7 Top-rated things to do in Yen Bai for an incredible trip

In 2023, Yen Bai is one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations. That is why Dideden wants to offer you some things to do in Yen Bai to have the most incredible experience. Because this location has been compared to a “fairytale” location. Therefore, a great deal of tourists are interested in discovering the breathtaking beauty of nature as well as the culture of the working people here.

THE BEST TIME TO TAKE A TRIP TO YEN BAI

One of the exciting things noted on the list of things to do in Yen Bai is that you can visit here almost all year round. Each season is unique, so Yen Bai will provide you with a unique beauty and experience.

Spring Season (January – March)

Many Spring Festivities take occur during the Spring Season. This is an opportunity to get up close and personal with the vibrant lives of the Yen Bai people. You will be able to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and participate in a variety of traditional games such as pot-breaking, tug of war, horse racing, and so on.

Pouring Water Season (May – June)

This is the rainy season in Yen Bai, particularly in the terraced fields of Mu Cang Chai, Tram Tau, and La Pan Tan. At this time, each vast field can be viewed as a giant mirror reflecting the entire sky. Dideden’s list of things to do in Yen Bai suggests tourists go during this season to experience the working lives of the people here.

Mu Cang Chai Terraced Rice Fields is like a mirror reflected in the Pouring Water Season

Ripe Rice Season (September – October)

This is the season when the rice fields ripen, which provides a picturesque sight spanning across the mountains. Dideden believes this is the best time to travel, and you should write it down on your list of things to do in Yen Bai.

You will see a spectacle that is surrounded by beautiful yellow rice and sunshine when you arrive. During the period from September 15 to October 10, you will be satisfied while observing the gorgeous rice terraces like wonders.

Appreciate the majestic beauty of terraced fields during the Ripe Rice Season

Year-end Season (December)

This is a better time to take part in cloud-hunting activities. This is one of the popular activities on the list of things to do in Yen Bai. You will view the landscape of the mountains and forests enveloped in mist at this moment. You should remember to capture these outstanding moments!

EXPLORING THE HEAVEN OF TERRACED RICE FIELDS

Mu Cang Chai is one of the most prominent tourist attractions on the list of things to do in Yen Bai. This location has become known for the exquisite beauty of terraced fields. Additionally, this is regarded as the terraced fields paradise in the heart of the Northwest.

The picturesque Mu Cang Chai Terraced Fields were recognized as a Valuable National Relic by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in 2020. This region is enough to make travelers stunned by the wondrous beauty made by human hands. It comes up with a total area of terraced fields of up to 2,200 hectares.

Visit the wonder created by human hands

Particularly, the Mu Cang Chai Terraced Fields stand out with 330 hectares which were designated as National Heritage in 2007 in 3 communes: Che Cu Nha, De Xu Phinh, and La Pan Tan. If you have more time to travel, Dideden thinks you should highlight these places in your list of things to do in Yen Bai.

According to the list of things to do in Yen Bai, the best time to visit Mu Cang Chai is mostly during two seasons. It is the rainy season from May to June, and the ripe rice season from September to October. Visitors can truly appreciate the essential beauty of the local people when visiting this location. 

Additionally, Dideden recommends that you can also visit Mu Cang Chai during the Paragliding Festival. This is one of the most popular things to do in Yen Bai, which is rated by many travelers. You can see Mu Cang Chai Terraced Rice Fields at an astounding height in the center of a picturesque valley.

>>> More: The Best Mu Cang Chai Travel Guide Should Not Be Missed

ENJOYING THE SECOND-LARGEST MUONG LO FIELD IN THE NORTHWEST

If you visit Yen Bai, your list of things to do in Yen Bai should include Muong Lo Yen Bai tourists. Muong Lo captivates travelers with its sprawling fields, historic Shan Tuyet Tea specialties, and the intense aroma of Tan Tu Le Sticky Rice.

Muong Lo field is the second-largest field in the Northwest mountainous region. Muong Lo is also compared to a massive basin that lies between mountains and hills and encompasses the entire Nghia Lo Town. When standing from afar on the pass, you will feel at ease in front of the smooth and gleaming fields that spread to the horizon.

