Ba Be Lake
The largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, held between limestone cliffs inside Ba Be National Park, with Tay villages along the shore.
Highlights
- A dugout boat across the lake to An Ma Temple and Widow Island
- Puong Cave, where the river runs under the mountain and bats roost in the roof
- Dau Dang waterfall and walks in the forest of the national park
- A night in a Tay stilt house, with dinner cooked by the family
Best time to visit
April to November. The lake is at its fullest and greenest after the summer rains.
Getting there
About 5–6 hours by road from Hanoi, or around 4 hours from Cao Bang.
How long to stay
One to two nights.
Where to stay
Tay stilt-house homestays in Pac Ngoi village are the usual choice, with dinner cooked by the family and rooms opening onto the lake. A few small lodges sit closer to the park entrance.
What to eat
Lake fish grilled or in sour soup, wild vegetables, smoked buffalo and sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes.
Good to know
- The lake sits inside Ba Be National Park; boats are arranged through the park or your homestay.
- The water is highest and the forest greenest after the summer rains.
Combine with
Tours that visit Ba Be Lake
Questions about Ba Be Lake? Message us on WhatsApp +84 345 827 501 or email booking@hynatravel.com.