Ba Be Lake is Vietnam’s largest and highest, natural freshwater lake, situated at about 150m above sea level. Ba Be actually means ‘three lakes’ (‘Slam Pe’) in the local Tay language, the ‘lakes’ being Pe Leng, Pe lu and Pe Lam. This is an ancient name that refers to the way that the lake comprises three relatively wider sections. Ba Be is however a continuous body of water with numerous small inlets and islets, stretching for nearly 8 kilometres north to south. Due to this rugged splendour Ba Be is sometimes referred to as the ‘Ha Long Bay of the mountains’. The depth of the lake is between 17 and 23m on average, with the deepest point about 35m deep. The surface area of the lake fluctuates between 300 and 500 ha depending upon the season and unlike most lakes in karst limestone landscapes, Ba Be Lake remains full all year round.

BaBe Lake Tour: BaBe National Park

(3Days/2nights)

Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Hanoi - Ba Be Lakes (240km)

Pick-up at your hotel is at 6:30 am and head for Bac Kan, the province of Ba Be Lakes. During the 6 hours drive, we will make a stop at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in Thai Nguyen city. Take a coffee break here if you wish.

We continue our drive, stopping for lunch at a local food stall in Bac Kan town. Our destination is a small village of the Tay minority people situated inside Ba Be National Park. Arrive at our homestay and refresh with a short afternoon walk around the park and even a swim in the nearby lake.

Back home for dinner and talk with our very warm and friendly hosts. Learn about this interesting culture and way of life. Then retire to our beds for a delightful sleep in a traditional stilt home. (L,D)

Day 2: Ba Be Lakes, boating and canoeing along the lakes

Wake up with the chirping of birds and sounds of village life. Well rested, take in the moment of natural tranquility away from the stresses of the city. Breakfast then we start to discover the imposing beauty of the area on a local hand crafted canoe.

Glide along the river, through a pretty cave and onto a powerful waterfall. The whole journey offers great natural scenery and photo opportunities. After lunch at a local food stall near the waterfall, we canoe till our hearts’ content into Ba Be lakes and all its majesticness. Enjoy great swimming and water fun. Finish the day with a light trek through ethnic minority villages back to our new home. Dinner, followed by a second nights sleep in the traditional stilt home. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Ba Be Lakes – Hanoi

Again, take advantage of the morning’s fresh air and village energy. Have breakfast and enjoy a last leisurely walk in the park. A bicycle or scenic motorbike ride is a great alternative and also great fun. Pack up your things then say goodbye to your new friends. Leave the village for Hanoi by 10:00 am. If we’re lucky, and it is Sunday, we will make a stop on the way to visit Kermis, a typical local maket, in the highlands area. Have lunch on the way. We arrive in Hanoi by 5:30 pm back at your hotel. (B,L)

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Included: E.S. guide, transport, accommodation (home stay), permit, admission fees, boat, canoes, meals as specified (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).

Excluded: Insurance, drinks, other personal expenses. Tips are welcome!

What to Bring: Passport, towels, toiletries, change of clothes (loose & lightweight), walking boots, sun block, sunglasses & hat with shade, insect repellent, flash lights, raincoat in wet season.

Notes:

•             Accommodation: Homestay condition is basic, Hotels: Standard

•             Best Time to Do: all year round, best from September to April of next year.

•             Please Travel Responsibly: The small things you do will make a big difference!

•             Booking Terms & Conditions: Tour itinerary and tour prices are subject to change without notice.