Muong Lo Yen Bai – The wealthiest land in the Northwest region

You will be immersed in the different customs of 12 ethnic groups when you visit Muong Lo, such as Mong, Thai, Muong, Kinh, and so on. Muong Lo has been declared the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Country, which must be maintained because of its attractive beauty of boundless fields.

Muong Lo will be one of the most appealing tourist attractions in Yen Bai during the ripe rice season, which runs from mid-September to mid-October. Dideden believes if you come here and enjoy the bright image of ripe rice. You will not be disappointed in adding this spot to your list of things to do in Yen Bai. 

TRAVELING TO TRAM TAU YEN BAI

Dideden’s things to do in Yen Bai travel guide introduces a destination that has recently impressed travelers. It is Tram Tau District, which is roughly 100 kilometers from Yen Bai City. You can immerse in the gorgeous mountains and forests while learning about the Mong and Thai people’s traditional culture. You’ll be able to follow the information below to learn more about these famous tourist attractions in Yen Bai.

Ta Xua – The Paradise Of Cloud Hunting

When you arrive at Tram Tau, your list of things to do in Yen Bai cannot miss the activity to conquer one of Vietnam’s top 15 highest peaks. Ta Xua is considered a paradise on Earth because it is surrounded by white clouds all year. This incredible beauty of nature will take your breath away when you come here.

Ta Xua features noticeably stratified vegetation with a mountain road length of more than 30 kilometers and an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters. Therefore, the path to the summit of Ta Xua is exceptionally steep, practically vertical. This has attracted explorers and has become a famous trekking destination on the list of things to do in Yen Bai.

Cloud-hunting is one of the must things to do in Yen Bai

The most excellent thing is to put a foot on the dinosaur’s spine with the abyss on both sides; the scenery is spectacular but also exciting. You will have the opportunity to pass the old woodlands while exploring Ta Xua Peak and looking for clouds.

You will reach the top of Ta Xua and sink into the sea of white clouds that surround the mountain after overcoming all of the difficulties of the mountains and woods. Clouds become heavier in the winter and form layers that resemble soap bubbles. According to the experience on the list of things to do in Yen Bai, the best time to chase clouds is early morning. At this time, the sun has yet to rise.

Ta Chi Nhu – The Paradise Of Cloud Hunting

Dideden’s list of things to do in Yen Bai suggests you travel to Ta Chi Nhu, which is a popular spot for cloud hunting in Yen Bai. This location is a high top in Tram Tau District, Yen Bai’s Pu Luong massif of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range. It has a majestic landscape and a diverse ecosystem that is very popular with mountaineers.

Ta Chi Nhu has a complex environment with high cliffs and steep slopes reaching up to 2,979 meters. This mountain summit presents a significant challenge to hikers and tourists that enjoy climbing. Because the climbing journey, whether in summer or winter, is complete with challenges and unforgettable memories.

Ta Chi Nhu – The Yen Bai roof.

Trekking is one of the most outstanding things to do in Yen Bai that visitors always choose when they visit. Ta Chi Nhu Trekking in Tram Tau will take you to numerous magnificent scenery. There are green woodlands or miniature bamboo bushes which float in the breeze with a purple chiffon flower carpet.

According to the Yen Bai travel guide, the best time to climb is from October to March because the temperature is generally cool. This is also a great time to go cloud hunting and enjoy the gorgeous view on the ascending road. Dideden recommends renting a guided poster rather than traveling alone for a smooth journey.

The best time to capture the cloud

Dideden’s guide of things to do at Yen Bai advises that you can conquer Ta Chi Nhu in the Fall. The ideal time of this season is August and September. At this time of year, the peak of Ta Chi Nhu is also covered in carpets of dreamy purple flowers that are as lovely as a fairy tale.

Tram Tau Hot Mineral Springs 

Bathing in hot springs is one of the best things to do in Yen Bai if you want to relax after a hard journey from trekking or hunting. Tram Tau Hot Mineral Spring is around 2 kilometers from the town. This location is known as “miniature Bali”, with a view directly to the terraced fields as far as the eye can see.

