phong nha cave trip

10 Top Things To Do in Phong Nha Vietnam + Extra Tips & Budget Tricks

I was lucky on my trip to Vietnam , for I had escaped heavy storms, rain, and floods. There are many amazing things to do in Phong Nha, and I had to get there. After a week in Hoi An, I headed there, and Phong Nha turned out to be one of the best things about my Vietnam solo backpacking . It is a town in north-central Vietnam known for the best caves of Vietnam. In this Phong Nha travel blog, I have compiled a detailed post on the best things to do in Phong Nha.

Whether you have 3 weeks in Vietnam or 2 weeks , don’t forget to add this town to your itinerary, because here is your chance to visit some of the magnificent caves in the world.

Things to do in Phong Nha

Phong nha ke bang national park.

Phong Nha Ke National Park is one of the most visited, best national parks in Vietnam. It is among the top Phong Nha attractions and rightly so for all Vietnam Cave tours.

It is listed as a UNESCO heritage site for its hundreds of spectacular mystic caves and karst mountain area,  which is believed to be at least over 400 million years old and the largest in Asia.

It is so massive that the terrain has its unique climate, underground rivers, huge formations of stalagmites, and wildlife.

If you are wondering what to do in Phong Nha, below are the popular caves in the national park that you should check out.

Traveling in Vietnam for the first time?

If you are traveling in Vietnam for the first time, here are the things you need to know before exploring this beautiful country.

Paradise Cave

While the largest cave is Son Doong Cave, Paradise caves is the longest cave in the world at 31km! Much of it is off the human access, with about 10km available for tourists. It is one of Phong Nha’s must see  attractions.

I walked to the mouth of the cave, about 3km from the entrance of Phong Nha Ke bang national park. The entrance looks so humble and tiny that it is deceptive, because what followed after left me stunned!

A world opened in front of me so big, with the vivid limestone formations dangling everywhere.

The entry fees for For an additional 265,000 VND, you can explore the stalactite and stalagmite formation spectacle for an entire day by hiking further for about 7km where there is no light for the most part. You’ll need a guide to doing so.

Phong Nha Cave

Phong Nha is one of the top things to do in Phong Nha-Ke national park. The cave is divided into 2 sections, the first section is lit artificially, which can be covered by a bit of walking and a boat ride, while the 4.5km ahead of it (which has been explored so far) requires hiking with a guide.

The Stalagmite formations are huge, but smaller in length compared to Paradise Cave.

How to get to Phong Nha Cave? First, you need to buy a ticket at the entrance, which costs 150,000 VND per person. There is a boat that will take you to the mouth of the cave, the cost is 360,000 VND for 14 people per boat trip that you can share.

You’ll have to wait at the park to find a group of 13 other people for the boat tour or you can cover the cost yourself.

If you are there in perfect weather, the boat ride will take you through almost 3km by boat, after which you can walk for a while to see the formations.

You can hop on the same boat after which you’ll come back to the park. Add 300,000 VND for an English speaking guide to accompany you on the boat.

Dark Cave or Hang Toi

Among the top things to do in Phong Nha National Park is the Dark Cave. It is ideal to explore for all those wanting some adventure within a limited time.

It is located on the way to the Paradise Cave, and you have combo tours as well as individual tours to Dark Cave.

First, you’ll either Kayak or take the zipline to reach the cave’s entrance. As the name suggests, the entire portion of the cave is in the dark embedded with limestone formations amidst which runs the river.

Wearing the headlamps making your way through this maze is an adventure, where you’ll encounter mud whose level rises as you progress to the point of being soaked.

It is the most fun part of the Dark cave tour , and this mud is good for your skin. You might not enjoy this cave if you are claustrophobic or afraid of the dark though!

You can either Kayak your way back or swim in the water once you are out of the cave. Only carry what is essential as you’ll most likely drop everything in the mud.

Also, wear clothes that you are okay while being in the mud. Many wear a bikini and guys wear shorts but it is better to wear dark colored ones as the guides say that the mud can stain your clothes.

The price for Dark Cave varies from season to season. The Dark Cave entrance fee ranges between 170,000 VND to 250,000 VND.

Plus the price including Kayak and zip line is an additional 270,000 VND. You can swim to the mouth of the cave if you are a swimmer wanting to save some bucks!

Hang En Caves

One of the top places to visit in Phong Nha is Hang En. It is the 3rd largest cave in the world. And for people traveling in Phong Nha on a budget, it a mid-way between all the popular caves and the biggest So Doong Cave.

In a 2 days-1 night Hang En cave tour, you’ll do some easy to moderate hike along with some swimming and Kayaking in caves to explore the huge limestone formations spread for miles.

The price of Hang En cave adve n ture tour depends on the cave tour package you opt for. A 2-day Hang En tour costs 6,500,000 VND inclusive of food and camping costs, and you can also go for an extensive 4-day cave trek as well.

Pros of Hang En: Camping in Caves, Kayaking and Swimming in Caves. Cons: Need more time, Expensive if you are on a budget.

What to Do in Phong Nha – Tu Lan Caves For Adventure

Discovered only in 2012, Tu Lan Cave is the latest addition to the caves in Phong Nha points of interest available to the tourists in Vietnam. It is also one of the cave tours where you’ll get to camp in the caves.

You can visit remote villages and also do some swimming. Like Hang En, Tu Lan expedition also can be done just as a day tour or you can spend up to 4 days trekking through the wilderness.

Read: 30 Things To Know Before Going to Vietnam

Son Doong Cave – The Largest Cave in The World

Son Doong Cave is the darling of Vietnam, the queen of the caves, if you may call it. It is one of the top things to see in Phong Nha if budget or time isn’t your constraints.

The National Geographic channel aired the discovery of the biggest cave in the world in Vietnam, which became viral.

To give some background, Son Doong Cave is the world’s largest cave known to humans. It was discovered in 2001 by a local and the world heard about it for the first time in 2009. This biggest cave on earth runs for over 5km and is over 300 ft tall. It is also the longest cave in the world spreading for over 9km.

It is a cave consisting of an ecosystem of its own, connected by an underwater river. So Doong Cave is also home to the Great Wall of Vietnam discovered by explorers. So Doong is the only cave with forests, rivers and unique wildlife unknown to the world.

How to plan your trip to Son Doong Cave?

Son Doong Cave Permit : As much spectacular So Doong Cave is, only a few people visit this cave every year. Owing to the number of people wanting to travel to Son Doong, limitations are imposed to protect this earth’s natural wonder.

Currently, there are permits available to around 1000 visitors for 2019 and 2020. They can be secured between February to August.

How to get to Son Doong Cave – You can’t travel independently to Son Doong. Plus, the entry fee of Son Doong Cave is 3000 USD, which is too expensive.

If you are ready to spend this amount, then you should book through Oxalis, which is the only travel company that organizes the Son Doong cave tour in Vietnam.

It takes about 4 days to complete the trip to Son Doong cave. You’ll pass through the remote ethnic group at Ban Doong village. Make sure to get all your hiking gear with you for this cave. Oxalis Son Doong Cave tour costs between 5000 to 6000 USD depending on the days you choose.

Recommended Read : Dalat – The Mountain City of Vietnam

Things to do in Phong Nha Other Than The Caves

Nuoc mooc eco trail  hiking.

Nuoc Mooc Eco trail is the area in the National Park, home to protected species of wildlife and flora. It is one of the top Phong Nha things to do if you want something other than the caves. The entire trail is a loop around the park.

You can go on a hike on this trail with a guide to witness some exotic rare wildlife like Langurs and Black bears of Asia. You can buy the eco-trail tour at 180,000 VND for total access or just the entry fee for 80,000 VND.

The other attraction is the botanical garden located about 12km from Phong Nha (Entry – 42,000 VND), and the Eight Ladies’ Cave which is a memorial dedicated to women that were killed hiding during the Vietnam war.

How to Get to Phong Nha Ke National Park?

Depending on your time and budget, there are many ways to get to Phong Nha. If you are traveling from North of Vietnam: Flights –  Dong Hoi is the nearest airport to Phong Nha.

If you are arriving from Hanoi to Phong Nha, you can fly to Dong Hoi with Vietnam Airlines. Phong Nha is over 40km from there and you can take a local bus, or book a car.

If you are traveling from South of Vietnam: Flights –  If you are arriving from South Vietnam, you can fly from Danang to Dong Hoi and then opt for a cab or a local bus to the town. You can also fly from Cam Ranh International Airport in Nha Trang to Dong Hoi.

Buses – Buses are the cheapest option to reach Phong Nha, and easy to book online. There are plenty of buses from Danang , Nha Trang, Hoi An , Dalat and Ho Chi Minh at regular intervals. You can travel from Hue to Phong Nha and from Hanoi to Phong Nha as well.

Many people travel from Phong Nha to Hue or Phong Nha to Ninh Binh Tam Coc. Taking a bus is the best option in these cases, especially overnight to save your accommodation charge for a night.

I use 12GoAsia to book all my buses as it is super easy to book, convenient to look up, and book on the go online. If you are arriving from anywhere else, you can check here .

As for trains , there are no direct trains to the city. The nearest railway station is in Dong Hoi. You can book any of the train tickets online in advance  here . Cabs are expensive but you can get one from all the places, the nearest being Dong Hoi.

Rent a Bike – Some rent a bike to get to the town that costs approximately between 150,000 VND to 250,000 VND depending on the hours, the bike condition and the tour company. Be careful to check the condition of the bike before renting one, anywhere in Vietnam.

Paying a few extra bucks will ensure that the quality is good, and saves you from a breakdown on the road!

Where to Stay in Phong Nha?

There are plenty of Phong Nha hotels in all budget ranges. The most ancient place to stay in Phong Nha is Phong Nha Farmstay , popular among couples, backpackers and travelers looking for a decent homestay amidst the lush paddy fields in the countryside.

Among the budget travelers and backpackers, Easy Tiger Hostel is one of the favorite hostels in Phong Nha. They have been in Phong Nha for a long time and also organize all the cave tours, you can get good food and stay for a reasonable price.

They arrange buses from Hue as well, which can convenient if you are arriving from the south.

But these days, there is no dearth of excellent budget stays if you want to try something new. I stayed in Phong Nha Tuan Garden House , and it was off the main road. The downtown is small, and you can find most of the hotels, and hostels on the main street.

These are some of the places to stay in Phong Nha that I would recommend –  Thao Nguyen Homestay ,  Thuong Hai Hotel   and Phong Nha Coco House .

Where to Eat in Phong Nha?

There are some options in Phong Nha for dining, and you’ll be able to get the Vietnamese cuisine, Italian and continental as well, but the prices are slightly higher compared to other towns.

The most recommended is Bamboo cafe. I tried the one next to it though after my cave explorations and loved the food.

‘The Pub With the Cold Beer’ which is out of the town and a good ride away is a great place for grabbing beer . I loved the simple Vietnamese Pho and spring rolls.

Phong Nha Itineraries

How long to spend in Phong Nha? You can go on quick tours to one or two caves in a day or you can spend 2 days in Phong Nha.

You can even spend up to a week, doing all the adventurous cave tours in details. Ideally, you can plan at least 3 days in Phong Nha , including a cave or 2, and other attractions.

