Phoenix Peak: Grass Burning Season, Overnight Camping Near Hanoi

Phoenix Peak in Vang Danh Ward, Quang Ninh is entering the golden-brown grass season from October to January - the best time to walk on the grassy hills, set up tents and hunt for sunrise and sunset moments. From Hanoi, about 135km away, visitors buy a ticket for 100,000 VND/car at the foot of the mountain, can choose a round-trip pickup service for about 400,000 VND. Beautiful photo time: 6:00-9:00 and 15:00-17:00; appropriate costumes include beige, black, red, yellow or white tones.

Tourists flock to camp and check-in on the grassy hill covered in 'surreal' colors - 1

The beauty of "miniature Da Lat" in the Northeast region

Many tourists compare this place to the “miniature Da Lat” of the Northeast region because of the burning grass hills and the cold air. Phoenix Hill changes color with the seasons: from March to August, it is covered with green grass and pine forests; from October to January, the grass turns golden brown, creating a soft, deep background when the sun is slanting.

The most beautiful moment is sunset: when the sun sets behind the mountains, the orange light covers the hillsides, the horizon is warm, the burnt grass stands out clearly in ripples, very "photogenic" in pictures.

Tourists flock to camp and check-in on the grassy hill covered in 'surreal' colors - 2

Ideal time frame to explore

To capture the sunrise or sunset, you should go to the top of the hill a little earlier than expected. According to photography experience, the two most favorable “light windows” at the burnt grass hill are 6:00-9:00 and 15:00-17:00. The yellow-brown grass color combined with the beige-brown, black-red, yellow or white clothing tones will help the photos stand out and match the context.

Phoenix Peak is suitable for many groups of visitors: those who like quiet and alone, groups of young people who love light trekking, or families who want to be close to nature. Ms. Thu Ha - a regular tourist - shared that her family has camped here many times and each trip brings a new experience thanks to the scenery that changes with the seasons.

Tourists flock to camp and check-in on the grassy hill covered in 'surreal' colors - 3

Travel and basic expenses

Distance: about 135km from Hanoi.
Tickets: buy at the foot of the mountain, price 100,000 VND/car.
Vehicles: motorbikes are a convenient choice; high-chassis cars are suitable for off-road terrain.
Shuttle service: pickup truck available, about 400,000 VND/round trip.

Remember to come early to take advantage of time and catch beautiful light. The air is chilly, so bring a warm coat if you stay long on the grassy hill.

Tourists flock to camp and check-in on the grassy hill covered in 'surreal' colors - 5

Overnight camping: the complete experience

At the top of Phoenix, there is a camping service for guests to stay overnight to watch the sunrise or sunset. With a cost of nearly 700,000 VND/person, visitors are picked up from the homestay to the campsite; provided with sleeping tents, warm blankets, soft mattresses; BBQ and fireworks; clean restrooms.

Many families choose to come here for a weekend picnic, setting up tents on the grassy slopes to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The experience of having dinner in an open space, listening to the wind blowing through the grassy slopes and waking up when the sky is just starting to brighten is an unforgettable highlight.

Tourists flock to camp and check-in on the grassy hill covered in 'surreal' colors - 8

Tips for experience and photography

Time: grass burning season from October to January every year.
Lighting: shoot between 6:00-9:00 or 15:00-17:00 for warm golden tones and depth.
Clothing: Choose beige, black, red, yellow or white tones to stand out against the grass.
Equipment: should prepare warm clothes for early morning/late afternoon; personal drinking water.

Phoenix Burning Grass Hill is a new “photogenic” coordinate of Quang Ninh , attractive for its wild, romantic scenery but still easy to access. If you are looking for a short trip to refresh your inspiration, this is a choice worth considering during the burning grass season.