There's no doubt that Vietnam has plenty of beautiful places. Unfortunately, however, we have yet to develop in terms of tourism infrastructure hence information on these places have been sparse? But no worries! You have us - Vietnamese locals who are so ready to share our natural landscapes with you.
Credit: giphy
So before everyone starts flocking here, we're giving you first dibs on 7 jaw-dropping places near Ho Chi Minh you definitely would want to spend a couple of extra days exploring?
1. Chau Doc
Considered to be one of the least touristy sections of the Mekong Delta, Chau Doc is home to the Cham people, the early adopters of Islam in Vietnam. While the city itself may not appear as fascinating to many, it actually holds many interesting attractions especially for Muslims! We bet you would find the interactions with other Muslims here a truly memorable and touching experience.
We bet you would find the interactions with other Muslims here a truly memorable and touching experience. Plus, having the largest Muslim settlement in Vietnam means that Muslim food is quite easily available?
Credit: @hedy.san on Instagram
Key highlights: Floating market, Fishing cluster near Con Tien islands, Chau Giang district – Cham community settlement, Breathtaking scenery from atop Sam mountain, Tra Su Bird Sanctuary
Getting here: By bus – about 9 hours from Ho Chi Minh city
Recommended time to spend here: 3 days 2 nights
2. Con Dao Islands
Made up of 16 islands of immense natural beauty; forested hills, long white beaches, and amazing marine life, Con Dao is the perfect spot for to do some diving! Its national park also offers nature lovers the golden opportunity of spotting some endangered wildlife.
Credit: Binh Huynh on Flickr
Don't stop at just the nature though. This place is rich in history so venture into town and immerse yourself in all Con Dao has to offer?
Credit: @nana__duong on Instagram
Key highlights: Beautiful beaches and clear waters, Boat trips, Diving, Explore the nature reserve
How to get here: By air – about 1 hour from Ho Chi Minh city
Recommended time to spend here: 3 days 2 nights
3. Phu Quoc
Dubbed as “one of Asia’s best kept secrets”, this unassuming island is certainly worthy of its new found fame. Besides being home to some of the best remote islands and beaches in Vietnam, Phu Quoc is also a haven for tropical rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and surrounding natural landscapes?
Credit: @jwmarriottphuquoc on Instagram
Their night markets are so eclectic that you can't give them a miss! Feast on the best coconut ice cream as you explore this beautiful island.
Credit: @mayaginoreats on Instagram
Key highlights: Check out red starfishes and dugongs, Explore the national park, Shop for local produce at the night market, Vinpearl Land amusement park
Getting here: By air – about 1 hour from Ho Chi Minh city, By bus – about 9 hours from Ho Chi Minh city
Recommend time to spend here: 3 days 2 nights
4. Da Lat
This "City of A Thousand Flowers”, is fast becoming a popular getaway for those who wish to be surrounded by flowers, fruits, and vegetables. And if exploring a mini French replica town isn't a good enough a reason for you to visit, then perhaps the cool weather of 10 degrees during winter would do the trick ?
And of course, Da Lat's gorgeous waterfalls cannot be missed. Be sure to spend a day here just immersing yourself in the cooling water and nature!
Key highlights: Spend a day at the waterfalls, Check out the Crazy house, Visit the French replica village, Explore the Valley of Love
Getting here: By air – about 1 hour from Ho Chi Minh city, By bus – about 7 hours from Ho Chi Minh city
Recommended time to spend here: 3 days 2 nights
5. Mui Ne
If standing in the middle sand dunes is on your travel bucket list, there are 2 for you to check out Mui Ne! The red and white dunes promise visitors an afternoon of thrill and excitement; riding the sand sleigh, or on an ATV.
But if you don’t have a need for speed, a view of the beautiful sunrise will also leave its mark ?
Key highlights: Mui Ne fishing village, Red and white sand dunes, Ride a sand sleigh or ATV, Visit the fairy spring, water sports and kite surfing
Getting here: By bus – about 5 hours from Ho Chi Minh city
Recommended time to spend here: 2 days 1 night
6. Giang Dien Waterfall
This waterfall is a haven for the locals, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. And while it may just be a waterfall, there's many activities you can do here! From rowing a boat to zorbing, your time here will definitely be well spent. For the more adventurous, be sure to spend a night camping under the stars ?
Key highlights: Cycling, Camping, Visit the waterfall, Row boating, Have a picnic, Zorbing
Recommended time to spend here: 1 day
7. Can Tho
A charming city best known for having the largest floating market in South Vietnam, Can Tho is a buzzing town filled with sights and sounds, especially along the waterfront. But when night falls, its laid back nature takes over, providing visitors with peace and tranquility only found in the more rural parts of Vietnam☺️
Credit: Benjamin Bezine on Flickr
Key highlights: Biggest floating market, Rice paper making factory, Boat tours, Local night market, Cheap and fresh seafood
Getting here: By bus – about 4 hours from Ho Chi Minh city
Recommended time to spend here: 2 days 1 night
We often hear that there's nothing much to do in Vietnam, especially when compared to Thailand. But we hope this article will show you all the beauty (and more!) our beautiful country has to offer ? So wait no more! It's time to explore this Southeast Asian gem.
This post was written by guest writer, Kenneth Lee from Colours of Vietnam. Change the way you explore Vietnam with his affordable, Muslim-friendly Vietnam tours here!