I am suggesting these Phong Nha itinerary assuming that the weather is ideal, and the budget isn’t too high. Check also the last part of this Phong Nha to decide how many days in Phong Nha you would want to stay.

Phong Nha Day Trip Or 1 Day in Phong Nha Itinerary

One day Phong Nha itinerary – Whether you are traveling from the south or in northern Vietnam, you have the option of doing cave tours in Phong Nha as a part of day trips. From Hanoi, you can opt for just one or two caves if you are running out of time. It is best to book a day ahead, and the prices don’t differ much.

If you want to book day trip tours, you can take a day trip from Hue to Phong Nha Cave , or a day trip to Dark Cave from Hue , or Phong Nha Cave tour from Hanoi or even Dong Hoi .

Pros of booking these tours are you don’t have to spend time researching or worrying about the logistics. You even get a guide.

If you just want to pick two caves, opt for the Paradise cave and Phong Nha cave. To not feel rushed, start the day early. If you just want to visit one out of these many caves of Phong Nha, the opinions differ from people to people.

I asked around many including the locals about what would they pick if they were to pick one. The Paradise Cave slightly got more votes.

The other way to decide is what type of experience you prefer. A little boat ride and walking means Phong Nha Caves, while the Paradise cave involves a 3km hike, and another 1 km walk, which can be turned into a 7km guided caves trek if you opt for a tour.

2 Days in Phong Nha

Day 1: If you have 2 days in Phong Nha, you can plan your trip to Paradise Caves and Phong Nha Caves on Day 1.

If you are doing the full length, i.e. a 7km trek of Paradise cave, you’ll probably end up doing just one as it requires the whole day. Similarly, if you opt for covering 4.5km of Phong Nha cave you can only do that.

Day 2: Head to the Dark caves in the morning on Day 2. The second half can be spent just exploring Phong Nha park on your bike or you can check the botanical garden or the Mooc eco trail if you are keen on seeing some more of nature of Vietnam.

Phong Nha 3 Days Itinerary

3 Days in Phong Nha gives you enough time to have an ideal Phong Nha itinerary.

Day 1 & Day 2: The above plans for 2 days should do.  Day 3: You can easily opt for another cave – either Tu Lan or Hang En.

Note that I am suggesting these assuming that you don’t want to go on any expedition tours as they take at least 2 to 4 days.

Recommended read:   Motorbike Diaries, Vietnam – A Drive To the Hai Van Pass, Monkey Pass & Danang

Phong Nha Travel Tips

Best Time To Visit Phong Nha

From mid-September to mid-November, the region receives rains like the other regions in northern Vietnam, and unlike other popular destinations in Vietnam, the weather in Phong Nha is the main thing that can decide the fate of your trip.

People cancel Phong Nha cave tours if there are floods and you might end up missing visiting the caves if you are there during the rains.

December to April is a good time to visit Phong Nha as you can explore most of the caves covering all the activities as well. November to January are the coolest months.

What to Wear in Phong Nha?

There are two things to keep in mind while packing. One is the weather and the other are the hikes/adventure that you want to do.

If you are there during the wet season, ensure you have an extra pair of socks, ponchos, umbrellas, cover for your bags and raincoats. You can buy some of this downtown, but they are obviously expensive.

Also, during the cool periods, the night gets too cold, colder than all the cities in the south or central Vietnam due to the mountains. So get everything in your backpack to keep yourself warm. The more layers, the better.

And for dark caves, don’t forget to carry an extra pair if you need them. The same goes for cave expeditions tours that last between 2 to 4 days. Although camping stuff would be taken care of, check the list with the tour groups to see what they offer.

Phong Nha Budget – How Much Would it Cost in Phong Nha?

Compared to other top places to visit in Vietnam, the to wn is slightly expensive – Thanks to the entrance fees & the guides mainly, even if you would do on your own. You can certainly plan and save on two things though – accommodation and food.

Accommodation: Budget 7 to 8 USD, mid range 10 to 20 USD

Food: 4 to 6 USD per person(Budget), 10 to 12 USD per person – mid range.

About the tours, the expenses will depend on how many caves you wish to visit and what do you think are the worthy ones. There might not be a lot of cheap things to do in Phong Nha, but the limited options shouldn’t stop you from going there! Check below to finalise your trip.

  Phong Nha Travel Tips

Phong nha tours or opt for phong nha cave tours.

One of the dilemmas is whether to do Phong Nha by yourself or opt for tours. Also it is hard to pick the best cave in Phong Nha!

So I have tried to provide an answer to these factoring these:

Phong Nha on a Budget: If the budget is your primary concern, but you have time, you can decide between Paradise caves and Phong Nha Caves.

Both of these have standard prices, and unlike the others, you will not have to pay extra. Phong Nha cave is within the main area, and you can save on traveling to the cave if you pick this.

Plus, these caves can be done on your own. To get to Paradise cave, all you have to do is rent a bike, load all the maps on your phone, get the gears, and start driving. If you don’t know to drive or if you aren’t confident, don’t worry.

You can tag along with fellow travelers that you can find in your hotels, and it shouldn’t be difficult to find one. Just be careful of the roads while driving, although there is no traffic or high mountain areas. The roads can be tough to tackle during the rains.

Experience: Some people travel to the town mainly for trek experience. If you are one of those, and budget isn’t your priority, you should probably go after the shark, So Doong Caves. The 5-to-6 days’ adventure includes good trekking, camping and a visit to the world’s largest cave.

You can maybe skip the rest and just go ahead with So Doong as it is a complete cave tour experience.

Another cave that provides the adventure without digging your pocket too deep is the Dark Cave. You get to zip, kayak, get yourself immersed in mud, do some soft rappelling, enjoy the beautiful caves and finally swim your way out of the cave, which is simply adventures packed into one!

Unlike So Doong, you just need half a day minimum for this, though you can easily spend a day if you want to slow it down.

You can walk straight to the Dark Caves and buy your tickets directly, but you’ll need a guide. Plus the Dark Cave is more fun if you have a group as a lot of adventure is involved.

So I guess these details should help you decide whether to go for cave tours or not!

If you are booking Phong NhaTours

If you want to go for tours and book ahead, I would recommend going for these below. Because they refund if the tours cancel or you decide to cancel and you can just show their voucher offline.

There are available at the last minute and they have awesome guides suitable for every type of traveler .

Phong Nha Cave: 1 Day Guided Tour and Phong Nha + Paradise Cave Guided Tour are the best ones that I would recommend.

Or you can do all the booking once you arrive in the town if you don’t mind researching and haggling.

There aren’t many travel booking companies around though. Most of the hotels and agents work together to give you the same tour.

If you are booking a tour, make sure you have at least 2 to 3 days in the buffer. Especially if you are trekking, as Phong Nha weather can be unreliable. Plus, there are 2 to 3 buses per day to other destinations. So you might not always go as planned if your cave tour gets delayed/postponed.

I found the least number of ATM’s in Phong Nha in my Vietnam trip. Just one in the working condition to be precise.

Plus, most of the restaurants that I ate and my homestay folks accepted just cash. So make sure to carry some before you arrive. Although there are travel agencies for exchange, the rate is poor.

Hope you find this Phong Nha guide to be useful. What was your experience? Which is your favorite cave and why? Let me know in the comments below!

OTHER VIETNAM POSTS THAT YOU SHOULD CHECK TO PLAN YOUR TRIP

• Vietnam Travel Guide: 95 Ultimate Things to do in Vietnam
• 30 Things to know before going to Vietnam
• A travel guide to Dalat
• Mui Ne – Things to do in Vietnam’s pretty beach town
• Hai Van Pass Bike Ride – Why it should be on your List!
• Top things to do in Ninh Binh
• Interesting things to do in Ho Chi Minh
• A travel guide to Hue, the forbidden city of Vietnam
• 48 hours in Hanoi – Exploring Vietnam’s capital
• Most Instagrammable Places in Hoi An

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Phong Nha Cave Tours: Explore Central Vietnam’s UNESCO Wonders

Get ready to unleash your inner adventurer in the wild heart of Quang Binh Province, Central Vietnam. 

Phong Nha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of natural wonders, most well known for its exhilarating caving adventures. With a length of over 44.5 km, the Phong Nha Cave stands as the most famous system, with tour boats able to penetrate inside to a distance of 1,500 m, according to UNESCO. Additionally, the Son Doong Cave, first explored in 2009, is believed to contain the world’s largest cave passage in terms of diameter and continuity.

Phong Nha is one of the most exquisite escapes into nature with its karst mountains, rejuvenating rivers, and dense jungles that make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a real-life paradise. Or the movie set of King Kong! 

Table of Contents

Getting there is part of the adventure how to reach phong nha.

• Fly  from Hanoi or HCMC or any local Airport to Dong Hoi Airport and Taxi to Accommodation in Phong Nha.
• Train  to Dong Hoi and Taxi to Accommodation in Phong Nha. (Check the local train schedule in advance to maximise your time in Phong Nha)
• Local Bus  to Dong Hoi and Pickup from Accommodation in Phong Nha. (Ask your accomodation to help you book this)
• Private Car  from nearby Destinations (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An) to the doorstep of your Phong Nha stay! (Your no fuss option)

No matter how you roll, Phong Nha’s calling, and it’s time to answer.

Incredible Caves in Phong Nha

According to UNESCO, there are over 300 caves and grottoes in the Phong Nha National Park, part of the larger Phong Nha region in Vietnam. These caves, many of which are yet to be fully explored, contribute to the area’s unique geological and ecological significance.

Key caves for Phong Nha tours

1. phong nha cave.

Draped with magnificent limestone formations and boasting spectacular underground rivers, Phong Nha Cave has a rich history that dates back centuries. Its fame soared in the 19th century under the watchful eyes of French archaeologists. Stretching an impressive 7,729 meters, this natural wonder comprises 14 breathtaking grottoes and harbors a sprawling 13,969-meter underground river, proudly claiming its place among the world’s longest subterranean rivers. (Source:  Phong Nha Cave – UNESCO World Heritage Centre )

Experience:  Get lost in a mesmerizing, peaceful, scenic boat ride along the Phong Nha River. As you float through Phong Nha town, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking karst mountains covered in lush vegetation. Take a deep breath of fresh air and enjoy the clear blue skies as you approach Phong Nha Cave. You may need to switch to a different boat, or the driver may turn off the engine and paddle through the underground cave system. 

Get there:  Visit the  Phong Nha Tourism Centre  to get your ticket. Head to the jetty near the bus stop to book your dragon boat ride. 

Pro tip:  The Phong Nha cave entrance fee is 150,000 VND ($7) per person. A boat is required to access the cave and can be hired for 360,000 VND shared between up to 12 passengers. Allocate at least 2.5 hours for a round trip.

2. Paradise Cave: Động Thiên Đường

Discover Paradise Cave in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. Unearthed in 2005 and explored by the British Cave Research Association in 2010, this natural wonder boasts vast chambers adorned with thousands of stalactites, creating an ethereal landscape.

Experience:  Picturesque hike through Paradise Cave’s established walking paths, allowing you to marvel at the intricate formations of stalactites and other natural wonders. Discover the cave’s geological and historical significance through guided tours, enhancing your overall experience.

