Caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, more and more Vietnamese are seeking long treks into the deep forest for novel experiences.
Vietnam is seen as an emerging thrill-seeking destination, especially by foreign visitors. Among locals, however, trekking has gained significant popularity in recent years, along with long-distance hiking and trail running.
Searching for new sensations
Giang Ngoc Hoa on a hike to conquer Mang Den Peak on the Mang Den Ultra Trail 2025 in Mang Den Town, Kon Plông Commune, Kon Tum Province. Photo courtesy of Giang Hoa
Having climbed three mountain peaks in just two months, Giang Ngoc Hoa (48, Long Bien District, Hanoi) says she loves traveling and backpacking. But it wasn't until recently that she had a chance to try trekking.
Constrained by her work, Hoa manages to go hiking once or twice a month. She confided that each trip brings her new sensations. Although there are times when she feels exhausted or discouraged halfway, she is always energized when her teammates cheer her on.
Being the CEO and manager of a family business is undeniably stressful, but on the plus side, she has the opportunity to take time for herself. Moreover, it seems that the recent health scare has caused Hoa to change her mind and make her health a higher priority than before.
"Trekking helps me train my physical strength and willpower to overcome myself," she told.
"Thanks to such trips, I've also met many new friends, learned about the cultures of many regions of my country, and seen majestic landscapes that I would never have imagined at home," she said.
According to Hoa, the physiological and spiritual positive effects of trekking are making it more and more popular not only among young people, but also among children and middle-aged people.
"Youth is not so long, we live only once in this world. Let's go and explore! Our Vietnam is so beautiful! Go and make memories so that we can be proud of this brilliant youth. Trekking is so much fun, you will get addicted," says the middle-aged traveler with a sense of humor.
The wonderful scenery of Nhiu Co San Peak, Bat Xat Commune, Lao Cai Province. Photo: Lo A Phong
Meanwhile, Hoang Tuan, a 22-year-old student living in Cau Giay District, Hanoi, chooses trekking because he wants to see the natural scenery of mountains and forests, get away from the city to breathe fresh air, and immerse himself in nature.
According to Tuan, while trekking offers many unique experiences that can't be found in books, it also comes with risks, especially due to the steep terrain and slippery cliffs.
"If you're not careful, it's easy to get lost because mountainous areas are largely uninhabited."
"Newcomers to trekking also need to mentally prepare for the lack of amenities in the mountains. This can be a bit difficult and affect the experience," he noted.
As a student, Tuan often prefers to hike independently so that the cost of each trip is not too high. He and his friends go climbing once or twice a year to make memories and relax after tiring days of studying and working.
Ta Xua is a highland commune in Son La District, some 240 kilometers away from Hanoi. Photo: Tham Nguyen
"I have conquered three mountains: Lao Than (Bat Xat commune, Lao Cai province), Ta Chi Nhu (Tram Tau commune, Yen Bai province) and Nhiu Co San (Bat Xat commune, Lao Cai province). Each of the trips is very memorable, but the trek to Nhiu Co San is the most amazing. The whole group rode motorbikes to the trek site. The eight-kilometer trail was very muddy and hard to navigate due to the weather, so we had to get off and walk while pushing the bikes. It was hard but fun," recalled Tuan.
Going beyond the limit
With five years of bodybuilding experience, Minh Anh (23, Tay Ho District, Hanoi) does not face many physical obstacles when hiking long distances. To challenge his own limits, Minh Anh recently undertook two independent treks.
"As soon as I feel like it, I get on my bike and go. In Ta Chi Nhu it took me about 10 hours to get to the top. It wasn't easy at all, the weather was dry and sunny during the day, but cold and windy at night. Although it was exhausting, when I reached the top, I felt happy and my tiredness disappeared," Minh Anh said.
Sa Mu Mountain in Son La Province is an emerging must-visit destination. Photo: Khang Tu Hu
During the two-day trip, the absence of 4G signal and electricity was a major challenge for Minh Anh. He had to rely on GPS to find his way to the top of the mountain, while carrying a power bank in his pocket. Had his phone run out of battery, he could have easily gotten lost in the woods.
Looking back, the trip to Ta Chi Nhu Peak was the most "unforgettable" experience in the young man's life. He forgot his food at the hut where he was staying and only brought a little water with him. When he ran out of water after climbing 2,850 meters up the mountain road, Minh Anh had to pick up water bottles and candy left behind by others in order to reach the 2,979-meter summit.
"Therefore, newcomers to trekking need to plan their food and drinks. If you are not used to the sport, you should hire a local to carry your stuff and guide you to ensure your safety," Minh Anh advised.
At an altitude of 2862m, Lao Than mountain is located in Phin Ho Village, standing tall amidst the vast sky, full of charm. Photo: Huong Mai
Recently, the young bodybuilder failed to reach Ta Xua Peak because the temperature dropped to three degrees Celsius, the icy wind and rain made the trail slippery and difficult for him to move. I had to give up and return after 200 meters of climbing, numerous falls, and injuries to my arms and legs." Determined to take his revenge, Minh Anh declared, "I will try again next time."
An important note for new and foreign trekkers: If you're not sure where to start, consider joining groups on social networking sites that are looking for companions. However, do your research and ask people you know before you start. For your own safety, do not accept invitations from strangers.
Jenna Duong
