Must-Visit Outdoor Hidden Gems for Your 2026 Vietnam Trip! In-Depth Travel Guide to Halong Bay and Sapa

Are you still on the lookout for your next travel destination that can refresh your social media feed? Look no further—Vietnam in 2026 should definitely be on your wish list! In recent years, Vietnam's appeal as a travel destination has skyrocketed. There are numerous flight options available from Hong Kong or Taiwan, whether you prefer a direct flight from Taipei to Hanoi or a budget airline from Hong Kong to Ho Chi Minh City. In just a few hours, you can easily land in this beautiful country. Not only are the prices affordable, but Vietnam also boasts diverse landscapes and a rich cultural heritage, making it particularly suitable for those who love in-depth exploration and photography.

Many people’s perceptions of Vietnam may still be limited to the bustling motorcycle traffic and street-side pho stalls. However, this time, we want to shift our focus to the great outdoors and the hidden natural wonders! From the terraced mountains in the north to the tropical islands in the south, the landscapes of Vietnam will certainly keep your camera shutter clicking. Brew yourself a warm latte, relax, and join Kinnso as we explore some breathtaking vacation spots in Vietnam... Get your luggage and camera ready, and let’s set off!

When it comes to Vietnam's most stunning natural landscapes, Halong Bay in northern Vietnam is an absolute must-visit. This magnificent bay, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is dotted with thousands of limestone islands that rise dramatically from the emerald waters. Cruising through the crystal-clear sea truly gives you the feeling of stepping into a traditional Chinese landscape painting! However, here's a little tip: we highly recommend opting for an overnight luxury cruise instead of a rushed day trip. Day tour boats tend to be overcrowded, and popular spots are often packed with tourists, which can detract from the serene experience.

After most day-trippers leave in the evening, Halong Bay reveals its most enchanting side. You can leisurely stay on the deck, feeling the sea breeze while watching the sunset paint the water in a stunning shade of golden orange. As night falls, the surroundings become so quiet that only the sound of water remains, and the starry sky will make you reluctant to head back to your room for sleep. The next morning, you can rise early to join a kayaking tour, paddling while witnessing the morning mist weaving through the unique rock formations. This peaceful, solitary time is truly a luxury. As for transportation, it is very convenient; many cruise companies now offer premium shuttle services from Hanoi, allowing you to comfortably reach the dock in about two hours.

The early morning and dusk are the times when the light in Ha Long Bay is at its softest, making it ideal for capturing the shimmering reflections on the water's surface. It is recommended to wear a flowing long dress in pure white or vibrant red, standing at the edge of the highest deck of the cruise ship to create a striking contrast between the wooden tones of the ship and the blue-green islands in the background. If you’re shooting Reels short videos, consider pushing the camera from the round window of the cabin to the outside, creating an immersive surprise effect that feels like "opening the window to see a world heritage site." Additionally, please note that some areas may not be suitable for flying drones due to strong sea winds, so make sure to consult your guide beforehand to ensure safety and maintain the enjoyment of your trip!

If you are a nature enthusiast who enjoys discovering unknown landscapes on foot, the mountain town of Sapa in northwestern Vietnam will surely capture your heart. Once a summer retreat for the French, Sapa still boasts many charming buildings featuring French colonial architecture. However, what truly takes your breath away are the magnificent terraced fields that stretch endlessly along the mountainsides. Guided by local ethnic minority leaders, you can venture into Cat Cat Village or Ta Phin Village. Along the way, you will encounter hidden waterfalls nestled deep within the forest and witness local women skillfully weaving vibrant traditional garments, each scene brimming with rich cultural essence.

In addition to hiking, another must-do activity in Sapa is taking the cable car directly to the top of "Indochina's Rooftop" — Mount Fansipan! Watching the sea of clouds swirl beneath your feet offers a sense of achievement and visual impact that is truly hard to put into words. The quickest way to travel from Hanoi to Sapa is by taking an overnight sleeper bus, allowing you to sleep for about 9 to 10 hours and wake up in this fairy-tale mountain town. Although the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, sometimes bringing rain or thick fog, this misty atmosphere adds a touch of mysterious romance to Sapa.

When capturing the terraced fields in Shaba, the best perspective is undoubtedly from a bird's-eye view. If you want to include people in the shot, look for a wide-open edge of the fields and use a minimalist composition. Position the person at one-third of the frame, allowing the vast green or golden terraced fields to fill the background. For clothing, it’s recommended to choose earth tones or items featuring folk patterns, which will harmonize beautifully with the local natural environment. When filming short videos, consider recording your first-person perspective as you walk into a minority market, paired with the unique sounds of the area. This will surely make your followers feel as if they are strolling alongside you in the clouds.

