1. Mountain and highland landscapes of Vietnam
1.1. Mu Cang Chai
Mu Cang Chai is one of the most stunning highland landscapes of Vietnam, renowned for its rice terraces that shift colors with the seasons. During spring, the hills shimmer with green as young rice grows. By autumn, they glow golden under the sun. Carved by generations of skillful farmers, these Mu Cang Chai rice terraces unfold like waves across the mountains, embodying the harmony between people and nature. Mu Cang Chai was recognized by the Wanderlust Storytellers in 2024 as one of the world’s most surreal landscapes.
1.2. Muong Hoa Valley
Among famous landscapes of Vietnam, Muong Hoa Valley in Sapa is the region's most expansive terraced rice field, curving gracefully along the hillsides. Depending on the season, the valley transforms from a green paradise in the young rice season to a golden wonder in harvest time, or a shimmering mirror during the watering season. The best way to appreciate this enchanting scenery is by taking the mountain train, which offers panoramic views from above.
1.3. Marble Mountains
The Marble Mountains in Da Nang are among the most iconic natural landscapes of Vietnam. This complex of limestone peaks is named after the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Each peak features different colored rocks, is covered in lush greenery, and is dotted with pagodas and caves filled with stalactites and relics. Blending natural beauty with spiritual heritage, the Marble Mountains offer a tranquil yet awe-inspiring setting, where nature and culture coexist harmoniously.
1.4. Ma Pi Leng Pass
Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang is one of the most breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam, considered the "king of mountain passes" in the northern region. Stretching around 20 kilometers through mountain terrain, it sits at 1,200 meters above sea level on Dong Van Karst Plateau. From its peak, tourists are rewarded with breathtaking views of towering cliffs and the Nho Que River winding below. The pass is especially vibrant during flower seasons and traditional events like Khau Vai Love Market.
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2. Coastal and island landscapes in Vietnam
2.1. Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay stands among the most famous Vietnam’s bays. It is a masterpiece of coastal landscapes of Vietnam, with geological wonders carved over millions of years. Cruising between islands, you can admire limestone karsts rising from the surreal seascape, resembling a vast watercolor painting. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay features hundreds of islands and caves like Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave. It also boasts mangroves, coral reefs, and tropical forests.
2.2. Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc Island captivates with its striking harmony of lush mountains and crystal-clear waters. This tropical paradise features 150 kilometers of coastline with pristine beaches like Bai Dai Beach, Sao Beach and Khem Beach. Over two-thirds of the island is protected within national parks and marine reserves, creating a haven for coral reefs and marine life. In 2022, Phu Quoc was honored by the World Travel Awards as one of the world’s top nature destinations.
2.3. My Khe Beach
Located just 2 kilometers away from the city center of Da Nang, My Khe Beach tops the list of the best beach landscapes of Vietnam. Stretching 900 meters, it is fringed by rows of swaying coconut palms and celebrated for gentle waves. The white sand and warm water invite tourists to sunbathe, swim, or try water sports like parasailing and jet skiing. My Khe Beach provides a serene away from the city bustle, making it an ideal spot for unwinding.
2.4. Nha Trang Bay
Mentioning the most stunning coastal landscapes of Vietnam, one must include Nha Trang Bay in Nha Trang. This bay boasts 19 picturesque islands like Hon Mun, Hon Tam, and Hon Tre, offering powdery beaches, lush hills, and vibrant coral reefs. Nha Trang Bay’s beauty is matched by its cultural richness, from fishing villages and traditional festivals to the daily life of coastal communities.
2.5. Cham Islands
Located off the coast of Hoi An, the Cham Islands are one of the most pristine landscapes of Vietnam. Over 90% of the islands are covered in forests, home to rare plants, monkeys, and colorful birds. Under the waters, the coral reefs support a dazzling array of marine life. Tourists can snorkel, enjoy seafood, and explore the relics of the ancient Cham and Sa Huynh civilizations which date back 3,000 years.
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3. Cave & karst landscapes in Vietnam
3.1. Son Doong Cave
Hidden within Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh, Son Doong Cave is the world’s largest cave and offers impressive karst landscapes of Vietnam. Inside, tourists can explore underground rivers, a massive lake, and a lush forest with its own microclimate. Towering stalagmites and stalactites that were formed over millions of years add to the prehistoric charm. The 90-meter-tall cave wall challenges even seasoned adventurers. When sunlight streams through the skylights and mist swirls in the air, Son Doong Cave transforms into an ethereal realm unlike anywhere else on Earth.
3.2. Trang An Landscape Complex
Among the natural landscapes of Vietnam, Trang An in Ninh Binh captivates with its dramatic limestone peaks mirrored in winding waterways. Tourists can glide through hidden caves, serene valleys, and lush forests. Trang An preserves diverse ecosystems, rare wildlife, and archaeological relics dating back tens of thousands of years. Kayaking, boating, and visiting sacred temples enrich the experience here. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, Trang An stands as a remarkable convergence of cultural, geological, and ecological treasures.
3.3. Sung Sot Cave
Located in the heart of Ha Long Bay, Sung Sot Cave offers one of the most spectacular karst landscapes of Vietnam. Standing out from other Ha Long Bay caves, it has towering ceilings, countless stalactites and stalagmites, and glowing pools. A scenic stone pathway shaded by trees leads to its entrance, setting the stage for the magic within. As light bounces off wet rock surfaces, the cave comes alive with shimmering hues, leaving tourists awestruck by its surreal beauty.
