Vietnam is a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts and photography lovers, offering breathtaking landscapes and incredible biodiversity. From dense forests to pristine beaches, the country is home to exotic animals and dramatic sceneries that capture the imagination.
Whether you’re a bird-watcher, nature photographer, or simply someone seeking tranquility in nature, Vietnam’s lush national parks, remote islands, and serene countryside provide the perfect backdrop.
Here are 15 must-visit spots where you can immerse yourself in the wild and capture moments that tell a thousand stories.
Cuc Phuong National Park
Address: Nho Quan District, Ninh Bình 432857, Vietnam
Type | Wildlife, Nature, Photography |
Time to Spend | 1 to 2 days |
Cuc Phuong, Vietnam’s first national park, is a dense jungle filled with ancient trees, limestone caves, and vibrant wildlife. Known for langurs, civets, and exotic birds, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Walk the trails, explore bat-filled caves, and snap macro shots of colorful plants and butterflies. The park’s peaceful atmosphere and unique biodiversity make it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Vietnam’s accommodations while capturing its natural beauty.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Address: Quảng Bình, Vietnam
Type | Landscape, Wildlife, Adventure |
Time to Spend | 2 to 3 days |
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Phong Nha-Ke Bang is a magical mix of towering limestone mountains, mysterious caves, and dense forests. The massive Son Doong Cave, the world’s largest, is a dream for adventure and landscape photographers.
Wildlife enthusiasts can find rare species like macaques and flying foxes. Whether you’re boating through underground rivers or hiking to panoramic viewpoints, this park offers endless inspiration for photography and adventure lovers.
Cat Tien National Park
Address: Vietnam
Type | Wildlife, Birdwatching, Adventure |
Time to Spend | 2 days |
Cat Tien is a biodiversity hotspot, home to rare animals like sun bears, gibbons, and vibrant birds. The park’s wetlands, rivers, and forest trails are perfect for adventure seekers and wildlife photographers.
Spend your time hiking or taking a guided night safari to see nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat. With its blend of lush landscapes and unique animals, this park will leave you with a camera full of remarkable shots.
Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Address: Ninh Hải, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình, Vietnam
Type | Landscape, Cultural, Scenic, Photography |
Time to Spend | 1 day |
Often called “Halong Bay on land,” Tam Coc boasts breathtaking karst mountains, emerald rice fields, and serene waterways. Take a peaceful boat ride along the Ngo Dong River to capture stunning reflections and dramatic limestone formations.
The nearby Bich Dong Pagoda adds a cultural touch to your photography. With its tranquil vibe and picture-perfect scenery, Tam Coc is ideal for capturing Vietnam’s rural charm in a single day.
Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Address: Xă, Cổ Lũng, Bá Thước, Thanh Hóa, Vietnam
Type | Scenic, Cultural, Wildlife |
Time to Spend | 1 to 2 days |
Nestled in Thanh Hoa Province, Pu Luong Nature Reserve is a hidden gem known for its terraced rice fields, quaint villages, and dense forests. Perfect for capturing rural life, you can photograph farmers working the fields or hike the trails for panoramic views.
The reserve is also home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for wildlife photographers. Its serene atmosphere and natural beauty offer a peaceful escape for travelers and photographers alike.
Ba Be National Park
Address: Bố Lù, Ba Bể District, Bắc Kạn 23511, Vietnam
Type | Scenic, Wildlife, Adventure |
Time to Spend | 2 days |
Ba Be National Park, centered around the stunning Ba Be Lake, is a haven for nature lovers. Explore the park by boat to capture the calm waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The park is teeming with wildlife, from vibrant butterflies to elusive monkeys.
The hidden caves and waterfalls add an adventurous touch to your photography journey. With its serene landscapes and rich biodiversity, Ba Be is an unforgettable destination for any traveler.
Con Dao Islands
Address: Con Dao, Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Vietnam
Type | Beach, Underwater, Wildlife |
Time to Spend | 2 to 3 days |
The Con Dao Islands are a pristine paradise for photographers looking for serene beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Perfect for underwater photography, the coral reefs are home to sea turtles and colorful fish.
