At the beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam, enjoy the majestic wonder of glistening, running water, falling down from picturesque cliffs, amidst greenery. Some are perfect for dipping and wading, others are surrounded by picnic spots, and still, more allow extreme adventure sport.
We have chosen 10 must-visit Vietnam waterfalls with pristine natural beauty from the north to the south.
Table of Contents
North Vietnam
1. Ban Gioc Waterfall, Cao Bang
Perhaps the most famous waterfall in Vietnam, the Ban Gioc Waterfall can be found in Dam Thuy Commune, 335 km from Hanoi and near the Vietnam-China border. In fact, the majestic waterfall has two sides, the western side which belongs to Vietnam and the eastern side to China. Ban Gioc Waterfall is also the largest waterfall in all South East Asia and one of the 4 largest cross-border waterfalls of the world.
A waterfall tucked away on the well known Ha Giang loop, it is truly a part of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders. Come to Ban Gioc Waterfall to enjoy the view of greenery and karst mountains typical of North Vietnam. September and October are the best time to visit, as there is less rain then.
2. Thac Bac Waterfall (Silver Waterfall), Sa Pa
Thac Bac Waterfall is considered one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Vietnam with its mountainous surroundings of Sa Pa. Also known as the Silver Waterfall, it is a stunning 200 meters in height!
What makes it stand out from other magnificent waterfalls in the country, is that Thac Bac Waterfall looks silver and sparkles under the golden sunshine. This isolated waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a wonderful spot for a quiet afternoon.
A must-visit for nature lovers, Thac Bac Waterfall is located 12 kilometres from the centre of Sa Pa town. While you are here, hike up to the top of Sui Tong mountain peak, and take in the glorious sights of the Sa Pa countryside.
3. May Waterfall, Thanh Hoa
May Waterfall, which is located in Thach Lam Commune in Thanh Hoa Province is 90 km away from Thanh Hoa City. What makes this visit a unique experience, is that you will have the chance to learn and understand more about the Muong ethnic minority group, who have villages at the foot of the mountain.
Thanh Hoa May Waterfall is also known as the Cloud Waterfall or Nine Ranks of Love waterfall. According to legend, there were once nine fairies travelling on earth, along the way, they happened to pass by the spectacular waterfall. Because of its irresistibleness, the nine fairies showered in the waterfall adding to it the nine stepping stones that made it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region. An ideal time to visit the waterfall is during summer, from June to August.
Central Vietnam
4. Yang Bay Waterfall, Khanh Hoa
If you are in Khan Hoa, you shouldn’t miss visiting the Yang Bay Waterfall. Yang Bay Waterfall is 100m above sea level in the Giang Kang mountain area, which has a lovely fresh and cool atmosphere, making it a nice escape from the heat of the beach.
The water surrounding the waterfall is crystal clear, you are even able to see the rocks at the bottom of the lake. This amazing clarity is what makes Yang Bay Waterfall one of the most famous waterfalls in Vietnam.
The Vietnamese call Yang Bay waterfall the ‘Sky Waterfall’ because of an ancient legend. According to the tale, the Heaven Emperor and fairies enjoyed roaming around Giang Kang Mountain. One day, the youngest fairy decided to disguise herself as a villager to see what life was like in the village. While there, she fell in love with a poor boy. When the Heaven Emperor learned about it, he turned the boy into a stone.
Out of loyalty, the youngest fairy decided to guard the statue, which made the Heaven Emperor even angrier, and he declared a drought. When the local toads complained and eventually died, the Heaven Emperor felt regret for what he did, he started crying and his tears started flowing and forming the waterfalls.
5. Pongour Waterfall, Lam Dong
Pongour waterfall is located in Ninh Gia village, Lam Dong province, about 50 kilometres from Da Lat City. Every year, this breathtaking site attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. The best time to visit is early in the morning, while the weather is still nice and cool, and the morning light makes the scenery more enjoyable.
Also known as the Seven-Story Waterfall, the water flows over seven different levels of terraced rock to a gentle pool at the bottom. Though dangerous, visitors often climb through the seven levels to wade and bathe in the shallow pools throughout. During the dry season, the amount of water at Pongour Waterfall diminishes significantly, making it safer, but less impressive. Nonetheless, the charming beauty of the waterfall will surely take your breath away.
Around the area in Vietnam’s central highlands, there are more waterfalls to be seen, just a 40-minute ride away are the Voi Waterfall or Elephant Falls. The breathtaking waterfall plunges from 30 meters in height into the Cam Ly stream.
