Top 10+ Waterfalls in North Vietnam to Visit in 2025 (With Swimming & Trekking Tips)

If there’s one thing that Northern Vietnam doesn’t skimp on, its jaw-dropping landscapes. You’ve got limestone mountains, rice terraces, highland valleys—and yep, some of the dreamiest waterfalls in Southeast Asia. 

From thunderous border-hugging giants to tucked-away trickles guarded by misty forests, the waterfalls in North Vietnam are where nature truly shows off.

And unlike a beach day, waterfall hunting isn’t just about sunbathing and sand—it’s hiking, swimming, snapping selfies with a spray in your face, and sometimes hearing ancient love stories while soaking your toes in an ice-cold mountain pool.

So if you’ve come to Vietnam for the Ha Giang Loop, the street-food in Hanoi, or the trekking in Sapa, make sure to leave a little extra time to explore the region’s best waterfalls as well!

When’s the Best Time to Visit Waterfalls in North Vietnam?

We’ll hit you with the honest truth: timing matters. 

Most waterfalls in North Vietnam are seasonal showstoppers, meaning they come alive during the rainy season (roughly May to September). 

The water flows heavier, the pools are fuller, and everything looks lush and photogenic.

The dry season (October to April) is great for hiking and road trips—fewer downpours, clearer skies—but some smaller falls might look more like dribbles than dramatic plunges. 

So if you’re waterfall-obsessed, aim for the wet months, and if you’re into chill treks and safer trails, consider dry season visits.

Related article: Rain or Shine: Your Guide to Ha Giang Loop Weather.

Best Waterfalls Near Hanoi for a Quick Escape

These waterfalls are ideal for travelers based in Hanoi or looking for a weekend trip:

1. Mu Waterfall, Hoa Binh

Just a couple hours from Hanoi, Mu Waterfall is an absolute beauty hiding in plain sight. 

Surrounded by thick forests and located deep in Muong ethnic territory, this place gives off peaceful fairytale forest vibes… until you hear the thunder of water echoing through the trees.

Highlights:

• Natural pools: Ideal for a dip on a hot day.

• Altitude: At over 1,000 meters, the views are just as good as the falls.

• Not touristy: Feels wild, fresh, and wonderfully unspoiled.

Top Tip: The path here can be rocky and slippery, so leave your flip-flops at home and opt for proper shoes.

Best Time to Visit: May–September for peak water flow.

Entrance Fee: Free!

2. Dai Yem Waterfall, Moc Chau

One of the more famous falls in Moc Chau, Dai Yem Waterfall is named after a traditional Vietnamese undergarment, which was used by a girl to save a boy from a flood. 

But even if you’re not up on your fashion history, the twin streams of water flowing gracefully through lush cliffs will leave an impression.

Why It’s Worth a Visit:

• Great for swimming, climbing, and picnicking.

• 100m in height, which is divided into two streams to create the shape of a… bib apparently.

• Bonus: There are resorts and eateries nearby, so you can waterfall by day and chill by night.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer (January–September)

Location: 15 km from Moc Chau town center.

3. May Waterfall, Thanh Hoa 

Also known as the “Nine Steps of Love,” May Waterfall is a multi-tiered beauty set deep in the jungly hills of Thanh Hoa. 

It’s named after a legend involving nine fairies who left their footsteps here when they returned to heaven.  

What to Expect:

• Nine cascading levels, each more photogenic than the last.

• A dreamy climb through mist and moss.

• Peace and quiet: Still under the radar, especially for foreign tourists.

Best Time to Visit: August onwards, when the falls are full and fabulous.

Getting There: A scenic 3-hour drive from Hanoi.

Related article: Everything You Need to Know About Getting the Bus to Ha Giang for the Ha Giang Loop.

Top Swimming Waterfalls in North Vietnam 

These are the best spots for a dip, float, or cliff jump:

4. Du Gia Waterfall, Ha Giang Loop

If you're doing the iconic Ha Giang Loop tour and wondering whether you should extend it by a day or two, Du Gia Waterfall might just make your decision for you. 

Nestled in the remote village of Du Gia, this fall is the go-to swimming spot for loopers looking to cool off, chill out, and dive into some good ol' unfiltered nature.

Why You'll Love It:

• Clear, swimmable waters with deep pools—perfect for cliff jumps or lazy floats.

• Peace and quiet: The fall’s isolated spot means fewer crowds and more Zen.

• Local vibes: Spend the night in a stilt house, eat with a local Tay family, and wake up to rice field views.

