Asia Master Tour

More challenging than Sapa trekking is Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking. This route has taken the hearts of anyone who has come, because of not only its majestic, pristine beauty but also its difficulties to be conquered. If you are a trekking lover, definitely you shouldn’t miss Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking

1.Why Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking

At about 250km by car from Ho Chi Minh, it is one of the most beautiful trekking routes in Vietnam, with landscape varied from highland to central coastal plateau. You will be impressed by the typical scenery here including pine forest, green meadows spreading over hills, and tiltled trails filled with basalt soil.

Moreover, Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking route still a hidden gem because nobody totally understand this route even local adventure seekers.

The route is approximately 55 kilometers stretching over 3 provinces: from Ta Nang District of Lam Dong, through Ninh Thuan, to Phan Dung District of Binh Thuan. You will walk on high terrain, hills after hills, with the highest up to 1,100 meters above sea level and 500 meters at the lowest. What’s more attractive than a beautiful challenge?

Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking would be a test for the mind, body and survival skills for all trekking lovers. Therefore, this will be an unforgettable memory of lifetime and you will experience the boundary between life and death.

2. What will you expect from Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking?

The sunset

After a long day trekking, you can stop at the hill top to see the sunset and set up tents and campfire overnight. I believe that the image of the Sun slowly going down behind mountains is the most worthy scenery of Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking.
This is an ideal outdoor activity to end a perfect day. And you will have a night to live among the nature and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Streams hidden in the canyon

Along the route of Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking, you can easily bump into lots of hidden streams. The water is fresh and cool even you can drink it even though I don’t recommend much.

You also can take a bath there at the clean and cool small stream. That would be a great experience when you can totally immerse yourself in the nature.

Amazing landscape

Have you ever wondered why Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking is famous? Because of its diversity of landscape. The route looks like an emerald silk flow of lush green meadow and patches of pine trees bordering the forests; making a magnificent yet delicate transition from the Central Highlands to the central coastal area unfolding before the adventurous trekkers.

You can’t find this beautiful feature anywhere except Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking route. And it’s even more interesting when you experience all on foot.

3. Some mistakes you might make on Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking route

Any mistakes even small can put you in danger on the way of trekking. You might be a experienced trekker, but you still should read these advices below

Don’t go off the trail.

You should know that Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking route is more complicated and difficult than Sapa trekking route. Therefore,, follow closely the map. If you find your team get lost, just turn back the point where you lose the trail, don’t try to take a shortcut off the trail.

The longer it takes you to the next stop, the more dangerous things you might get. So just follow the map and don’t play any risky games.

Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking route requires you to choose the correct map

I would say that there are always some differences between the reality and the map. You should choose the most appropriate map so that you can call for help and have water provision in time.

Moreover, as I said before with the accurate map you won’t waste your time to arrive to the next stop. This is because you might get into troubles when it’s getting dark.

Plan your trip considering the weakest member.

Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking route can be challenging for those who has medium physical strength. This is because you have to walk long distances on a tough terrain. And of course, the weakest member of the team might be left behind at some point.

Therefore, you can hire a porter to carry the heavy backpacks to save your energy and help you in some emergency cases. Even though it would be less fun, it’s the most helpful option because no one has the same level of physical strength and experience.

Drink water carefully and appropriately

It might be tiring to carry so much water, but it will save you later. Everyone knows that we can’t survive without water so don’t feel annoyed if you have to bring too much this element.

On the way of Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking route you might have some unexpected events that stop you from arriving the next stop point to get more water. That’s when you understand that you should drink carefully and appropriately.

On a side note, if you want to eat instant noodles, bring extra water. They are great for recharging energy but consume a lot of water.

Don’t panic!

With an unpredictable trekking route like Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking route everything can happen. Maybe towards the end of the trip, the last group ran out of water, food and was disoriented. Everyone was too exhausted to keep moving. And it was dark and they were still in the forest.

In this case, the team leader must have a cold head. He/ She has to remain calm and positive in order to keep the will of team members not falling down. Then depending on the situation, the team leader can make the best decision for the team. For this reason, the team leader must be experienced, strong mind and as cool as cucumber.

4. What you need to prepare for Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking ?

TREKKING AND CAMPING TOOLS

• Route map: A map of the entire route with pins of checkpoints is utmost important.
• Walkie-talkie: Make sure you rent ones that are water-resistant and have strong batteries. Divide them among the small groups. It is important to stay informed of each other’s whereabouts during the Ta Nang – Phan Dung trekking route
• Flashlights for evening use.
• Light torch for fire, camping lights, etc.
• Utility knife(s) for batoning and opening food.
• Tents: bring enough tents and divide them evenly among the small groups. Camping on the hill can be cold, so you also need tent covers, padding, and pegs.
• Sleeping bags.
• Power bank.
• Compass, either a real one or a mobile app works.

FOOD & DRINK

• At least 3,5 litres of water per person, estimated for a 1.5 day trip.
• Dry food: energy bar/snack, chocolate, high calorie food, etc.
• Oresol or any oral rehydration solution to keep you hydrated. The basic formula contains sugar, salt, and lime/lemon.

CLOTHING

• Raincoat, especially for rainy season.
• Jacket
• Trekking shoes: you can use your regular sport shoes but the roads can be damaging. Some parts are slippery with moss or small rocks.
• Sandals or any types of rain shoes. You will have to pass a few streams. If your trekking shoes are waterproof, that’s great, just keep in mind that water might leak in from the top. Crocs are perfect, but you can find cheaper alternatives at any supermarket.
• Hat, scarfs, and gloves: It is very hot and sunny at the top of the hills.
• Toiletries: you might want to use mouthwash instead of a toothbrush to save water.

MEDICAL BAG

• First-aid kit
• Insect repellants
• Sunscreen
• Vitamin C (optional)
• Pain relief, anti-inflammatory drug, panadol, etc.

In general, no one knows what can be happen on the way, just be well-prepared and you can overcome any difficulties. Lastly, enjoy your trip and stay safe!