6. Dambri Waterfall, Lam Dong
Another fantastic waterfall in Lam Dong is the Dambri Waterfall. This is the tallest waterfall in the province.
The cold and clear water runs across the mountains of the central highlands and ends in a 70 feet drop into a natural swimming pool surrounded by dense forests. One of the best waterfalls in Vietnam for swimming in.
The best way to travel here from Da Lat City is via motorbike or private car, so that you can travel freely between the wonderful attractions including a small amusement park located next to the Dambri Waterfall. If you have time, try to also squeeze in a visit to a nearby coffee farm!
7. Dray Sap and Dray Nur Waterfall, Dak Lak
Flowing from the Serepok River, a main tributary of the Mekong River, the Dray Sap Waterfall and Dray Nur Waterfall are outstanding examples of the numerous magnificent waterfalls in Dak Lak Province.
Although practically side by side, the bridge connecting them is not fixed, so you will have to choose between them or travel the 23km between them to see both. The Dray Nur Waterfall is more impressive, but also more touristy.
Swimming is advised against here, due to the strength of the water. Instead, nature lovers can enjoy a picnic by the side.
Visit during the dry season, November to April, when the waters will be clearer, during the rainy season, May to October, the water turns red from the disturbed basaltic soil.
8. Thuy Tien Waterfall, Dak Lak
Thuy Tien Waterfall can be found 7 km northeast of Tam Giang Commune in Krong Nang District, Dak Lak Province 56 km from the centre of Buon Ma Thuot City.
Thuy Tien Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall with stones of various shapes and sizes. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, simply listen to the water flow and be in the middle of the peaceful jungle, this is the waterfall for you.
The waterfall has 3 layers, the first one is just a low slope that the water flows gently into the roots of the trees that look like swings. The second level is the rocky terraces that create small shallow lakes where visitors can swim. The third layer is where the water drops creating a deep lake that flows into the Central Highland jungles.
While travelling to Thuy Tien waterfall, visitors can tour the nearby Ede village and understand the cultural traditions of the region. Visit during September and October, as there is less rain, and it is also harvesting season, so the rice fields will be gold and lush.
9. Ba Ho Waterfall, Nha Trang
Just 20 kilometres away from the beautiful beaches in Nha Trang, is Ba Ho Waterfall. It is comprised of three natural waterfalls that end in a clear lake surrounded by dense rainforest. The best time to visit is around September to December when the water flows strongly.
From the entrance, it is a 30-minute hike through the foliage to the first waterfall. Accessing the other two waterfalls are a bit more of a challenge. You will have to climb over large rocks and more forests. Make sure you are wearing proper hiking clothes and footwear; it is a difficult hike, so only attempt if you are in great shape!
The adventurous visitors will want to attempt cliff jumping here. Otherwise, you can opt for swimming and kayaking. Or for an even more relaxing time, just enjoy a good picnic here.
South Vietnam
10. Suoi Tranh Waterfall, Phu Quoc
Suoi Tranh Waterfall is a four-meter-tall waterfall within the Ham Ninh Mountains, enclosed by the pure beauty of vivid wildflowers, tropical greenery, natural caves, and little rock pools.
This gorgeous waterfall is neither large nor fierce, making it one of the most accessible waterfalls in Vietnam. The rapids flow along rocks covered in soft mossy green grass and end in a small lake of clear water, here you can bathe and enjoy the cool, refreshing water. There is also camping available if you wish to spend the night in the amazing jungle.
Less than an hour’s flight away from Ho Chi Minh City, read on the find out more amazing things to do in Phu Quoc.
10 Travel Tips: Things to remember before visiting the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam
- Bring enough cash – there are likely no ATMs nearby
- Wear proper footwear, especially if there is hiking involved
- Bring some snacks and enough water for the hike
- Pack spare clothes as you will get wet
- Bring a battery pack to charge your phone
- Bring a flashlight (just in case)
- Apply sunblock and insect repellant
- Head over early and leave well before sunset
- Show respect to the residents and the place
- Take your trash with you and keep the area clean
Chase More Waterfalls
Visiting these beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam should definitely be on your bucket list. Nature lovers will not regret the opportunity to enjoy the raw beauty and tranquillity of these natural wonders. There truly is nothing like standing in front of a majestic waterfall, hearing it roar as it unfolds before you ad seeing it sparkle in the light of the day.
If you want to have a staycation in Saigon, but still want to be underwater, and to explore a scenic view of the skyline, be sure to check out these awesome rooftop swimming pools.
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