Overview
Ba Bể, Vietnam’s gem, is home to the largest natural lake, cradled by breathtaking limestone mountains. The serene Ba Bể Lake not only captivates with its tranquil beauty but also embraces diverse ethnic communities, adding cultural richness to the landscape. As you explore, you’ll encounter the unique traditions and lifestyles of these vibrant communities, making Ba Bể a tapestry of nature and culture. Bản Giốc, nestled in Cao Bằng province near the Chinese border, unveils Vietnam’s grandeur with its largest waterfall. Bản Giốc Waterfall’s cascading beauty amidst lush greenery creates an awe-inspiring spectacle. The roaring waters and scenic surroundings make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Whether immersing yourself in the tranquility of Ba Bể or marveling at the power of Bản Giốc, both destinations promise an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s diverse and captivating landscapes. In this guideline, we will show you the most basic & useful information that you can’t miss before starting your adventure to these wonderful destinations
Where is Ba Bể & Bản Giốc?
Ba Bể: Ba Bể, nestled in the Ba Bể District of Bắc Kạn Province in northern Vietnam, is a gem surrounded by limestone mountains, lush forests, and a pristine lake. The Ba Bể Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, adds to the scenic beauty. The region is home to the ethnic Tay people, and visitors can explore their unique culture, traditional stilt houses, and enjoy the warm hospitality.
Bản Giốc: you’ll find the stunning Bản Giốc Waterfall in the Trùng Khánh District of Cao Bằng Province. This majestic waterfall is not only a natural wonder but also marks the border between Vietnam and China. The waterfall is part of the Quây Sơn River and cascades down in a series of picturesque tiers. Surrounding the area are karst landscapes and lush greenery, providing a breathtaking backdrop.is located in the Trùng Khánh District of Cao Bằng Province, also in the northern region of Vietnam, near the border with China.
How to travel to Ba Be & Ban Gioc?
When you join our 3-day journey to Ba Bể Lake and Bản Giốc Waterfall, we highly recommend the convenience and personalized experience of a private car. Setting out from Hanoi, your route traverses the scenic and well-maintained Highway 3, ensuring a smooth and comfortable drive throughout the adventure. The private car offers the flexibility to tailor your stops along this iconic highway, allowing you to capture breathtaking views, visit local attractions, and savor the diverse landscapes that unfold along the way.
As you venture northeast on Highway 3, passing through charming towns and rural vistas, the private car becomes a key companion, making the journey as memorable as the destinations themselves. From Ba Bể Lake’s serene beauty to the awe-inspiring Bản Giốc Waterfall, the private car not only provides a seamless and comfortable travel experience but also enhances the exploration of Vietnam’s northern wonders, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the captivating scenery along the journey. While a shared shuttle bus is a viable alternative, the private car option stands out for its convenience, flexibility, and the opportunity to embrace the unique charm of the highway journey.
When is the best time to explore Ba Be & Ban Gioc?
The best time to explore Ba Bể and Bản Giốc is during the dry season, which typically spans from October to April. During these months, the weather is more favorable, with milder temperatures and lower chances of rainfall. Specifically:
Ba Bể Lake:
- October to April: This period offers cool and dry weather, making it ideal for exploring Ba Bể Lake and its surroundings. The lush landscapes are at their vibrant best, and boat trips on the lake are more enjoyable without the interruption of heavy rains.
Bản Giốc Waterfall:
- October to April: Similar to Ba Bể, these months are optimal for visiting Bản Giốc Waterfall. The waterfall’s grandeur is complemented by the clear weather, providing a stunning backdrop for exploration.
While the dry season is generally recommended, it’s essential to note that Vietnam’s climate can vary, and unexpected rain may occur. The wet season, from May to September, brings higher temperatures and occasional heavy rainfall, which could impact travel plans. It’s advisable to check weather forecasts and plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your exploration of Ba Bể and Bản Giốc.
Where should you stay in Ba Be & Ban Gioc?
When choosing accommodation in Ba Bể and Bản Giốc, your budget can guide your choices. Ba Bể Town offers budget-friendly guesthouses and hotels for those seeking affordability without compromising comfort.
Local Homestays: Immerse yourself in the local culture by staying in a homestay. Enjoy home-cooked meals, cultural exchanges, and a more intimate experience with the community. We highly recommended and culturally immersive experience, we suggest staying in local homestays within the villages surrounding Ba Bể Lake. This option not only supports the local community but also provides a unique opportunity to engage with the ethnic minorities, enjoying home-cooked meals, guided tours, and participating in local activities. The benefits of homestays extend beyond mere lodging, offering a genuine connection to the region’s rich culture.
Scenic hotel/resort: For a unique cultural experience, some hotels are situated near the Vietnam-China border, providing guests with the opportunity to explore the historical and geographical significance of the region. Alternatively, nature-embedded hotels offer a secluded and calming atmosphere, integrating seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Whichever you choose, each hotel in Bản Giốc ensures a comfortable and memorable stay, surrounded by the beauty and cultural richness of this enchanting destination.