Get there:  Paradise Cavelies in the National Park. It’s often included in Tour Packages. However, if you only wish to visit this cave alone, you can contact the Phong Nha Tourism Centre to plan your visit. For the extra adventurous spirit, you should drive along the loop on your motorbike and visit this cave alone. Here’s the Google Maps location to help you on your expedition:  Google Maps link to Paradise Cave.

Pro tip:  Wear comfy clothes and shoes to climb the stairs to reach Paradise Cave. Choose a tour or ask your accommodation for entrance options.

3. Dark Cave (Hang Tối)

Experience the thrill of adventure at the Dark Cave Phong Nha, surrounded by the serenity of the turquoise-blue Chay River, which flows from deep within the mountains. The cave is encompassed by breathtaking limestone mountains, verdant jungle, stunning views of lush foliage, and captivating limestone formations on both sides of the riverbank.

Experience:  Prepare for an exciting adventure through Dark Cave’s intriguing geological formations with ziplining, mud bath, and kayaking. Don your headlamps or torches, and brace yourself for an unforgettable journey through the cave’s dark chambers and underground river.

Get there:  Many Day Tours include the exciting Dark Cave adventure! However, if you prefer to venture by bike and visit it alone, it’s possible and extremely easy to find! You can take a scenic ride along what locals call the Phong Nha Ka Bang “Loop” to the Dark Cave and pay the entrance fee on arrival. There’s even a nearby restaurant to refuel after your adventures!  Here’s the Google Maps Link.

Pro tip:  there will be mud! Pack your swimsuit and sandals (white clothing is not recommended!) Don’t worry; there are lockers to store your belongings.

4. Son Doong Cave

This beauty holds the distinguished title of being the largest cave in the world by volume. This Phong Nha cave was discovered by Ho Khanh in 1990, its measurements were officially surveyed by the British-Vietnam Cave Expedition team, led by Howard Limbert, in 2009. With an impressive volume of 38.5 million m3, its status was solidified by the endorsement of esteemed geologists, including Dr. Tony Waltham.

In 2009, National Geographic declared it as the largest natural limestone cave globally. Later, in 2013, the Guinness World Records officially recognized it as the world’s largest natural cave.

Location:  Situated within the Phong Nha National Park, Son Doong Cave is approximately 70 km northwest of Dong Hoi, the capital of Quang Binh Province, Vietnam. It is located a significant distance from Phong Nha Town, requiring a specific trekking journey to reach the cave’s stunning chambers.

Experience & Booking:  Join the unparalleled Hang Son Doong 4-day, 3-night trekking journey to explore the wonders of the world’s largest cave in Vietnam for $3000. Oxalis is the only company licensed to facilitate this unique Phong Nha Cave Tour, allowing tourists to embark on an unforgettable adventure through Son Doong Cave, within the vast Phong Nha Cave System.

5. Hang Tien Cave: Fairy Cave

Quang Binh province is a well-known destination for adventure enthusiasts, and this spot is a favorite. Lose yourself amid the towering mountains and dense forests while exploring the area. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, trek through lush jungles, babbling streams, and rugged terrain before reaching the cave. The cave offers a glimpse of breathtaking stalactite columns without the need to venture deep inside.

Location:  Hang Tien Cave is in Cao Quang Commune, Tuyen Hoa District, about 70 kilometers northwest of Dong Hoi City in Quang Binh Province. Even though it is not located in Phong Nha, it is still considered one of the major attractions in the Phong Nha region. The distance between Phong Nha and Hang Tien Cave is approximately 70 kilometers, and it takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the cave by Car.

Experience:  Experience the thrill of a lifetime as you embark on a trek through Hang Tien Cave’s enchanting terrain, boasting awe-inspiring stalactites. Prepare for a journey that includes hill climbing, refreshing swims in natural lakes, and exhilarating caving adventures, making for an unforgettable escapade into the heart of nature.

Pro Tip: Before embarking on the adventure in Hang Tien Cave (Fairy Cave), ensure you’re in good physical condition and equipped with all the necessary hiking essentials. For a safe and enjoyable experience, consider exploring the cave with a trusted tour operators like Oxalis Adventure , or Phong Nha Caves Tour Centre , known for their expertise in organizing guided tours in the Quang Binh Province. They can offer guidance and support throughout your journey, ensuring a memorable and secure exploration of the captivating Hang Tien Cave.

6. Hang Va Cave (Kingdom of Karst Cave)

Hang Va Cave, discovered in 2012, is known for its unique tower cones and stunning cave formations, such as stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. Adventure seekers are in for an unforgettable experience at Hang Va.

Experience:  The expedition involves a cave trekking tour and the use of safety equipment to navigate the technical sections. The breathtaking cave photography, fascinating geomorphological insights, and the opportunity to camp amidst the limestone mountains make this a must-visit destination for true explorers.

Location:  Hang Va, just 50m from the world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong, suggests a potential hydrological connection between the two caves based on geological characteristics.

New Discovery:  Recently, scientists at the Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources unveiled the discovery of a new fish species, Speolapeo hokhanhi, endemic to the cave system in Quảng Bình Province. The species was found within the confines of Hang Va Cave, adding to the richness of the area’s unique biodiversity.

Pro tip:  Oxalis Adventure Company is the only authorized operator in Quang Binh Province for the Hang Cave Va Expedition. This annual expedition is limited to 700-800 customers.

7. Hang En Cave

Nestled in the stunning landscape of Phong Nha National Park, this wonder was discovered by British cavers in 1994. Known for its vast chambers and captivating underground skylights, the cave features a large passage running through a limestone mountain, with three entrances that tower up to 110 meters high. Inside, you’ll find intriguing fossils, picturesque views, and a serene stream meandering through the cave. Hang En has garnered global recognition, appearing in publications such as National Geographic and The New York Times and even gracing the screen in the Hollywood film “Pan: In the Neverland.” Prepare to be enchanted by the sheer magnificence and natural beauty of this Cave.

Experience:  Exploring Hang En Cave involves an exhilarating trek through dense jungle, lush valleys, and the Ban Doong minority village—a remote tribal settlement without access to electricity or roads. The journey includes an overnight stay at a campsite within the cave or the captivating minority village, providing an immersive experience. Please note that visiting this Cave is only possible through guided tours.

Location:  Hang En Cave shares its location with the famous Hang Son Doong, both of which have been featured in a stunning National Geographic photo spread. Located within the heart of the Phong Nha National Park, the cave offers an unforgettable adventure amid the region’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Pro Tip:  Plan your Hang En Cave tour from Phong Nha between December and September each year to make the most of the 2-day and 1-night journey through the jungle, local villages and caves.

Book Your One Day Phong Nha Cave Tour With Vietnam Is Awesome

1. tour phong nha: tra ang 1-day excursion.

Check out the amazing Tra Ang Cave in Phong Nha with the Jungle Boss Tra Ang Excursion. Get ready to be blown away by the unspoiled beauty of the secluded Tra Ang Valley, where you can relax and enjoy the serene river landscapes and tropical rainforests. The trek is fairly easy, and you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience!

Location Highlights:

• Ho Chi Minh Trail:  The Ho Chi Minh Trail was a vital supply network for the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, transporting troops and supplies through rugged terrain and tropical jungles. Today, its historical significance and scenic landscapes attract tourists and adventurers.
• Tra Ang Water Cave (Hang Tả Ông):  Experience the joy of refreshingly swimming in the majestic waters of Tra Ang Water Cave, located deep within the Ma Da Valley. For the adventure, you will be provided with head torches and life vests to swim into the depths of this cave. Not for those who are afraid of the dark!
• Tra Ang River:  The Tra Ang River in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is home to diverse aquatic life and thriving ecosystems. Its clear, unpolluted waters support fish, mollusks, and more, contributing to the park’s rich biodiversity. This peaceful river provides an ideal setting for eco-tourism and kayaking, allowing visitors to connect with the park’s pristine wilderness. It’s also a vital water source for local vegetation, nurturing a variety of wildlife.

Tour Experience:  Trek through the Ho Chi Minh trail, Swim through Tra Ang Cave’s darkness, Kayak along the tranquil Tra Ang River, delicious BBQ lunch in the lush greenery of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. Professional tour guide, porter team, and trekking gear provided. 

2. Tour Phong Nha: Elephant Cave & Ma Da Valley Jungle Trek

Introduction:  Want to explore deep and ancient cave networks, sparkling underground rivers and lakes, and the lush jungles and river valleys of Central Vietnam?

• Elephant Cave (Hang Vòi Phượng):  This 300-meter-long cave, known for its impressive 60-meter height, offers a spectacular view that rewards the adventurous trek through the jungles of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. Its Vietnamese name is Hang Vòi Phượng.
• Tra Ang Water Cave (Hang Tả Ông)
• Ma Da Crystal Lake  is a stunningly clear lake surrounded by lush jungle and towering limestone formations. It offers a tranquil spot for swimming and relaxation, with pristine waters and captivating natural beauty.

Experience:  Jungle Trekking in Ho Chi Minh Trail, Elephant Cave Exploration, Swimming in Ma Da Valley, Swimming into Tra Ang Water Cave (optional), Delicious BBQ Lunch surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Professional guide, porters, and gear provided.

Beyond the Caves – Top Experiences in Phong Nha

1. Relax and Play at Phong Nha Funky Beach: An absolute must-visit, offering an idyllic setting along the river just a short drive from the town center. The highlight? Witnessing the breathtaking sunset against the picturesque backdrop. This vibrant local spot promises exciting local activities, like crossing the thrilling monkey bridges, engaging in various water activities, learning to paddle local basket boats “Thuyền thúng,” and enjoying a refreshing swim in the invigorating river waters.

The “river beach” has a vibrant bar built from bamboo, which serves refreshing beers, coconuts, and authentic, fresh, and delicious Vietnamese dishes! The tasteful decor, funny signposts, inviting hammocks suspended over the tranquil river, and immaculate facilities (clean bathrooms with showers and changing rooms) make this an extremely memorable experience! It’s an ideal escape for families, large groups, or couples seeking a leisurely riverside retreat or light-hearted fun.

2. Take a joy ride: Hire a bike at Thang’s Phong Nha Riders (ĐT20, Sơn Trạch, Bố Trạch, Quảng Bình, Vietnam) and spend the day riding the Phong Nha Loop, stopping at Botanical Gardens and Dark Cave along the way! Additional sites along the way are: Ozo Park, The Ho Chi Minh Trial bridge, and the Paradise Cave Tour – which you can visit independently. See the route here.

3. Get Local and Visit the Hidden Gems of Bong Lai Valley:  Drive through cultural landscapes and venture past The Duck Stop and The Pub With Cold Beer. The Duck stop has delicious Banh Xeo and interesting activities like swimming with Water Buffalo!  See the Google Maps route here.

4. Relax & Unwind: At your homestay, farm stay, eco-retreat, or hotel. 

5. Get wild:  Do a pub crawl if you want to be part of the backpacking scene.

6. Wine & Dine: Eat a fantastic local meal along the riverbank. Or if you’re feeling fancy? We highly recommend – Victory Road Villas Restaurant for the best wine list in town and delicious food. 

Phong Nha Cave Tours Conclusion

As you plan your adventurous getaway to Phong Nha, immerse yourself in the natural wonders and thrilling experiences this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers. The ultimate trekking and caving adventure with Vietnam is Awesome Phong Nha Cave tours on the  Tra Ang 1-Day Excursion   and   Elephant Cave & Ma Da Valley Jungle Trek . 

