23 Apr 2023
My wife and I went with Phat Tire Ventures on a combined trek and kayaking expedition to Tuyen Lam Lake, Da Lat. Although our connections in Da Lat said we could do it on our own, I’m glad my wife and I chose the trip as the trek led is through pine forest and rain forest tracks we would never haver found by ourselves. The trek was about 6 kilometres to the lunch spot (lovely healthy lunch provided – my wife had specified vegetarian for her) where we also kayaked on the lake and my wife swam. We then walked a further 2 kilometres over a hill to reconnect with the minibus which had collected us from our hotel. The trek is described as moderate, requiring a reasonable degree of fitness, but there is a lot of ascent and descent. I’m used to hill-walking, but found it quite strenuous, particularly in the heat – but then I am 74. You do need proper walking footwear, though trail shoes were enough. And wear a long sleeved shirt as you will push through some prickly bushes. Our English speaking Vietnamese guide was lovely and knowledgeable and was happy to go at our pace. The cost of $55 each seemed worth it.