Discover the top 10 eco-friendly things to do in Ba Vi National Park! Explore sustainable tours, hiking, cultural sites, updated costs, and more from Hanoi with Legend Travel Group. Book your green adventure now!
Located 60 km west of Hanoi in Ba Vi Ward, Ba Vi National Park is a premier eco-tourism destination, often dubbed Hanoi’s “green lung” for its pristine forests, diverse wildlife, and sustainable attractions. Spanning 10,845 hectares, the park features three iconic peaks—Đỉnh Vua (King Peak, 1,296 m), Tan Vien Hoang (1,226 m), and Ngoc Son (1,120 m)—offering breathtaking hiking trails and panoramic views of the Red River Valley. With 2,189 plant species, 64 in Vietnam’s Red Book, and 193 bird species like the Collared Treepie, Ba Vi is a biodiversity haven. Cultural landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Temple and Đền Thượng, add spiritual depth, while eco-tourism areas like Ao Vua promote sustainable practices. Aligned with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative, Ba Vi offers eco-friendly activities, from cycling to farm-to-table dining, making it a must-visit for sustainable travelers. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours ensure a responsible, immersive experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
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 is a leader in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering curated eco-tours to Ba Vi National Park with a focus on environmental care and cultural immersion. Our tours use bicycles, electric shuttles, and fuel-efficient private cars, guided by local experts who share the park’s ecology and heritage, ensuring safe, enriching experiences. 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 make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Ba Vi responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews
Ba Vi National Park, 60 km from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward and 17 km southwest of Son Tay town, features a tropical monsoon climate with 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). Covering 108.2 km² across Hanoi and Hoa Binh provinces, the park hosts 54 mammals, 115 reptiles, and cultural relics like Bao Thien Tower. Its three peaks, diverse ecosystems, and eco-tourism initiatives, such as the 2024 heritage cypress tree recognition at Tieu Dong Peak, make it ideal for sustainable activities like hiking, birdwatching, and cultural exploration.
Ba Vi National Park is accessible in about 1.5–2 hours via eco-friendly transport from Hanoi, with well-paved roads supporting sustainable travel:
By Bus (Eco-Friendly): 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. 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). Take Thang Long Avenue (30 km to Hoa Lac Overpass, ~1.5 hours) or Route 32 (37 km to Son Tay, ~2 hours). Fuel: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) round-trip.
By Taxi or Grab: From Hoan Kiem Ward, costs $25–$35 (625,000–875,000 VND) one-way; $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND) round-trip. Operators: Taxi Group, Viet Thanh Taxi.
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): Book a private car ($80–$120 or 2,000,000–3,000,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people) for eco-friendly, flexible travel.
By Bicycle (Ultra Eco-Friendly): Cycle from Hanoi via Thang Long Avenue (60 km, 4–5 hours) or rent bikes at the park ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND).
Navigating the Park: From the entrance (entry: $1 or 20,000 VND), use electric shuttles ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) or bicycles for eco-friendly access to sites like the cactus garden (1 km) or Đỉnh Vua (12 km).
Tip: Choose buses or bicycles for the lowest carbon footprint; book Legend Travel Group’s tours for guided access. Avoid rainy season (May–October) for safer roads.
The dry season (November–April) is ideal, with mild temperatures (15–28°C or 59–82.4°F), clear skies, and safe trails, perfect for hiking and cycling. Mid-November to early December features wild sunflowers, enhancing photography. Tet (January–February) adds cultural vibrancy but draws crowds. The rainy season (May–October) offers lush scenery and 15–25% tour discounts but includes heavy rainfall (200–400 mm/month), making trails slippery; opt for indoor activities like cultural visits. Check AccuWeather for updates.
Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:
Clothing: Lightweight, breathable outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for rainy season. Modest attire for temple visits; long sleeves/pants for trails.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.
Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes for trails; waterproof boots for rainy season.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
Tech Gear: Smartphone/camera, binoculars for birdwatching, portable charger.
Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to minimize waste.
Extras: Energy snacks, offerings for temples ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND).
Tip: Carry small VND notes; use a waterproof bag for electronics. Pack light for hikes.
Climb 1,320 steps to Đỉnh Vua (1,296 m) for the Ho Chi Minh Temple, a sacred site built in 1999 with traditional architecture and panoramic views. A 2–3-hour trek supports conservation efforts.
Cost: Park entry $1 (20,000 VND); guided trek $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND); offerings $0.25–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Trails maintain biodiversity; guided tours minimize impact.
Tip: Included in our Ba Vi Eco-Tour ($60–$100).
Hike 500 steps to Đền Thượng on Tan Vien Hoang Peak (1,226 m), a spiritual relic honoring the Mountain God Tan Vien, vibrant during Tet. A 1-hour trek promotes cultural immersion.
Cost: Park entry $1 (20,000 VND); guided trek $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND); offerings $0.25–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local spiritual heritage; avoid littering.
Tip: Included in our Ba Vi Nature Tour ($60–$100).
Discover 1920s–1940s ruins, including a moss-covered church and prison at 600–800 meters, offering eco-conscious photography and history, a 1-km trek from the entrance.
Cost: Park entry $1 (20,000 VND); guided tour $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact trails preserve ruins.
Tip: Included in our Ba Vi Eco-Tour ($60–$100).
Capture vibrant sunflowers at the 700-meter hill, 3–4 km from the entrance, a seasonal eco-friendly activity supporting local flora preservation.
Cost: Park entry $1 (20,000 VND); photography permit $30/day (750,000 VND, groups <10).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Stick to paths to protect blooms.
Tip: Included in our Ba Vi Nature Tour ($60–$100).
Explore the cactus garden, 1 km from the entrance, with 1,200 species, a low-impact activity promoting plant conservation and eco-tourism.
Cost: Park entry $1 (20,000 VND); garden entry $0.50 (12,500 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Protects rare cacti; avoid touching plants.
Tip: Included in our Ba Vi Eco-Tour ($60–$100).
Rent bicycles ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) to explore pine forests near Cote 400, a zero-emission activity supporting eco-friendly park navigation.
Cost: Park entry $1 (20,000 VND); bike rental $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Reduces park congestion; supports local rentals.
Tip: Included in our Ba Vi Eco-Tour ($60–$100).
Camp overnight near Ngoc Hoa Cave or pine forests, using eco-friendly gear for a low-impact nature immersion, supporting park conservation.
Cost: Park entry $1 (20,000 VND); camping $5–$15/night (125,000–375,000 VND); campfire $30–$65 (700,000–1,500,000 VND).
Hours: Arrange with park authorities or Legend Travel Group.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use designated sites; avoid single-use plastics.
Tip: Included in our Ba Vi Nature Tour ($60–$100).
Explore Ao Vua Tourist Area at Tan Vien Mountain’s foot, offering sustainable dining, boat rides, and eco-friendly games like swan boating, supporting local businesses.
Cost: Entry $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND); activities $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).
Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Uses biodegradable materials; supports local vendors.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi & Ba Vi Immersion ($200–$350).
Spot birds like the Red-eared Thrush or Collared Treepie in Ba Vi’s forests, a low-impact activity promoting wildlife conservation, guided by local experts.
Cost: Park entry $1 (20,000 VND); guided tour $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Maintains biodiversity; avoid disturbing nests.
Tip: Included in our Ba Vi Nature Tour ($60–$100).
Visit Thien Son Suoi Nga, 5 km east of the park entrance, for eco-friendly swan boating, waterfall visits, and sustainable dining, supporting local eco-tourism.
Cost: Entry $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND); activities $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).
Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Promotes low-impact recreation; uses local resources.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi & Ba Vi Immersion ($200–$350).
Entrance Fees
Ba Vi National Park: $1 (20,000 VND); elderly/disabled $0.50 (12,500 VND); students $0.40–$0.80 (10,000–20,000 VND).
