Ba Goa Island: Overview, Things To Do & Travel Guide

Ba Goa Island lies at the heart of Pe Leng Lake, one of the three main bodies of Ba Be Lake. Though small in size, the island holds great cultural and historical significance, deeply intertwined with local folklore passed down for generations. More than just a scenic stop, it captivates visitors with its mystical legends and breathtaking natural surroundings.

The best time to visit Ba Goa Island is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant, ensuring smooth boat rides and clear views of Ba Be National Park. Getting there is an adventure in itself, as you should take a boat across Ba Be Lake, making the journey just as memorable as the destination. To make the most of the trip, it’s helpful to plan by checking boat schedules, transportation options, and entry fees.

Once on the island, you can enjoy a range of activities that blend nature and adventure. A boat tour around the island offers panoramic views of Pe Leng Lake, while kayaking provides a closer, more immersive experience on the tranquil waters. Beyond the island, Ba Be National Park features remarkable attractions like Hua Ma Cave and Puong Cave.

Eco-lodges and homestays near the lake offer a unique stay, blending local hospitality with stunning natural surroundings. With proper planning and respect for eco-tourism principles, Ba Goa Island promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Ba Be’s natural and cultural wonders.

Overview of Ba Goa Island

Ba Goa Island (Po Gia Mai) is a striking limestone formation in Pe Leng Lake, part of Vietnam’s largest freshwater lake, Ba Be. Surrounded by emerald waters and lush greenery, this small island holds both geological and cultural significance within Ba Be National Park.

Ba Goa Island’s limestone formations, shaped over millions of years, create a miniature Ha Long Bay, contrasting beautifully with the reflective waters. The island’s lush vegetation shelters diverse bird species, attracting wildlife enthusiasts. Beyond its beauty, Ba Goa Island is rich in legend. Its name, meaning "Widow Island", comes from a local folktale about a widow and her son who saved their village from a devastating flood. This story adds a mystical charm, making the island an important cultural landmark.

More than just a picturesque site, Ba Goa Island plays a crucial role in Ba Be National Park’s ecosystem. Pe Leng Lake, which surrounds the island, supports diverse aquatic life, while its calm waters reflect the towering limestone cliffs that define the region. Visitors can explore the island by boat, immersing themselves in its natural beauty while learning about its history and ecological importance. A visit to Ba Goa Island offers a deeper appreciation of both the cultural heritage and natural wonders of Ba Be Lake.

Ba Goa Island is a small yet striking limestone islet in Pe Leng Lake, known for its geological beauty, rich folklore, and role in Ba Be National Park’s ecosystem

Legend and cultural significance of Ba Goa Island

The Legend of Ba Goa Island is one of the most famous folk tales in Ba Be Lake, deeply rooted in local beliefs and spiritual traditions. The name "Ba Goa" means "Widow", referring to an ancient story of sacrifice and endurance. According to the story, a poor widow and her son living near Ba Be Lake treated a wandering beggar with kindness, who was a god in disguise. In gratitude, the god warned them of an impending flood. The widow and her son heeded the warning and fled to higher ground, while the rest of the village paid no attention. When the flood hit, the entire village was submerged, leaving only the widow's house above water. The widow and her son then used the husks from the rice grains that the Fairy had broken in half to create two dugout canoes to save people in distress during the great flood. Over time, the site became Ba Goa Island, a lasting symbol of compassion and destiny.

This Legend of Ba Goa Island is more than just a local tale, it has shaped the island’s cultural significance among the Tay, Nung, and Dao ethnic groups living around Ba Be Lake. Many locals believe that the island has a spiritual presence, and some even perform small worship rituals or prayers as they pass by. This legend reinforces traditional Vietnamese values ​​of kindness, respect, and listening to nature’s warnings, making it an essential part of oral storytelling in the region.

Some boatmen and fishermen often stop to pay their respects before continuing their journey, demonstrating their deep reverence for nature and the unseen forces they believe govern the waters. This practice fits into the broader cultural belief in water spirits, who are believed to protect the lakes, rivers and other bodies of water in northern Vietnam.

Learning about the cultural significance of Ba Go Island will help visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the way of life of the local people. Although the island itself is uninhabited, its role in folklore makes it a meaningful stop on boat tours of Ba Be Lake. Pe Leng Lake’s calm waters let visitors soak in legends while admiring the island’s rugged limestone beauty.

