Ba Vi National Park Wild Sunflowers Guide: Eco-Tours & Hanoi Getaway

A Vibrant Escape Near Hanoi

Ba Vi National Park, located 60 km west of Hanoi in Ba Vi Ward, transforms into a sea of vibrant yellow wild sunflowers (hoa dã quỳ) from mid-November to early December, drawing thousands of nature lovers and photographers. Spanning 10,815 hectares, the park’s rolling hills and three peaks—King Peak (1,296 m), Tan Vien Peak (1,226 m), and Ngoc Hoa Peak (1,120 m)—offer stunning backdrops for these iconic flowers, larger and darker than those in Da Lat or Ha Giang. With a cool climate, diverse wildlife, and cultural relics like French colonial ruins, Ba Vi aligns with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative, promoting sustainable tourism. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours make it easy to experience this seasonal spectacle responsibly. 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 reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with Ba Vi District now Ba Vi Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This enhances access through sustainable infrastructure, including cycling paths, electric shuttles, and a VND500 billion eco-road project, ensuring seamless travel to Ba Vi National Park.

Legend Travel Group specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering authentic Ba Vi wild sunflower tours with a focus on environmental care and cultural preservation. Our tours use eco-friendly transport—bicycles, electric shuttles, and private cars—guided by local experts who share the park’s ecological and historical significance. Supporting Ba Vi Ward’s communities, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a hassle-free adventure. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Ba Vi responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews

Ba Vi National Park, 60 km west of Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, is a biodiversity hotspot with 2,181 plant species, including 64 Red Book entries, and 54 mammals like the Delacour’s langur. Its tropical monsoon climate features a dry season (November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F) and a rainy season (May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), with peak rainfall in July–August (200–400 mm). Wild sunflowers, blooming vibrantly from mid-November to early December, carpet hillsides, especially at the 700-meter mark, 3–4 km from the entrance. Introduced by the French in the 1920s, these flowers have become a tourism icon since 2014, with highlights like hot air balloon rides offering aerial views. The park also boasts cultural sites like the Thuong Temple and Uncle Ho Temple, making it a perfect blend of nature and heritage.

Ba Vi National Park is accessible from Hanoi via multiple sustainable transport options:

• By Air: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), 80 km from Ba Vi, serves domestic and international flights. Round-trip costs:

  • Ho Chi Minh City: $80–$150 (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

  • Da Nang: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • International (e.g., Bangkok): $200–$600.

  • Taxis or Grab to Ba Vi (80 km): $25–$35 (625,000–875,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Hanoi’s My Dinh Bus Station, take Route 214 or 74 to Xuan Khanh (1.5–2 hours, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). From Xuan Khanh, take a taxi or Grab ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND) or walk 5 km to the park entrance. Buses run every 20–30 minutes from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

• By Motorbike: Rent a motorbike in Hanoi ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND) for a 1.5-hour scenic ride. Two routes:

  • Thang Long Avenue: Travel 30 km to the highway’s end, follow signs to Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism, then to Ba Vi (recommended for safety and road quality).

  • Route 32: From Cau Giay, go 40 km to Son Tay bus stop intersection, turn left for 13 km to Tan Linh fork, then left to Route 5. Ask locals for directions if needed. Avoid rainy days due to slippery slopes.

• By Taxi or Grab: From Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward to Ba Vi, costs $25–$35 (625,000–875,000 VND) one-way. Round-trip is $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND). Reliable operators include Taxi Group and Viet Thanh Taxi.

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): Book a private car through our tours ($80–$120 or 2,000,000–3,000,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people). Includes flexible stops and eco-friendly vehicles.

Getting to the Sunflower Hills:

• From the park entrance (entry: $1 or 25,000 VND), drive or trek 3–4 km to the 700-meter hill, where wild sunflowers bloom most vividly. Electric shuttles ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) or bicycle rentals ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) are available for eco-friendly transport within the park.

Tip: Book Legend Travel Group’s Ba Vi Eco-Tour ($60–$80) for hassle-free transport and guided sunflower visits. Avoid early morning or late afternoon motorbike rides due to fog. Download the Grab app for transparent pricing.

The optimal time is mid-November to early December, when wild sunflowers bloom vibrantly, signaling Hanoi’s winter. Morning visits (8:00–10:00 AM) capture dew-kissed petals under soft sunlight, while 5:00–6:00 PM offers sunset hues. The dry season (November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F) ensures clear skies and safe trails. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, which can feel festival-like.

The rainy season (May–October) is less ideal due to slippery roads and fewer blooms, though 15–25% tour discounts apply. Check AccuWeather for updates before planning.

Tip: Visit weekdays for quieter trails; book tours 3–5 weeks in advance for November–December. Combine with Tet (January–February) for cultural events.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for unexpected showers. Long sleeves/pants for trail protection.