For the independent sole, explore Phong Nha Caves like the Dark Cave & Paradise Cave as you cruise around the Phong Nha loop, soaking up the lush, impressive nature of this attractive destination. 

Phong Nha has a wealth of unforgettable experiences waiting for you to discover! The stunning karst mountains, serene rivers, and dense jungles make Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers! If it’s a trekking adventure you craving, join a professional trekking tour to experience the impressive caves and discover the magical world of Hang En, Hang Va, Son Doong, or Tu Lan caves with Oxalis Adventure Company.

If it’s a cultural experience you’re looking for, visit our 7 Beyond the Caves – Top Experiences in Phong Nha. Or simply relaxing and unwinding at your chosen accommodation, soaking up the majestic nature of Phong Nha!

Ready to visit Phong Nha? Here’s some more valuable resources for you:

• Book your Phong Nha Cave tour today and embark on an unforgettable journey through some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes!
• Listen to our Phong Nha Podcast Guide for more Travel Tips!

Written by Lauren Tracy

We extend our thanks to our Ambassadors for their contributions to this post

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• Exploring Phong Nha Cave By...

Exploring Vietnam's Phong Nha Cave

In the center of Vietnam, on the border of Laos and in the midst of the Annamite mountain range, sits one of the most pristine pieces of jungle left in Southeast Asia — Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng. The national park and UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of largest caves in the world, hollowed, eroded and split open over millions of years.

Phong nha-kẻ bàng.

It would be difficult to find anywhere in the entire nation of Vietnam an area more well-preserved and wild than Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park . There’s no litter, no gaudy construction projects and no sense of rapid development that’s prevalent throughout much of the rest of the country. Instead, there’s nature. Vast and uninterrupted limestone peaks soar to the horizon. Dense jungle canopy clings to rock walls, climbing thousands of feet into the sky. The roar of motorbikes succumbs to the cacophony of birds, monkeys and langurs singing in the safe confines of the forest. Cave systems run for hundreds of miles through and beneath the limestone giants overhead. Some are more expensive and difficult to reach, others are cheaper and easier to find. Phong Nha Cave is perhaps the easiest to access and one of the most stunning.

Phong Nha cave is accessible by boat from the tourist center in Phong Nha town. Tickets need to be purchased for the ride and the cave itself, luckily both are relatively cheap and the process is straightforward and simple. Entrance to the cave is 150,000 VND and the boat 360,000. However, to make things cheaper for yourself, it’s important to wait around the ticket booth until some other travelers approach and then purchase your boat tickets together. They allow up to 14 in one boat so the price can fall dramatically depending on your group size.

The ride to the cave takes 15 or 20 minutes along the Son River on one of the many wooden boats. It’s a peaceful experience sliding slowly across blue-green waters toward the park as small towns and steeples fade from view, replaced by karst walls and blanketing jungle flora. The river ambles by, snaking between peaks and thick foliage that runs to the water’s edge. Several smaller caves are visible high up on the exposed limestone mountainsides. As the boat turns round one final bend, a massive rock wall appears in the distance and the cave opening comes into view.

Into the abyss

As the boats reach the caves they queue up, entering only one or two at a time. Engines die and the operators drag them along with long poles, slowly and methodically spearing them into the murky water. Once past the entrance, the immense cavern opens up. Giant stalactite chandeliers hang down from the ceiling. Without prodding or asking, everyone falls silent as eyes gaze up and the stone cathedral’s grandeur spills out. It’s a spectacular sight. Flood lights have been tastefully hidden throughout the first kilometer or so, illuminating other-worldly limestone structures. After 20 minutes the boats reach the end of the area you’re allowed to explore and turn back.

Exploring on foot

Before exiting the cave, each boat pulls to the side toward a sandy beach. Passengers are able to depart and walk, surrounded by 400 million-year-old sculptures. Limestone twists and turns all around, fascinating patterns fall from the walls – some so perfect it’s hard to believe they’re not man-made. After walking the last 100 meters toward the cave’s opening, a staircase leads out and up toward some shops and a dock where the boats reconvene.

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A Complete Guide To Exploring Phong Nha Caves

Dive into the mesmerizing world of Phong Nha Caves , Vietnam’s hidden gem within the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. With breathtaking stalactites, vast underground chambers, and a tapestry of history, these caves promise more than just a visual treat. Ready for an epic subterranean adventure? Let’s embark on this ultimate guide to unraveling the secrets of Phong Nha!

Why Phong Nha Caves Are So Famous?

Historical echoes.

The Phong Nha Caves hold a special place in the heart of Vietnam. The Archaeological Institute of Vietnam recognized their significance in 1995, but locals have treasured the caves for much longer. French missionary Léopold Cadière first noted their historical value way back in 1899. During the Vietnam War, the caves served as protective shelters during bombings, providing a safe haven for those enduring the adversities of war. It’s incredible to think that such a beautiful landmark could have played such an important role in history.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Phong Nha Caves belong to the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2003. It is recognized for its outstanding geological values, biodiversity, and unique karst landscapes.

Geographical Splendors

This extensive cave system attracts explorers and adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Notable caves include Son Doong Cave, Phong Nha Cave, Hang En Cave, and Paradise Cave. These caves showcase remarkable geological features, such as enormous chambers, stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and underground rivers.

Its spectacular karst landscapes, featuring rugged limestone mountains and cliffs, are also worth mentioning. The karst formations have been shaped over millions of years through geological processes, resulting in breathtaking scenery.

Its Cultural Tapestry and Local Community

Phong Nha is a lively mix of traditions and communities. Families, usually consisting of three generations, live together in one house. Friends gather to celebrate with local rice wine and karaoke sessions. Visitors are welcomed with open arms and often take part in local celebrations and family dinners.

The heart and soul of Phong Nha also lie within its local community. The people are friendly and welcoming. They always wear a smile on their faces, making the area a unique and special place. Tourism has breathed new life into the region, with locals taking on various jobs, including fishing and guiding tourists with enthusiasm and passion.

Stunning Caves Of Phong Nha Caves

Son doong cave.

Son Doong Cave – The world’s largest cave

The world’s largest cave, Son Doong, measures 9 kilometers in length and has a capacity of 38.5 million cubic meters. The cave’s magnificent dimensions never cease to astound, with its largest width stretching to 150 meters and its highest cave arch reaching an astounding 200 meters in height. To put this into perspective, picture cramming 15,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools and a 40-story skyscraper within!

Explorers might be amazed at the breathtaking underground ecosystem with abundant greenery, unusual plants and animals inside Son Doong Cave. It is an experience that reminds you of the strength of life and the mighty powers of nature, yet it is also humble and uplifting.

Tu Lan Cave System

A chain of streams slicing through the countryside connects the Tu Lan cave system. Millions of years passed throughout this process, creating a collection of caverns that are remarkably distinct from one another. 

Song Cave, one of the oldest caves in the Tu Lan system, is known as the most peculiar structure. There are coral reefs, patches of cauliflower, and subterranean “fields” filled with tiny stalagmites that resemble seaweed preserved in time. Another artist is Ken Cave. Here, stalactites that have been shaped by the wind to resemble flowing curtains or the claws of legendary animals may be found. Others protrude from the ceiling like long plastic straws, hidden from the weather.

En Cave Entrance

A Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park trek leads you to En Cave, the world’s third-largest cave. It has a large passage running through a limestone mountain, with three entrances that are up to 110 meters high, a ceiling that reaches 145 meters at its highest point, and the widest section of the passageway reaching up to 200 meters. Inside En Cave, there is a clear stream that flows through the cave, eventually heading to Hang Son Doong.

Its unique avian population and enormous size make En Cave a significant site for conservation efforts.

One of the significant caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is Va Cave. Situated around 50 meters from the entrance to Son Doong Cave, it is situated deep within the national park. Scientists think these caves are related hydrologically. Its noteworthy feature is the tower cones, which are a type of cave formation with an intricate structure and a huge population.

Paradise Cave

Paradise Cave is a 31-km-long wonder that you enter via a wooden staircase leading to a grand chamber. The cave is renowned for its high ceilings adorned with beautiful stalactites, some reaching down into the cavern below. While most tourists explore just the first kilometer, kayaking options allow for deeper exploration. Like all caves in the region, Paradise Cave is governed by strict conservation guidelines to protect its unique features.

Phong Nha Cave

Boarding a boat into Phong Nha Cave

For a more tranquil experience, take a serene boat ride on the Son River to Phong Nha Cave. As you journey through, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and magnificent karst mountains. The cave is stunning, featuring stalactites and stalagmites resembling a giant monster’s teeth. With only 400 meters open to tourists, the cave offers a more relaxed exploration, yet its unique formations and status as the region’s namesake make it a high-priority conservation site.

>> Read More: Top 10 Caves In Vietnam – Discover The Incredible Gifts From Nature

Things To Do When Exploring The Phong Nha Caves

Step into the wild: walking & hiking.

Phong Nha Caves offer hikers a chance to boast magnificent landscapes that they won’t find anywhere else in Vietnam. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or new to the hiking scene, organized tours led by local experts offer the best of both worlds. Immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur during the day, or opt for a night tour to experience the nocturnal side of the jungle. For animal lovers, visiting local animal rescue centers on a two-day eco-tour adds an educational layer to your adventure. Jungle Boss is a highly recommended outfit for guided hiking tours.

Immerse In The Nature: Camping

Camping inside Son Doong Cave

Camping is an experience that can leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It is an activity that allows you to get closer to nature and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life.

If you’re an adventurer at heart, you might enjoy setting up your tent in the midst of a breathtaking limestone karst landscape surrounding the cave. As the sun sets, you can witness the sky filling with stars, creating a magical ambiance. The serenity of the surroundings, the fresh air, and the sound of wildlife will help you unwind and relax. 

Paddle Through Tranquility: Kayaking Adventures

Embark on an unforgettable adventure by paddling your way through the serene waters of the Phong Nha River because it offers a peaceful and breathtakingly beautiful environment for kayaking enthusiasts.

Alternatively, if you are seeking more diverse and thrilling water activities, head towards Toi Cave, a famous tourist spot. This cave suggests a one-stop destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as kayaking, swimming, and even zip-lining. Toi Cave offers a unique experience for those seeking an adrenaline rush. 

>> See Tour: World Heritage Sites of Vietnam

Other Things To Know Before Traveling To Phong Nha

Best time to visit phong nha caves.

• For the optimal experience, aim to visit during the dry season from April to August . This period offers the best conditions for exploring the underground rivers and wet caves. It’s also the ideal time for indulging in adrenaline-pumping activities like kayaking, zip-lining, and hiking.
• You should avoid the rainy season from September to November. Many tourist sites are closed during this time due to extreme weather conditions like floods.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip, then book accommodations and activities in advance, especially if you plan to visit during these popular months.

How To Get To Phong Nha Caves

• Option 1: Via Dong Hoi City

The first way to reach Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is to travel to Dong Hoi City, which is accessible by both plane and train. Once you arrive in Dong Hoi, you’re about 45 kilometers away from your final destination.

Simply drive northwest along National Road 16 until you reach the Son River. A boat ride along this river will take you straight to Phong Nha Cave. The journey from Dong Hoi’s city center to the cave usually takes around 1.5 hours. This route offers the flexibility of adding a stopover in a bustling city, where you can explore local markets, dine on local cuisine, or even take a quick beach trip.

