Attractions

The Great Trek: An Adventure into Nature’s Embrace

Amid the frenzied pace of modern life, an increasing number of Vietnamese are turning to the great outdoors and embarking on lengthy treks into the heart of the forest. They seek a respite from the daily grind and yearn for unique and invigorating experiences.

Administrator

1 March, 2025

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Vietnam has emerged as an exhilarating adventure destination, especially for foreign thrill-seekers. In recent years, trekking has also gained significant popularity among locals, along with long-distance hiking and trail running.

Exploring New Horizons

Giang Ngoc Hoa, a passionate hiker, during her trek to conquer Mang Den Peak at the Mang Den Ultra Trail 2025 in Kon Plông Commune, Kon Tum Province. Photo courtesy of Giang Hoa.

Meet Giang Ngoc Hoa, a 48-year-old resident of Long Bien District in Hanoi, who has climbed three mountain peaks in just two months. While she has always loved traveling and backpacking, it was only recently that she discovered her passion for trekking.

Juggling her work as a CEO and manager of a family business, Hoa manages to escape on hiking trips once or twice a month. Each adventure brings her new and exhilarating experiences. Despite facing exhaustion and discouragement at times, the support and encouragement from her teammates always give her the boost she needs to keep going.

The stress of her professional life is undeniable, but Hoa has found a silver lining in being able to take time for herself and explore nature. The recent health scare has also served as a wake-up call, prompting her to prioritize her health and well-being.

For Hoa, running amidst the breathtaking scenery is an incredible and liberating experience.

“Trekking has not only helped me train my physical strength but also my willpower,” she shared with The Hanoi Times. “It has allowed me to discover my country’s diverse cultures and majestic landscapes that I never knew existed.”

Hoa attributes the growing popularity of trekking to its positive physiological and spiritual effects, attracting not just young adventurers but also individuals from all age groups, including children and middle-aged enthusiasts.

“Life is short, and we only live once,” she reminds us. “Let’s explore the beauty of Vietnam and create memories we can be proud of. Trekking is addictive, and the sense of accomplishment it brings is unparalleled.”

The breathtaking scenery of Nhiu Co San Peak in Bat Xat Commune, Lao Cai Province. Photo: Lo A Phong.

Hoang Tuan, a 22-year-old student from Cau Giay District in Hanoi, shares a similar passion for trekking. He is drawn to the natural scenery of mountains and forests, seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and a chance to immerse himself in nature’s serenity.

Tuan highlights the unique experiences that trekking offers, which cannot be found in textbooks. However, he also acknowledges the risks involved, especially due to the challenging terrain and slippery cliffs. “It’s easy to get lost if you’re not careful,” he warns, emphasizing the importance of mental preparation and awareness of the lack of amenities in the mountains, which can impact the overall experience.

As a student, Tuan often opts for independent hiking trips to keep costs down. He and his friends embark on climbing adventures once or twice a year to unwind, create lasting memories, and recharge their batteries after tedious study and work routines.

Ta Xua, a highland commune in Son La District, located approximately 240 kilometers from Hanoi. Photo: Tham Nguyen.

“I have conquered three mountains so far,” Tuan proudly shares, “Lao Than in Bat Xat Commune, Ta Chi Nhu in Tram Tau Commune, and Nhiu Co San in Bat Xat Commune. Each trip has been memorable, but the trek to Nhiu Co San was truly remarkable. We rode our motorbikes to the site, and the eight-kilometer trail was challenging due to the muddy conditions. We had to push our bikes and walk, but it was all worth it.”

Pushing the Boundaries

Minh Anh, a 23-year-old from Tay Ho District in Hanoi, is no stranger to physical challenges, with five years of bodybuilding experience under his belt. He recently embarked on two independent treks to test his limits and explore the great outdoors.

“Whenever I feel the urge to explore, I just get on my bike and go,” Minh Anh shared. “Reaching the top of Ta Chi Nhu took me about 10 hours. The weather conditions were harsh, with dry and sunny days followed by cold and windy nights. Despite the exhaustion, the sense of accomplishment I felt at the summit made it all worth it.”

Sa Mu Mountain in Son La Province, an emerging must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Photo: Khang Tu Hu.

During his two-day trip, Minh Anh faced a significant challenge due to the absence of 4G signal and electricity. He had to rely solely on GPS to navigate his way to the top while carrying a power bank to ensure his phone stayed charged. A dead phone battery in the middle of the woods could easily lead to getting lost.

Minh Anh’s trip to Ta Chi Nhu Peak left an “unforgettable” mark on him. He had forgotten his food at the hut and only had a limited water supply. As he climbed the mountain road, he had to scavenge for water bottles and candy left by others to stay hydrated and energized until he reached the summit.

“Newcomers to trekking should plan their food and drinks carefully,” he advises. “If you’re new to the sport, consider hiring a local guide to carry your gear and ensure your safety.”

Lao Than mountain, standing tall at an altitude of 2862 meters in Phin Ho Village, is a majestic sight amidst the vast sky. Photo: Huong Mai.

Minh Anh also shared a recent setback during his attempt to reach Ta Xua Peak. The temperature dropped to a chilling three degrees Celsius, and the icy wind and rain made the trail too slippery for him to continue. He had to turn back after climbing just 200 meters, suffering several falls and injuries along the way. However, his determination remains unwavering, and he vows to try again, stating, “I will conquer it next time.”

For new and foreign trekkers, Minh Anh offers an important piece of advice: “If you’re unsure where to start, consider joining groups on social networking sites. Do your research and ask for recommendations from people you know. Your safety should always come first, so avoid accepting invitations from strangers.”