son doong cave day tour

Son Doong Cave Tours 1 Day, 3 Days and Price (Trip Cost and Booking)

Son Doong Cave is the world’s largest natural cave located in the heart of the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam. It is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and active travelers who are looking for an unforgettable experience. In this article, we will discuss the details of Son Doong Cave Tour and if it is feasible to do in 1 Day, the alternatives, and the pricing of 3-day tour.

1. Can I do Son Doong Cave Tour in 1 Day?

Many visitors wonder if it’s possible to do the Son Doong Cave Tour in just one day . While it may seem like a good idea to fit the tour into a tight schedule, it is not feasible. The Son Doong Cave is the largest natural cave in the world, spanning over five kilometers in length and up to 200 meters in height. It is impossible to explore this cave in just one day without missing out on the highlights and the unique experiences it offers.

Instead of trying to squeeze everything into one day, we highly recommend considering the 3-day tour to Son Doong Cave. This will allow you to fully experience the cave and all its natural wonders without feeling rushed or missing out on any highlights.

During the 3-day tour, you will have ample time to explore the cave and its stunning formations, swim in the underground rivers, camp in the cave, and take in the incredible sights and sounds of this natural wonder. This tour is designed to give visitors the ultimate experience, providing ample time for rest and relaxation while exploring the cave.

If a 3-day tour isn’t feasible for your schedule, there are still other day trips and activities in the area that are worth considering. For example, you could visit the Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave, or Dark Cave, all of which offer unique experiences and natural beauty.

2. Son Doong Cave Tour 3 Days and Price?

2.1. son doong cave tour 3 days.

If you’re looking for an adventure of a lifetime, the Son Doong Cave Tour 3 Days is a must-do. This tour takes you deep into the heart of the world’s largest natural cave, Son Doong, and provides you with an experience that you’ll never forget. Here’s what you can expect from the tour:

A. Tour itinerary and highlights:

Day 1: Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Phong Nha, followed by a drive to the park entrance. After a safety briefing and final preparations, you’ll start trekking through the jungle towards the entrance of the cave. The hike takes around 4-5 hours and covers 10km.
Day 2: After a night spent camping inside the cave, you’ll explore different parts of Son Doong. This includes visiting the Garden of Edam and the Great Wall of Vietnam, two of the cave’s most impressive natural features.
Day 3: The final day of the tour involves a trek back through the jungle to the park entrance. You’ll arrive back in Phong Nha in the afternoon, where you can relax and reflect on the amazing experience you’ve just had.

B. Activities in the cave:

The Son Doong Cave Tour 3 Days is not for the faint-hearted. The cave is challenging to explore, with steep climbs, slippery terrain, and unpredictable weather. However, the experience is worth it, as you’ll get to see some of the most incredible natural formations in the world. Some of the activities you’ll participate in include:

Trekking through the cave and jungle
Climbing steep walls and boulders
Swimming in underground rivers
Camping inside the cave

C. Requirements and restrictions:

Minimum age for the tour is 18 years old
Participants must have a good level of fitness and be able to hike for several hours each day
Maximum group size is 10 people
Visitors must obtain a permit to enter the cave, which is limited to a certain number per year

D. Recommended gear and clothing:

Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
Lightweight, breathable clothing that dries quickly
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Hat and sunglasses to protect from the sun
Head torch with extra batteries
Personal medication and toiletries

Insider tips:

Book your tour in advance, as spots fill up quickly
Be prepared for the physical demands of the tour by training beforehand
Bring a waterproof camera to capture the stunning scenery inside the cave
Listen to your guide’s instructions carefully and follow safety protocols at all times
Leave no trace behind by taking all trash and belongings out of the cave with you

Overall, the Son Doong Cave Tour 3 Days is an adventure of a lifetime. By following the recommended gear and clothing, and insider tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.

3, Son Doong Cave Tours Price

If you’re interested in taking the Son Doong Cave Tour, it’s important to understand the cost and what’s included in the package. Currently it costs US$3,000 per person in a join-in tour.

3.1. Inclusions and exclusions:

The Son Doong Cave Tour is an all-inclusive package, which means that most of the expenses are covered in the price. This includes:

Park entrance fees
Camping equipment and gear
Food and drinks (except alcohol)
Professional guides and porters
Transportation to and from the park entrance

However, there are a few things that are not included in the price, such as:

Travel insurance
Personal expenses (such as souvenirs or snacks)
Alcohol or other beverages not provided by the tour

3.2. Additional costs and fees:

In addition to the tour package, there may be some additional costs and fees that you’ll need to consider, such as:

Flights or transportation to and from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation in Phong Nha before or after the tour
Tips for guides and porters
Fees for permits or visas (if applicable)

3.3. Booking and payment process:

To book the Son Doong Cave Tour, you’ll need to contact one of the tour companies that offer the package. You can find a list of authorized companies on the National Park website. Once you’ve selected a company, you’ll need to provide them with your personal details and pay a deposit to secure your spot on the tour. The remaining balance is usually due a few weeks before the tour begins. It’s important to read the company’s booking and cancellation policies carefully before making any payments.

Consider booking well in advance to secure your spot and avoid price increases
Compare prices and inclusions/exclusions from different tour companies before making a decision
Bring some extra cash for personal expenses or emergencies
Don’t forget to factor in additional costs such as flights and accommodation when budgeting for the tour

Getting from Hanoi to Son Doong Cave

Getting from Hanoi to Son Doong Cave is relatively straightforward. The best way to get to the cave is by flying from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, which takes around 1 hour. From there, you can take a shuttle or private transfer to Phong Nha, where the Son Doong Cave tours depart from. The journey from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha takes around 1 hour by car. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, but these options take longer and may not be as convenient. It’s important to plan your transportation in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Son Doong Cave is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers breathtaking scenery and unique adventure activities. It’s important to choose the right tour package that fits your schedule and budget. We hope this blog post has provided you with all the necessary information to plan your trip to Son Doong Cave. Book your tour now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

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Travel guide /

Son Doong Cave Vietnam Tour: The World's Largest Cave to Explore

Apr 29, 2024

TABLE OF CONTENT

Why is it worth taking the Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour?