• Option 2: The Sleeper Bus Experience

If you’re looking for a different kind of travel experience and have some time to spare, consider taking an overnight sleeper bus. These buses are particularly popular for routes from Hanoi, which take about 9 hours. Buses are also available from nearby cities like Da Nang and Hue. Sleeper buses offer a more budget-friendly option and a chance to interact with other travelers, making your journey to Phong Nha an adventure in itself.

What To Wear

• A good, well-worn pair of boots, sneakers, or trail shoes is advised.
• Wearing moisture-wicking clothes is better than dressing in layers for temperature regulation.
• Dress athletically for the summer vacation, and merely pack a jacket if it gets chilly.
• Bring swimsuits if the activities include and extra clothing in case you need to change.

Prepare suitable clothes when exploring Phong Nha Caves

Where To Stay

If comfort and luxury top your list, hotels offer an elegant blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. Hotels like Phong Nha Coco Riverside, Son Doong Riverside, Thien Thanh Hotel, Karst Villa Phong Nha, Victory Road Villas, and Hung Phat Bungalow deliver an unparalleled experience.

Wake up to stunning views of nature, enjoy top-notch services from professional staff, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. Plus, many of these hotels offer activities like kayaking, allowing you to explore the region without straying too far from your comfort zone. While the prices may be higher than homestays, the experience is worth every penny.

If you’re keen to immerse yourself in the local culture, homestays offer a heartfelt experience that’s hard to beat. Stay with a local family and become a part of their daily lives, sharing meals and stories as if you were one of their own.

Accommodations like Phong Nha Memory Homestay, Sy’s Homestay, Phong Nha Farmstay, and Funny Monkeys Homestay are particularly popular for their warm hospitality and affordable pricing. These stays offer a window into the simple yet fulfilling lifestyle of Phong Nha’s residents and provide a sense of belonging that hotels simply can’t match.

Local Cuisine

Phong Nha is a haven for food lovers, offering an array of local dishes, the most notable being Thit Nuong (barbecue meat). Available in chicken, beef, or pork, this dish is served with a local flavored chutney that is simply irresistible. In addition to local cuisine, you’ll find multiple Vietnamese and Western food options, thanks to the area’s many restaurants and hotels.

Local Market

As a hive of activity, markets around here are best visited between 6:00 and 9:00. It is located along the main road and offers everything from fresh produce to essential items like hats, raincoats, and snacks. While you won’t find high-end trekking gear, you’ll find plenty of basic items to meet your needs. Feel free to haggle and explore—the market is a microcosm of this place’s vibrant community.

Your Phong Nha Adventures Await

Phong Nha Caves are the hidden gems waiting to be explored, every trail as an invitation to adventure, and every meal as a taste of the local culture. From the awe of its underground wonders to the warmth of its people, these natural wonders are more than travel destinations. All will create an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

So contact Asia Pioneer Travel ‘s committed travel designers to Craft Your Adventurous Trip and get ready for an unforgettable Phong Nha Cave tour in Vietnam.

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Complete guide to visiting phong nha caves in vietnam.

Looking for an amazing day in Vietnam you won’t forget in a hurry? Then visiting the Phong Nha caves in the centre of the country could be just the answer!

Technically speaking, Phong Nha is the name of one particular cave, within one particular national park in Vietnam.

But like me, most people don’t realise that until they visit the area.

So for the purposes of this article, I’m going to use the term “Phong Nha caves” as a short-hand travel term for the entirety of this incredible Vietnamese cave network.

For incredible it certainly is!

In fact, this cave network is so huge and impressive, that it’s UNESCO-listed and rumoured to hold some of the largest caves in the world… I know!

As such, this guide is going to cover the entire area, as well as everything you need to know and prepare for your trip to this part of Vietnam.

Because if there’s one thing you should do when it comes to the caves of Phong Nha, it’s don’t miss them!

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Why Visit Phong Nha Caves?

So, as I’ve alluded to in the introduction, the Phong Nha cave network is a must-visit Vietnam spot in my opinion.

UNESCO-listed, ultra-impressive and absolutely massive, I also liked this part of Vietnam because it was different – another diverse string in this country’s already incredible offering.

We all know Vietnam has lovely islands, vibrant culture, delish food, crazy cities and some epic UNESCO treasures like Halong Bay, but who knew it had amazing caves as well?!

The Phong Nha cave area also provides travellers with a chance to enjoy more outdoor and active adventures in Vietnam – yet another reason why I liked it.

After all, it’s not every day you get to go caving in Southeast Asia!

Combined with the already available hiking, kayaking and biking opportunities that exist in this country – caving was another fantastic adventure I was able to enjoy here.

And as far as I know, Phong Nha is the only place you can do this!

I also liked Phong Nha, and recommend you visit here too, because it’s not hugely popular with tourists.

Most travellers on a tight itinerary in Vietnam miss it out and, while it can’t be said to be off the beaten track, this part of Vietnam is considered something a little different.

Just what I like!

Where is Phong Nha Cave?

Situated between the central belt of Vietnam and its northern region, Phong Nha is normally a stop between the cities of Hue and Hanoi on most travel itineraries.

It can also be fitted in if you’re travelling south from Ninh Binh too.

Located in the west of Vietnam, closer to the Laos border than the coast, Phong Nha isn’t the easiest to get to, but this does help keep the masses away!

Most of the caves can be found in a protected area about 70km from the town of Phong Nha itself.

How to Travel to Phong Nha?

Located between Hue and Hanoi, the easiest and most convenient way to get to Phong Nha is by bus.

And that’s because, brilliantly, services run direct into the town of Phong Nha, which acts as the access point for the whole cave area.

Both night and day bus services call in here from Hue and Hanoi and, although buses aren’t usually the quickest method of transport in Vietnam, it is the most direct and simple method for getting to Phong Nha.

The other alternative is to take a domestic flight or a train, but both of these options involve an arrival in Dong Hoi –  a city some 1.5 hrs away from Phong Nha by bus.

The hassle and time involved in doing this really makes getting a bus direct to Phong Nha the best option in my book.

Buses here are also very cheap!

As always in Vietnam, I use 12Go to book my bus tickets in advance. I love how their site makes it easy to compare journeys and pay for tickets securely, in English.

Alternatively, check out Bookaway who have some of the best deals going for bus and train travel in Vietnam.

When to Visit?

Located in the northern-ish region of Vietnam, the climate in and around Phong Nha can be a little temperamental!

In the winter months of May to October, it can get pretty chilly here but does tend to be drier.

In the summer months of November through February – when it’s high season in most of Southeast Asia and the south of Vietnam – it’s often raining very heavily in the north of this country, including around Phong Nha.

As such, my best suggestion is to visit during the shoulder months of April or October, when the weather tends to be dry and not too hot.

The south of Vietnam is also ok to visit during these months too, which makes them good all-round months to visit the country as a whole.

Perfect Phong Nha Itinerary

I’d recommend a stay of 2-3 nights in the Phong Nha Cave region – depending on what time of the day you arrive.

If you arrive in the evening from Hue, as I did, then day 1 will likely just involve checking into your accommodation, settling in and wandering Phong Nha town, which is really just a one-street village with some restaurants, guesthouses and rental shops lining it.

I’d then suggest spending day 2 exploring the caves near the town, which you can do independently by hiring a scooter and heading to nearby Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park.

Here you’ll find Dark Cave and Paradise Cave, which are easy to access without a tour or guide. Entrance costs 250,000 VND and then it’s a 1km walk to the caves.

On day 3 of your Phong Nha cave itinerary, I then suggest taking a tour to some of the deeper and further away caves – the ones you really can’t access by yourself.

If you arrive early on day 1, instead of in the evening, then condense the first 2 days of the above itinerary into 1 and use the remaining 2 days to take an extended Phong Nha overnight cave tour.

Learn more about these options further on in this article.

What to Prepare in Advance of Your Visit?

So yes, one of the things you should prepare in advance of your trip to the Phong Nha cave region is your 1 day or overnight cave tour.

And that’s because there’s only a few companies that offer them, given the special equipment and license etc you need.

One of the few, and by far the best as per the online reviews and my personal experience, is Oxalis.

Oxalis run tours to several different caves deep within the Phong Nha area and for some of the most challenging and remote, they are the only company to go there.

Because of this, plus their professionalism and range of tours, Oxalis trips book out quickly.

I only realised this when I was on the bus to Phong Nha, but luckily found 1 place left on 1 tour for the next day.

However, I don’t recommend leaving it this late, as you’d hate to go all the way to the Phong Nha caves and not be able to experience them at their best.

As such, one thing you should definitely do in advance of your trip is book your Oxalis tour for the dates and tour you want!

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

And finally, you should check you have the right sort of clothes for your Oxalis tour. Details of what you’ll need can be found on the company website and more info is given later on in this post too.

Phong Nha Cave Tours

So yes, you should definitely take a Phong Nha cave tour if you’re coming all this way, you should definitely go with Oxalis (this was not sponsored FYI!) and you should definitely book it in advance!

As per my itinerary above, I suggest either a 1 day or overnight cave tour in Phong Nha and, wonderfully, Oxalis offer many different options, so check out their website for details including tour length, difficulty rating and availability.

I took their 1 Day Tu Lan Experience (because it was the only one they had space on), but I absolutely loved it and definitely count it among my best days in Vietnam, if not the whole of Southeast Asia.

Prices start from 1,800,000 VND per person and this tour runs every day except Friday. Included is 8km of trekking, 500m of caving and the chance to marvel at the beauty of 2 dry caves and swim in a waterfall.

If I had booked earlier however (and had a bigger budget!), I’d love to have taken one of Oxalis’ 2 day tours in the Phong Nha area, which involve spending a night out in a cave.

Top of my list would be the overnight Hang En Endeavour tour, which costs 6,500,000 VND per person.

Essential Packing List for Phong Nha Caving

Yes, so one of the things you must think about in advance of your Phong Nha cave trip is whether you have the right sort of clothing.

If not, it pays to pick up the bits you might be missing in advance of your arrival here, as there aren’t really any suitable shops in Phong Nha town itself.

Thankfully I had all the gear required for my tour with me, but if not, it would have been a problem, given how last minute my organisation for this part of Vietnam was in general!

Top of the list for Phong Nha cave gear is suitable socks – you need good hiking ones that are at least ankle length to reduce the chance of blisters and to provide suitable protection.

You’ll also need good waterproof shoes to go over the socks. These should have excellent grip and tread, but still be light and flexible for the scrambling and clambering required.

Thankfully Oxalis have boots perfect for the job, in many different sizes, which you can rent at their office or registration centre once you’ve booked your tour.

I’d also advise a good, light, thin, waterproof jacket for your caving adventure, this North Venture 2 would be perfect, as well as trousers or leggings you can happily climb, hike and move in.

As always on outdoor pursuits of this nature, layers are key, so bring thin long sleeve tops you can layer over singlets for protection, as well a cap and scarf or buff for sun protection.

A decent day pack to carry everything in, as well as water and lunch, is also required and this backpack from Osprey would be ideal given its design for active situations.

A spare pair of dry clothes you can change into for the bus ride home would also be a good idea, because sometimes the weather and conditions out in the deeper caves is hard to predict given the tropical feel and elevation too.