The Legend of Ba Goa Island tells a timeless tale of kindness and destiny, shaping its cultural and spiritual significance among communities around Ba Be Lake

3 things to do when visiting Ba Goa Island

Explore Ba Goa Island by boat or kayak to admire its limestone cliffs and serene waters. Enjoy a traditional Tay music performance on Pe Leng Lake, immersing yourself in local culture amidst stunning natural beauty.

1. Take a boat tour around Ba Goa Island

A boat tour is one of the best ways to experience Ba Goa Island’s stunning scenery. Dugout canoe glide through the calm waters of Ba Be National Park, offering sweeping views of Pe Leng Lake and its limestone cliffs. As you approach the island, lush greenery surrounds you, and local boat operators share fascinating legends about the area.

You can choose a motorboat for a faster, broader exploration or a dugout canoe for a slower, more immersive journey. Motorboats depart from Ba Be boat wharf or Pac Ngoi village, with trips lasting 3 to 4 hours, depending on the route. Prices range from 300,000 VND to 1,200,000 VND based on the itinerary.

For a more intimate experience, the traditional dugout canoe, once used by the Tay ethnic group for fishing and transport, offers a peaceful ride. Led by a Tay guide in traditional attire, this 2-hour tour costs 300,000 VND per canoe (for two people). (Ticket price is for reference only because it can change over time)

Most tours last between 30 minutes to over an hour, allowing visitors to fully appreciate Ba Goa Island’s beauty. Its central location on Pe Leng Lake makes for a tranquil escape from the busier areas of the national park.

A boat tour around Ba Goa Island offers breathtaking views of Pe Leng Lake, with options for a fast motorboat ride or a serene dugout canoe experience

2. Enjoy kayaking in the Pe Leng Lake

Kayaking around Ba Goa Island offers a thrilling way to explore its limestone formations and hidden coves. The calm waters of Pe Leng Lake make it an enjoyable activity for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. Gliding through narrow inlets and secluded corners, kayakers can admire towering limestone cliffs and access small caves and rock formations unreachable by larger boats. Unlike motorized tours, kayaking allows for a slower, more personal connection with the island’s untouched beauty.

Local tour operators offer kayak rentals and guided tours, providing insights into the area's geology and ecology. Paddling solo or with a group, it’s a serene yet exciting way to experience Ba Goa Island and Ba Be National Park. Life jackets are required for safety, and visitors can bring swimsuits, sunglasses, and sunscreen to enhance their experience. Kayak rentals range from 255,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND depending on duration and group size.

Kayaking around Ba Goa Island offers an up-close adventure through hidden coves, limestone cliffs, and serene waters of Pe Leng Lake

3. Enjoy Tay traditional music on Pa Leng Lake

One of the most captivating cultural experiences near Ba Goa Island is enjoying Tay traditional music on Pe Leng Lake. This serene lake, nestled within Ba Be National Park, serves as a perfect venue for an authentic Tay cultural performance.

The Tay people, one of the ethnic groups in Northern Vietnam, have preserved their rich musical heritage for centuries. Their performances often include Then singing and Luon singing, a traditional form of storytelling accompanied by the “Dan tinh”, a handmade three-stringed lute. The melodies, combined with rhythmic beats and poetic lyrics, narrate stories of nature, love, and ancestral spirits.

You can witness this mesmerizing performance either on the lake’s floating stage or from the comfort of a traditional stilt house near the water. Some days, performances are held on bamboo rafts, where musicians float gently on the lake while playing their soulful tunes, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

This unique cultural experience is often paired with local delicacies, such as grilled fish, sticky rice, and corn wine, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Tay traditions. Experiencing Tay folk music on Pa Leng Lake is a memorable way to connect with the local culture.

Enjoying Tay folk music on Pe Leng Lake offers a unique cultural experience, blending soulful melodies with the serene beauty of Ba Be National Park

When is the best time to visit Ba Be Island?

The best time to visit Ba Be Island is from October to April when the weather is dry, temperatures are pleasant and the lake water levels are stable, ensuring smooth boat tours. During this time, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as kayaking, wildlife watching and boat tours around Ba Be Lake. Low humidity and clear skies enhance visibility, allowing you to fully enjoy the dense vegetation, limestone formations and serene surroundings of the island.