The son doong cave vietnam tour price, difficulty level of the world’s largest cave vietnam tour, day 1: phong nha – safe popularity level, day 2: doong village – hang en cave, day 3: son doong cave entrance – campsite ho sut 1, day 4: garden of eden – campsite no. 2, day 5: vietnamese wall – cave exit – chay lap farmstay, day 6: chay lap farmstay – dong hoi, what should you prepare for your son doong cave vietnam tour, special note for the largest cave in vietnam tour.

Son Doong Cave , the largest natural cave system in the world, is one of Vietnam’s most astonishing wonders. This underground marvel defies the imagination of adventure seekers with its massive stalactites, pristine rainforests, and an endless underground river. The Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour is an adventurous tour in Vietnam that attracts thrill-seeking travelers from around the world. To learn more about the world’s largest cave Vietnam tour, delve into the information in this travel blog.

Discovered in 1990 by a local farmer, Son Doong remained hidden from the world until 2009, when a team of explorers from the British Cave Research Association revealed its extraordinary scale. Stretching over 5 miles in length, with sections towering nearly 650 feet high and spanning up to 300 feet wide, this cave system is so vast that it could comfortably accommodate a pair of Boeing 747 jets flying side by side.

Since 2013, the Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour has emerged as a premier destination for thrill-seekers and adventurers. Acclaimed by National Geographic as the best adventure tour in 2014, it was also ranked among the top 5 adventure trips worldwide by British TV in 2019. Moreover, the cave’s campsite was voted the coolest in the world by the British Daily Mail in 2017, further cementing its status as a premier destination for intrepid explorers.

son doong cave vietnam tour Son Doong Cave check in

These are some of the Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour’s highlights:

Exclusive exploration: Oxalis Adventure holds the exclusive rights to conduct tours into the Son Doong cave, ensuring a unique and meticulously curated experience for adventurers.
World’s biggest cave: The cave is so large that it has its own internal weather system, complete with clouds, mist, and temperatures that differ from those outside.
The cave’s forest: Deep within the cave’s confines lies an ancient forest, offering a rare window into nature’s primordial landscapes.
En Cave: A breathtaking subterranean marvel that served as a backdrop for the enchanting Peter Pan movie.
Gorgeous campsite: The expertly designed campsites within the cave allow natural light to filter in, creating a mesmerizing display of sunbeams that dance across the cavernous walls on sunny days.
Skilled Guides: Each tour is accompanied by a dedicated team of professionals, including safety experts, guides, assistants, cooks, porters, and national park rangers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure.

The largest cave in Vietnam tour grants a mere 1,000 adventurers annually the privilege of exploring the world’s largest known cave system. A substantial investment of $3,000 per person ensures a meticulously planned and intimate experience. Tour organizers handle every detail seamlessly, from transportation and accommodations to gourmet meals, safety gear, and travel insurance, ensuring an unforgettable and prioritized safety experience within this extraordinary subterranean marvel.

The operator of the Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour, Oxalis Adventure, has developed an adventure-level chart to help participants choose a suitable Son Doong Cave tour based on their fitness and health. There are six adventure levels for the world’s largest cave Vietnam tour. Level 1 is the easiest, suitable for everyone, while Level 6 is the most difficult, intended for those who regularly engage in sports or frequently participate in hiking and trekking tours through forests, making the most comfortable for the Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour.

son doong cave vietnam tour Son Doong Cave

Detailed itinerary for Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour

You need to be in Dong Hoi by 15:00 at the latest on the first day of the tour. Oxalis staff will pick you up at the Dong Hoi train station/airport and take you to the hotel. Around 17:30 – 18:00, you will meet the safety expert, tour guide, and other group members at the Oxalis Phong Nha office for a safety briefing and to receive equipment for the journey. The Oxalis expert will check the quality of your shoes and the size of your backpack to ensure they are suitable for the trip. After dinner, the group will return to the hotel to rest and prepare for the trekking day ahead.

The expedition begins with a steep 350-meter descent into the national park, followed by a 30-minute forest hike to Ban Doong Village. After lunch, a 3-hour trek leads to Hang En Cave for camping, offering stunning views en route. Inside, personalized tents await alongside a swimming lake. Dinner prepares you for exploring the magnificent Son Doong Cave the next day.

son doong cave vietnam tour Hang En Cave

The day begins with further exploration of Hang En Cave, where you’ll witness the remarkable exit point featured in Peter Pan movie. Next, you’ll traverse a river and ascend a steep incline, leading you to the awe-inspiring entrance of the Son Doong Cave. After a lunch at the cave’s entrance, you’ll be outfitted with specialized gear and receive a comprehensive safety briefing.

As you navigate the descending slopes and cross additional rivers within the cave, the towering “Hand of Dog” stalagmite will come into view. Around 4 pm, you’ll arrive at the first campsite within Son Doong, named “Level Playing Fields,” conveniently situated just before Campsite Ho Sut 1. This campsite offers essential amenities, including bathrooms and changing areas, ensuring your comfort throughout the adventure.

son doong cave vietnam tour Campsite Ho Sut 1 Son Doong Cave

As you navigate through Son Doong, you’ll encounter challenging climbs, narrow cave passages, and rope sections leading to the area known as “Watch out for Dinosaurs” or Doline 1. Descending from this point, you’ll reach the “Green Gours” on the opposite side, a stunning location, especially when it’s sunny and the light streams in. After lunch here, you’ll follow calcite pathways to the “Garden of Edam” at Doline 2, a picturesque area with views of a lush forest. A slippery descent then leads to the campsite, where you can relax, take photographs, and soak in the scenery.

Following breakfast, you’ll put on safety gear and receive a brief safety instruction. This preparation equips you to tackle the Great Wall of Vietnam, renowned as one of the most thrilling and demanding cave adventures in Son Doong. After enjoying lunch atop the Wall, you’ll exit the cave, navigate a final rocky section, and then hike through the forest to reconnect with the Ho Chi Minh Trail. This marks the conclusion of the Son Doong Cave tour, and you can celebrate with cold beer or soft drinks. Around 3 pm, your guide will transport you back to Chay Lap Farmstay.

son doong cave vietnam tour world's largest cave

Depending on your schedule, you can either arrange for pickup after breakfast or choose to stay a bit longer to explore more of what Phong Nha has to offer before leaving. This area is home to many popular attractions, such as Phong Nha Cave, Chay Lap Water Sport Center, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Blue Diamond Camp, and Paradise Cave.

