Multi Destination
3 days / 2 nights
AH-TQ01
6/10
$155 USD
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WHY THIS TOUR?

The Năng River Expedition is a journey into one of northern Vietnam's last true wilderness frontiers. Following the legendary Năng River from the emerald waters of Ba Be to the dramatic landscapes of Na Hang, this expedition is about far more than paddling—it's about slowing down, embracing the rhythm of the river, and discovering places that remain largely untouched by mass tourism. After navigating through towering limestone scenery and the iconic Puong Cave, you'll leave the familiar behind. At Dau Dang Waterfall, the adventure takes on a true expedition spirit as you portage your board around the rapids before continuing downstream into a remote world of jungle-clad mountains and winding river canyons. Over the next 26 kilometers, the river becomes your only path, revealing spectacular landscapes and a profound sense of isolation rarely experienced elsewhere in Vietnam. As the Năng River finally merges with the tranquil waters of Na Hang Lake, the expedition reaches its unforgettable finale. It is a journey that blends challenge with serenity, rewarding every paddle stroke with extraordinary scenery and a genuine connection to nature. For those seeking more than just a SUP tour, The Năng River Expedition is an authentic wilderness experience that captures the very essence of adventure in northern Vietnam.

Highlights

  • Paddle through the spectacular Puong Cave into the emerald waters of Ba Be Lake.
  • Paddle 26 km along one of the most beautiful and least-explored sections of the Năng River.
  • Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Na Hang Lake, one of Vietnam's most scenic freshwater lakes.
  • A unique multi-day SUP expedition combining adventure, wilderness, and authentic exploration.
SUMMARY

  • Start / Finish Point: Hanoi

  • Duration: 3 days / 2 nights

  • Destination: Multi Destination

  • Group Size : 2 - 15 pax

  • Best Season: Oct - July

  • Difficulty level: 6/10

  • Activities: Paddle Boarding (SUP)

ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi – Cho Ra - Ba Be NP

07:00 Meet your tour guide at the hotel lobby in Hanoi. Depart and head towards Bac Kan. Along the way, the group will stop for a short refreshment break in Thai Nguyen.

12:30 Arrive at Cho Ra and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Following lunch, a short drive brings us to the Boc Luom boat dock, the starting point of our aquatic adventure.

Afternoon Embark on an exciting SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) journey downstream along the Nang River. This narrow, dynamic river winds through spectacular landscapes—ranging from dramatic sheer cliffs to serene valleys and local cornfields.

The ultimate highlight of the afternoon is paddling directly through Puong Cave, a colossal limestone tunnel carved out by the river. Thanks to the favorable downstream current, you can enjoy a thrilling and extensive paddle with moderate physical effort.

Continue paddling to the confluence of the Nang River and Ba Be Lake, where we will transfer to a traditional motorboat to venture further into the lake. During the summer months, the boat will anchor in the middle of the lake for a refreshing swim in Ba Be's crystal-clear waters. This "Chill Time" is perfected with fresh fruits and cold drinks served onboard amidst the pristine nature. The boat will then head towards the Ba Be Tourist Dock, where a your vehicle awaits to transfer you to your hotel.

17:30 Check in to your hotel in Ba Be. You will have free time to freshen up, unpack, and relax.

19:00 Savor an authentic dinner in the hotel restaurant. The rest of the evening is at leisure to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lake area. Overnight at a hotel in Ba Be.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 5hrs/ Paddle boarding & swimming 3 hours/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Lunch , Dinner

Day 2: Ba Be NP - Dau Dang Waterfall - Na Hang Lake

06:30 Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel. Check out and take a short transfer to the boat pier.

07:45 Board a local boat for the scenic journey across Ba Be Lake to Dau Dang Waterfall. Upon arrival, carry your SUP and equipment around the waterfall before relaunching on the Năng River—the true starting point of today's expedition.

09:30 Begin paddling the most spectacular section of the Năng River. Cover approximately 26 km as the river winds through towering limestone mountains, pristine rainforest, secluded beaches, and remote valleys before eventually flowing into Na Hang Lake.

