Vietnam Beyond the Tourist Trail
Quiet mountain loops, empty beaches and river villages for travellers who want something less crowded.
Beyond the famous bays and old towns lies a quieter Vietnam. It asks for a little more time and flexibility, and it repays you with empty roads, home cooking and a warm welcome that is not yet part of a tour script.
Mountains and valleys
Ha Giang
Dramatic limestone passes and ethnic minority markets. Travel with an experienced driver or guide.
Pu Luong
Terraced rice, stilt houses and homestays, a gentler cousin to Sapa.
Cao Bang
Waterfalls, caves and quiet roads near the Chinese border.
Kon Tum
Wooden communal houses and cool air in the central highlands.
Coast and islands
Quy Nhon
Fishing boats, long beaches and seafood without the crowds.
Con Dao
Clear water, turtle beaches and a moving history.
Ben Tre
Coconut groves and canals, a calm side of the Mekong.
Phu Yen
Rocky headlands, lagoons and a very slow pace.
The best meal is the one in someone's home.
Travelling well
Stay longer
Two or three nights in a village lets people relax around you.
Choose homestays
Family-run places keep income in the community.
Ask before photos
A smile and a question go a long way.
Pack for roads
Layers, a rain jacket and patience for winding roads.
Mobile signal and roads can be unpredictable in remote areas, so build in spare time.
Go somewhere different
We design quiet routes with local drivers and guides.
Tell us about your trip