You don’t need to travel far from the town, so you can simply sit at the mineral springs and enjoy the surroundings. You can also take photos to check in here. Isn’t it fantastic? Then quickly add the Tram Tau Hot Mineral Spring address to your list of things to do in Yen Bai!

Tram Tau Hot Spring is the ideal destination for you to relax

There are many bathtubs to enable you to experience the different levels of water, from cold to warm to hot. 100% natural mineral springs are clean, healthy, and successfully comfort the spirit. A hot spring bath costs about 50,000 VND (2.17 USD) per person. You can enjoy the most soothing moments by immersing yourself in warm water.

You can immerse yourself in warm water and have lovely relaxing moments when you come here. Visitors can stay in full homestays and cottages on the Tram Tau mineral spring ecological area campus. You will enjoy an unusual resting space with the distinctive wooden house design of the northern highland districts. Dideden thinks this is one of the most fantastic things to do in Yen Bai!

Cu Vai Village

Dideden suggests that you definitely should include Cu Vai in your list of things to do in Yen Bai. This is a Hmong Village in Xa Ho Commune with a tranquil natural environment typical of the Northern mountains. Cu Vai is a magnificent highland scenery with stilt cottages, terraced fields, and bright flower gardens.

The peaceful beauty of Cu Vai Village is isolated in the middle of Yen Bai

When visiting Cu Vai, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the highland. This includes typical Hmong dwellings, terraced fields, and hillsides covered with brilliant wildflowers. The climate in the village is always cool and pleasant due to its location on a high mountain.

Cu Vai Village is always shrouded in white mist, so the scenery is always poetic. Dideden’s list of things to do in Yen Bai thinks the most significant thing when traveling here is to get up early and observe the hamlet wrapped in fog. You can take a stroll through the village and meet the gentle, friendly residents.

Hang Te Cho Waterfall – One Of The Four Great Deaths

Hang Te Cho Waterfall is one of the most beautiful and dangerous waterfalls in the Northwest Alps. One of the Northwest’s “four great death lands” is this location. Because of the mystery and adventure it provides, Hang Te Cho Waterfall is a popular place on many travelers’ lists of things to do in Yen Bai.

You can visit this magnificent waterfall whenever you want throughout the year. Dideden recommends going on sunny days if you want to climb this waterfall safely. Additionally, the list of things to do in Yen Bai cautions you not to go during the rainy season. The road becomes highly slick and dangerous because the waterfall’s foot is coated in green moss all year.

The peaceful wild beauty of Hang Te Cho Waterfall

Hang Te Cho Waterfall is not well known among tourist attractions in Yen Bai. Therefore, this location has retained its natural beauty and inherent mystery. This is probably why this location is on the list of things to do in Yen Bai for adventurers who appreciate the beauty of nature’s wildness.

Because of the year-round cloud cover, the trip to Hang Te Cho Waterfall is exceedingly long and tedious. It will take up to 3 hours and 4 challenging steps to get to De Cho Hamlet, where the gorgeous and spectacular Hang Te Cho Waterfall is located. 

Capture the beauty of Mother Nature is created

Directions to Hang Te Cho Waterfall

Dideden’s Yen Bai Do’s Guide will guide you to Hang Te Cho Waterfall. You will go through 4 stages with increased difficulty:

• The first stage: Tram Tau Center – Phinh Ho is 10 kilometers long. This is an easy road to go, and there are ancient tea hills on both sides of the road for sightseeing.
• The second stage: Phinh Ho – Second Village. This stage is 7 kilometers long with all crushed stone and boulders that are very difficult to go. In the distance, you will see terraced fields and the Mong village.
• The third stage: Second Village – De Cho village, with a length of 10 kilometers. This stage is many times more difficult than the previous one. The narrow road gradually ascends because one side is close to the cliff, and the other is the abyss. The road is narrow and crammed with stones and tree branches.
• The fourth stage: You have to walk from De Cho Village for 1 hour to get to the Hang Te Cho Waterfall.

