Nestled in the lush mountains of northeastern Vietnam, Ba Be Lake is the country’s largest natural freshwater lake. Surrounded by towering limestone peaks and primeval forests, this area is breathtakingly beautiful.
As Vietnam’s tourism industry continues growing rapidly, sustainable practices are crucial for preserving Ba Be Lake’s pristine environment. During my recent trip there, I discovered exemplary models of ecotourism that benefit local communities while protecting the fragile ecosystem.
One shining example is homestays organized through the local Pac Ngoi village (Image: Internet)
One shining example is homestays organized through the local Pac Ngoi village. Staying in traditional wooden stilt houses on the lakeshore, visitors get a glimpse into authentic Tay minority culture through home-cooked meals, guided treks, and interactions with their host family. A portion of homestay fees funds community development projects selected by villagers themselves, like clean water access and microloans for small businesses.
For instance, my homestay host Nam and his family taught me about their customs, agriculture, and daily life over delicious dinners. They also led me on a hiking tour through rice terraces and rainforest. Part of the modest homestay fee goes towards supporting the local kindergarten and clean water filter initiative.
Kayaking is another popular sustainable activity. Local guides lead tours across the calm turquoise waters to caves dotted with stalagmites and stalactites. The boats are handmade by Pac Ngoi villagers from sustainable bamboo and don’t require any fuel. Paddling quietly, we spotted vibrant kingfishers swooping over the lake.
Kayaking in Ba Be Lake
My knowledgeable guide Luan pointed out unique flowers and limestone formations as we kayaked through a maze of jutting karsts to arrive at a secluded beach cave. His family has sustainably fished the lake for generations.
For hiking, local trekking cooperatives ensure trails are maintained responsibly. Our guide explained efforts to combat deforestation through forest patrols and community education. Along the way, we learned how indigenous plants are used for food and medicine. Watching clouds drift across majestic Puong Peak, it was inspiring to see such deep ties between nature and culture.
While enjoying abundant fresh fish from the lake, I was happy to see restaurants focusing on traditional cooking methods that minimize energy use. Many also grow their own organic vegetables or source them from regional farmers.
Read more: Boat trip on Ba Be Lake for 1 day
The Coc San Restaurant produces delicious grilled snakehead using age-old techniques, while ingredients are sourced from their adjacent garden. The meal highlightedlocal resources without taxing the environment.
Overall, Ba Be Lake offers the rare chance to appreciate stunning wilderness while supporting local communities. Responsible tourism providers enable visitors to tread lightly, and benefit the environment and people preserving this natural wonder for future generations. With some mindful travel choices, spectacular destinations like this can retain their magic for the long haul.
About Babevoyages.com
Babevoyages.com is an online platform operated by Ba Be Legend Hotel system.
At BA BE VOYAGES, we always strive for complete customer satisfaction. Ba Be Legend Hotel is our basement since 2017 is made by Luan family. BA BE VOYAGES newly founded in 2019, but Mr. Luan is a guy who has a long experience in EU cultures and who specializes in finding the best deals and rates for each and every client’s specific requirements. We rely on our industry experience, vendor knowledge and longstanding industry relationships to ensure your travel experience surpasses your expectations.
We try our best and keep working with the passion and commitment we have always been known for another secret formulation? Well, unlike most agencies north of Hanoi, BA BE VOYAGES with Tours and Accommodations features a dedicated, full-time staff we call the Ba Be Legend family.
CONTACT US
Na Kieng Village, Khang Ninh commune, Ba Be district, Bac Kan province
+84 977 302 910
babevoyages@gmail.com
babevoyages.com