When deciding where to stay in Ba Bể, consider your preferences, travel style, and the type of experience you want to have. Whether it’s a cultural immersion in a homestay, a tranquil bungalow retreat, or a budget-friendly guesthouse, Ba Bể offers diverse options for a memorable stay.
Ban Gioc:
Similarly, in Trùng Khánh Town near Bản Giốc Waterfall, budget to mid-range accommodation is available.
Hotels: Hotels in the area provide a comfortable and often more standardized accommodation experience. They offer amenities such as room service, modern facilities, and a more private setting.
Local Homestays: Immerse yourself in the local culture by opting for a homestay. Enjoy authentic home-cooked meals, cultural exchanges with the hosts, and a more intimate experience with the community. For a richer experience, I suggest exploring homestays in Quang Uyen or Ban Gioc villages. These homestays provide a comfy stay, a glimpse into local life, and the opportunity to enjoy traditional meals. By choosing local homestays in Ba Bể or Bản Giốc, you contribute to the local economy and create an authentic and memorable journey that combines cultural immersion with the natural beauty of these remarkable destinations.
What are the must-try local cuisines in Ba Be & Ban Gioc?
In both Ba Bể and Bản Giốc, you can savor a variety of delicious local cuisines that showcase the flavors of the northern region of Vietnam. Here are some must-try dishes:
Ba Bể:
- Cá Nướng (Grilled Fish): Grilled fish from Ba Bể Lake is characterized by its fragrant, tender, and succulent taste. Priced at 10,000 VND for 3 skewers of hot and flavorful fish, it has a non-fishy aroma and is enjoyed for its small size but rich and enticing flavor. The fish is cleaned, gutted, and grilled on bamboo sticks over charcoal for approximately 15 minutes until it turns golden, ready to be savored.
- Tôm Chua (Sour Shrimp): Tôm chua features sweet and tender shrimp with a mild sourness, often served with pork leg meat or belly. Accompanied by a side of sour starfruit, green bananas, and galangal, enjoying tôm chua amidst the picturesque natural scenery creates a delightful experience. The dish is commonly found in Bó Lù and Pác Ngòi, with fresh shrimp, crayfish, or small fish salted and preserved for gradual consumption.
- Chuối Hột Rừng (Wild Banana Seeds): The wild banana seeds from Ba Bể are plentiful and available along the road leading to Ao Tiên. Grown on the surrounding hills, these bananas have tall and appealing stems, creating a beautiful landscape. Priced at around 20,000 – 25,000 VND per bunch, they serve both as a scenic attraction and are used for medicinal purposes and gifts.
- Thịt Lợn Gác Bếp (Smoked Pork): In contrast to some other ethnic groups, the Tày people living around Ba Bể Lake often hang pork in baskets or racks before taking them to the forest to be smoked. The daily smoke from the wood-burning stove imparts a blackish-yellow color to the meat, preserving it for a year without spoilage. While not as commonly stored for food reserves nowadays, a small amount is still kept in Tày households for special occasions or important events.
- Rau Dớn (Edible Fiddlehead Fern): A type of wild vegetable, rau dớn grows in damp areas near rocky streams and is favored for its availability and medicinal properties. It is quickly processed after harvesting to maintain freshness and is prepared in various ways such as stir-frying, boiling, or making salads.
- Xôi Nếp Nương (Nương Sticky Rice): Prepared by soaking nương glutinous rice for several hours before steaming, xôi nếp nương features round and plump grains. The rice becomes soft and non-sticky, offering a distinctive fragrance and a less glutinous texture.
Bản Giốc:
When exploring these regions, don’t hesitate to try the local markets and small eateries to get an authentic taste of Ba Bể and Bản Giốc’s culinary delights.
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Vịt Quay 7 Vị (Seven-Spice Roast Duck):
Renowned as Vịt Quay 7 Vị, this dish from Cao Bằng is marinated with seven distinct spices before roasting. The marination, a crucial step in the preparation, involves a blend of flavors that infuse into the duck. After preparing the spices traditionally used by the Tày ethnic group, the duck is further seasoned with fish sauce, salt, and stuffed with these aromatic ingredients. The unique cooking process, involving a final round of roasting after inflating the duck and brushing it with vinegar and honey, results in crispy golden skin and flavorful, tender meat.
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Cá Trầm Hương Nướng (Grilled Trầm Hương Fish):
A must-try at Thác Bản Giốc, the Grilled Trầm Hương Fish is sourced from the base of the waterfall. The fish’s diet, consisting of the roots and leaves of the agarwood tree along the Quây Sơn River, imparts a distinct flavor. The special preparation involves stuffing the fish with various herbs and spices, wrapping it in banana leaves, and grilling it over charcoal. The fish’s unique swimming behavior against the current contributes to its firm texture, setting it apart from common fish varieties.
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Lạp Xưởng Hun Khói (Smoked Sausage):
While smoked sausages are familiar, the Lạp Xưởng Hun Khói in Cao Bằng stands out with its unique flavor. Made from lean pork marinated with special spices, including the tangy taste of smoked meat, the mắc mật tree’s leaves and fruits, and the tender consistency of young bamboo shoots. The sausages are pan-fried until golden, grilled over charcoal, and served sliced with thinly cut cucumbers and chili sauce.