SKYDIVING AT MU CANG CHAI

Skydiving at Mu Cang Chai is one of the must things to do in Yen Bai, especially for thrill seekers. The warmest skydiving season in Yen Bai is when the terraces are in full bloom, which is called “Flying in the Golden Season”.

Each parachute flight costs between 1,500,000 VND (65.22 USD) and 2,000,000 VND (89.96 USD) per participant. Each flight will last around 10 to 15 minutes, and you have to reserve in advance. Because the number of tourists experiencing this service is also very crowded.

Discover the beauty of the Northwest from the high

Besides, you also can choose your flight point at Mu Cang Chai. According to Dideden’s list of things to do in Yen Bai, the best places to fly are Khau Pha Pass and La Pan Tan Commune. Because these two locations provide breathtaking vistas and plenty of space to create unforgettable moments.

Skydiving is a viral activity for those who are passionate about exploring and experiencing thrills. If you like a thrilling challenge or flying in the air, quickly add this activity to your list of things to do at Yen Bai!

Although skydiving is an exciting and memorable activity, Dideden advises that you only join up if you are brave enough and not afraid of heights. But don’t worry! Your trip will still be complete because there are still tons of other things to do in Yen Bai that you may participate in.

ADMIRING THE ART OF XOE THAI 

Dideden’s things to do in Yen Bai handbook offers a unique Thai card art form. Xoe Thai is a form of cultural activity that is vital in the spiritual lives of the people who live here.

Xoe Thai is now a community connection thread as well as an endemic “raw material” for regions looking to build tourism. Xoe is a Thai cultural symbol that helps to connect people with people, people with heaven and earth. This is not only in a vivid and romantic, but also social way.

The national quintessence you should enjoy in your list of things to do in Yen Bai

In particular, Xoe Thai has a very high level of equality. Because in the Xoe round, there is no differentiation between rich and poor or caste. They consider any major or little party, such as a new home celebration, wedding, and so on, without Xoe to be miserable and unsuccessful. Therefore, Xoe has been ingrained in the lives of the Thai people in the Northwest.

Xoe Thai art is listed on UNESCO’s Representative List of Humanity’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. While there are many things to do in Yen Bai, Didende recommends that you enjoy the art of Xoe Thai to appreciate the local culture’s beauty fully!

ENJOYING THE BEAUTY OF YEN BAI CULTURE FOOD

Five-colored Sticky Rice

Dideden introduces you to the Northwest’s traditional Five-color Sticky Rice dish, which you should include on your list of things to do in Yen Bai. Ngu Sac is the name given to sticky rice since it comes in 5 primary colors: blue, red, purple, yellow, and white.

The raw material for cooking sticky rice must be Tu Le glutinous rice with large and clear grains. This is the most well-known and delectable form of sticky rice in the region. People chose 4 other types of forest leaves to dye sticky rice green, red, purple, and yellow. To make sticky rice excellent, the sticky rice water must be Muong Lo spring water. 

Try the traditional Five-colored Sticky Rice is one of the must things to do in Yen Bai!

Depending on the creativity of each person, sticky rice will be presented in different ideas with 5 colors. The five colors of sticky rice represent the theory of yin and yang and the five elements in the Northwest. At the same time, it also has the meaning of expressing the desire to love, the love of mother and father, and the spirit of solidarity of the Northwest ethnic people.

It’s really great to be able to enjoy a beautiful and meaningful sticky rice dish, isn’t it? Dideden firmly believes that this dish will enrich your to-do list in Yen Bai.

Muong Lo Black Glutinous Rice Cake

Enjoying Thai people’s Muong Lo Black Glutinous Rice Cake is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Yen Bai. Black Glutinous Rice Cake is a traditional food that appears on Thai rice trays every Spring Festival. Additionally, it has become a Yen Bai specialty.