12:00 Stop for lunch, served either on the support boat or at a scenic riverside location. After a short break, continue paddling downstream toward Na Hang Lake.

16:30 Arrive at Na Hang Lake and transfer to a local homestay. Check in, relax, and enjoy a refreshing welcome drink.

18:30 Savor a traditional home-cooked dinner with your hosts. The remainder of the evening is free to unwind and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lakeside village.

* Approx. Duration: Boat cruise 1 hr/ Paddle boarding 6 hrs/ Lunch break 1 hr

*Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Na Hang Lake - Khuoi Nhi Waterfall - Hanoi

07:00 Enjoy breakfast with freshly brewed tea or coffee at the homestay.

08:30 Paddle or take a short boat ride to Khuoi Nhi Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Na Hang Nature Reserve. Spend the morning swimming in the crystal-clear natural pools, exploring the cascades, and capturing photos of the stunning surroundings.

11:00 Paddle or cruise back to the homestay. Check out and enjoy a traditional local lunch before departing for Hanoi.

13:00 Begin the journey back to Hanoi by private vehicle.

18:00 Arrive in Hanoi. End of the tour.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 5 hrs/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Breafast , Lunch

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

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Inclusion:

  • Vehicle for round-trip transfers: Hanoi – Ba Be NP & Na Hang - Hanoi
  • Support boat for throuhout the expedition
  • Inflatble SUP and equipment
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • 01 night of hotel accommodation (based on twin or double sharing rooms)
  • 01 night in village homestay
  • Drinking water & snack provided daily during the tour
  • Entrance fees & tickets
  • Domestic travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Additional food and beverages not stated in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Tips
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

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Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Inflatble SUP
  • Life jacket
  • Dry bag
  • First-aid kit. 

What to bring: 

  • Water shoes or sandals 
  • Lightweight, quick-dry or rashguard for paddling
  • Changes of clothes for 3 days
  • Lightweight rain jacket.
  • Electronics: Mobile phone, camera, power bank, ...
  • Personal medications
  • Reusable water bottle
  • ID or Passport

Also recommended:

  • Toiletries
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Pocket knife or multi-tool
TOUR EQUIPMENT
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. SUP Notes

  • Distance: Approximately 34–35 km
  • Route: Route: The expedition begins with a scenic paddle through the tranquil waters of Ba Be Lake and the upper section of the Năng River, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, lush tropical forest, and pristine freshwater scenery. After a short portage around Dau Dang Waterfall, the journey continues along approximately 34–35 km of the Năng River's most spectacular and least-visited section before reaching Na Hang Lake. This stretch features winding river canyons, dense rainforest, and dramatic karst mountains, offering a true wilderness paddling experience. A dedicated support boat accompanies the group throughout the expedition, providing logistical support, safety assistance, drinking water, meals, and a comfortable place to rest whenever needed.
  • Suitability: This expedition is suitable for paddlers with a reasonable level of fitness and some previous SUP or kayaking experience. Participants should be comfortable paddling for 5–7 hours per day over consecutive days. The route follows mostly calm flatwater with gentle current, making it physically demanding due to the distance rather than technical difficulty. This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic wilderness experience in remote natural surroundings.
  • Safety Notes: Participants are required to wear a life jacket and a safety leash at all times while on the water. For experienced paddlers and strong swimmers, life jackets may be temporarily secured to the board only under the guide's direct supervision and clear river conditions. however, keeping the safety leash fastened is strictly mandatory. 

2. Food & Water

  • Meals: All meals showcase authentic, hearty local cuisine designed to replenish your energy after active outdoor sessions. 
  • Water & Energy: Clean, safe drinking water and energy-boosting snacks (such as fresh fruits or local treats) are supplied daily during the tour. 

3. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment.
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). You can refill it throughout the day from our large water jugs.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

4. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical Fitness: Practice running or kayaking/SUP 1–2 weeks in advance. Each week, run 2 sessions, 3–5 km per session. Or paddle SUP/kayak 2–3 sessions per week, approximately 5 km per session.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.