Ba Be Lake – Ban Gioc Waterfall 3 Days 2 Nights
HIGHTLIGHTS
Travel Style: Active Tours
Trip length: 3 days
Escape Hanoi for three days of spectacular natural beauty and cultural immersion in Vietnam’s remote northeast.
The Ba Be Lake & Ban Gioc Waterfall Tour takes you through dense jungle, dramatic karst landscapes, serene lakes, and powerful waterfall vistas. You’ll boat across Ba Be Lake, trek to hidden caves and jungle rivers, stay overnight in a local Tay homestay, and travel on to Ban Gioc Waterfall — one of the largest and most photogenic waterfalls in Southeast Asia. Along the way, enjoy kayaking, swimming, and authentic rural meals as you meet ethnic minority communities and learn about their way of life. This is a deeply rewarding off-the-beaten-path experience for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who wants a slower pace to connect with Vietnam’s wild landscapes and hospitality.
- Scenic drive into Vietnam’s remote northeast, through mountain passes and pristine countryside
- Boat cruise across Ba Be Lake, Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lake
- Jungle trekking to hidden caves and rivers in Ba Be National Park
- Cultural stay in a Tay ethnic minority village homestay
- Visit to the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of Southeast Asia’s most dramatic natural cascades
- Optional kayaking or swimming opportunities in secluded lake and river spots
- Authentic meals prepared by local families, featuring regional specialties
- A slower, immersive itinerary with strong nature and culture balance
ITINERARY
Day 1.: Hanoi - Ba Be Lake (L, D)
7.30-8.00 Pick up at your hotel in Hanoi for the journey to Ba Be Lake, a drive of approximately 150 miles (230 km). You will head north from the bustle of Hanoi and into the stunning landscape of rural Vietnam. During the journey you will have the chance to visit a Tay minority community. Have lunch at restaurant on the way.
On arrival at Ba Be National Park, take a boat trip along Nang River exploring the beautiful Ba Be Lake, the dramatic caves of Puong Grotto and Widow Island, a limestone islet steeped in local folklore and legend. You will also have time to visit the stilt houses of the Tay community in Coc Toc
Village, where you will spend the night at homestay (Tay family).
Day 2.: Ba Be - Cao Bang - Ban Gioc waterfall (B, L, D)
Breakfast at the homestay. Then depart for Cao Bang, one of Vietnam’s most northern provinces that borders China. Here you will have the chance to meet the Nung people in the village of Phuoc Sen, a mountainous village famous for traditional blacksmith craft. Like the Tays, the Nungs largely live by farming the terraced rice paddies that you will see all around as you continue to Ban Gioc Waterfall, the stunning falls that span across the border between Vietnam and China. You will spend some time at your own leisure, relaxing and taking photos as you soak up the incredible surroundings of Vietnam’s most beautiful waterfall.
Heading back to Cao Bang town, on the way, we stop to visit the expansive 2,144 meter Nguom Ngao Cave to discover its brilliant stalactites.
Have dinner and overnight at a homestay of Nung's village in Quang Uyen.
Day 3.: Cao Bang - Hanoi (B, L)
After a night at the Nung's house, depart for your transfer south to Hanoi. It is a journey of approximately 185 miles (310 km) through vertiginous rice terraces and remote villages. You will get the chance to stop at an ethnic village known for its tobacco production. This is the road less traveled in Vietnam, offering the chance to enjoy some peace and tranquility.
You will also visit the Museum of the Cultures of Vietnam’s Ethnic Groups in Thai Nguyen City where you can browse the objects, photographs and exhibits that give a better understanding of the various ethnic groups and their agricultural tools, handicrafts and traditional costumes worn for worship. There will be a stop for lunch before your hotel-off back in Hanoi. Tour ends.
GROUP TOUR (Seat-in-Coach)
The price is USD/person, quoted for a package tour/room/tickets..| Tour Package | Price |
|---|---|
| Departure Friday Weekly | $239 |
PRIVATE TOUR PRICE
The price (USD/person) is quoted for a private tour based on the group sizes, you can send us your inquiry to make up a personalized itinerary and quotation.| Tour Category | 2 pax | 3-5 pax | 6-8 pax | 9 pax up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private tour | $345 | $289 | $281 | $189 |
Not fit your requirement? Feel free to contact us to plan this trip and get the best possible price based upon your travel period and specific touring needs.
INQUIRY
Other information
- Road travel is long and winding: expect 4–6 hour driving legs, some on local roads. Comfortable vehicle and periodic rest stops are key.
- Homestays are authentic and comfortable, but not luxury — expect simple furnishings, shared bathrooms in some places, and warm hospitality.
- Weather in this region can change quickly; bring rain gear, waterproof shoes/sandals, and layers for cooler evenings.
- Season matters: summer (May–August) for lush greenery and full waterfalls, autumn (September–October) for clearer skies and fewer rain interruptions. Winter can be chilly and quiet but less lush.
- This itinerary can be extended or contracted: add another night in Cao Bang, include more kayaking, or drop the waterfall if time is tight.
Tour Includes
- Private car/bus transfer as program,
- Homestay with daily breakfast and meals,
- English speaking guide,
- Boat trip as mentioned,
- Meals as stated in the itinerary (B: Breakfast ; L: Lunch ; D: Dinner),
- All sightseeing tickets,
- Bottle mineral water
Tour Excludes
- Personal expenses, beverages and tips
- Travel insurance
- Other services not mentioned above..