Honestly, Ninh Binh is undoubtedly a treasure destination that will surprise you the most during your trip to Vietnam. Many initially consider it just a day trip from Hanoi, but after visiting, you'll surely regret not staying a few extra days! Renowned as the "Halong Bay on Land," it features unique karst landscapes and a network of rich waterways. Kinnso highly recommends the experience of heading to Tam Coc or Trang An, where you can board wooden boats skillfully rowed by local women. As you glide along the winding rivers and pass through dark and enchanting limestone caves, you'll find your heart completely at peace while gazing at the towering cliffs on either side receding into the distance~

If you have a decent level of fitness, be sure to take on the challenge of climbing the over 500 steps of Hang Mua. Although the ascent will undoubtedly leave you breathless and drenched in sweat, once you reach the summit and gaze upon the breathtaking panoramic view of Ninh Binh, surrounded by mountains and rice fields, you'll realize that all the effort was worth it! If you happen to visit during the summer lotus season, you'll also be treated to the enchanting sight of blooming pink lotus flowers filling the ponds. A short drive or bus ride from downtown Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes only about an hour and a half, making it a very accessible getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

The iconic stone-carved dragon atop Longshan Mountain in Hangmu is a breathtaking photography spot that should not be missed. It is advisable to arrive around 6 AM to not only avoid the crowds but also to capture the stunning interplay of light and shadow as the sun begins to illuminate the limestone peaks. While riding on a paddle boat, try to position your camera close to the water's surface, using the foreground of lotus leaves or reeds to create a layered composition that reflects the charm of the waterlogged countryside. However, be sure to exercise caution when moving around on the boat; sit securely and wear your life jacket, as dropping your phone into the water would be a heart-wrenching experience!

Many visitors to Ho Chi Minh City in Southern Vietnam often limit their itinerary to city dining and perhaps a quick half-day tour of the Mekong River. However, the Mekong River, which is the third longest in Asia, is rich in both ecological and cultural landscapes that truly deserve more of your time to savor. Instead of a rushed experience, why not plan a leisurely 3 to 7-day cruise through the Mekong Delta? This route can even extend to neighboring Cambodia, reaching destinations like Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, allowing you to effortlessly embark on an international waterway adventure.

Here, life flows along with the river. In the early morning, you can take a small boat to explore the bustling water market, watching locals skillfully toss and catch agricultural products between boats while sipping freshly brewed Vietnamese iced coffee paired with French bread—it's incredibly authentic! Besides enjoying the scenery, the itinerary often includes visits to local villages where you can learn traditional silk weaving techniques or sit among coconut palms savoring freshly harvested tropical fruits. This unfiltered and genuine experience of Vietnamese life can provide you with the most memorable travel memories.

The colors at the water market are incredibly vibrant, featuring heaps of yellow bananas, red dragon fruits, and green vegetables—it's truly a natural photography studio for color aesthetics! It's advisable to bring a zoom lens to capture close-up shots of the lively smiles and interactions of local vendors. If you're shooting a short video, consider using a "dynamic follow" technique: set up your smartphone stabilizer and have the lens track a small boat bustling with trade. Pair it with upbeat, lively background music, and you'll be able to edit together a high-quality Vlog that exudes the essence of everyday life.

When planning your outdoor adventure in Vietnam for 2026, there are a few practical things to jot down in your notebook. First, let's talk about currency and expenses. Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND), and the denominations can be quite large, so remember to account for two extra zeros when making payments to avoid any mistakes! Approximately 10,000 VND is equivalent to about 3.1 HKD, which translates to roughly 12.5 TWD. The cost of living here is very friendly compared to Hong Kong and Taiwan, especially when it comes to street food and budget hotels, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious experience on a modest budget. Additionally, applying for a Vietnamese e-Visa is now very convenient; simply fill out your information online, and you can receive approval within a few working days, saving you the hassle of waiting for a visa on arrival.

The essence of travel often lies in letting go of daily complexities and immersing oneself in new landscapes to rediscover the passion for life. Whether it’s the starry skies of Ha Long Bay, the sea of clouds over the terraced fields in Sapa, or the tranquil waters of Ninh Binh, every breath in Vietnam is infused with the healing power of nature. We hope that this outdoor destination guide to Vietnam, prepared by Kinnso, will inspire your travel plans for 2026. So, share this article with your best travel companion and start discussing your next adventure! We look forward to seeing you share those breathtaking moments from abroad with us on social media!～