From May to September, the area experiences heavy rainfall, which can lead to higher water levels and occasional storms, so consider visiting during this time as well. While the landscape becomes more lush and vibrant, frequent downpours and increased humidity make outdoor exploration more difficult. Boat tours may be delayed or canceled due to rougher waters, and hiking trails may become slippery, reducing access to some areas of Ba Be National Park.

Tay folk music on Pa Leng Lake offers a deep cultural connection. Visitors from January to March may experience local festivals like the Ba Be Spring Festival, featuring traditional music, dances, and ceremonies. Since boating is the only way to get to Ba Goa Island, it is essential to check water conditions in advance.

The best time to visit Ba Goa Island is from October to April when dry weather and stable water levels ensure ideal conditions for boat tours and outdoor activities

How to get to Ba Goa Island?

Ba Goa Island is only accessible by water, requiring visitors to take a boat tour from Ba Be Lake’s designated docking points. Located in the heart of Pe Leng Lake, one of the 3 main lakes forming Ba Be Lake, the island is a key stop on boat tours exploring the region. You can board a dugout canoe from Buoc Lom Wharf, the main pier serving Ba Be National Park.

Transportation options to Ba Be Lake

To reach Ba Goa Island, visitors must first travel to Ba Be Lake, which is situated in Bac Kan Province, approximately 240 km from Hanoi. The journey to Ba Be Lake can be made via multiple transport options:

By bus

Several bus operators provide daily routes from Hanoi to Cho Ra Town, which is the closest town to Ba Be Lake. These include sleeper buses and minibuses, offering a budget-friendly travel option. The journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Upon arrival at Cho Ra Town, you need to take a motorbike taxi or a local taxi for the final 18 km ride to the lake. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure a comfortable seat.

By private car

For those seeking a more comfortable and flexible journey, hiring a private car is an excellent choice. The drive from Hanoi to Ba Be Lake takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, allowing you to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way. The route passes through Thai Nguyen Province, offering opportunities to explore tea plantations and ethnic minority villages. Private car rentals can be arranged through Hanoi-based travel agencies or directly from hotels offering transport services. This option is ideal for families or groups wanting a hassle-free experience.

Hiring a private car offers a comfortable and flexible journey from Hanoi to Ba Be Lake, with scenic stops along the way

By motorbike

Riding a motorbike to Ba Be Lake is an adventurous option for experienced riders. The 230 km route from Hanoi takes travelers through winding mountain roads, dense forests, and remote ethnic villages. While the scenery is breathtaking, the journey requires caution due to occasional rough patches and steep inclines. Riders should ensure their bikes are in good condition, carry rain gear, and check fuel availability along the way, as gas stations become sparse in rural areas. The best route follows Highway 3 to Thai Nguyen, then heads towards Bac Kan before reaching Ba Be Lake. Once at Ba Be Lake, you can proceed to the main boat docking areas, where dugout canoe (and kayaks provide access to Ba Goa Island.

Entry and boat tour fees

Access to Ba Goa Island requires payment of the Ba Be National Park entry fee, which is approximately VND 70,000 (around $3) per person. This fee grants visitors entry to the entire Ba Be Lake area, but if you participate in boat tours you need to pay some fee from 300,000 VND to 1,200,000 VND.

Boat tours to Ba Goa Island typically last 3-5 hours and cover several key attractions in the lake, including Dau Dang Waterfall, Puong Cave, and An Ma Temple. Some tour operators offer private boat rentals, allowing you to explore at their own pace. (Ticket price is for reference only because it can change over time).

Nearby attractions around Ba Goa Island

Exploring Ba Goa Island isn’t just about its scenic beauty, it also opens up some of the most fascinating sights in Ba Be National Park. You can explore mysterious caves and ancient temples, uncovering the region’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.

Hua Ma Cave

One of the most captivating cave locations near Ba Goa Island, Hua Ma Cave is located about 9 km southwest of the island. This limestone cave is over 300 meters long and nearly 60 meters deep and is famous for its giant stalactites and stalagmites that look like sculptures created over millennia. Unlike many other caves in Vietnam, Hua Ma has a dry interior, allowing visitors to go deep inside and admire the spectacular formations under well-placed artificial lighting.

