Explore The Beauty Of Kayaking In Vietnam: An Adventure Like No Other

Kayak vietnam- Snapshot of a person in a boat steering the way in water.

Vietnam’s long stretch of coastline and hidden islands make it an ideal spot for a variety of adventure activities, including kayaking and canoeing. With the wide range of lakes and rivers available around the country, you get to indulge in a variety of unique kayaking experiences. The places for experiencing kayak Vietnam also enable you to have close encounters with the wildlife around, further adding to the charm of the experience even further. Be it the emerald waters of Halong Bay or the tranquillity of Ba Be Lake, there’s a lot to unfold.

10 Best Places For Kayaking In Vietnam

Be it the dramatic limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to the serene beauty of Ba Be Lake, the country, there are a plethora of spots for kayaking in Vietnam.

1. Ha Long Bay

Three men riding kayaks on a serene body of water, enjoying a peaceful paddling experience

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Among the top kayaking spots in Vietnam, Halong Bay is usually ranked at the top. The canoeing experience on the emerald waters lets you kayak and voyage through a variety of grand limestone karsts and hidden caves, adding to the adventure of the experience. The views of the surrounding nature and the crystal-clear waters amplify and accentuate the overall kayaking experience like no other. Sea kayaking is the most popular activity around Ha Long Bay.
Cost: VND 40,000 – VND 50,000 / ₹134 – ₹167

2. Nho Que, Ha Giang

Three brightly colored yellow and pink kayaks lined up on the water, vibrant kayak options in Vietnam.

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Another one of the popular spots around Vietnam for kayaking and canoeing is in Nho Que. The tranquillity of the Nho Que River makes it one of the absolute best spots for you to indulge in a breathtaking canoeing and kayaking experience. The surrounding limestone mountains add to the mysticism of the experience too. From sea kayaking to whitewater kayaking, there are a plethora of adventures waiting to be explored.

Cost: VND 50,000 to VND 100,000 / ₹167 – ₹336

3. Ba Be Lake

 Person paddling a kayak on a calm body of water, kayaking adventure in Vietnam.

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The beauty of Ba Be Lake doesn’t await anyone’s introduction. When it comes to adventure activities, kayaking on Ba Be Lake is one you can’t miss out on the next time you are in Vietnam. The idyllic setting of the lake makes it one of the best spots for you to kayak through. Given that the lake is Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lake, the surroundings are covered in lush green landscapes, which add to the beauty of the place even further.\

Cost: VND 50,000 to VND 100,000 / ₹167 – ₹336

4. Lan Ha Bay

Person navigating a boat through a body of water, part of a kayaking journey in Vietnam.

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Lan Ha Bay is located on Cat Ba Island and is another one of the popular sites for kayaking in Vietnam. The bay itself is home to numerous islands and islets, which explains why kayaking is such a popular activity to indulge in. The impressive landscape, high-rise mountains, and dense forests, all add to the beauty of the place. Also, the emerald-coloured water adds a touch of beauty to the place, explaining why it is such a popular kayaking and adventure experience that every person should indulge in..

Cost: VND 40,000 to VND 100,000 / ₹135 – ₹336

5. Tu San Gorge

 Photo of a person in a kayak on the water, the kayaking experience in Vietnam.

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The mention of a gorge makes the place seem very dangerous but kayaking around Tu San Gorge is a popular activity to indulge in Vietnam. The rocky plateau of the Dong Van with Ma Pi Leng Pass offers stunning views of the surrounding lake, adding to the overall experience. You primarily kayak through the Nho Que River, which flows through the Seo Lung village, crossing through Tu San Gorge.

Cost: VND 50,000 / ₹167

6. Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park

Group of people on kayaks, paddling together in a scenic waterway adventures.

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This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its extensive cave systems, including the famous Son Doong Cave. Kayaking here provides the unique opportunity to navigate rivers that flow through lush forests and dramatic karst landscapes. The park’s rivers are generally calm, making it suitable for all skill levels. Also, if you are lucky, you might encounter wildlife around the area too, which adds to the experience further. The best experience is getting to kayak through the underground rivers and soaking in the views of the natural rock formations around.

Cost: VND 50,000 to VND 80,000 / ₹167 – ₹266

7. Pu Luong

Person sitting on a teal kayak on calm river water, reflecting a tranquil kayaking.

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Another underrated kayaking spot around Vietnam that deserves to be hyped is Pu Luong. The kayaking experience in Pu Luong is a lot easier compared to rafting. The best time to indulge in a kayaking experience in Pu Luong is during the rainy season since the experience is truly magical during that time. The surrounding mountains, waterfalls and the views of the terraced rice fields add to the beauty of the adventure.

Cost: VND 200,000 / ₹671

8. Tuyen Lam Lake

Kayak resting on a peaceful body of water, ready for another paddling adventure in Vietnam.

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Located in Da Lat, Tuyen Lam Lake is yet another one of the popular spots where you can set out on a kayaking experience. Booking a group kayaking experience with the local operators enables you to have the time of your life, witnessing some of the most breathtaking sunsets and the views of the surrounding lush greenery. You get to indulge in the charm of the lake and soak in the views of the surrounding hills and the charming landscapes.

Cost: VND 250,000 to VND 400,000 / ₹839 – ₹1,342

9. Whale Island

Man on a boat under a clear blue sky, enjoying a leisurely day on the water.

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Renowned for diving experiences, Whale Island in Vietnam is equally popular for offering some of the best kayaking experiences. The combination of the pristine white sandy beaches with the crystal-clear water of the lakes adds to the charm of the exploration. The best way to explore the island is via guided kayak tours. Usually, you’d have to reach the island on a catamaran, which is then followed up with around 2-3 hours of paddling, making sure to add on to your kayaking experience.

Cost: VND 390,000 / ₹1,006

10. Perfume River

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Located in Hue, another spot for kayaking or canoeing experience in Vietnam is in Perfume River. The river’s calm and serene water makes it a great spot for kayaking. This river is perfect for those looking to combine cultural exploration with a relaxing paddling experience. Along the way, you also get a glimpse of the ancient citadels, pagodas, and traditional landscapes.

Cost: VND 200,000 to 300,000 / ₹671 – ₹1,006

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam and want to explore unique adventure activities, the Kayak Vietnam adventure is one that you can’t miss out on. With the helm in your hands, you get to explore the beauty of Vietnam’s natural landscape at your own pace. There are numerous spots around Vietnam for kayaking and canoeing, so ensure that you pre-book your vacation with TripXL ahead of time to make the most out of your time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The cost usually starts from VND 50,000 per person. However, the rates can increase, depending on the spot where you are kayaking.
Most operators have a minimum age limit of 12 years. However, even then, it is vital to have parental supervision for the kid’s safety.
Yes, many of the popular kayaking spots offer guided tours that can provide equipment, safety instructions, and local insights.
While some locations allow for independent kayaking, joining a tour can enhance the experience, providing local knowledge and ensuring safety.
Depending on the location, you might see various birds, fish, and in some areas, even small mammals. Coastal and river locations also offer opportunities to observe marine life and local flora.

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