Waterlogged soil and rocks: warnings issued for Northwest Vietnam trekking routes

Although skies have cleared, guides said saturated soil and weakened terrain still pose dangers of landslides, falling rocks, and slippery paths.

Streams remain swollen, and many access roads to trailheads are muddy and unstable.

Nguyen Thanh, a local trekking guide, explained that even when the ground appears dry, the soil beneath can remain soft and prone to collapse.

Thanh, who is currently organizing tours, said he had proactively canceled this weekend’s hiking trips to ensure the safety of group members.

“Rain stopping does not mean the trails are safe,” he said.

Hoang Van Hoan, director of Gio Ha Giang Media and Travel Service Company, echoed the warning.

Hoan advised against trekking or traveling on forest paths and dirt roads in the region.

His company is adjusting itineraries to avoid unsafe destinations.

“A scenic spot is not worth risking the safety of the entire group,” Hoan added.

Travelers are urged to check weather and road conditions before departure; consult tour operators or local guides for updates; avoid crossing flooded areas, landslide zones, or roads marked with danger warnings; postpone trips if conditions remain unstable, even if the weather improves.

“Don’t risk everything just because you regret an itinerary you have planned, a hotel room you have booked for one night or a place you haven’t had a chance to visit,” Hoan said.

Guides emphasized that safety assessments must be based on actual trail conditions, not just current weather.

Prolonged downpours can leave slopes and forest paths hazardous long after the skies clear.

Tour operators reminded visitors that northwest Vietnam offers many routes and destinations.

“The mountains will still be there, the scenery will still be there. A trip can be rescheduled, a trail can be walked another day,” Hoan said.