Vung Tau Activities

Boat Trips These are particularly popular in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam's southernmost region, which consists of an intricate network of rice paddies, swamps and forests interlaced with canals and rivers. River cruises also operate on the Saigon River (a good way to see Saigon) or the Perfume River (near Hue). Children love being out on the water and this is one activity the whole family can partake in.

Cycling is ideal for sightseeing in much of the country as it is flat in most areas and the shortage of vehicles makes for light traffic in most outlying areas and some of the smaller villages. Caution is needed, however, especially on busier roads, as traffic can be very undisciplined. Bicycle hire is widely available and you'll find they come in all shapes and sizes so you are sure to find one even for the youngest bike rider in the family. Trainer wheels are not supplied so if you plan on partaking in this activity with the smaller family members it's advisable that you bring some with you.

Elephant Riding can be done in Dalat at Tuyen Lake and is a wonderful way to view the surrounding scenery. This is definitely an activity that the whole family can enjoy and if the real littlies are a little wary of these grey giants, buying a few bananas before you visit will always be welcomed by the elephants and feeding them by hand is usually one activity ALL kids enjoy.

Go Karting can be done in most of the larger cities and one of the better ones is located in Hanoi at Super Karting located in Thanh Nhan Youth Park. Give them a call on 9712873 for more information.

Horse Riding is a perfect activity for the entire family and even the youngest will enjoy being led around while sitting astride one of these animals. In fact the country has its own special breed called the Vietnamese Hmong Horse which is interesting enough even if you don't fancy getting onto one of them and going for a leisurely stroll (or a rapid gallop). There are many places that rent out animals either to go on short out-rides along a beach or through the local countryside or on long treks through rugged mountain ranges.

Kayaking can be done in many spots throughout the country. Some of the better-known areas are to be found in the picturesque Halong Bay area though some other coastal and riverine areas also offer this gentle waterborne activity. It's a great way to see coastal fauna and flora and all but the smallest family members will enjoy a day out on the water in a canoe.

Roller Skating can be done in a number of the larger cities where this sport is increasing in popularity. Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Dalat have skating venues as does Nam Ninh. Ask your hotel's concierge for more information on arrival.

Swimming If you aren't near a beach there are a number of public swimming pools located in most of the bigger towns or at the hotels and resorts. If your hotel doesn't have one, ask at a hotel nearby as some let the general public in for a nominal fee or ask the concierge at your hotel where a public pool is.

Hiking There is good hiking in the beautiful countryside around Da Lat. Guides are recommended and can be hired locally. Generally, the northwest is the best region for hiking. Other good destinations include Cuc Phuong National Park (near Hanoi); Bach Ma National Park; and Lang Bian Mountain (in Da Lat), where guides are compulsory. In the north, Cat Ba National Park on Cat Ba Island and Ba Be Lake National Park (which contains several lakes, waterfalls and caves) also offer beautiful scenery.