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

• Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes for trails; waterproof boots for damp paths.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone/camera for photos; binoculars for wildlife; portable charger.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Bring a waterproof bag for camera gear; carry small VND notes for vendors and entry fees.

Ba Vi’s wild sunflowers, blooming from mid-November to early December, are a natural spectacle, carpeting hills at 700 meters with vivid yellow blooms. Larger and darker than those in other regions, they were introduced by the French in the 1920s and became a tourism product in 2014. The park’s 2,181 plant species, 193 bird species, and cultural relics, like the Thuong Temple on Tan Vien Peak, create a unique backdrop. Recent innovations, like hot air balloon rides ($50–$100 or 1,250,000–2,500,000 VND), offer aerial views of the sunflower hills. With sustainable practices, including eco-friendly transport and community support, Ba Vi is a must-visit for nature and culture enthusiasts.

1. Photograph the Sunflower Hills

Capture the vibrant yellow blooms at the 700-meter hill, 3–4 km from the entrance, ideal from 8:00–10:00 AM or 5:00–6:00 PM.

• Cost: Park entry $1 (25,000 VND); photography permit $30/group/day (750,000 VND, groups <10).

• Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Use a wide-angle lens; included in our Ba Vi Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

2. Trek to King Peak

Hike 1,200 steps to King Peak (1,296 m) for panoramic views and visits to the Uncle Ho Temple, passing sunflower patches.

• Cost: Park entry $1 (25,000 VND); guided trek $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Start early for cooler weather; included in our Ba Vi Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

3. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Soar above the sunflower hills for aerial views, a unique tourism product since 2020.

• Cost: $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND) per person.

• Hours: 6:00 AM–8:00 AM, weather permitting.

• Tip: Book in advance; included in our Ba Vi Nature Tour ($60–$80).

4. Visit French Colonial Ruins

Explore the abandoned church and prison ruins at 600–800 meters, near sunflower trails, for a historical contrast.

• Cost: Park entry $1 (25,000 VND); guided tour $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; included in our Ba Vi Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

5. Taste Local Delicacies

Savor com lam (bamboo-tube rice) or grilled hill chicken at park restaurants or nearby Ao Vua Tourist Area.

• Cost: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND) per dish.

• Hours: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Try Ba Vi milk products; included in our Hanoi Foodie Tour ($45–$65).

Entrance Fees

• Ba Vi National Park: $1 (25,000 VND); elderly/disabled $0.50 (12,500 VND).

• Photography permit: $30/day (750,000 VND, groups <10); additional $2/person/day (50,000 VND, groups 10–50).

Transportation

• Bus (Hanoi to Xuan Khanh): $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Taxi/Grab (Hanoi to Ba Vi): $25–$35 (625,000–875,000 VND) one-way.

• Motorbike rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Private car (Legend Travel Group): $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND) round-trip.

• Electric shuttle (park): $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Bicycle rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

Activities

• Guided treks/tours: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Hot air balloon ride: $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Food: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND).

Accommodation (Ba Vi Ward)

• Guesthouses: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Resorts (e.g., Melia Ba Vi): $50–$100/night (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $15–$40 (entry, bus, food).

• Mid-range: $40–$80 (tours, motorbike, guesthouse).

• Luxury: $100–$200 (private car, balloon ride, resort).

Tip: Carry VND for small purchases; use ATMs in Hanoi before heading to Ba Vi. Book tours early for peak sunflower season savings.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks in advance, especially for November–December or Tet.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Pack sunscreen and sunglasses; ideal for photography and treks.

  • Rainy Season: Avoid due to slippery roads; bring waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) if necessary.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles or electric shuttles; support local vendors to align with Hanoi’s green initiatives.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); mark Ba Vi National Park entrance or Hill 700 as landmarks.

• Safety: Avoid motorbike rides in fog; stick to marked trails; check weather to avoid slippery slopes.

• Cultural Respect: Respect park rules; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent for trails.

Our sustainable tours showcase Ba Vi’s wild sunflowers and natural wonders:

• Ba Vi Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Sunflower hill photography, King Peak trek, French ruins, cycling. Includes bike rentals, lunch, guide.

• Ba Vi Nature Tour ($60–$80/person): Hot air balloon ride, sunflower hills, Thuong Temple, camping. Includes eco-transfers, snacks, guide.

• Hanoi & Ba Vi Immersion ($200–$350/person, 2–3 days): Sunflower hills, Hoan Kiem Lake, homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

Ba Vi National Park’s wild sunflowers, blooming brilliantly from mid-November to early December, offer a stunning escape just 60 km from Hanoi. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to this natural spectacle, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience where you’ll trek iconic peaks and explore cultural relics while supporting local communities and green initiatives. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Ba Vi wild sunflower adventure today!
Ready to chase Hanoi’s wild sunflowers? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Vietnam’s natural gem!

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.