bach Ma National Park

Bach Ma National Park is tucked away in Thua Thien Hue Province, just a short journey from Hue (40 km) and Da Nang (65 km). 

This natural wonder is part of the northern Truong Son Mountain Range, where dramatic peaks rise to over 1,000 meters and carve an unforgettable silhouette against the sky.

The park has a sprawling expanse of nearly 37,500 hectares. Rare and endangered species, including over 2,300 plant species and 1,700 animal species, all thrive peacefully here. Over 800 species of insects, butterflies, and industrious beetles also form an essential part of its vibrant ecosystem. 

The Best Time to Embark on A Bach Ma National Park Tour

According to seasoned travelers, the dry season, from December to April, is the best time to explore Bach Ma National Park.

The weather is cool and pleasant during these months; plus, the clear skies and minimal rainfall are perfect conditions for outdoor adventures like trekking, swimming, and sightseeing. You can navigate the dry trails and fully immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty.

On the other hand, the rainy season, which runs from August to December, also brings its own unique charm. The rains bring out the lush greenery and a misty, almost mystical ambiance while the temperatures remain comfortable and pleasant. Nevertheless, keep in mind that frequent downpours and occasional heavy rains can make traveling through the park more challenging. 

6 Perks Included In A Bach Ma National Park Tour

For international backpackers, Vietnam Backpacker Hostels is the ultimate tour provider for exploring Bach Ma National Park. Our well-designed itineraries and knowledgeable guides will ensure you have the most pleasant stay in Vietnam.

Once signing up for our travel package to Bach Ma, you will be rewarded with: 

A Scenic Drive to Bach Ma National Park

Your journey kickstarts with a 90-minute drive through the charming countryside of Vietnam. As you leave Hue behind, you will pass lush rice paddies, meandering rivers, and quaint rural villages.

A Refreshing Jungle Escape at Five Lakes

The real adventure begins with a 2-km trek through the jungle that takes you deep into the heart of Bach Ma National Park. This trail leads to Five Lakes, a series of crystal-clear natural pools surrounded by dense forest. It’s the perfect spot for a refreshing swim, a chance to cool off while soaking in the serenity of the wilderness.

The Five Lakes Trail

Do Quyen Waterfall: One Towering Masterpiece

Continuing along the Five Lakes trail, you will pass by a fascinating medicinal plant garden that showcases the park’s diverse flora. The trek eventually brings you to the Do Quyen Waterfall, one of Bach Ma’s most iconic landmarks.

The waterfall, cascading down an impressive 300 meters, is named after the rhododendron flowers (Do Quyen) that bloom beautifully around it. Adventurous visitors can take on the challenge of descending 689 steps to the base of the waterfall for a closer view. The sheer height and power of the falls, accompanied by all the vibrant plants, will bring you a truly unforgettable trekking experience.

Do Quyen waterfall

Lunch Amid the Beauty of Nature

After exploring Do Quyen Waterfall, it’s time to recharge with a delicious lunch surrounded by the natural beauty of the park. Here, you can enjoy your meal while listening to the sounds of the jungle — the rustling leaves, birdsong, and the distant roar of the waterfall. There’s no better chance to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of Bach Ma.

The Summit Views That Take Your Breath Away

Once your energy has been replenished, the Bach Ma National Park tour continues uphill to the park’s summit, standing at an impressive 1,450 meters above sea level.

From this vantage point, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch as far as the East Sea, the lush valleys below, and the shimmering lagoons in the distance. Don’t skip this golden opportunity; we recommend you pause a little to take in the grandeur of the landscape and capture incredible photos!

Relaxing Return to Hue

As the day winds down, you can begin a gentle trek back toward the park’s entrance to savor your final moments in the jungle. From there, enjoy a relaxing drive back to Hue while retracing your scenic route through the countryside.

You will arrive at your accommodation by early evening, filled with a sense of accomplishment and all the best, most vivid memories of the Bach Ma National Park tour.

Want to know more? Check out our Bach Ma tour details here. 

5 Extra Tips for The Best Bach Ma National Park Day Trip

To make the most of your Bach Ma National Park day trip, start early, dress comfortably in sturdy shoes, and pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a swimsuit for a refreshing swim at Five Lakes. 

Wear proper gear and pack smart

Wear Proper Gear

Bring comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, especially if you’re venturing to the base of Do Quyen Waterfall. And while lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the tropical weather, consider bringing a light jacket to prepare for the lower temperatures at high elevations.

Pack Light but Smart

Bring essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. A small backpack will make it easier to carry your items while keeping your hands free for trekking.

Stay Hydrated

With all the walking and physical activity, you will naturally feel thirsty. That’s why it’s important to stay hydrated, even more so if you are visiting during the warmer months. Make sure you carry enough water before leaving the hostel.

Be Ready for Wildlife Spotting

The park is home to over 1,400 species of flora and fauna, so keep your eyes open for unique birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Feel free to bring binoculars if you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast.

Check the Weather Forecast

The weather in Bach Ma can change quickly, particularly during the rainy season (August to December). If visiting during this time, pack a rain jacket or poncho and be prepared for some slightly muddy trails.

Don’t Know Which Hostel to Stay?

We’ve got you covered! 

Once you book our Bach Ma National Park tour, Vietnam Backpacker Hostels will handle all the details — accommodation, a delicious lunch, and convenient pick-up and drop-off services — so you can focus entirely on the adventure. 

And even if you prefer to go solo and plan the trip your way, we can still hook you up with the best hostels and bars at competitive prices. 

Contact us: 

• Website: https://vietnambackpackerhostels.com/
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