To get to Hua Ma Cave, visitors can take a boat from Ba Goa Island to the main pier of Ba Be Lake, and then drive a short distance to the cave entrance. A steep staircase leads up to the cave, adding a gentle adventure to the experience. According to local legend, the cave was once haunted by the spirits of those who were unjustly murdered, until a noble general performed rituals to bring peace to the site. Today, Hua Ma remains one of the most mysterious attractions in the area, attracting both adventurers and history buffs.

Hua Ma Cave, a stunning limestone cavern near Ba Goa Island, features impressive stalactites, a dry interior, and a legendary past

Puong Cave

Located about 16 km northeast of Ba Goa Island, Puong Cave is a natural tunnel created by the Nang River that cuts through the limestone cliffs of the Lung Nham Mountains. At over 300 metres long and up to 30 metres high, the cave is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that visitors can explore by boat.

One of the unique aspects of Puong Cave is the huge bat colony, with thousands of bats living in the dark, damp chambers of the cave. The eerie atmosphere created by the bats flying around, combined with the dim light shining through the cave openings, makes this an unforgettable experience. Visitors can glide through the cave on a boat, taking in the textured limestone walls that have been naturally carved over thousands of years. The cave is an essential stop for those interested in exploring Ba Be Lake, as it perfectly showcases the geological beauty of the area.

Puong Cave, a stunning river-carved tunnel near Ba Goa Island, features towering limestone walls and a vast bat colony, best explored by boat

An Ma Temple

Located 6 km south of Ba Go Island, An Ma Temple is a must-see destination for visitors interested in the spiritual and historical sites of Ba Be National Park. The temple is built on a small island in Ba Be Lake, making it one of the most tranquil and picturesque religious sites in the area.

The temple is dedicated to many local gods and is an important place of worship for Vietnamese tourists. It is believed that the site was once a shelter for soldiers during historical conflicts, adding historical depth to its spiritual significance. The architecture of An Ma Temple reflects traditional Vietnamese design, with intricate carvings, red-tiled roofs and incense-filled altars. Tourists often visit the temple as part of a Ba Be Lake boat tour, where they can step ashore, make offerings and experience the peaceful atmosphere.

An Ma Temple, a serene island shrine on Ba Be Lake, blends spiritual significance with historical depth, making it a key stop on boat tours

Accommodation options near Ba Goa Island

Ba Goa Island accommodation offers a range of choices, from traditional homestays to eco-lodges that embrace the natural surroundings of Ba Be Lake. Staying near the island provides visitors with an immersive experience, allowing them to appreciate the serene atmosphere of Ba Be National Park while enjoying local hospitality.

1. Ba Be Legend Hotel

• Address: Na Mam, Ba Be District, Bac Kan Province
• Phone: 0977 302 910
• Prices: From 460,000 VND to 540,000 VND ($18 - $21.18)
• Highlights: Conveniently located near Ba Be Lake, Ba Be Legend Hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. With a garden, terrace, restaurant, and bar, it is an ideal choice for travelers seeking both comfort and accessibility. You can enjoy views of the rolling mountains from their rooms, while the hotel's restaurant serves local specialties made from fresh ingredients.

2. Tran Thuc Homestay

• Address: Pac Ngoi Village, Nam Mau Commune, Ba Be District, Bac Kan Province
• Phone: 0349 596 999
• Prices: Approx 160,000 VND ( $4.5)
• Highlights: For travellers looking for an authentic cultural experience, Tran Thuc Guesthouse in Pac Ngoi village offers traditional stilt houses with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This guesthouse is a budget-friendly option where guests can enjoy homemade Vietnamese dishes and interact with the local Tay ethnic community. Located near the main boat dock area, guests can easily join lake tours or explore nearby attractions such as Hua Ma Cave and Puong Cave.