To have an enjoyable Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour, it’s advised to bring essential items for the trip. Given the diverse terrain, you’ll need quick-drying, long-sleeved T-shirts, trekking pants, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes with appropriate socks. You should also pack accessories like mosquito repellent, sunglasses, and sunscreen, along with personal essentials like towels, hygiene products, power banks, and any necessary medications.

Ensure you are physically prepared for these activities with relative ease:

Trekking through 50 km of jungle and mountains
Elevation changes of up to 400m (between roads and valleys)
River crossings up to 40 times, with water depths at knee level, over spans of 10 to 50 meters
10 km of caving with rope climbs, rocky terrain, and scrambling
An 80m descent using ropes and harnesses
Strong current crossing in an underground river
5 days and 4 nights spent in caves

Requirements:

Regular experience in running, trekking, caving, or rock climbing (at least once per month). Other outdoor activities might also be considered.
Strong legs and a good sense of balance
Experience with multi-day treks
General good health and fitness
Operational from February to August (closed from September to January)
Duration: 6 days and 5 nights (plus one night before and after the expedition)
Difficulty level: Difficult, designed for physically active participants who can handle over 50 km of trekking
Weekly departures are available with a maximum of 10 guests per tour
The minimum age for participants is 18 years

Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour promises to deliver the most amazing experience to all visitors. Exploring the world’s largest cave, with its unique ecosystem and wonders, is sure to leave an unforgettable impression on anyone who takes part in the adventure tour.

For those who haven’t booked the Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour, you can still explore other destinations in Vietnam with Asia Encounter . Each location has its distinct beauty that you shouldn’t miss. Learn about the tours below and contact Asia Encounter for any inquiries at any time:

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Son Doong Cave Tour 5D4N

Expedition tours
Meals included
Tour Day(s)
Weather dependant

Our Son Doong Cave Expedition will take you deep into the heart of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh Province, Vietnam, on one of the most thrilling adventure tours in the world.

With our team of more than 25 porters, safety experts and guides, you’ll explore over five days the entire length of Son Doong Cave, Hang En Cave, as well the Ban Doong ethnic minority village.

Imagine trekking straight into the depths of the world’s largest cave on an expedition unlike any other. A cave that can fit a 747 flying through its largest cavern – a truly foreign landscape, with enormous stalagmites and statuesque stalactites, hanging from the ceiling and rising from the ground like an alien species.

A jungle within a cave, that’s almost so unreal that you have to see it to believe it. Misty clouds enveloping the whole scene, evidence of the cave’s own weather system. Fossil passageways that give proof of the cave’s ancient existence.

There is no rush on this tour and there is plenty of time for photography and to enjoy the cave. However you need to be very fit, and have previous trekking experience (but not necessarily caving experience) to enjoy this adventure tour.

Cha Loi Cave ADVENTURE Tour

Additional information

Phong nha - doong village - swallow cave.

Enjoy breakfast at 8:00 am with your guide before departing at 9:00 am for the first leg of the expedition. You’ll leave extra luggage and any valuables at the Oxalis headquarters before heading to pick up the porter team and setting off for adventure.

After a 45 minute drive along Road 20 of the Ho Chi Minh Highway you’ll reach the trailhead, where you’ll start trekking for approximately 1 hour downhill through the forest, which is quite steep at times.

Walk for half an hour along a small stream to the minority village of Ban Doong, which is a real highlight for many on this expedition. Learn more about this unique ethnic group of people and enjoy lunch beside a small river.

Conquer Duong Cam Waterfall 01 day adventure tour.

After this point, you will be in the sun all afternoon with about 2 hours along a river, with very little shade. You’ll cross the river many times and so please expect to have wet feet for the whole day. In the summer, the water is only usually knee deep, but Gore-Tex boots will fill and hold the water so therefore they are not recommended.

You’ll then reach the entrance to Hang En Cave , home to thousands of swifts. Here you’ll be given your headlight and you will trek/boulder approximately 20-30 minutes to your campsite inside the cave.

The group should arrive at camp by 3:00 pm where you can enjoy swimming and washing within the underground river. Dinner will be served at the spectacular campsite with numerous photographic opportunities.

Anyone who is unable to complete any stage of this first day comfortably will be turned around to Phong Nha and will not be permitted to continue the expedition. This will be the decision of the cave experts on your tour. Should you be turned around, all tour costs will be forfeited.

Swallow cave - Son Doong Entrance - Hand of Dog - Son Doong Camp 1

You’ll again begin your day with a delicious breakfast at around 8:00 am. You’ll be in for a very tough day today so its best to enjoy a big breakfast, as you’ll need your energy!

Start your trek at 9:00 am through Hang En Cave for about 30 mins to reach the magnificent exit, made famous by many photographers over the past few years. You’ll scramble down to the river valley and then it’s an hour walk through the river, so your boots are going to be wet for most of the day; it is unavoidable, yet part of the fun!

You’ll then start climbing a steep hill for about 45 minutes with some rocky sections to start. At the top of the hill you’ll enjoy lunch, a safety briefing and fit your safety harness and prepare for your big journey underground! A steep descent with a couple of short rope climbs brings you at last to Son Doong entrance.

With your safety harnesses, you’ll then start the 80 m descent into the cave by making a number of short climbs, using ropes and safety lines with your guides’ assistance. There is no rappelling or abseiling at any point during the expedition. You’ll then enjoy a few more climbs and bouldering to reach the first and second river crossings inside the cave, which are no more than knee-to-thigh deep depending on the water levels. You should have a wash here, as it will be the last washing place for the day.

On your way to the first campsite in the first large passage of the cave, you’ll have to be extra careful as there are a number of big drops and scrambling over boulders along a rocky path before reaching one of the most spectacular views: Hand of Dog and daylight streaming through the cave thanks to the first doline! You will then scramble down to the first campsite of Son Doong around 3 – 4 pm and have the afternoon to soak up the views and rest your weary bodies. You’re in for another big meal with your team before turning in for the night.

Please note that there are no washing facilities at camp on this day.

Son Doong Camp 1 - Watch out for Dinosaurs - Great wall of Viet Nam - Son Doong Camp 2

Your day begins with a hearty breakfast with your team before a 9:00 am departure towards your second campsite in Son Doong Cave.