Cactus Garden: $0.50 (12,500 VND).
Ao Vua/Thien Son Suoi Nga: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Photography permit: $30/day (750,000 VND, groups <10).
Parking: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Transportation
Bus: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND); taxi/Grab from Xuan Khanh: $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND).
Motorbike rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).
Taxi/Grab: $25–$35 (625,000–875,000 VND) one-way.
Private car (Legend Travel Group): $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND) round-trip.
Electric shuttle: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Bicycle rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).
Activities
Guided tours/treks: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Camping: $5–$15/night (125,000–375,000 VND).
Campfire: $30–$65 (700,000–1,500,000 VND).
Ao Vua/Thien Son activities: $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost
Budget: $15–$40 (entry, bus, activities).
Mid-range: $40–$80 (tours, taxi, activities).
Luxury: $100–$200 (private car, premium activities).
Tip: Carry VND for small fees; book tours early for peak seasons.
At the height of 1,227m, Tan Vien Peak is where you can visit the Upper Temple (Den Thuong) worshipping the God of Ba Vi Mountain Range, because it is said to be the place of the reincarnation of Tan Vien Son Tinh, the head of the Four Immortals in Vietnamese consciousness
Plan Your Activities: Prioritize hiking to Đỉnh Vua or Đền Thượng for cultural depth; add the cactus garden or sunflowers for quick visits. Plan a day trip for 2–3 activities or a multi-day stay for all 10.
Book in Advance: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons (November–April, Tet) to secure eco-friendly transport and customize itineraries. Book Ao Vua/Thien Son activities 1–2 days ahead.
Sustainability: Use bicycles or electric shuttles; support local vendors (e.g., Ao Vua restaurants) to align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. Avoid single-use plastics; use reusable gear.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); mark the park entrance, Ao Vua, or Thien Son Suoi Nga as landmarks. Legend Travel Group guides ensure seamless access.
Safety: Stick to marked trails; avoid hiking in heavy rain or fog; carry a first-aid kit. Contact the Mobile Forest Ranger Station (details at entrance) for emergencies.
Weather Considerations: Dry season is best for outdoor activities; rainy season requires waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather for updates.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at temples; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND). Respect prayer rituals during Tet.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent; ensure fitness for hikes (e.g., Đỉnh Vua’s 1,320 steps).
Our sustainable tours showcase Ba Vi’s top eco-friendly activities:
Ba Vi Eco-Tour ($60–$100/person, 1 day): Đỉnh Vua hike, Ho Chi Minh Temple, French ruins, cactus garden, cycling. Includes bike rentals, lunch, guide.
Ba Vi Nature Tour ($60–$100/person, 1–2 days): Đền Thượng, Bao Thien Tower, birdwatching, camping. Includes eco-transfers, snacks, guide.
Hanoi & Ba Vi Immersion ($200–$350/person, 2–3 days): Ba Vi activities, Ao Vua, Thien Son Suoi Nga, 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, a sustainable eco-tourism paradise just 60 km from Hanoi, spans 9,702 hectares and offers 10 unforgettable activities, from hiking Đỉnh Vua (1,296m) to cycling through pine forests and exploring cultural relics like Thuong Temple, drawing thousands yearly. Chase wild sunflowers (mid-November to early December), pray at sacred Uncle Ho’s Temple, or visit the Cactus Greenhouse, with park entry at $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND) and bike rentals at $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND). Supported by eco-friendly practices like sustainable trails and community-led conservation, Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Hanoi Travel experience, blending these adventures with visits to Ao Vua Tourist Area and culinary delights like thịt dê ($3–$5, 75,000–125,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to discover Ba Vi’s eco-friendly wonders? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Hanoi getaway!
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:
Ba Vi National Park Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vinpearl.com, originvietnam.com, izitour.com, sodulich.hanoi.gov.vn, vietnamdiscovery.com, hanoijourney.com, localvietnam.com, tripadvisor.com
Favorite experiences booked by travelers