Tran Thuc Guesthouse in Pac Ngoi Village offers an authentic stay in traditional stilt houses, with homemade meals and easy access to Ba Be’s top attractions

3. Hoang Quan Homestay near Ba Be

• Address: Pac Ngoi Village, Ba Be District, Bac Kan Province
• Phone: 0335 511 873
• Prices: From 160,000 VND to 300,000 VND ($6.28 - $11.77)
• Highlights: Surrounded by lush greenery, Hoang Quan Guesthouse is a great getaway for nature lovers. Guests can experience the tranquillity of the countryside while staying in a wooden stilt house that blends harmoniously with the natural landscape. The guesthouse offers bicycle rentals to explore the rural villages and guests can also enjoy fishing or take a stroll along the lakeside. With warm hospitality and a peaceful atmosphere, this property is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Ba Be National Park.

4. Duy Tuyen Ba Be Homestay (Free BBQ)

• Address: Pac Ngoi Village, Ba Be District, Bac Kan Province
• Phone: 0364 096 889
• Prices: From 90,000 VND to 500,000 VND ($3.53 - $19.62)
• Highlights: Duy Tuyen Ba Be Homestay features a vibrant social atmosphere, offering free BBQ where guests can enjoy grilled specialties by the lake. The accommodation has both private and dormitory rooms, catering to solo travelers, couples and groups. With its proximity to Ba Be Lake, guests can take advantage of kayaking or take guided tours to nearby caves and waterfalls. The hosts are known for their hospitality, often sharing insights into local customs and traditions with guests.

Duy Tuyen Ba Be Homestay offers a lively social atmosphere with BBQ, diverse room options, and easy access to kayaking and guided tours

Travel tips and safety advice for Ba Goa Island

Ba Goa Island travel tips help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Surrounded by pristine waters and lush greenery, this ecotourism spot in Ba Be National Park requires mindful exploration. Here are key guidelines for a safe and respectful experience.

1. Wear life jackets on boat tours, as water depths and currents can be unpredictable. Most operators provide them, but check their condition before departure.
2. Follow eco-tourism guidelines by avoiding littering, using biodegradable products, and staying on designated paths to protect the island’s ecosystem.
3. Respect local traditions, as Ba Goa Island holds cultural significance. Keep noise levels low and be polite when interacting with locals. Learning a few Vietnamese phrases can enhance your experience.
4. Be cautious while kayaking, as water conditions can change quickly. Wear appropriate gear, stay close to shore if you're inexperienced, and ensure strong paddling skills in deeper waters.
5. Plan for limited connectivity, as mobile signals around Ba Be Lake can be weak. Download offline maps or inform someone of your itinerary beforehand.
6. Observe wildlife responsibly, maintaining distance and avoiding feeding animals to preserve their natural behavior. Birdwatchers may benefit from bringing binoculars for a better experience.

Follow essential travel tips for a safe and respectful visit to Ba Goa Island, from wearing life jackets to preserving its natural and cultural heritage

Frequently asked questions when traveling at Ba Goa Island

Ba Goa Island, in Ba Be National Park, offers stunning limestone formations, rich heritage, and tranquil waters. Though overnight stays and swimming are restricted, visitors can enjoy boat tours, kayaking, and wildlife observation.

1. Can visitors camp or stay overnight on Ba Goa Island?

No, camping or staying overnight on Ba Goa Island is not permitted due to conservation efforts and the island’s spiritual significance. However, there are eco-lodges and homestays near Ba Be Lake, providing visitors with an immersive experience in nature. Many accommodations offer lake-view bungalows or traditional stilt houses, allowing travelers to enjoy the serene landscape while respecting local traditions.

2. Is swimming allowed around Ba Goa Island?

While swimming is possible, we strongly discourage it due to the deep waters of Ba Be Lake, which can pose unexpected risks, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. The currents can be unpredictable, increasing the chance of accidents. Additionally, Ba Goa Island holds cultural and spiritual significance, so avoiding activities that may be considered disrespectful is recommended. If you wish to swim, safer areas with calmer waters can be found near the lakeshore.

Planning a trip to Ba Goa Island is not just about sightseeing it’s about immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Vietnam’s largest natural lake. Whether you're drawn to its mythical past, fascinated by its biodiversity, or seeking a peaceful escape, this island delivers a rewarding experience.

If you're exploring Ba Be, consider extending your journey to other remarkable spots in Bac Kan. Discover more about this province's natural wonders and cultural landmarks with GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency, where we provide expert insights and well-planned itineraries tailored for international travelers.