You’ll start with some rocky climbs, which are quite steep in some places, as you reach the first jungle within the cave at Watch Out for Dinosaurs. It will take about 1.5 hrs to travel within the cave from Camp 1 to Watch Out for Dinosaurs. After a short break you’ll be trotting down the rocky path to reach the enormous Green Gours, one of the most magnificent and famous photography spots on the tour!

A light lunch is provided with an incredible backdrop of the first doline. If you are lucky you may even catch some sunbeams, which make for truly spectacular photos!

It is then an easy walk through the cave past gigantic formations and plenty of cave pearls towards the light of the second doline and main jungle within the cave. Follow the path past the beautiful foliage reaching towards the light, to reach the underground jungle, unlike anything you could experience on the planet! Cross the jungle for around 45 minutes to reach the steep and sometimes slippery path down to your second campsite within Son Doong Cave. You will reach camp around 2 – 3 pm.

After a short rest at your campsite, you are back on your feet and heading deeper within the cave towards the Great Wall of Vietnam. You’ll pass through a very large dry passage with huge stalagmites and great views back to the second doline. Many new creepy crawlies have been discovered within this passage including white spiders, fish, woodlouse and shrimp species, so be sure to keep your eyes open.

You will reach at this point either a very large beautiful underground lake (where you’ll then paddle to reach the Great Wall of Vietnam) or you will find a fantastically adventurous muddy pit (at which you will need to trudge your way through for a few hundred meters to reach the wall). It is entirely optional if you wish to go further and reach the actual wall, as you will get very dirty in the mud and there are no bathing facilities on this day at camp (pack plenty of wet wipes if you decide on the plunge!).

You’ll be back at camp again around 6 pm to enjoy a sensational dinner with your team and delight yourself with an evening of games and entertainment, or simply relax and soak up the views at what is quite possibly the very best campsite in the world.

Quick note: you may use a pair of dry boots on this day, as aside from the mud, there are no water crossings!

Son Doong Camp 2 - Fossil Passage - Nat Geo Viewpoint - Swallow cave

Once you have reached the first campsite around 11 am, you’ll have time for a short break before climbing down to the ancient fossil passage, where you will witness 350 million year old coral fossils! Enjoy a small wash in the pools and a hearty lunch before descending back to the main passage, crossing the river twice and proceeding to climb up to the entrance, again strapped in with your harness and safety lines.

Your group will appear out from the entrance of Son Doong around 2 – 3 pm, at which point you’ll have a chance to enjoy a small break and some snacks. Then head back towards the river valley, where you can enjoy a well-deserved and refreshing wash. Walk along the river back to Hang En for your final evening and celebration with porter team at this underground campsite. Feel free to bring any entertaining games or fun activities such as Jenga, a frisbee, card games, etc for everyone to join in together.

Swallow cave - Ban Doong Village - Phong Nha

Wake up early and start your 10 km trek back to Road 20 after breakfast. You’ll follow the river along the valley and back through Ban Doong Village. You will enjoy snacks and fruit along the way before starting on what is quite a difficult climb back up the mountain for the last hour of your big adventure. Cold drinks await you at the top of the hill before a 45 minute drive back to Phong Nha. You will have a brief stop at the office to collect your luggage and valuables before transferring to a local hotel in Phong Nha.

You can then enjoy the shower you’ve been awaiting for so long, or you could even go for a dip in the river. In the evening, you can enjoy a group farewell dinner with your fellow expedition team members.

Please advise our sales team in advance of your departure time for the following day so that they so they can arrange the logistics of your transfer back to the airport or train station. If you would like to extend your holiday in Phong Nha, let our team know so that we can assist you in booking extra nights at the hotel.

Tour Reviews

Our departure date is 04.02.2017 HUE .2 travelers want to go Son Doong Cave trip about 2-3 days (no mountain climbing). Which is the price and conditions? Best regards, Helen Vosu

sightseeing

Beautiful Son Doong cave, but can not come here

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QUANG BINH EXPEDITION 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS

CHA LOI CAVE 1 DAY- DISCOVERY

HANG TIEN 1 DAY

Customized Tour

Explore Son Doong – The world’s largest cave

As home to many spectacular landscapes nationwide from the cascading rice terraces of Sapa, the thousands of limestone karst isles in Ha Long Bay to the maze of rivers in Mekong Delta, Vietnam has no shortage of sights to see. Besides, Vietnam is also proud to be home to the world’s largest cave – Son Doong which is nestled in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh province.

Expert Howard Limbert, one member of the British Caving Research Association (BCRA) who conducted caves searches and surveys in the region from the beginning said to the CNN travel that: “Watch out for dinosaurs. That’s what we called this place when we first discovered it”. This state showed as an obvious reference for the prehistoric atmosphere and the grandeur of this cave which made Son Doong as one of the most captivating destinations for adventurous lovers worldwide to come & experience.

Here is all you need to know about Son Doong Cave.

Table of Contents

1. Overview

2.1. discovery, 2.2. its name, 3.1. when it started, 3.2. how much the expedition costs, 3.3. how to explore, 3.4. what to explore inside son doong cave, 4. things to know, 5. how to get there.

Son Doong is the biggest cave on the planet when measured by cross-section which is believed to be twice that of the next largest passage, in Deer Cave, Malaysia. This is relatively young at about 2-5 million years old in the Asian oldest major karst area dating back 400 million years of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park.

Son Doong was formed on a fault line of the Truong Son mountain range and eroded by the Rao Thuong River for millions of years, forming a giant tunnel underneath the limestone mountain. Cracks in the ceiling of the cave were corroded and subsided, forming large holes to the outside. Water droplets that have fallen from the ceiling of the cave for millions of years create cave pearls with the size of a baseball. Inside that magnificent space is a separate world, a rare natural wonder that surprised the conquistadors of Son Doong.

Amazing doline in the cave

Being discovered and explored in the first time of 2009, Son Doong Cave only opened to the public since 2013.

At more than 200m high, 175m wide and 9.4km long, Son Doong cave could fit an entire 40-story New York City block skyscraper or allowed a Boeing 747 comfortably fly through without any danger for its wings. The new discovery by mid-2019 added an extra 1.6 million cu metre of volume to its existing 38.5 million cu metre, which is the equivalent of climbing 8848m of Mount Everest and discovering a mound that made it 1000m taller, as Limbert recently told CNN.

