Trekking the Top 3 Highest Mountains in Southern Vietnam

Embarking on a challenging trek, though demanding, promises a plethora of intriguing experiences for adventurous travelers. Here are valuable insights for engaging in trekking activities at the top 3 highest mountains in Southern Vietnam.

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1. Mount Ba Den

a, Location

Mount Ba Den, the highest mountain (986m) in Southern Vietnam, is situated in Thanh Tan commune, Hoa Thanh district, Tay Ninh city, Tay Ninh province. It is 11km northeast of Tay Ninh city and 110km from Ho Chi Minh City. The name of the mountain originates from the legend of Ly Thi Thien Huong, a beautiful girl with honey-like (ba den) skin.

The complex of Mount Ba Den formed by three peaks: Pig Mountain – Phung Mountain – Mount Ba Den. Attractions include the Dien Ba Pagoda (Lower, Middle, Upper, and Cave pagodas), and various caves like Thanh Long, Ong Ho, Ba Co, Ba Tuan, Thien Thai, and Ong Ta.

b, Conquering the Peak

There are three ways to conquer the summit: cable car, sliding track, and climbing approximately 1,000 steps. However, all these means of transportation only take you to the middle of the mountain, which is the final stopping point for tourists.

For those seeking to conquer the summit, brace yourself for an adventurous trek through hidden trails amidst rocky terrains and caves. A challenging 2-hour climb awaits, offering the choice of a solo journey or group expedition. Embark on this path, and the distance shortens while laughter echoes.

2. Chua Chan Mountain

a, Location

Chua Chan Mountain, also known as Gia Ray or Gia Lao Mountain, resides in Xuan Loc district, Dong Nai province, ranking as the second-highest peak in the Southern region.

b, Conquering the Summit

This mountain beckons travelers with the revered Bao Quang Pagoda and the legendary two-root banyan tree. Ascend from the mountain's base to the pagoda or the banyan tree via stone steps meticulously crafted by the temple's skilled artisans.

Embarking on the journey to conquer the new mountain is truly a challenging adventure. 'Go straight into the thicket,' 'cut through the bamboo groves,' 'walk across the tall grass'—these are the pieces of advice you receive when fortunate enough to encounter any local residents along the way.

The second interesting aspect is that the mountain has specific winding paths. This is why, after 'walking until their legs give out,' some groups decide to turn back, while others continue to conquer the mountain's peak. Just a while later, both groups meet at a point, all heading in the direction of the summit.

The path to the mountain and the path to the pagoda are quite far apart, so it's essential to inquire thoroughly before setting out.

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3. Ba Ra Mountain

a, Location

Nestled in the heart of Phước Long town, Bà Rá Mountain resides within the Sơn Giang ward, Bình Phước province. Revered by the S’Tiêng people as Bơnom Brah, translating to the Mountain of Deities, it stands as the third tallest peak in the Southern region.

b, Conquering

While Bà Rá Mountain may be shorter in elevation compared to its counterparts, its steep stair-like slopes pose a challenging ascent, demanding both time and effort to conquer.

A distinctive feature of this mountain is that with a knowledgeable guide, you may traverse some sections gaining moments of delightful deviation, including activities like zip-lining, walking on mossy terrain with the scent of wildflowers, or admiring orchids perched on ancient trees.

Additional Information:

What is Trekking?

In simple terms, trekking involves strapping on a backpack and walking into rural areas or through forests, traversing mountains to explore both nature and the lives of the local people. The trekking destinations are usually remote mountainous regions or villages far from urban centers, accessible only by foot, requiring a considerable amount of time. Therefore, trekking routes are often challenging but hide numerous fascinating experiences.

Tips for trekking the 3 peaks:

• The journey from Saigon to one of the 3 peaks ranges from 120 – 180km. Depending on the chosen peak, select a suitable route.
• Bring camping gear, ropes (for climbing), a mat, sleeping bag, machete, lighter, candles, a pot, easily usable and preservable food, especially coffee, effervescent vitamin C, a small bottle of wine.
• Carry basic medications, mosquito repellent, insect repellent cream.
• Equip yourself with specialized walking shoes.
• Keep the items in the backpack minimal, light, and as simple as possible.
• Carry enough water as it is scarce at the mountain's peak.
• Move in a group to avoid solo travel.
• Avoid trekking in rainy weather.
• Study the terrain to plan the route before departure.
• If not planning to camp overnight at the mountain peak, schedule the trip as follows: 8 am to the mountain base, leave belongings, prepare for the ascent. Depart from the mountain base at 8:30 am. Arrive at the resting place, eat, and rest. Start descending at 2 pm.
• If planning an overnight stay at the mountain peak, departure can be later. Remember to bring a tent, warm clothes, food, and drinks for camping. Especially, the camping group should consist of no fewer than 10 people and must include both genders.

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Source: Mytour Travel Handbook – Via Zing