And nobody wants a soggy and shivering journey home!

You might also want to bring insect repellent, as well as a towel and shower gear – more on this later!

What is a Tour With Oxalis Like?

And talking of journeys, it’s great to know that if you book any Oxalis tour, this company will pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation in Phong Nha either side of the tour.

This is usually done with a minivan, where you meet your fellow group participants, and then drive an hour to Oxalis’  National Park depot.

Here you’ll find the company’s registration centre, located on the edge of deeper cave networks, from where you’ll begin your adventure.

You can leave your dry set of clothes and anything else not required for the active part of the day at the registration centre, as well as rent boots and any other items of clothing you might need too.

And yes, there’s hot showers here you can use before your journey back to Phong Nha too, so I’d also advise leaving your shower stuff and towel for when you return post-caving.

They also sell beer for the end of the day – hoorah!

It might be useful to know too (as it was for me), that Oxalis will drop you back at your hostel in time for any night bus departures so, if you’re heading onto Hanoi next for example, you can do this all in the same day!

Just take your shower stuff and clean set of clothes, then after your cave adventure, you’re ready to head straight on the night bus, which will pick you up from your hostel normally around 8pm.

Where to Stay & Eat in Phong Nha?

Because it’s a small place, Phong Nha doesn’t have a huge range of accommodation options, but it certainly has enough.

Most of those available are guesthouses or homestays and are perfectly comfortable – check out the best picks here .

King of the hostel scene in this town is Central Backpackers , which boasts a great location on the main street, a swimming pool with loungers and a lively bar.

If you’re looking for somewhere more chilled and personal, then Tropical Valley Homestay gets repeatedly rave reviews.

This place is also well-situated, at the top of the main street, which is basically a strip comprised of eating spots.

For fellow vegetarians, don’t miss the Veggiebox Restaurant , which was a delightful find in Phong Nha!

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How to Get to Vietnam?

Most people arrive into Vietnam by air and land in one of its 2 largest cities.

Both Hanoi in the north, and Ho Chi Minh City in the south, have international airports with flights arriving regularly from around the world and Southeast Asia region.

As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best rates, as they include budget airlines, like Air Asia, in their searches.

Alternatively, if you’re already in a neighbouring country, such as Laos or Cambodia, it’s easy to arrive into Vietnam by bus, as I did.

Learn all about my journey crossing the land border between Kampot in Cambodia and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam here and use 12Go to book all your bus and train travel both in and around Vietnam – this site is the best!

Travel Insurance for Vietnam

5 Packing Essentials for Vietnam

#1 Lonely Planet Guidebook – The Vietnam Lonely Planet is excellent and very helpful for any trip to this country with lots of top tips and recommended places to eat.

#2 Walking Shoes – There’s likely to be a lot of walking in Vietnam, especially around those temples and cities. As such, I advise packing a pair of good runners, like these New Balance trainers , which were perfect for my time here.

#3 European & British Power Adapters – Vietnam has a mix of power outlets, but generally opts for a mix of the European and British ones, so make sure you come prepared with a Skross world adapter .

#4 Camera and Lens – I love my Sony A6000 mirrorless , which was ideal for capturing the colour, chaos and cuisine and charm of Vietnam.

#5 Travel Scarf – A great multi-purpose travel item that can be used to safely store valuables, as well as cover your shoulders while you explore many of Vietnam’s top sights, a travel scarf is a must for me!

How to Save When You Spend in Vietnam

When it comes to paying for things in Vietnam, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card abroad, which is why I always take my Wise Card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card in Vietnam… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Get yours here .

SAVE THIS ARTICLE TO PINTEREST!

Have I convinced you to add the Phong Nha caves to your Vietnam list now?

I hope so, and also that this post has given you all the info you need.

And just to make it clear, I paid fully for my Oxalis tour and am not affiliated with them in any way.

I just totally back what they offer and their level of professionalism and organisation!

If I’ve missed anything, then please don’t hesitate to drop your questions or thoughts into the comments box below. I’d love to hear from you…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Phong Nha Cave & Boat Trip

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

The spectacular boat trip through Phong Nha Cave is an enjoyable though touristy experience beginning in Son Trach town. Boats cruise past buffalo, limestone peaks and church steeples to the cave’s gaping mouth. The engine is then cut and the boats are negotiated silently through cavern after garishly illuminated cavern. On the return leg there's the option to climb (via 330 steps) up to the mountainside Tien Son Cave (60,000d), with the remains of 9th-century Cham altars and inscriptions.

The ticket office and departure jetty are in Son Trach village. Allow two hours to see Phong Nha; add an hour for Tien Son. In November and December, seasonal floods may mean Phong Nha Cave is closed. Weekends are extremely popular with Vietnamese visitors, whose presence is amplified by the spectacular echoes and unventilated cigarette smoke. Note the cave was used as a hospital and ammunition depot during the American War and was heavily bombed.

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• A complete guide to Phong Nha

Boats cruise along the river next to Phong Nha town. Photo by Christian Berg

Phong Nha is an adventurer’s paradise. Millions of years of flooding have chiseled out the world’s largest caves, meandering rivers entwine ancient karsts, and jungle-clad mountains lend an otherworldly atmosphere.

Colossal caves may be the main draw, but linger a little longer and phong nha-ke bang national park will reveal hiking trails, countryside lanes, and rivers perfect for kayaking. although this is vietnam’s top adventure destination, phong nha is still in the early stages of development. now is the time to come. the caves are pristine, the locals are friendly, and you’ll feel like you have the wilderness all to yourself., top things to do in phong nha.

Camping and Caving

Caves in Phong Nha range from the tame to the tremendous. For conservation reasons, local authorities restrict access to the larger caves. Some tour companies have exclusive rights to take travellers inside certain caves, while others are open to all. Son Doong looms large as one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, but don’t let that overshadow the allure of Phong Nha’s other treasures. 

TIP: It's worth noting that many of Phong Nha’s caves are inaccessible during rainy season (from October to December.) Try to visit at other times of the year if you can.

Son Doong is the world’s largest cave, with stalagmites that compete in height with London’s Big Ben. An expedition to Son Doong takes four days with camping spots set up on scenic parts of the trail. This is the most challenging and costly expedition in the area, and often booked out months in advance.

The Tu Lan cave system lets you wade, swim, climb and crawl through a seemingly never-ending network of tunnels. If you enjoy floating down underground rivers and burrowing through tight passageways, this is the cave system for you. Tours of Tu Lan range from one-day moderate trips to full-on, four-day expeditions.

TIP: Parts of the 2017 blockbuster Kong: Skull Island were filmed in and around the Tu Lan cave system. Watch the movie for a taste of the scenery that awaits.

Hang Va and Nuoc Nut

Famous for their striking stalagmites and picturesque rock pools, Hang Va and Nuoc Nut are ideal for a two-day tour. The trip is short but challenging, as you’ll need to navigate razor-sharp rocks and clamber over karst passes to access the caves. Hang Va is undoubtedly the highlight, especially from January to March when the rock pools are at their fullest.

Exploring Pygmy Cave, the world’s fourth largest, involves a challenging three-day expedition complete with abseiling and climbing. En route you’ll swim underground rivers in Tiger Cave and wade through jade-coloured ponds in Over Cave. If you haven’t the time or budget for Son Doong, Pygmy Cave provides a great alternative at a fraction of the price. For tours of Pygmy Cave, visit the Jungle Boss website .

A moderate, full-day trek through the national park brings you to Hang En, the world’s third largest cave. Expeditions in Hang En include an overnight stay out in the jungle or at the cave entrance, beneath thousands of darting swallows.

TIP: For expeditions to Son Doong, Hang En, Tu Lan, Hang Va and Nuoc Nut, you’ll need to book tours directly with  Oxalis . Try to contact them in advance to avoid disappointment.

Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave

Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave are the most popular attractions in the national park. Both of these are enjoyable, straightforward half-day tours, easily booked via your hotel. The entry to Phong Nha Cave features a journey along the river, while in Paradise Cave, a series of wooden walkways lets you explore safely. If you’re travelling with kids, both of these caves will allow them to join the fun.

My Phong Nha from Vietnam Tourism Board on Vimeo .

Other Activities in Phong Nha

For an alternative way to see Phong Nha Cave, try a kayaking tour away from the crowds. Hang Toi, just a few kilometres away, also presents a fun selection of activities, including kayaking, swimming and zip lining. Planning your own kayak adventure? Oxalis and  Victory Road Villas rent kayaks for independent trips along Phong Nha’s picturesque river.

Walking & Hiking

The scenery in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is like nowhere else in Vietnam. If caving doesn’t appeal, hiking is a rewarding way to encounter Phong Nha’s lush landscape. Organised hiking tours are the best way to explore, as local experts will take you along hidden trails unknown to other travellers. If you love wildlife, consider a night tour, or pay a visit to animal rescue centres on a two-day hiking eco-tour. Jungle Boss is one of the top hiking tour outfits in the area.

TIP: Don’t be scared to get your feet wet! The best hiking and cycling routes pass through rivers and streams -- bring appropriate footwear.

Cycling & Motorbike Tours

Go deeper into the countryside as you navigate narrow lanes, crisscross rice paddies, and traverse streams. Many hotels provide free bicycle rentals for riding around town. To see more of the countryside, head towards the Ho Chi Minh Highway to Bong Lai Valley. This picturesque area is home to farms, viewpoints and swimming holes. It’s a 15-kilometre loop through peaceful pastoral scenery. 

If you’re an avid cyclist, try taking on the paved roads of the national park -- just be sure to have a proper mountain bike, map and plenty of water. For a more engaging experience, book a cycling tour with local guides who can show you unmapped paths and introduce you to farmers and villagers. Feeling leisurely? A motorbike tour will let you take in the scenery without breaking a sweat.

TIP:  Phong Nha Adventure Cycling is geared up for quality bicycle tours with good mountain bikes and expert guides. Hai’s Eco Tour also offers motorbike trips with licensed local drivers.

Practical Tips for Visting Phong Nha

Where to stay in phong nha.

Phong Nha is a fantastic place to soak up the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside. The best option for nature lovers is booking a boutique homestay, farmstay or villa in the rice fields — just outside of the town. Here you’ll be immersed in rural life and wake up to beautiful views each morning. Phong Nha town also has a handful of accommodation options to choose from, including easy-going hostels and humble riverside guest houses.

Restaurants in Phong Nha

Most homestays and guest houses offer their own menus for guests, which is handy after a day of outdoor adventure. In Phong Nha town you’ll find small, family-run restaurants cooking Vietnamese and Western dishes. Head to Coffee Station for a tropical smoothie bowl or locally grown coffee, savour a sundowner at Momma D’s Rooftop, or try the barbecue menu at Chao Restaurant.

TIP: For a real farm-to-table culinary experience, take a bumpy ride or scenic boat trip to The Pub with Cold Beer – a Phong Nha attraction in itself.

Transport to Phong Nha

Flying is the most comfortable way to reach Phong Nha. There are daily domestic flights to Dong Hoi Airport from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and several weekly flights from Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Dong Hoi can be reached by train on the main Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City railway line. Nearby destinations are Hue and Danang (Hoi An) to the south and Ninh Binh to the north. Check the train schedule on the  Vietnam Railway website or book your train tickets online in advance.