The cave becomes unique with the 2 enormous hố sụt (cave roof collapses or dolines) and underground rainforests as well as the “Great Wall of Vietnam” – a 90m high calcite barrier. There are various unusual cave formations including towering stalagmites, phytokarst and huge cave pearls inside.

Map of Son Doong Cave and Thung Cave diving expedition (Source: cnbc.com)

Cave experts are now still researching the connection between Son Doong Cave and nearby Thung Cave to find the connection. If it is successfully made in the future, Son Doong will become the largest cave in the world by both volume and cross-section.

2. Discovery and its name

Son Doong entrance was first discovered by a local man, Ho Khanh, in 1990 while he searched food and timber in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park for the income, and later took shelter from a storm at the base of a huge cliff in the jungle where he found a deep hole at the base of the rock that was emitting wind and even puffs of cloud. Thoughts of the gulls in the legendary tales living in rock caves blowing wind out made him scared and discouraged him from entering the cave.

Overwhelmed feeling while inside Son Doong cave

Its location was forgotten until 2008 while hunting for food, Ho Khanh stumbled across the entrance again. A following year in 2009, he met Howard and Deb Limbert from BCRA, who were conducting exploratory caving expeditions in the area by this time. Then, he led Howard Limbert and his team to the opening.

They began the exploration of the cave but the process was stopped by a large high flowstone-coated wall or later named as the Great Wall of Vietnam. It was traversed in 2010 when the group reached the end of the cave passage and determined it to be the largest ever discovered in terms of the size of its cross-section which shook the caving world.

Jungle trekking before reaching Son Doong cave

Since Ho Khanh was the first to discover this cave, it was firstly called Ho Khanh cave. But sooner then, the expedition asked Mr. Khanh’s permission to rename the cave as “Son Doong” which was created by combining the name of Son (meaning mountain) and nearby Doong village where is home to less than 40 Bru-Van Kieu ethnic minority.

3. Expedition

Son Doong expedition is rated as type of international class adventure tour with tour’s design criteria as well as safety standards according to European standards.

The cave was open to the first tourist group by 1st Aug 2013. However, the access was strictly controlled and limited for only 1000 permits each year to guarantee the environment and ecology of Son Doong cave.

“Wedding Cake” at 1st Doline

All tours are exclusively organized and led by Oxalis Adventure Tours. Howard Limbert and his wife, Deb are the technical directors.

Running from January to August yearly (after which the cave becomes impassable due to rainy season) for the required expedition of 4 days 3 nights, Son Doong tour just welcomes 10 guests as maximum for each. Each tour requires 30 other staffs/attendants to escort, including cave expert, tour guide, safety assistant, chef and porter bringing a total of about 600kg of equipment in and out of the cave. Everything brought in must be taken out of the cave, including human waste.

Once a life time experience in Son Doong cave

It is US$ 3000/person.

You can wonder why it costs US$ 3000/person for just 4 days? Not cheap at all. The answers are because this price covers 660 USD entrance fee and forest environmental services paid to the management board of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park; fees for all staffs/attendants, expenses for airport pick up / drop off, hotel, meals; administration and other administrative expenses; 10% VAT.

To reach Son Doong Cave, you need to pass through Doong ethnic minority village which is surrounded by dense jungles and only accessible by foot. The village is home to less than 40 Bru-Van Kieu people. The discovery of the cave alleviated the villager’s hardships by their subsequent conservation partnership with Oxalis. Exploring the village and interacting with the locals are also an exciting part of the journey, in which you can learn a view of a way of life that has been unchanged for centuries.

Underground river near the Great Wall

It takes two days of intense jungle trekking and river crossings in order to reach the entrance of Son Doong Cave. Once inside, you will experience your own skills to abseil, climb, crawl, and wade/swim through underground rivers to complete your journey. Camping, eating inside the cave with taking extraordinary photos make your trip even more amazing. Hang En (En Cave), the world’s third largest cave is also included in the tour where you can enjoy swimming if interested.

The eco-system in Son Doong Cave is very unique because it is large, and even has its own localized weather system. Many rare limestone cave pearls are scattered in dried pools inside the cave.

The Dog’s Foot Block (khối bàn chân chó): This is a massive natural stalactite block in Son Doong Cave. From a distance, the Dog’s Foot Block can be seen, a majestic spectacle of the largest cave.

From this position you can almost admire the panoramic view of Son Doong Cave.

Fossil corridor (hành lang hóa thạch): An area where cave walls are filled with coral fossils dating back 300 million years old. This area is right next to the first campsite.

Campsite in the cave

The first campsite (bãi trại 1): located near 1st cave ceiling collapse or doline. The camp ground is nestled on a fairly flat sandy area and has a beautiful view looking towards 1st doline.

Sunbeam breaking through the Doline

1st Doline – Watch out for dinosaurs (hố sụt 1 – vọng khủng long): Formed by a part of the cave ceiling that collapsed thousands of years ago, sunlight can enter the cave allowing foliage to grow inside the cave and microscopic organisms thrive in the darkness. At 1st Doline, there is also a large stalactite layered block named “Wedding Cake” by tourists. On the other side of 1st Doline is a large cave called “Rat Run”, from here you can see the panoramic view of this cave ceiling collapse. This is the ideal place to take pictures of the most beautiful Son Doong Cave.

Garden of Edam (2nd Doline)

2nd Doline (hố sụt 2): This is also known as “Garden of Edam”. The formation of a sinkhole allows light to enter the cave and creates a small forest with trees and vegetation.

2nd campsite (bãi trại 2): Also known as seaside camping because of its location on a cave covered with white sand like the beach. This is also considered the campsite with the most majestic view in the world.

Great Wall of Vietnam

The Great Wall of Vietnam : is the highest stalactite wall with 90m tall, located at the end of Son Doong Cave. This section of the cave is also the place where the highest ceiling is about 200 meters.

In this journey, you will also discover Hang En, the world’s third largest cave.

Moreover, the cave is rich in other forms of life as well. The cave explores have seen monkeys, snakes, squirrels, rats, flying fox, birds and bats. The team also discovered 7 new species of fish, spider, scorpion, shrimp, wood lice and plankton. All of them completely white and without eyes, the evolutionary consequences of existing in complete darkness.