Best Time to Visit: Hot summer months (June–August) for maximum splash value.

Need to Know: You’ll need to veer off the main Loop route slightly—but trust us, it’s worth it.

Related article: Most Scenic Locations on the Ha Giang Loop.

5. Pu Nhu Waterfall, Mu Cang Chai 

Just 10 km from Mu Cang Chai, this compact waterfall is still one of the best in North Vietnam. 

It may not win awards for height (just 20 meters) but it makes up for it in charm, with its towering cliffs, a natural swimming pool, and some seriously photogenic rock formations.

Best For: Picnic lovers and anyone doing a Mu Cang Chai rice terrace tour who wants a cool-down moment in nature.

Temperature: A comfortable 26°C—ideal for swimming!

6. Nang Tien Waterfall, Son La 

Literally translating to “Fairy Waterfall,” Nang Tien earns its name with three cascading levels stretching through the forest. 

Surrounded by deep blue pools and misty air, it feels like you’ve stepped into another world—or at least a very scenic shampoo commercial.

Activities:

• Swim in the first-tier pool

• Raft near the third tier for top-notch photo ops

• Hike through the surrounding forest in a 100-hectare protected area

Best Time to Visit: March–May, when the waterfall’s in full flow but trails are still dry enough to trek.

7. Dang Mo Waterfall, Lang Son

Also called “Cow Nose Waterfall” (we don’t ask questions), Dang Mo features three gentle tiers of cascading water and is a hotspot for locals who know where to go when they need a break from the heat.

Waterfall Perks:

• Water flows all year round.

• Great for picnics, birdsong, and barefoot wading.

• Accessible yet tranquil.

Best Time to Visit: November to May—dry season means easier hiking.

Du Gia Waterfall along the Ha Giang Loop

Most Photogenic Waterfalls in North Vietnam

Striking landscapes, misty cliffs, and perfect angles for your IG grid:

8. Ban Gioc Waterfall, Cao Bang

Imagine a waterfall so wide it looks like Mother Nature just threw a party and forgot to turn off the tap. 

Ban Gioc Waterfall isn’t just one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam—it’s one of the biggest in the world on a national border. 

With Vietnam on one side and China on the other, it’s literally an international icon.

Pssst! We may (or may not… if you know you know!) cover this waterfall in our Bong Hostel Secret Tour!

What Makes It Special?

• 300 meters wide, 53 meters high.

• Cascading in three tiers, flanked by limestone cliffs.

• Watch the mist rise while standing a stone’s throw from China.

• Hop on a bamboo raft (50,000 VND) for a front-row seat.

Bonus Points:

This is still considered an off-the-beaten-path destination, so you won’t be jostling for elbow room with hordes of tourists. 

Combine it with a trip to Nguom Ngao Cave or Pac Bo for a full-day Cao Bang adventure.

Best Time to Visit: September to October for golden rice paddies and roaring falls.Entry Fee: 45,000 VND (may vary)Don’t Forget: Your passport—you might need it at the entrance kiosk!

9. Tac Tinh (Love) Waterfall, Lai Chau 

Not just a pretty face, Tac Tinh Waterfall also comes with a tragic Romeo-and-Juliet-style backstory involving forbidden love, heartbreak, and one very dramatic leap. 

Today, it’s a peaceful place for reflection, picnics, and yes, very Instagrammable photos.

Quick Facts:

• 130 meters tall, with a lake at its base.

• You might catch a rainbow above the water if you’re lucky.

• Best seen from above—hike up for the perfect photo op.

Best Time to Visit: All year round. Rainy season = dramatic falls, dry season = gentle streams.

Local Legend Level: 10/10 heartbreak.

Related article: 16 Traditional Vietnamese Folktales that Reveal the Spirit of Northern Vietnam.

10. Silver Waterfall, Sapa

Located just 12 km outside of Sapa town, Silver Waterfall (Thac Bac) is a roadside stunner that rushes down the mountainside with all the energy of a rock concert. 

It’s easy to reach and serves as a great photo stop on your way to O Quy Ho Pass.

Tip: Pair it with a trip to Love Waterfall and Fansipan Peak for a full day of adventure and exploration in Sapa.

Related article: Top 10 Hidden Gems in Sapa: Off the Beaten Path Discoveries.

More Waterfalls Worth the Trip in North Vietnam 

These are extra gems you can scatter throughout your route for a well-rounded experience:

• Tinh Yeu Waterfall (Lai Chau): Enchanting falls along a bamboo-flanked trail.