Overnight sleeper buses (VND 300,000) leave from Hanoi to Phong Nha daily. Travel time is about 9 hours one way. There are also several open buses to Phong Nha each day from nearby cities such as Hue (VND 150,000) and Danang (VND 200,000). You can usually buy bus tickets at your accommodation or from travel agents the day before departure.

Bus from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha  - Local buses run from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha for as little as VND 35,000 a seat. The ride is between 45 to 90 minutes, and buses run hourly (except noon) from 5am to 5pm. Note that the bus terminals are a few kilometres from the train station and airport. If you need to you can get there via taxi or motorbike taxi.

Taxi from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha  - You can save time by taking a taxi directly to Phong Nha (VND 400,000) from the airport or train station in Dong Hoi. If you’re travelling on a budget, look for people to share a taxi with when you arrive.

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Top 10 best caves in Phong Nha

Phong Nha is one of the most impressive areas of Vietnam. The region is known for the many caves that you can find, including Hang Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world. But with so many caves that you can explore, you may wonder which one to visit. This of course depends on your travel time, budget and adventure level.

In the overview below you will find three different “adventure levels”, to make it easier to determine whether visiting the cave is for you or not:

• Low : You walk through an illuminated cave with made paths.
• High : You will explore a cave with a helmet and flashlight, where you may have to swim and climb.
• Very high : You stay away for several days. You travel through the jungle and stay just outside or even in the cave. In the cave you walk with a helmet and flashlight, where you have to climb and swim.
• There are several lists and calculations online with the largest caves in the world. In Phong Nha, they assume that Hang Son Doong is the largest cave in the world that has been discovered to date. The third largest cave in the world in Hang En and the fourth largest cave is Pygmy.
• Hang is Vietnamese for cave. Place a hang for each name of the cave. Tourists often use the English name of the cave, such as Paradise Cave for Hang Thien Duong and Dark Cave for Hang Toi.
• For a few caves, including the largest, Hang Son Doong, only Oxalis has a license to organize tours. For other caves you can go to various other companies and there are also local people who offer this. We recommend that you always go with an officially registered company and check the reviews online.
• If you are less adventurous, there are also caves that you can visit with lighting and good trails. In addition, Phong Nha is not only impressive underground, but also above ground, this is a fantastic and beautiful national park. Read more about Phong Nha here.

Hang Son Doong Cave

To begin with the cave of caves, Hang Son Doong. This cave was discovered in 2009 and is the largest cave in the world. Son Doong is huge: it has its own ecosystem with a rain forest of trees up to 30 meters high, with its own population of bats, birds and monkeys. If you want to visit Son Doong, you have to put down quite a bit of money. Maybe it will become more accessible in the future, with plans to build large cable cars here. You just have to ask yourself if it would be better if that wasn’t the case.

• 4 days: Jungle trekking, abseiling, climbing, swimming, camping in the cave. Cost: $ 3000.

Paradise cave

Paradise Cave was discovered in 2005 and is so named because of its incredible cathedral-like stalagmite and stalactite formations. The cave is 31 kilometers long with rooms up to 100 meters high and is three times larger than the Phong Nha cave. The limestone formations are also the most spectacular of any cave in the region. You can drive to the entrance. On the one hand it means that you can easily visit the cave as a day trip, but it also means that it is far from quiet.

• You can easily visit yourself or per tour. Admission: $ 12

Phong Nha Cave

Phong Nha is the cave that gives its name to the national park, and is the most popular cave in the region. With a length of 7,729 meters, it is the longest underground river in the world. The Phong Nha cave is still pretty impressive, but after the newly discovered Paradise Cave and the largest cave in the world, Son Doong, the grandiose is a bit off.

• A nice boat trip from the tourist center is the way to visit the cave. During this you will see a glimpse of the local life and the countryside before you enter the cave. The drive to the cave takes about 25 minutes and when you reach the entrance, the engine is switched off and steered to prevent air and noise pollution.
• Instead of a quiet boat trip, you can also kayak in the cave, in combination with swimming and walk through an unlit part of the cave with lamps.

Of the three most popular caves, Dark Cave (Hang Toi) is the most adventurous (the other two are Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave). This cave is located 15 km from Phong Nha and is in reality more a fun adventurous half day than a good cave tour. You can expect this in Dark Cave:

• Ziplining from a tower to the cave entrance
• Swimming from the end of the zipline to the entrance to the cave, which is approximately 20 meters.
• Walk barefoot with helmet and head lamp through the cave in the dark and experience a mud cave including a mud bath.
• Kayak back from the entrance.
• Enjoy the water activities with zipline facilities.
• You visit Dark Cave in a half-day tour, where you walk through a cave full of mud and with many other activities such as ziplining.

Hang En Cave

Hang En was considered the largest cave in Vietnam until the discovery of Son Doong, and despite having lost this tribute, it is still the third largest in the world. This cave is one of the most photogenic caves in the national park. The wide entrance opens directly into the lush jungle and light shafts illuminate a lake with a sandy beach. Unlike Paradise Cave or Phong Nha Cave, Hang En is only accessible after a trekking of approximately ten kilometers through the jungle, crossing rivers and climbing mountain slopes. It gives an excellent sense of adventure, but this also makes Hang And not a busy tourist cave compared to other caves in this National Park.

• 2 days: One of the most breathtaking natural landscapes you will see in this life. You will spend the night camping in the cave on the sandy beach! You will also visit an ethnic village, Ban Doong, located in the jungle. From € 300.

Tu Lan Cave

The Tu Lan cave system is another adventurous cave, with underground waterfalls, green lakes, beautiful stalagmites and stalactites. Just like Hang En, this cave is relative inaccessibility; you have to walk several kilometers and swim a little to get there. This already gives a huge sense of adventure that is missing from the impressive Paradise Cave.

• 1 day: This is the best adventure tour that you can do in one in Phong Nha. Visiting the cave including climbing, swimming about 50 meters through a wild river cave and walking 9 km through the jungle.
• 2 days: The most popular two-day jungle and cave experience in Vietnam. Swim through river caves, river caves, underground waterfalls and spend the night in a jungle camp next to a spectacular waterfall.
• 3 days: During the three-day tour you will spend the night at two different jungle campsites next to beautiful waterfalls, explore a number of caves, and swim through caves.
• 4 days: In the four-day tour you also explore various other caves such as Hang Tien, Kim Cave and Secret Cave with phenomenal waterfalls and karst formations and overnight stays in the jungle.

Hang Va Cave

A small piece of Son Doong for those who cannot afford the Son Soong price tag themselves: Hang Va. Hang Va and the nearby Hang Nuoc Nut are technically part of the Son Doong cave system due to their shared water flow, and contain rock formations that are even more impressive. These caves were only discovered in 2012, which means that there have been few people. Just like the Tu Lan and Hang Ken caves, you have to be pretty fit to explore this cave, walking over rocks, swimming through underground rivers and climbing. This cave is for the more adventurous traveler.

• 2 days: A two-day tour with a combination of two caves: Hang Va & Hang Nuoc Nut. Keep in mind that this is the most difficult 2-day cave tour. From € 300.

Tien Song Cave

The oldest discovered cave in the region is often skipped because it is very similar to Phong Nha Cave. The Tien Son cave is also 100 meters above the Phong Nha cave and can only be reached via a long steep staircase. The cave is in some parts up to 25 meters high and 35 meters wide. A visit to Tien Son Cave is usually combined with a visit to the Phong Nha Cave.

• Admission price is: 80,000 vnd (excluding the boat trip to the entrance). The boat is the same as the one for the Phong Nha cave. Can also be combined with the Phong Nha Cave tour.

Tra Ang Cave

Tra Ang is one of Vietnam’s most recently discovered caves and it was only opened to visitors in 2016. In that time it has received minimal visitor numbers. To reach it, you must trek through the dense jungle. The easiest option is to explore as part of a tour. Once inside, you can only explore the cave by swimming in the river that flows through it.

• 1 day: Visiting Tra Ang quickly takes a whole day, because you can only reach the cave by pulling a few kilometers through the jungle. You go swimming inside the cave.

Tam Co cave (8 Ladies Cave)

The Tam Co cave or the 8 Ladies Cave is easy to visit without a guide and is a 20-minute drive from Paradise Cave. The cruel history of Vietnam can be seen in the small cave. Here in 1972 a group of women died after being trapped by a bomb explosion during the Vietnam War. Today there is an altar and temple in their honor.

• You can easily visit this small cave yourself. Admission is free.

This cave has only just been opened to tourists and therefore there have really only been a few tourists. It is said that this is the fourth largest cave in the world. It is certainly very impressive, with a trek through the jungle, you can camp at the entrance to the cave and inside it is also beautiful.

• 2 days: Camp in the cave, explore the cave, trek through the jungle and swim. The cave is often visited in combination with Hang Over Cave.
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Local tip! You might like these experiences

Hang En adventure camping in cave 2 days 1 night

• Explore the most beautiful cave of Phong Nha
• Overnight campsite inside the cave next to a lake
• Awesome jungle trek and cave exploring

Phong Nha Cave and Dark Cave

• Explore Phong Nha cave by boat and feet
• Enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Phong Nha National Park
• Join amazing activities in the Dark Cave, including mud bath, caving and zip lining

Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave

• Take a boat ride through the underground river in Phong Nha cave
• Explore Paradise cave, one of the worlds most beautiful caves
• Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch
• Destination: Phong Nha
• By: Marnick Schoonderwoerd
• August 8, 2019
• No Comments

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Phong Nha Caves

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Phong Nha Cave And Paradise Cave Tour

Quang Binh is a magnificent picture of both the forests and the seas. This place is famous for many majestic natural landscapes: Deo Ngang (Ngang Pass), Nhat Le Beach , and Da Nhay Beach (Jumping rock beach); especially Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park – a world heritage site for nature. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is known as the “Kingdom of Caves” containing the breathtaking beauty of nature, with more than 300 various-sized caves. Quang Binh ‘s 1-day tour program explores Phong Nha -Ke Bang National Park’s famous caves, Phong Nha Cave , and Paradise Cave , to help you have memorable experiences in the land of white sand and windy from Lao country.

Joining Quang Binh ‘s 1-day tour , you can sit on a boat upstream of the Son River to admire the masterpieces of nature which formed over hundreds of millions of years inside Phong Nha Cave . With an underground river system, stalactites are very magnificent and unique. The astounding beauty of Paradise Cave will take your breath away behind that as innumerable stalactites grow from the ground up, from the lofty stone arches hanging down in various shapes, reflecting dazzling, fantastical light outside, etc. In addition, the fresh air of the primary forest creates a highly refreshing feeling.

Phong Nha Ke Bang 1-day tour to explore Thien Duong Cave – Phong Nha Cave joins a group departing daily at a reasonable price but still guaranteed the best service quality. You can enjoy lunch with delicious specialties of the mountains and forests, enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides with local knowledge, and new air-conditioned tourist cars, etc. Besides, we also organize Phong Nha Cave – Cave Tour Paradise 1 private day at your request.

Contact us for advice and support:  +84 935758884  – [email protected]

Click to book via WhatsApp

Group tour Price:    46 USD   ≈ 1.050.000 VNĐ  (Tour prices may change according to exchange rates)

This is a group tour.