Son Doong tour welcomes guests from January to August yearly. You can book tours at a time that suits the accommodation, schedule and availability.

The Son Doong Cave Expedition is considered difficult (highest level) and you must be physically active with regular trekking experience. Distance: 17km trekking, 8km caving which includes rope climbs and rocky scrambling, 800m elevation change, 90m climb of the “Great Wall of Vietnam”.

The difficulty in the jungle is very dependent on the weather. It can get very cold here during January to March (8-15oC) and very hot during June to August (32-40oC), not to mention anytime it rains the jungle becomes very slippery and muddy. However, in the cave it usually ranges from 18-23oC in the winter (when a fleece and extra warm clothes are necessary) to 22-25oC in the summer, when shorts and t-shirts will suffice around camp.

Hard expedition but worthy for those who are adventure lovers

Check weather conditions via accuweather.com in advance to get an idea of what the weather will be like during your tour for the best preparation.

Swimming is not a part of the Son Doong tour. You can swim in Hang En and splash in the rivers on certain days when you’re washing up if you wish. However, there are no required swimming sections on the tour.

Guests only need to bring their own drinking water, snacks (trail mix, nuts, protein bars, etc), camera and personal belongings to use during the day. Other items that you use at the campsite every night as well as safety equipment, food and other items will be taken care by the porter team.

There will be a wide variety of different types of food served in the cave, even for those who are vegan or gluten-free. A notification ahead of time is required for better care.

Sun Group – a Vietnamese development company – has been pushing to build a cable car to Son Doong Cave, which could potentially ferry 1,000 visitors an hour to the cave. Staunch opposition from UNESCO and activist group Save Son Doong encouraged the Vietnamese government to temporarily halt the construction permits in 2015. The project will only be proceeded with the approval from the World Heritage Commitee.

Located in the heart of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh Province, the closet city to reach is Dong Hoi which is around 1 hour of drive away.

Location of Son Doong Cave (Source: Google Maps)

There are many ways for your travel to Quang Binh from Hanoi (~ 500 km south), Ho Chi Minh City (~ 1200km north) and other cities by airplanes, trains and coaches.

Network of caves in Central Vietnam have transformed the region. Once one of Vietnam’s poorest, it is now the world’s most popular spot for cave exploration and the country’s fastest-growing tourist destination. If you are adventurous lovers and meet all health requirements, don’t miss Son Doong Cave expedition the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Vietnam Travel team will more than welcome you to visit Vietnam and we are always pleased to assist whenever you set the holiday to our beautiful country!

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park

Top 5 Magnificent caves worth visiting in Halong Bay

Highlight Destinations in Central Vietnam

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Son Doong Cave Expedition 5 days

Ban Doong Village
Son Doong Cave

CHECK AVAILABILITY
FULL ITINERARY

From US$ 3,465 US$ 3,300 pp

What you’ll get

Duration : 5 days / 4 night(s)

Departure : Ho Chi Minh City

Suitable : Friends, Active Traveller, People have good health, over 18 years old

Type : Land tour

Product Code : T88OXA07

Our Son Doong Cave Expedition will take you deep into the heart of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh Province, Vietnam, on one of the most thrilling adventure tours in the world. A jungle within a cave, that’s almost so unreal that you have to see it to believe it. Misty clouds enveloping the whole scene, evidence of the cave’s own weather system.

Discovering Son Doong cave, the world’s largest cave on an expedition
Experiencing the highest cave adventure level with running, trekking, caving or rock climbing
Sightseeing enormous stalagmites and statuesque stalactites, hanging from the ceiling and rising from the ground like an alien species

Flexible Price - Best Price Guaranteed 4 tips to get a best price on our website 1 Last minute deals It's worth visiting our website everyday to see our last minute deals. You can not find these deals anywhere else. 2 Student discount We offer 5% discount to students. You just need to show us your student id card. 3 The more the better Book our tours with your friends, your family to get a cheaper price. It's also known as the quantity discount system on our website. 4 Season discount There will be low season, high season and even peak season. See the price right on the celender will help you choose the best rate! Close

Meals 4 Breakfast, 4 Lunches, 5 Dinners
Transportation Shuttle bus
Accommodation Camping Tent, Hotel
1 night at hotel in Dong Hoi on day 1
Meals as indicated in itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner)
Camping gear: tent, sleeping mat and sleeping bag
Caving & safety gear: caving helmet, caving headlight, harness and gloves
1.5 L bottled water at the top of the trailhead/trekking point
Base Camp water filter and purifier (application by guide and porters)
Basic camping facilities with eco-friendly compost toilet using western toilet seat
First Aid Kit, Medical Rescue Equipment & Satellite Phone (application by technical advisor and tour guides only)
1 Technical Advisor (member of the British Cave Research Association)
1 professional English-speaking tour guide, 5 safety assistants and 2 chefs
Porter team to carry all gear and prepare all meals
2 – 3 long quick dry, full length pants and 4 – 5 (easy to dry) shirts (at least one long-sleeved shirt) to wear during the trek; thick athletic leggings/running tights/yoga pants are acceptable if they are full-length and not see-through. Jeans are not acceptable. You may feel more comfortable packing a set of clothes for each day, but most people re-wear trekking clothes for multiple days.
1 – 2 pair of shorts and t-shirt to wear at campsite (plus your swimsuit for Hang En); warmer camp clothes suggested for colder months
1 Fleece and 1 lightweight windproof/jacket (February – April only)
Trekking boots/shoes – difficult terrain, good footwear necessary. Recommended: Salomon XA Enduro, Salomon Speed Cross 4 (Keen/Merrell has good quality trekking boots/shoes as well). Gore-Tex/waterproof boots are NOT recommended as they do not drain well. If you are comfortable with your own shoes and used to trek with low- gore tex shoes, it will be fine. Also consider bringing a backup pair of shoes. Refer to Son Doong FAQ: Packing section for more information
1 pair of flip flop (sandals) for campsite
1 medium size towel
4 – 5 pairs of calf-length close weave socks (not ankle socks or waterproof socks – no neoprene; SmartWool is a good brand; if you go with cotton, make sure it’s composed of 50% or less cotton)
Anti-fungal foot powder/talcum powder (your feet are often wet)
Dry shampoo & wet wipes (very limited bathing inside the cave!)
Medium sized rucksack/backpack for daily belongings, most people find 25 L adequate; backpack must fit the helmet we will provide for you and cannot be strapped to the outside; you will also be responsible for carrying your own tripod in your backpack. (Camel pack will not be considered as a day-pack)
Water bottle at least 1.5 L
Personal items – toiletries, medication, camera, tripod, spare batteries (toiletries should also include feminine hygiene products for ladies, even if it’s “just in case”)
Sunscreen and hat
Mosquito repellent
Small head-torch for use around camp
Rehydration tablets
‘Compeed’/blister dressings
Medication – bring any essential medication and anything you take regularly (e.g anti-inflammatories). We supply drugs for emergency/unexpected conditions only.
AA/AAA batteries if needed (low quality only available locally)
The following items are not required but highly recommended:
Dry bag in the event of rain (for camera, clothing, and personal items within your daypack); alternatively, a backpack cover would be a good idea especially for the rainier months of February – April
Gloves, as ours are one-size-fits-all (if you bring your own, please choose gloves with fingertips)
Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner
Swimwear (for Hang En)
If you are serious about photography, please bring your tripod along with your camera (this must be able to fit in your daypack)