Eating Muong Lo Black Glutinous Rice Cake with fish sauce is a popular Thai dish in Yen Bai. In the kitchen, they also serve grilled chicken or buffalo meat to enhance the flavor of the dish. You can also have grilled Black Glutinous Rice Cake to vary the flavor. If you eat in any way, the taste of the dish will stimulate all of your senses.

Muong Lo black rice cake – A famous specialty of Thai people

In Yen Bai, the meaning of Muong Lo Black Glutinous Rice Cake is the harmony between heaven and earth. Muong Lo, which is often known as the “Land of White Rice and Clear Water”, has captured the hearts of many people with its famous Black Glutinous Rice Cake. Therefore, you should not miss the traditional Thai dish on your list of things to do in Yen Bai!

BUYING SPECIALTIES IN YEN BAI AS A GIFTS

La Pan Tan Paddy Wine

Yen Bai travel guide offers you the excellent Paddy Wine, which is always on travelers’ lists of things to do in Yen Bai. The Mong people of La Pan Tan Commune make Paddy Wine by using traditional manual methods that have been used for a long time.

Although the wine is made by hand, the employees here are highly meticulous from the raw material selection to the processing stage. People here always choose delicious upland rice to produce delicious wine bottles. At the same time, heritage yeast and pure water drawn from rock ravines are essential elements. 

Don’t miss your precious gift on the list of things to do in Yen Bai

La Pan Tan Paddy Wine has a distinct flavor that combines the aromas of the forest with the sweetness of upland rice. Unlike other types of alcohol, it has the same high concentration of 40-45 degrees, so you still feel refreshed and relieved when drinking this Paddy Wine. 

This is a beautiful and valuable Paddy Wine for the Mong people of La Pan Tan Commune. This precious wine is utilized as a drink in cultural and culinary activities. Most people use it to make offerings to their ancestors, or they bring it out to use when guests come to play. That’s the reason why Dideden thinks this is a valuable gift that should be on your list of things to do in Yen Bai.

Shan Tuyet Suoi Giang Tea

Dideden provides you with the famous tea on the list of things to do in Yen Bai, which is Shan Tuyet Suoi Giang Tea. Many people enjoy this tea since it has a nice and appealing flavor. At the same time, tea cultivation has become one of the principal occupations which provides work for many locals.

Shan Tuyet Suoi Giang Tea has consistently been recognized first in premium teas from the past until now. Locals often comment that this is a “5-pole” tea variety: extremely hard, extremely clean, extremely rare, incredibly delicious, and extremely expensive.

Enjoy the most excellent tea in the Northwest.

The traditional Shan Tuyet Tea offers numerous health benefits, which include anti-oxidant properties that keep people awake and refreshed. After drinking the pleasant taste of the tea, you can experience the taste for a long time. It can feel like the aroma of the mountains gently melting on your lips. This is not only a drink but also the quintessence of this land.

Isn’t it incredible that your present is not only good for your health but also meaningful? Let’s quickly jot it down on your list of things to do in Yen Bai!

NOTE ON THE LIST OF THINGS TO DO AT YEN BAI

• Clothing: The temperature in Yen Bai at night is quite cold. You should bring warm garments, scarves, gloves, and so on to combat the cold and safeguard your health.
• Personal items and papers: Bring identification documents, drinking water, and bug-repellent sprays, and dress comfortably in sandals or sports shoes.
• Make a schedule: To avoid the gaze of time, you should plan your visits. You can bring a map or use a phone with pre-installed maps to avoid getting lost.
• Climbing equipment: If you plan to explore the mountains and complex waterfalls, you should remember to carry the necessary items to use during the adventure and be proactive with your time and health to prevent unexpected risks.

Yen Bai is favored from topography to weather and landscape, so now it has the potential for tourism development. You can sense the magnificence of nature as well as the quiet and poetic beauty of the Northwest village when you come here. Doesn’t that sound fantastic? Pack your luggage and experience with Dideden’s recommended list of things to do in Yen Bai!

If you want to discover more about all the things to do in Yen Bai, join Dideden at Travel News and Vietnam e-Visa! You can also contact the Hotline at 1900 3398 if you need more detailed information.