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Chè Lam Cao Bằng (Lam Sweet Soup):
A delightful dessert, Chè Lam is made from glutinous rice flour, peanuts, arrowroot, and ginger. The sweet, slightly spicy taste of ginger, the nutty flavor of peanuts, and the chewy texture of glutinous rice create a harmonious blend. This dessert is a treat for the taste buds and reflects the local culinary culture.
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Bánh Khảo Cao Bằng (Khảo Cake):
Known for its meticulous selection of ingredients, Bánh Khảo is made from fragrant sticky rice, brown sugar, and the fat of the pig. The careful preparation ensures a distinct aroma of sticky rice, the right amount of sweetness from brown sugar, and a unique blend of the chewiness of peanuts and sesame seeds and the richness of pork fat. Packaged in colorful wrappers, these cakes can be preserved for a month without spoiling, making them a perfect souvenir.
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Hạt Dẻ Nướng Trùng Khánh (Grilled Trùng Khánh Chestnuts):
A familiar snack, grilled chestnuts take on a special character in Trùng Khánh, Cao Bằng. Locally grown chestnuts are roasted, emitting a fragrant aroma, and are commonly enjoyed during evening strolls. The Trùng Khánh chestnuts bring a unique touch to this beloved treat.
Who should be engaging in VietLong Travel’s 3-Day Ba Be & Ban Gioc Trip?
VietLong Travel’s 3-Day Trip to Ba Bể and Bản Giốc Tour suits both new and experienced visitors to Vietnam. If you’re new, the tour offers a deep dive into Vietnamese culture with guided tours and stays in local homes. For seasoned travelers, there’s flexibility to customize the journey and uncover hidden gems in Ba Bể and Bản Giốc.
Adventure seekers, regardless of experience, will love the tour’s stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and the chance to stay in local homestays, making the exploration of these destinations more adventurous. Whether it’s your first or tenth visit to Vietnam, or you’re after an exciting experience, this tour guarantees a memorable and personalized adventure.
Special benefits you will get when joining Vietlong Travel’s 3-Day Trip to Ba Be & Ban Gioc?
Private Car Comfort: Vietlong Travel’s 3-Day Trip to Ba Be & Ban Gioc provides the exclusive use of a private car, ensuring comfort and flexibility throughout the journey on Highway 3. This allows for personalized stops at scenic spots, capturing the essence of the picturesque landscapes.
Expert Guided Tours: The itinerary includes expert guides who offer insightful narratives about the cultural richness and natural wonders of Ba Bể Lake and Bản Giốc Waterfall. Their knowledge enhances your understanding and appreciation of these destinations.
Carefully Selected Accommodations: The tour ensures stays in carefully selected accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly options to local homestays. This selection guarantees comfort and cultural immersion, contributing to a more authentic and enriching experience.
Cultural Immersion in Homestays: By choosing local homestays, the tour provides a unique opportunity to connect with the local communities. Homestays offer more than just accommodation—they allow you to experience daily life, partake in traditional activities, and savor homemade meals.
Scenic Exploration: The tour maximizes your exploration of Ba Bể Lake and Bản Giốc Waterfall, ensuring you witness the natural beauty at its best. From boat tours on Ba Bể Lake to marveling at the grandeur of Bản Giốc, every moment is curated for an unforgettable experience.
Personalized Itinerary: With the private car and guided tours, the itinerary is flexible, allowing you to tailor your stops and make the most of your time. This personalized touch ensures a journey that aligns with your preferences and interests.
Convenience and Efficiency: Vietlong Travel’s expertise ensures a seamless and efficient travel experience. From transportation logistics to cultural insights, the tour is designed to provide convenience, allowing you to focus on the beauty of the destinations.
What to prepare for your 3-Day Ba Be & Ban Gioc Trip?
Preparing for your 3-Day Ba Bể and Bản Giốc Trip involves a few key considerations. Pack weather-appropriate clothing for Vietnam’s varying climate. Bring comfortable layers and rain gear, like a raincoat or a compact umbrella, for unexpected showers while exploring outdoor attractions like Ba Bể Lake and Bản Giốc Waterfall. It’s also wise to include a basic medical kit with essential medications to address common health concerns. Ensure you have essentials like travel documents, a valid visa, and any necessary medications.
Wear sturdy footwear for diverse landscapes and bring a camera for the breathtaking scenery. Staying in local homestays? Consider a small gift, like local snacks or souvenirs, for your hosts. Embrace adventure and openness to cultural experiences to make the most of your immersive journey into the beauty of Ba Bể and Bản Giốc.
As such, what are you still waiting for? Let’s join our trip to discover the beauty of Ba Bể Lake and the grandeur of Bản Giốc Waterfall in northern Vietnam. VietLong Team’s tour ensures a seamless experience with a private car, expert guides, and carefully chosen accommodations. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this versatile tour promises cultural immersion, scenic exploration, and personalized adventures. The trip encapsulates the diverse landscapes and rich cultures of Ba Bể and Bản Giốc, offering an unforgettable glimpse into northern Vietnam’s enchanting beauty.