For almost of our tours, once tour is confirmed and fully paid but for one reason they cancel the tour, the following charges will apply in the event of cancellation prior to tour commencement:

More than 30 days before arrival: No charge
15-30 days before arrival: 10% of total tour price.
7-15 days before arrival: 50% of total tour price.
4-7 days before arrival: 75% of total tour price.
Within 3 days before arrival: 100% tour price.
There will be no refund given for any unused or missed ground arrangements, sightseeing, meals or hotel accommodations.
For no show cases, there will be no refund.
All cancellations must be in person or in writing and received by us

In case of an unexpected situation/ bad weather causes an effect on your trip after commencement, we serve the right to change the itinerary of your booked tour for the safety of all clients in the group. If there are more than one solution, we will ask for your permission and agreement to do the next step. In such kind of cancellation, the refund of any payment on the un-used portion of transportation service, hotel service, car rental or tours will be given.

Under 4 years: Free of Charge.
From 4 to 8 years old: 50% of adult’s fare and sharing bed with parents.
From 9 to 11 years old: 75% of adult’s fare and using existing bed.
Students with ID student card: 90% of adult’s fare and using existing bed.
Over 11 years old: 100% of adult’s fare and using existing bed.

Itineraries

Morning: Arrive in Dong Hoi, transfer (by your account) to hotel in Dong Hoi. Free time and checkin from 2:00pm Afternoon (after 02:00pm) you will be met by our driver and transferred to Phong Nha for safety briefing meeting. Upon arrival, hospitality services will be happy to help you plan your extra time there. You’ll then have the rest of the day to rest, relax and wander around the village of Phong Nha. You will be required to purchase your own breakfast and lunch on this day. Around 5:30-6:00pm you will congregate in the hotel restaurant before transfer to our Headquarters, where you’ll meet your cave expert and guide team for your safety briefing and equipment check. The briefing is mandatory. Anyone who chooses not to join the briefing may be eliminated from the tour without refund. You are suggested to have all belongings that you will be taking on the trek prepared before the safety briefing. The operation team will collect everyone’s belongings right after the briefing in individual large plastic bags and send them to our porters to prepare for the following day. You will receive your belongings each evening once you get to your campsite. Therefore, anything you want to take with you during the day you should keep in a separate backpack (e.g. cameras, tripods etc.). Before dinner, you will be given your helmet for the trip; the helmet will then be your responsibility for the duration of the tour. Please note that the Release Form needs to be signed at the safety briefing. After that, enjoy dinner with your team at around 7:30 pm at our headquarters, after which you will be transferred back to your hotel for a good night’s sleep.

Accommodation: Hotel

Early morning transfer to the headquarters. Enjoy breakfast at 8:00 am with your guide before departing at 9:00 am for the first leg of the expedition. You’ll leave extra luggage and any valuables at the the headquarters before heading to pick up the porter team and setting off for adventure. After a 45 minute drive along Road 20 of the Ho Chi Minh Highway you’ll reach the trailhead, where you’ll start trekking for approximately 1 hour downhill through the forest, which is quite steep at times. Walk for half an hour along a small stream to the minority village of Ban Doong, which is a real highlight for many on this expedition. Learn more about this unique ethnic group of people and enjoy lunch beside a small river. After this point, you will be in the sun all afternoon with about 2 hours along a river, with very little shade. You’ll cross the river many times and so please expect to have wet feet for the whole day. In the summer, the water is only usually knee deep, but Gore-Tex boots will fill and hold the water so therefore they are not recommended. You’ll then reach the entrance to Hang En Cave, home to thousands of swifts. Here you’ll be given your headlight and you will trek/boulder approximately 20-30 minutes to your campsite inside the cave. The group should arrive at camp by 3:00 pm where you can enjoy swimming and washing within the underground river. Dinner will be served at the spectacular campsite with numerous photographic opportunities.

Meals: B, L, D

Accommodation: Tent

You’ll again begin your day with a delicious breakfast at around 8:00 am. You’ll be in for a very tough day today so it’s best to enjoy a big breakfast, as you’ll need your energy! Start your trek at 9:00 am through Hang En Cave for about 30 minutes to reach the magnificent exit, made famous by many photographers over the past few years. You’ll scramble down to the river valley and then it’s an hour walk through the river, so your boots are going to be wet for most of the day; it is unavoidable, yet part of the fun. You’ll then start climbing a steep hill for about 45 minutes with some rocky sections to start. At the top of the hill you’ll enjoy lunch, a safety briefing and fit your safety harness and prepare for your big journey underground. A steep descent with a couple of short rope climbs brings you at last to Son Doong entrance. With your safety harnesses, you’ll then start the 80 m descent into the cave by making a number of short climbs, using ropes and safety lines with your guides’ assistance. There is no rappelling or abseiling at any point during the expedition. You’ll then enjoy a few more climbs and bouldering to reach the first and second river crossings inside the cave, which are no more than knee-to-thigh deep depending on the water levels. You should have a wash here, as it will be the last washing place for the day. On your way to the first campsite in the first large passage of the cave, you’ll have to be extra careful as there are a number of big drops and scrambling over boulders along a rocky path before reaching one of the most spectacular views: Hand of Dog and daylight streaming through the cave, thanks to the first doline! You will then scramble down to the first campsite of Son Doong around 3 – 4 pm. After a tea and coffee break we will head down to view the ancient fossils. Here there is a chance for a short and cool swim, but no washing. You’re in for another big meal with your team before turning in for the night. Please note that there are no washing facilities at camp on this day.