Package Day Tour Included:

• If you arrive early and go late, there is space for rest.
• A new air-conditioned sightseeing car picks up and sees off in Dong Hoi during the program.
• Vietnamese or professional English tour guide throughout the route.
• Enjoy lunch at Phong Nha restaurant: 150,000 VND/ 01 person/ 01 meal.
• Tickets to Phong Nha Cave.
• Dragon boat ticket to Phong Nha Cave two-way.
• Tickets to Paradise Cave.
• Golf Cart (Electrical car) for Paradise Cave two-way.
• Lavie mineral water 500ml: 02 bottles/ 01 person/ 01 day.
• Wet tissue: 02 pieces/ 01 person/ 01 day.
• Travel insurance, maximum compensation: 20,000,000 VND/ 01 guest/ 01 incident.

Children tour price:

• Children under 1.1m: free.
• Children: from 1.1m to 1.3m: 50% of tour price.
• Children up to 1.3m: 100% tour price.

Tour exclusion:

• Invoice VAT

What to bring:

• Sports shoes
• Pregnant women over 3 months: Will not be allowed for your safety.

Free pick-up and accommodation in Dong Hoi city in case:

• Pregnant women should be careful when participating in this program for their safety.
• If there are 5 or more guests, we will either arrange a private tour or a shared tour, depending on the circumstances, while still guaranteeing the same level of service and program.
• You take a bus or train to Dong Hoi City before 07:00 AM, the car will pick you up at the company office to take a rest, have a breakfast and departure under the program.
•  You have checked out the hotel and flight, train, bus late after 19:00 PM, at the end of the program Car and tour guide will take you to the company to rest, have dinner and take you to the airport, bus station, train station.

PHONG NHA EXPLORER TRAVEL CO., LTD Add: 41 Hai Ba Trung Street, Dong Hoi City, Quang Binh Province. Email: [email protected] Website: www.phongnhaexplorer.com

Phong Nha Cave And Paradise Cave Tour Phong Nha Cave Tour phong nha caves tour Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park 1 Day Tour Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park Tour phong nha tour

Please Let us know your preference

If above tours do not meet your preference, please feel free to let us know by contact us , we will design the program in your own way

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Phong Nha Ke Bang Travel Guide

Visiting phong nha – ke bang national park, phong nha cave map.

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Experience en cave tour, phong nha ke bang national park, ozo park – ozo treetop park, the tam co cave – the tragic history of 20 year old heroes, tram me village – an isolated village in phong nha – ke bang national park, sinh ton valley – thuy cung cave, phong nha botanic garden, mooc spring.

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Phong Nha Ke Bang Travel News

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Phong Nha Explorer Travel

Phong nha cave tours, phong nha - ke bang national park, phong nha ke bang package tour, phong nha ke bang daily tour.

WHY CHOOSE PHONG NHA CAVES?

Diverse destinations, best prices, beautiful places, fast booking, instant help, emotional travel, most popular tours.

DISCOVERY CHA LOI CAVE SYSTEM 2 DAYS 1 NIGHT

Kong Collapse Top Adventure 5 days 4 nights

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Elephant Cave & Ma Da Valley Jungle Trek

Experience Dong Hoi street food by bicycle

Tour Paradise Cave from Hue 1 day

Tour Hue Phong Nha 2 days 1 night

Tour DMZ Deluxe Small from Hue

CONQUER DUONG CAM WATERFALL 2 DAY 1 NIGHT

Conquer Duong Cam Waterfall 01 day adventure tour.

QUANG BINH EXPEDITION 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS

CHA LOI CAVE 1 DAY- DISCOVERY

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HUE DELUXE CITY TOUR

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Deals and discounts.

Phongnhacave.org  is an introduction and information sharing site on tourism in Quang Binh and Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park with famous tourist attractions in Vietnam and around the world. The site has been recognised as a heritage site by UNESCO two times. It is the first experiential destination for visitors during a trip to Vietnam.

Trip to explore the biggest and most significant caves in the world with the Phong Nha Cave.

Phong nha caves..

Phong Nha Cave with 7 exceptional criteria is the best place to visit. When traveling to visit the Phong Nha Caves, you can admire the longest exploited Phong Nha Cave in Vietnam. This is the spot often chosen by tourists while visiting Phong Nha Ke Bang tourism. You can join the regular 1000m tour and experience the 4500m tour by Kayak

Paradise Cave

Paradise Cave is the most beautiful dry cave in Vietnam, with a length of more than 30km is the longest cave in Asia. The tour to explore Paradise Cave is also divided into 2 different levels. The usual 1km discovery tour and 7km paradise tour in the form of adventure tourism.

Cha Loi Cave

Cha Loi Cave is a new cave in Quang Binh Vietnam exploited in the form of adventure tourism. With many different experiences, Cha Loi cave is highly appreciated by visitors and is an attractive new choice for adventure tourism in Quang Binh. In addition to visiting the cave, visitors also visit the village of Bru Van Kieu relatives who are ethnic minorities in Vietnam.

Duong Cam Water fall

Chay river, dark cave.

Song Chay zipline and dark cave mud bath are also attractive experiences for visitors when coming to Quang Binh. Coming to this place in addition to mud bathing in the cave, visitors can also zipline, bathe in streams and kayak Mooc Springs Moc Springs are suitable for summer, and small family groups. Coming to The Spring, visitors will participate in bathing in the stream, and kayaking.

Son Doong Cave is the largest cave in the world

Son Dooong Cave is the leading adventure tourism destination in Vietnam. The 4-day-3-night tour itinerary for $3000 is chosen by many visitors. However, it is limited to only 1000 seats in 1 year. Therefore, visitors can choose from many other Phong Nha Ke Bang tours with a lighter level of adventure such as Hang En, Cha Loi, If you need a Phong Nha tour or Phong Nha hotel contact us for assistance.

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Tour reviews.

Ich fand es prima, dass wir direkt nach der Buchung von dem Reiseveranstalter kontaktiert wurden und uns die Abholzeit mitgeteilt wurde. Es gab reichlich Wasser für alle, alles hat reibungslos geklappt und unser Guide hat uns zu allen Attraktionen mit tollen Informationen abgeholt. Jede Frage wurde beantwortet 🙂

Excellent driver and very knowledgeable tour guide. The caves were beautiful and the boat ride was great! The lunch was tasty and plentiful. Our tour guide spoke good English and answered all of our questions.

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Phong Nha Cave 2 Day from Hue

With these offer, we have build our reputation!

The Best Phong Nha Cave 2 Day from Hue

Best places to visit:

Hue → Phong Nha Cave → Paradise Cave → Hue

Enjoy Phong Nha Cave tour from Hue 2 days 1 night with Origin Vietnam, you’ll have chance to explore the UNESCO-listed complex of 14 grottoes in the Limestone Mountains of Ke Bang National Park. It is the longest wet cave or river cave in the world.

Highlights:

• Discover La Vang Holy Land – is an important place of pilgrimage for Catholics of Vietnam
• Visit DMZ – is home to Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)during the war.
• Stop in Phong Nha and start to explore Paradise cave- the largest dry cave in Asia and is known as one of the most beautiful caves in the World
• This itinerary is a private tour. It shows you what is possible to travel and visiting with our guide and driver
• We CAN also tailor made this trip as your requirement such as its inclusions…

Phong Nha Cave 2 Day from Hue Travel Map

Itinerary details.

Morning activities:

Our drive and guide will pick up you at your hotel in Hue city and start to transfer to Phong Nha cave. On the way, we will visit La Vang Holy Land. Christians believe that Mary showed flexibility in this area in 1798 and a church was erected. It is an important place of pilgrimage for Catholics of Vietnam and La Vang Holy was recognized by the Vatican.

Our guide will introduce DMZ of Quang Tri when the car passes by the 17th parallel line (a demilitarized zone established as a dividing line between North and South Vietnam during the Vietnam War)

Visit Vinh Moc Tunnel for more experience of Vietnam War in fighting against enemy with a network underground tunnel where is the home, kitchen, hospital and school for children, etc. And then travel ahead to Dong Hoi city. Savour lunch en route

Afternoon & evening activities:

Cruising on Son River to Phong Nha Cave (wet cave) and start exploring Phong Nha cave. An immortal place with some shape of the beautiful stalagmites and listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in 2003. (Fairy cave & Palace cave). Afterwards, get back to the pier. Check-in hotel in Dong Hoi City. It’s time to relax.

Day 2: Discover Paradise Cave - Hue (B/L)

Our guide and driver will pick up you at hotel. And then start to visit Paradise cave. It’s about 31Km long and longer than Phong Nha Cave, which had been considered as the longest cave in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. It was discovered by scientists of the British Caving Research Association in 2005. They were impressed by the beautiful and spectacular stalactites and stalagmites inside this cave and they named it Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave).

You will be transferred by golf car through diversified. But value plants of the old forest to admire the beautiful cave.

Afternoon activities:

Leave Quang Binh and return Hue city and end tour at your hotel around 7 pm. Wish you a great trip with Origin Vietnam to discover Quang Tri and Quang Binh 2 days.

• PRIVATE door to door transport (new vehicle) with air-conditioned
• Experience English speaking guide
• Meals as mentioned above (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D = Dinner)
• Well selected Hotel in Quang Binh
• Electric car to Paradise cave
• Private local boa in Phong Nha Cave
• Entrance fees
• Mineral water daily 2 bottle 500ml/per day
• 24/7 hotline support guaranteed
• Bank fees if payment by credit card
• Gov tax and service charge
• No extra charge after final confirmation
• International Air Fare in & out Vietnam if any
• Domestic Air Fare if any
• Additional sightseeing or extra usage of vehicle
• Other than mentioned in the itinerary
• Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, soft & hard drinks
• Meals not mentioned in the program
• Tips are welcomed!
• Travel Insurance

Ms. Angela & Ms. Lucy is our experts for this itinerary and as seasoned travellers she has the inside track on the most memorable adventures.

All are tailor-made tour from Origin Travel Team

This itinerary is to give you the flavor experience we can do in Vietnam!

Verified Reviews For Phong Nha Cave 2 Day from Hue

We strongly recommend 2 day tours in quang binh.

Tour Hang En Cave Discovery And Camping

Hang En Cave Discovery and camping will be the exciting time to discover the unique of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. Discover the world

Hoian To Phong Nha Tour 2 Days 1 Night

Phong Nha National Park is home to the largest cave in the world and covers 300 different grottoes and caves. Booking Hoian to Phong Nha

Enjoy Phong Nha Cave tour from Hue 2 days 1 night with Origin Vietnam, you’ll have chance to explore the UNESCO-listed complex of 14 grottoes

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Phong Nha Caves

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Phong Nha Caves - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

• Phong Nha Cave & Paradise Cave Day Tour Small Group to Fairy Land (From ₹ 6,255.21)
• PHONG NHA CAVE- PARADISE CAVE FULL DAY FROM DONG HOI or PHONG NHA (From ₹ 5,754.80)
• Paradise Cave & Dark Cave Full Day Trip (From ₹ 7,497.91)
• Da Nang – Hue – Phong Nha Dark Cave - Hoi An – Ba Na Hills–golden Bridge 5days4n (From ₹ 72,074.23)
• Paradise Cave & Phong Nha Cave (From ₹ 5,817.35)

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