• Khe Van Waterfall (Quang Ninh): A roaring, three-tiered wonder with Tay ethnic charm.

• Cu Thang Waterfall (Phu Tho): Peaceful, pristine and totally off the radar.

• Mo Waterfall (Quang Ninh): Hidden in the forest and perfect for camping trips.

Related article: 12 Best Photo Spots on the Ha Giang Loop (With Map Pins and 15+ Photography Tips).

Waterfall Safety Tips: Swimming a Trekking 

Swimming Tips

Most waterfalls in North Vietnam come with a natural pool attached—like a free jungle spa with better views and no WiFi. Tempting, right? 

Just make sure to follow these safety precautions:

• Check the depth before you dive. What looks deep might be deceivingly shallow (or filled with rocks). No one wants to explain a sprained ankle to their travel insurance.

• Look out for slippery rocks. That mossy boulder might look like the perfect selfie spot, but it’s built like a banana peel. Tread carefully.

• No soap, no shampoo, no problem. Even the “eco” stuff disrupts delicate ecosystems. Think of the fishies.

• Ask a local before jumping in. Some pools have strong undercurrents, submerged hazards, or cultural significance—always good to double check.

• Use a dry bag or waterproof pouch. Because your phone probably can’t swim (and you’ll want those waterfall pics).

• Don’t swim alone. Even the calmest-looking spots can be unpredictable. Bring a buddy—or at least tell someone where you're headed.

• Beware of flash floods. If you're visiting during or after heavy rain, currents can suddenly swell. Keep an eye on the weather, and listen for rising water.

Related article: 20+ Tips to Help You Ride in the Rain on the Ha Giang Loop.

Trekking Tips

Some waterfalls are just off the roadside; others require a bit of jungle-bashing, rice-paddy-hopping, or rock-hopping to reach. 

It’s half the fun—but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Wear proper footwear. Flip-flops are great… for the beach. But for waterfalls? You’ll want something with grip and ankle support—preferably waterproof.

• Start early. Many treks get steamy by midday. Start in the morning to avoid the worst of the heat and catch that soft, misty light.

• Bring plenty of water (and drink it). Yes, you’re surrounded by water. No, you shouldn’t drink it unless you brought purification tablets or a filter.

• Stay on marked paths if possible. It’s easy to lose your way in dense forest or tall grass. If the trail’s not clear, consider hiring a local guide.

• Leeches are a thing. Especially in the rainy season. Long socks or leech-proof gaiters can save you some itchy encounters.

• Respect private property. If you’re passing through farms or villages, a smile and a polite greeting go a long way.

  
  

What to Pack for Waterfall Adventures in North Vietnam

A little preparation goes a long way—especially when your adventure involves unpredictable terrain and sudden splash zones. 

Here’s a packing list for a safe and comfortable day chasing the region’s best waterfalls:

Essentials:

• Grippy hiking sandals or waterproof trekking shoes.

• Swimsuit + quick-dry towel (or a sarong).

• Dry bag for electronics and valuables.

• Change of clothes (for the ride home).

• Water bottle + purification tablets or LifeStraw (if going remote).

• Sunscreen + insect repellent.

• Hat and sunglasses.

• First-aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, antihistamines).

• Phone with offline map or GPS app (Maps.me is a fave).

• Snacks (banana chips, nuts, local bánh...).

Bonus items:

• Lightweight raincoat or poncho (because the skies can turn fast).

• Waterproof phone pouch (for snapping pics mid-splash).

• Portable power bank.

• Long socks or gaiters (for leech-y zones).

One of the best tips is to book a local guide, they know the best spots and like to chat with you along the way, teaching you about their culture. 

They’ll also make you aware of all the hidden dangers to look out for, from venomous snakes and pesky leeches, to where and when it’s safe to swim!  

Related article: Bong Hostel Survival Guide: What to Pack for Your Trekking Tour in Sapa.

Visit the best Waterfalls in Vietnam with Bong Hostel

Our Thoughts on North Vietnam’s Best Waterfalls  

Clearly, waterfalls in North Vietnam offer something no beach or city can match. They're not just natural wonders—they're necessary pit stops on your Northern Vietnam adventure.

So next time you’re planning your Bong Hostel tour—from high-octane motorbike rides through Ha Giang to slow crawls through cloud-covered valleys—don’t forget to pack your swimsuit. 

You never know when you’ll find yourself standing in front of a waterfall so beautiful, you forget to even take a photo.