Bac Kan
2 days / 1 night
AH-BB01
5/10
$146 USD
WHY THIS TOUR?

Engineered for active and discerning travelers, this signature multi-activity itinerary delivers a profound escape into Northern Vietnam’s most spectacular karst lake landscape. By seamlessly blending high-engagement outdoor sports with authentic heritage touchpoints, this tour offers a premium alternative to conventional sightseeing.

Highlights

  • A curated multi-day itinerary that strikes a flawless harmony between physical activation (SUP & trekking), wilderness relaxation, and local heritage.
  • Experience an exclusive downstream SUP paddle along the Nang River, navigating directly through the colossal Puong Cave—a massive natural limestone tunnel carved out by the river itself.
  • Features scenic stand-up paddleboarding across the emerald waters of Ba Be Lake.
SUMMARY
  • Start / Finish Point: Hanoi

  • Duration: 2 days / 1 night

  • Destination: Bac Kan

  • Group Size : 2 - 20 pax

  • Best Season: Year-round

  • Difficulty level: 5/10

  • Activities: Paddle Boarding (SUP)

ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi – Cho Ra – Ba Be NP - Hotel

07:00 Meet your tour guide at the hotel lobby in Hanoi. Depart and head towards Bac Kan. Along the way, the group will stop for a short refreshment break in Thai Nguyen.

12:30 Arrive at Cho Ra and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Following lunch, a short drive brings us to the Boc Luom boat dock, the starting point of our aquatic adventure.

Afternoon Embark on an exciting SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) journey downstream along the Nang River. This narrow, dynamic river winds through spectacular landscapes—ranging from dramatic sheer cliffs to serene valleys and local cornfields.

The ultimate highlight of the afternoon is paddling directly through Puong Cave, a colossal limestone tunnel carved out by the river. Thanks to the favorable downstream current, you can enjoy a thrilling and extensive paddle with moderate physical effort.

Continue paddling to the confluence of the Nang River and Ba Be Lake, where we will transfer to a traditional motorboat to venture further into the lake. During the summer months, the boat will anchor in the middle of the lake for a refreshing swim in Ba Be's crystal-clear waters. This "Chill Time" is perfected with fresh fruits and cold drinks served onboard amidst the pristine nature. The boat will then head towards the Ba Be Tourist Dock, where a your vehicle awaits to transfer you to your hotel.

17:30 Check in to your hotel in Ba Be. You will have free time to freshen up, unpack, and relax.

19:00 Savor an authentic dinner at a premium local restaurant, featuring regional specialty dishes. The rest of the evening is at leisure to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lake area. Overnight at a hotel in Ba Be.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 5hrs/ Paddle boarding & swimming 3 hours/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Lunch , Dinner

Day 2: Hotel – An Ma Island – Return to Hanoi
Day 3: Ba Be NP – Hanoi

07:30 Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel restaurant before checking your gear for the morning's trek.

08:30 Begin your morning adventure with an active trek along the official forest ranger patrol trail. This path winds through the dense primary forest of Ba Be National Park, offering guests an immersive experience with the local flora and fauna before leading to the sacred An Ma Temple situated on a limestone islet.

10:30 Board a traditional motorboat at the island's dock for a scenic cruise back to the main tourist wharf. Upon arrival, a private vehicle will transfer you back to the hotel to freshen up, pack, and complete the check-out process.

12:00 Savor a final delicious lunch featuring authentic regional specialties at a premium local restaurant in town.

13:30 Board the vehicle for the drive back to Hanoi. Enjoy the changing landscapes of Northern Vietnam with a short refreshment break along the highway.

18:30 Arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi. The program concludes with unforgettable memories of the Ba Be wilderness adventure.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 5hrs / Trekking 1hr / Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

Inclusion:

  • Round-trip vehicle: Hanoi – Ba Be NP – Hanoi
  • Inflatble SUP and equipment
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • 01 night of hotel accommodation (based on twin or double sharing rooms)
  • Drinking water & snack provided daily during the tour
  • Entrance fees & tickets
  • Domestic travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Additional food and beverages not stated in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Tips
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Inflatble SUP
  • Life jacket
  • Dry bag
  • First-aid kit. 

What to bring: 

  • Water shoes or sandals 
  • Lightweight, quick-dry clothing or rash guard for paddling
  • Lightweight rain jacket
  • Electronics: Mobile phone, camera, power bank, ...
  • Personal medications
  • Reusable water bottle
  • ID or Passport

Also recommended:

  • Toiletries
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. SUP Paddling Notes

  • Safety Equipment: Participants are required to wear a life jacket and a safety leash at all times while on the water. For experienced paddlers and strong swimmers, life jackets may be temporarily secured to the board only under the guide's direct supervision and clear river conditions; however, keeping the safety leash fastened is strictly mandatory.
  • River Navigation: While paddling along the river, please maintain high alertness and strictly follow the guide’s line to avoid fast-flowing eddies, low-hanging branches, submerged rocks, or other natural debris.

2. Food & Water

  • Meals: All meals showcase authentic, hearty local cuisine designed to replenish your energy after active outdoor sessions. 
  • Water & Energy: Clean, safe drinking water and energy-boosting snacks (such as fresh fruits or local treats) are supplied daily during the tour. 

3. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). You can refill it throughout the day from our large water jugs.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

4. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical Fitness: Practice running or kayaking/SUP 1–2 weeks in advance. Each week, run 2 sessions, 3–5 km per session. Or paddle SUP/kayak 2–3 sessions per week, approximately 5 km per session.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.