The islands also offer hiking trails with panoramic ocean views. Whether you’re shooting seascapes or exploring hidden coves, the Con Dao Islands provide a tranquil escape and endless opportunities for capturing Vietnam’s coastal beauty.
Sapa’s Muong Hoa Valley
Address: 8V7G+MJC, Lao Chải, Sa Pa, Lào Cai, Vietnam
Type | Scenic, Cultural, Adventure |
Time to Spend | 1 to 2 days |
Muong Hoa Valley in Sapa is famous for its stunning terraced rice fields and traditional villages of ethnic minorities. Photograph locals street in colorful attire as they work amidst the vibrant green fields.
The misty mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for landscape photography. Whether you’re trekking through the valley or interacting with the local tribes, every corner offers a unique shot. It’s a cultural and scenic experience you don’t want to miss.
Bach Ma National Park
Address: Lộc Trì, Phú Lộc, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
Type | Wildlife, Scenic, Adventure |
Time to Spend | 1 day |
Bach Ma is a hiker’s paradise with trails leading to waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, and vibrant wildlife. Birdwatchers will love the park’s rich avian population, while photographers can capture stunning views from the summit.
The park’s combination of dense forests and scenic vistas makes it a perfect day trip for those seeking adventure and inspiration. Don’t forget to pack your camera for some truly mesmerizing shots.
Halong Bay
Address: Vietnam
Type | Landscape, Scenic, Adventure |
Time to Spend | 1 to 2 days |
The iconic Halong Bay, with its emerald waters and limestone islands, is a must-visit for photographers. Take a cruise to capture the bay’s surreal beauty, or kayak through hidden caves for unique angles.
The sunsets here are especially magical, casting golden hues over the water. Whether you’re into landscapes or seascapes, Halong Bay is a visual feast for anyone with a camera.
Yok Don National Park
Address: Krông Na, Buôn Đôn District, Dak Lak, Vietnam
Type | Wildlife, Adventure, Scenic |
Time to Spend | 1 day |
Vietnam’s largest national park, Yok Don, is a unique destination known for its dry deciduous forests. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot elephants, leopards, and a variety of birds.
The park’s vast landscapes provide dramatic backdrops for photography. Whether you’re trekking through the forest or enjoying a river cruise, Yok Don offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for adventurers and photographers.
Ninh Binh’s Trang An Complex
Address: Tràng An, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình 430000, Vietnam
Type | Scenic, Cultural, Adventure |
Time to Spend | 1 day |
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An is a stunning mix of cultural and natural beauty. Glide through the waterways surrounded by karst peaks and visit ancient temples nestled in the mountains.
The serene environment and unique architecture make it a haven for photographers. Whether capturing the reflections in the water or the intricate carvings of the temples, Trang An will leave you inspired.
Mekong Delta
Address: Đồng bằng Sông Cửu Long, Vietnam
Type | Cultural, Scenic, Wildlife |
Time to Spend | 1 day |
The Mekong Delta is a vibrant region of floating markets, lush swamps, and diverse ecosystems. Capture the lively scenes of locals trading goods on the river or explore the wildlife-rich mangroves.
The colorful boats, traditional villages, and serene waterways offer endless photography opportunities. A day in the Mekong Delta immerses you in Vietnam’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Son Doong Cave
Address: Vietnam
Type | Adventure, Landscape, Scenic |
Time to Spend | 3 to 4 days |
The world’s largest cave, Son Doong, is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for photographers and explorers. Inside, you’ll find surreal landscapes, from underground jungles to massive stalagmites.
The unique lighting creates dramatic compositions for your shots. The journey to Son Doong is challenging but rewarding, offering nightlife experiences and photos you won’t find anywhere else.
Da Lat’s Valley of Love
Address: 3-5-7, Đường Mai Anh Đào, Phường 8, Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng, Vietnam
Type | Scenic, Romantic, Nature |
Time to Spend | 1 day |
Da Lat’s Valley of Love is a charming destination filled with flower gardens, pine forests, and serene lakes. Ideal for romantic and nature-themed photography, the vibrant colors and peaceful surroundings make every shot special.
Take a boat ride or wander through the gardens to capture the valley’s beauty from different angles. It’s a perfect escape for those looking to unwind and find inspiration.