3.4. Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark
Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, rising 1,000-1,600 meters above sea level, offers breathtaking limestone landscapes shaped by 500 million years of geological history. This UNESCO Global Geopark features jagged cliffs, deep valleys, and fossil-rich rock layers. Ethnic communities live in stone-walled hamlets nestled between cornfields and terraced rice paddies, showcasing harmony with nature. In spring, the plateau bursts into color with mustard flowers, peach blossoms, and plum trees, adding vibrancy to its rugged beauty.
>>> More on: Vietnam caves: Get inside and explore the mesmerizing beauty of nature
4. River & wetland landscapes of Vietnam
4.1. Tam Giang Lagoon
Among the wetland landscapes of Vietnam, Tam Giang Lagoon is Southeast Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. This unique ecosystem is a mosaic of deltas, estuaries, shallow waters, seagrass beds, and sand dunes. Tam Giang Lagoon is home to 1,296 recorded species, including 41 rare ones. A boat ride here at sunrise or sunset reveals breathtaking scenery. Tourists can also visit Thai Duong Ha fishing village, Ngu My Thach floating market, and Ru Cha mangrove forest.
4.2. Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve
Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve is the largest wetland reserve in the northern region, featuring unique landscapes of Vietnam. This haven reflects towering limestone karsts and shelters rare wildlife, including the endangered Delacour’s langur. Drifting through on a bamboo boat, tourists can marvel at crystal-clear waters, mysterious caves, and flocks of storks gliding home. Its untouched landscape amidst the cliffs and reeds offers a breath of pure air and moments of stillness.
4.3. Thap Muoi Lotus Field
In the heart of the Mekong Delta, Thap Muoi Lotus Field unfolds across 20 hectares of wetlands. In summer, thousands of pink blossoms sway gracefully over the leaves, painting a peaceful, dreamlike scene. Tourists can glide through the lotus ponds by boat, breathe in their sweet fragrance, and watch the blooms change color throughout the day, from white at dawn to deep pink at dusk. The serene atmosphere is perfect for photography, while activities like picking lotus is a favorite for cultural immersion.
4.4. Cai Rang Floating Market
If you have fallen in love with the river landscapes of Vietnam, visit Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho - the largest and liveliest floating market in the region. Held daily from dawn until mid-morning, the market buzzes with hundreds of boats packed with fruits, vegetables, and specialties. It is famed for “cay beo”- long poles that hang goods to attract buyers from afar. Set against a backdrop of chattering vendors and bobbing boats, Cai Rang Floating Market showcases the vibrancy of riverine life.
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5. Other Vietnam’s landscapes that are worth seeing
5.1. Mui Ne White Sand Dunes
The White Sand Dunes in Mui Ne are one of the most impressive landscapes of Vietnam. These vast dunes stretch endlessly, glow golden under sunlight, and turn a deep reddish hue after rain. With up to 18 shades of sand identified, they inspire stunning sand paintings found nowhere else. One side features crimson slopes, the other faces the blue sea. Tourists can admire the majestic scenery here and try sandboarding or jeep rides for an unforgettable adventure.
5.2. Tra Su Cajuput Forest
Tra Su Cajuput Forest is one of the unique forest landscapes of Vietnam. Unlike other forests in Vietnam, this 850-hectare wetland reserve is rich in biodiversity, sheltering countless birds and tropical flora. Going on a boat ride through the tranquil waterways under the cajuput canopy is the best way to explore Tra Su. The floating season from September to November transforms the forest into a lush sanctuary, as water nourishes life and carpets of duckweed cover the surface.
5.3. Ba Be National Park
On the list of the top Vietnam national parks, Ba Be National Park is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes. Home to over 1,200 plant species and 80 animal species, it is an ecological paradise. Ba Be Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Vietnam, is the park’s crown jewel - calm, emerald, and surrounded by ancient forests. Tourists can also cruise to Ao Tien, drift down the Nang River to see Dau Dang Waterfall’s majestic cascades, or explore ancient caves like Puong and Hua Ma filled with magnificent stalactites.
5.4. Ban Gioc Waterfalls
For magnificent waterfall landscapes of Vietnam, come to Ban Gioc Waterfalls. It is one of the most stunning Vietnam waterfalls, plunging from over 60 meters high with layers of water thundering across limestone cliffs. Surrounded by mountains and rice fields, the falls offer a refreshing escape into untouched nature. Whether viewed up close or from a distance, its grandeur leaves an impression that words can hardly capture.
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The landscapes of Vietnam captivate tourists with their stunning diversity and natural beauty. From peaceful rivers and ancient forests to majestic mountains and vibrant coasts, each offers a unique charm. Whether you seek adventure or tranquility, these beautiful landscapes in Vietnam promise unforgettable experiences and lasting impressions.
After discovering iconic landscapes of Vietnam, it is time to explore Vietnam travel in terms of relaxation and entertainment. Here, Vinpearl stands out as a trusted hospitality brand that offers a network of beautifully designed hotels and resorts. These properties blend seamlessly with nature, providing classy amenities including fine dining restaurants, pools, spas, golf courses, and conference centers.
In addition, don’t miss the chance to explore the complexes of VinWonders, where hundreds of exciting activities await tourists of all ages.
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