Tucked away at the headwaters of the La Ngau stream in Tanh Linh District, Binh Thuan Province, Ho Tien (Fairy Lake) is a dream destination for trekking enthusiasts in search of unspoiled natural beauty and peace.

With its crystal-clear, refreshing water hidden among massive boulders and shielded by ancient rainforest, the lake offers a tranquil refuge that feels worlds away.

In late April, Lu Duy Tuong, 27, and his friends traveled roughly 200km from Ho Chi Minh City - about four hours by car via the HCMC–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway to Long Khanh - before setting up camp overnight in Ban 2, La Ngau Commune.

The next morning, they began their trek to Fairy Lake. There are two main routes to the lake: one trails alongside the stream, offering scenic views but slippery footing due to moss-covered rocks, particularly dangerous during the rainy season.

The other winds through the forest, longer and dustier, with many turns that make it easy to get lost - local guides are essential.

Tuong’s group chose the streamside route, which spans about 10km and leads trekkers past ripening cashew orchards, dry creek beds, and winding red-earth slopes.

“Along the way, we met many locals who were foraging in the forest - they were happy to guide us,” Tuong shared.

The final stretch included slippery stones and a steep incline, but the reward was worth every step. “After more than three hours trekking through forest and up slopes, we reached this hidden lake surrounded by rock and trees. The water was cool, clear, and soothing. Immersing ourselves in the lake, all our exhaustion vanished,” Tuong recalled.

At midday, the group spread out a tarp on a flat boulder beside the lake for lunch, then pitched tents nearby for an overnight stay. As night fell, the forest grew quiet, with only the sounds of insects, rustling water, and distant birdsong echoing from the depths of the jungle. They slept soundly in the cool night air.

“Temperatures dropped at night, and the fog made it even colder - so it’s important to bring warm clothing,” Tuong advised.

The next morning brought a rare kind of peace: mist rising over the treetops, birds singing, and a stillness that felt almost sacred. After breakfast, the group cleaned up their campsite, packed up, and trekked back to La Ngau.

Tips for visiting Fairy Lake

Tuong emphasized that there is no mobile signal in the area, so trekkers should notify local forest rangers in advance and inform friends or family of their expected itinerary. This is a trek for those in good health, with proper outdoor experience, and it’s best to go in a group.

“A good pair of trekking shoes with solid grip is essential - especially for climbing, stream crossing, and slippery rocks. Water shoes are the best option for this terrain,” Tuong recommended.

As Fairy Lake is in a remote forest area with no food or water vendors, overnight visitors should bring adequate food, drinking water, basic supplies, and insect repellent.

“Even with all our preparation, I got stung by a wild bee while taking photos. It hurt at first, but the swelling and pain lasted for three days,” Tuong said.

Open flames should be used with extreme caution - particularly during the dry season. From June to November, the area is prone to heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Trails become muddy and difficult, and water flow increases dramatically, making streamside routes dangerous. Water levels at Fairy Lake also rise, and the current becomes stronger, posing serious risks to anyone swimming.

Linh Trang