At 3h on 3/10, Nguyen Minh Anh, 26, and a group of 5 friends departed from central Hanoi for Ba Vi. They encountered a long line of vehicles outside the national park's entrance, even before sunrise.

According to statistics from Ba Vi National Park, the period from October to the end of the year is peak cloud-hunting season. The park sees about 4,000 visitors daily, with weekend numbers increasing by 50%.

Duc Do, a local photographer, noted that the 11 km main road within the national park, leading to popular cloud-hunting spots, becomes crowded from early dawn. Many groups arrive with tents and cameras, anticipating the moment the sun rises amidst the cloud sea.

"The cloud sea densely covers Tan Vien peak, at an altitude of 1,227 m, extending down into the valley", Minh Anh said, adding that the beautiful cloud sea "exceeded expectations" and is the most ideal location for cloud hunting in Ba Vi.

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Visitors check in with the cloud sea at Ba Vi, morning of 2/10. *Photo: Ba Vi National Park*

Not everyone shares such luck. Phuong Nghi and her friends, on their first trip from Hanoi to Ba Vi, navigated slowly due to unfamiliarity with the route. They arrived after 6h, by which time the sun was high and the clouds had begun to dissipate. The visitor expressed her disappointment at waking early and traveling over 60 km only to miss the clouds.

To ensure they don't miss the best cloud moments, many visitors book hotels or homestays near the national park the night before. This allows them to manage their time effectively and avoid early morning mountain travel. Room rates, ranging from 300,000-500,000 VND per night, are generally considered reasonable.

According to Duc Do, clouds are most stunning in the early morning and gradually dissipate as the sun rises. This explains why many are willing to wake early and navigate mountain roads in the dark to catch the clouds. The most picturesque time is often in November, when wild sunflowers are in full bloom, suggesting visitor numbers are likely to increase further.

A representative from Ba Vi National Park stated that the appearance of the cloud sea depends on temperature, humidity, wind, and terrain, meaning it is not a daily occurrence. Visitors planning a cloud-hunting trip should check the weather beforehand, depart early, and prepare warm clothing and lights for safe nighttime travel.

The cloud sea typically appears after rainy days, looking its best at sunrise. Ideal viewing spots include: Ngoc Hoa, Tan Vien, and Vua peaks. Visitors are advised to go on weekdays to avoid crowds.

Ba Vi National Park, established in 1991, spans nearly 11,000 ha and is approximately 60 km from central Hanoi. Entrance fees are 60,000 VND for adults, 20,000 VND for students, and 10,000 VND for pupils. From Hanoi, visitors can take Thang Long Avenue or National Route 32, then turn onto Provincial Road 414 and follow signs to the park.

Cloud sea at Ba Vi National Park from above. *Video: Duc Do*

Tuan Anh