Ao Vua & Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien: Best Weekend Tours from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward

Nature and Culture Near Hanoi’s Heart

Ao Vua and Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien Ecotourism Areas, nestled in Ba Vì’s Tân Linh and Vân Hòa Communes, are serene escapes just 50–53 km northwest of Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, drawing over 300,000 visitors annually with their waterfalls, lush forests, and Tan Vien Mountain vistas. Offering entry tickets at $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND), these sites, reachable in 1.5–2 hours, blend natural splendor with cultural heritage, perfect for weekend tours from Hanoi. Ao Vua boasts Son Tinh Cave and water parks, while Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien captivates with its fairy-tale streams and Sơn Tình legends, making them ideal for families, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts.

Both areas prioritize sustainability with eco-friendly practices like water recycling and local artisan support, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Set in Hanoi’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), their 500–600-meter elevations ensure a cool retreat. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours guide you to these havens, ensuring a sustainable, immersive adventure. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has eliminated the district level, leaving only commune and city levels. Ba Vì is now a commune under Hanoi City, with Ao Vua in Tân Linh Commune and Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien in Vân Hòa Commune, simplifying navigation with commune-based maps.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly nature and cultural tours across Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric buses or shared shuttles, led by English-speaking guides who share Ao Vua and Khoang Xanh’s attractions, histories, and green practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local communities, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Ba Vì responsibly!

Located at the foot of Tan Vien Mountain, Ao Vua and Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien embody Ba Vì’s 4,000-year-old Sơn Tình-Thủy Tình legend, where mountain and river gods vie for love, drawing 1,000–2,000 daily visitors. Ao Vua’s 40-hectare expanse, developed since 1988, features Fairy Lake and Thuong Temple, while Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien’s 20-hectare valley, opened in 2002, showcases pristine streams and ancient caves. Both areas support Ba Vì’s biodiversity with rare birds and flora, using sustainable practices like solar lighting and biodegradable packaging, preserving their “green lung” status for Hanoi’s weekenders.

These ecotourism areas offer diverse, eco-friendly activities, with entry fees of $6–$10:

Ao Vua Ecotourism Area (Tân Linh Commune)

1. Explore Son Tinh Cave: Trek a 200-meter limestone cave with mythical stalactites, best at 9:00 AM, included in $6 (150,000 VND) adult entry.

   • Cost: Included; guided tour $2 (50,000 VND).

   • Eco-Friendly Note: Low-energy lighting preserves caves.

   • Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; included in Legend Travel Group’s Ba Vì Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Swim in the Water Park: Enjoy five pools with wave slides, best at 11:00 AM, included in entry, using recycled water.

   • Cost: Included; locker $0.80 (20,000 VND).

   • Eco-Friendly Note: Water recycling reduces waste.

   • Tip: Bring swimwear; family-friendly.

3. Cruise Fairy Lake: Pedal swan boats, best at 3:00 PM, included in entry, offering Tan Vien views.

   • Cost: Included; private boat $2 (50,000 VND).

   • Eco-Friendly Note: Manual boats, no emissions.

   • Tip: Pair with a picnic.

4. Visit Thuong Temple: Honor Sơn Tình at this 13th-century site, best at 8:00 AM, free with entry.

   • Cost: Included; incense $0.20 (5,000 VND).

   • Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable offerings.

   • Tip: Dress modestly.

Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien Ecotourism Area (Vân Hòa Commune)

1. Hike to Waterfalls: Trek to Suoi Tien’s fairy-tale cascades, best at 8:00 AM, included in $10 (250,000 VND) adult entry.

   • Cost: Included; guided hike $3 (75,000 VND).

   • Eco-Friendly Note: Marked trails protect flora.

   • Tip: Wear hiking shoes; included in Legend Travel Group’s Ba Vì Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Relax in Hot Springs: Soak in mineral-rich pools, best at 4:00 PM, included in entry, using geothermal energy.

   • Cost: Included; private pool $5 (125,000 VND).

   • Eco-Friendly Note: Geothermal heating reduces energy use.

   • Tip: Book private pools for groups.

3. Explore Caves: Visit ancient limestone caves, best at 10:00 AM, included in entry, with low-impact lighting.

   • Cost: Included; guided tour $2 (50,000 VND).

   • Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal environmental disturbance.

   • Tip: Bring a flashlight.

4. Boat on the Lake: Row across serene lakes, best at 2:00 PM, included in entry, using manual boats.

   • Cost: Included; private boat $2 (50,000 VND).

   • Eco-Friendly Note: No fuel emissions.

   • Tip: Enjoy birdwatching.

Visit Ao Vua and Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien from April to September for cool, comfortable weather (20–30°C or 68–86°F), ideal for swimming and hiking. The dry season (November–April) offers clear skies for temple visits, while the rainy season (May–October) enhances waterfall beauty but requires waterproof gear. Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are quieter, avoiding weekend crowds of 2,000–4,000 visitors.

Both ecotourism areas, 50–53 km from Hoan Kiem Ward, are reachable in 1.5–2 hours via two main routes:

Route 1: Thăng Long Highway (Fastest)

• Overview: From Hoan Kiem Ward (e.g., Đinh Tiên Hoàng), take Thăng Long Highway for 30 km to Hoa Lac Bridge, continue on ĐT87 to Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism, follow signs to Yên Bài Commune, then Tân Linh (Ao Vua) or Vân Hòa (Khoang Xanh).

• Distance/Time: Ao Vua (50 km, 1.5 hours by car); Khoang Xanh (53 km, 1.5–2 hours by car).

• Transport Options:

  • Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND) round-trip for up to 4 people.

  • Shared Shuttle: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) round-trip from Mỹ Đình Bus Station.

  • Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND) plus $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND) fuel.

  • Public Bus: Route 214 from Mỹ Đình to Ba Vì (1.5 hours, $1.50–$2 or 37,500–50,000 VND), then xe ôm to Ao Vua ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND) or Khoang Xanh ($3–$4 or 75,000–100,000 VND).

• Costs:

  • Private Car: $50–$80 round-trip.

  • Shared Shuttle: $10–$15 round-trip.

  • Motorbike: $7–$13 total.

  • Bus + Xe Ôm: $3.50–$6 (87,500–150,000 VND) round-trip.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Shuttles and electric xe ôm via Xanh SM ($2–$4) reduce emissions.

• Tip: Use offline maps with “Ao Vua, Tân Linh” or “Khoang Xanh, Vân Hòa”; follow Yên Bài signs.

Route 2: Route 32 via Sơn Tây (Scenic)

• Overview: From Hoan Kiem Ward (e.g., Cầu Giấy), take Route 32 to Sơn Tây bus stop (40 km), turn left onto ĐT87 to Tân Linh (Ao Vua, 12.5 km) or Vân Hòa (Khoang Xanh, 15 km) via Route 414.

• Distance/Time: Ao Vua (52 km, 1.5–2 hours by car); Khoang Xanh (55 km, 2 hours by car).

• Transport Options: Same as Route 1, with Route 71 bus to Sơn Tây ($1 or 25,000 VND, 1 hour), then xe ôm.

• Costs: Same as Route 1.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Electric buses on Route 71 minimize carbon footprint.

• Tip: Save “Sơn Tây bus stop, Ba Vì” in maps; confirm destinations with xe ôm drivers.

Safety Tips

• Wear helmets on motorbikes (mandatory, fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND); check brakes.

• Avoid rainy days (May–October) due to slippery Ba Vì roads.

• Use Grab/Xanh SM apps for xe ôm to avoid overcharges.

• Cross Sơn Tây intersections with locals; carry small VND notes for fares.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Light layers, sturdy shoes; swimwear for water parks. Waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season. Reflective vest ($2–$5) for motorbike rides.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for souvenirs; biodegradable bags.

• Extras: Notebook for notes; cash for vendors.
  Tip: Carry small VND notes for entry ($6–$10) or snacks ($0.50–$2); secure valuables.

Costs for Weekend Tours

Entry and Activity Fees

• Ao Vua:

  • Adult Entry: $6 (150,000 VND); Child (under 1.3m): $3.20 (80,000 VND).

  • Guided Cave Tour: $2 (50,000 VND).

  • Private Swan Boat: $2 (50,000 VND).

  • Locker Rental: $0.80 (20,000 VND).

• Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien:

  • Adult Entry: $10 (250,000 VND); Child: $5 (125,000 VND).

  • Guided Hike/Cave Tour: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).

  • Private Hot Spring Pool: $5 (125,000 VND).

• Meals (Both Areas): $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (Crafts): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)

• Private Car: $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Shared Shuttle: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Motorbike Rental + Fuel: $7–$13 (175,000–325,000 VND).

• Bus + Xe Ôm: $3.50–$6 (87,500–150,000 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy in Ba Vì)

• Homestays: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND).

• Resorts: $40–$80 (1,000,000–2,000,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$25 (bus, entry, snacks).

• Mid-range: $35–$60 (shuttle, tour, homestay).

• Luxury: $80–$120 (private car, resort).
  Tip: Budget for entry ($6–$10), transport ($3.50–$15), and meals ($3–$7); carry cash.

• Timing: Depart Hanoi at 7:00–8:00 AM for cooler travel; visit mid-week for fewer crowds. April–September for ideal weather.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons; book activities like hot springs on-site.

• Sustainability: Use shared shuttles ($10–$15) or electric xe ôm ($2–$4); buy local crafts ($1–$5) to support Ba Vì artisans.

• Navigation: Save “Ao Vua, Tân Linh” or “Khoang Xanh, Vân Hòa” in offline maps; confirm with locals at Ba Vì’s entrance.

• Safety: Wear helmets on motorbikes (fines up to $40); avoid rainy days. Secure valuables at water parks.

• Weather: Dry season for clear trails; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào”; tip vendors $0.20–$0.50. Dress modestly for temples.

• Health: Carry bottled water ($0.50); apply sunscreen and repellent.

Our sustainable tours showcase Ba Vì’s ecotourism gems:

• Ba Vì Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Shared shuttle to Ao Vua and Khoang Xanh at 7:00 AM, with cave treks and hot springs. Includes guide, transport.

• Ba Vì Cultural Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Ao Vua, Khoang Xanh, Thuong Temple, homestay ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Ba Vì Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Both areas, Ba Vì National Park, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.
  Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Ao Vua and Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien Ecotourism Areas in Ba Vì’s Tân Linh and Vân Hòa Communes, just 50–53 km from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, are Hanoi’s top weekend escapes, captivating 300,000 visitors yearly with $6–$10 entry (150,000–250,000 VND) to waterfalls, caves, and cultural sites. A 1.5–2-hour journey via Thăng Long Highway or Route 32, these retreats offer eco-friendly water recycling and local-guided tours, preserving Ba Vì’s natural allure. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours ensure a seamless, sustainable Hanoi Travel experience, blending activities like swimming in Fairy Lake at Ao Vua, soaking in hot springs at Khoang Xanh, and exploring Son Tinh Cave or Ba Vi National Park. Whether trekking lush trails or enjoying cultural performances, these destinations promise an unforgettable weekend. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Ao Vua and Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Ao Vua and Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, hanoilocaltour.com, culturetrip.com, dulichbavi.vn