Some of the best hiking spots in Vietnam, especially in the North and Northwest, include Ky Quan San in Lao Cai, Pha Luong in Son La, Lao Than in Lao Cai, Ta Xua Peak in Son La, and Lung Cung in Yen Bai. These places offer stunning landscapes and challenging trails. It is highly recommended to hire a private guide (porter) from companies like Kampá Tour, which provides experienced English-speaking guides. The terrain in these areas is very wild and unknown, and navigating without a guide can be difficult and dangerous due to the risk of getting lost in the jungle.

Hiking Ta Xua Peak in Son La without a guide is not recommended due to its challenging and wild terrain. It is easy to get lost in the jungle.

At Kampá Tour, we recommend the following times for hiking in Vietnam based on our extensive experience:

• North Vietnam: The best time to hike is in October, November, and December. The weather is cool and dry during these months, meaning the trails aren’t too muddy, and visibility is generally good.
• Central Vietnam: We suggest hiking in the spring months of March, April, and May. It’s usually sunny but not too hot, and rainstorms tend to be brief.
• South Vietnam: The south is hot all year, but there is some respite during the winter months of December and January, making this the best time to trek in this region.

These recommendations ensure you have a pleasant and enjoyable hiking experience across Vietnam.