Your day begins with a hearty breakfast with your team before a 9:00 am departure towards your second campsite in Son Doong Cave. You’ll start with some rocky climbs, which are quite steep in some places, as you reach the first jungle within the cave at Watch Out for Dinosaurs. It will take about 1.5 hrs to travel within the cave from Camp 1 to Watch Out for Dinosaurs. After a short break you’ll be trotting down the rocky path to reach the enormous Green Gours, one of the most magnificent and famous photography spots on the tour! A light lunch is provided with an incredible backdrop of the first doline. If you are lucky you may even catch some sunbeams, which make for truly spectacular photos! It is then an easy walk through the cave past gigantic formations and plenty of cave pearls towards the light of the second doline and main jungle within the cave. Follow the path past the beautiful foliage reaching towards the light, to reach the underground jungle, unlike anything you could experience on the planet! Cross the jungle for around 45 minutes to reach the steep and sometimes slippery path down to your second campsite within Son Doong Cave. You will reach camp around 2 – 3 pm. After a short rest at your campsite, you are back on your feet and heading deeper within the cave towards the Great Wall of Vietnam. You’ll pass through a very large dry passage with huge stalagmites and great views back to the second doline. Many new creepy crawlies have been discovered within this passage including white spiders, fish, woodlouse and shrimp species, so be sure to keep your eyes open. You will reach at this point either a very large beautiful underground lake (where you’ll then paddle to reach the Great Wall of Vietnam) or you will find a fantastically adventurous muddy pit (at which you will need to trudge your way through for a few hundred meters to reach the wall). It is entirely optional if you wish to go further and reach the actual wall, as you will get very dirty in the mud and there are no bathing facilities on this day at camp (pack plenty of wet wipes if you decide on the plunge!). You’ll be back at camp again around 6 pm to enjoy a sensational dinner with your team and delight yourself with an evening of games and entertainment, or simply relax and soak up the views at what is quite possibly the very best campsite in the world.

After refueling with another hot breakfast you’ll pack up camp and start heading towards the Wall of Vietnam. Scaling this wall will use a combination of ladders and ropes, but you will always have a safety line and people to look after you. After this strenuous ascent, you will see the light from the exit. Pass more flowstones and cave pearls, and see the calcited animal skeleton. Enjoy a picnic lunch before emerging into the jungle again. A short but fairly rocky path will lead you down to the bottom of the hill, and a short hike to the road. Cold drinks await you at the top of the hill before a 45 minute drive back to Chay Lap Farmstay where cool towels and a refreshing swimming pool are waiting for you. You will have time to relax after your long trek before enjoying a group farewell dinner with your fellow expedition team members. Please advise our sales team in advance of your departure time for the following day so that they so they can arrange the logistics of your transfer back to the airport or train station. If you would like to extend your holiday in Phong Nha, let our team know so that we can assist you in booking extra nights at the hotel.

Accommodation: Chay Lap Farmstay

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Important Notes

This tour is available from Jan to Aug (closed from Sep to Dec)

There are no washing facilities at camp on day 3

On day 3, you may use a pair of dry boots on this day, as aside from the mud, there are no water crossings!

Recommended:

Sleeping mat (Therma-a-rest is a great brand); if you bring your own mat, it must fit in your plastic bag which the porters will carry
Ankle gaiters to help prevent silt/gravel inside shoes (especially if you have shoes instead of boots)
Trekking poles; please only bring them if you are accustomed to using them
Dry bag in the event of rain (for clothing and personal items within your daypack); alternatively, a backpack cover would be a good idea especially for the rainier months of February – April

Important Notes: We will have porters carry any of your gear that you will not require during each day (e.g. camera equipment/clothes you do not need during the day can be taken ahead to the campsite for you). You will not be able to access this until you reach the campsite. Please respect our porters and do not bring too much luggage for them to carry (7 kg per person). No outdoor equipment is available in Phong Nha, and only limited items in Hanoi or Saigon.

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Organization 9.4
Value for money 8.4

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Hang Son Doong: How to Visit the Biggest Cave in the World

Quang Binh attracts tourists by the beautiful beaches, wonderful caves, and friendly local people. Speaking of cave expeditions in Vietnam, perhaps everyone thinks of Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park , which owns hundreds of beautiful caves. Typically, Son Doong is the biggest cave in the world and contains a forest inside itself .

However, to travel to Hang Son Doong is not a simple thing. This post will introduce you to some of the most essential travel experiences of Son Doong Cave, which can help you get a memorable journey.

Brief information about Son Doong Cave and a tour to visit it

Son Doong Cave (Hang Son Doong) is located in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park in Son Trach Commune, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province. Hang Son Dong is currently the biggest natural cave in the world with an estimated length of 5km, a 200m height, and a width of 150m.

In 1991, a local farmer, Ho Khanh, discovered the cave; however, until 2009, Son Doong Cave was known to the world for the trip of the explorers of the Royal British Cave Association.

Currently, Oxalis is the only company allowed to organize the Son Doong Cave tour for 3,000 USD per person to join a group of max 10 guests. All tickets to visit the cave need to be booked in advance.

Although it has a high price, many adventurous tourists who love to explore nature and caves are willing to spend money to conquer the largest and most beautiful cave in the world.

This tour requires more than 25 people supporting the discovery, including the transportation staff, a cave expert, and a guide.

Each year, a few hundred tourists are limited to exploring Son Doong Cave because of the protection of cave nature, the big budget of the tour, and the health required to trek.

Short notes about Hang Son Doong:

Time for exploring Son Doog Cave: from January to August
Duration: 4 days and 3 nights (additional 2 nights at the hotel, before and after the tour)
Level of adventure: Difficult (30 km+) and only for physically fit guests
Number of tours: Departure weekly
Number of guests: Tour departure from 6 – 10 guests
Age limit: 18 years or older
Price: 69,800,000 VND = $ 3000/person

The best time to visit Son Doong Cave

The company organizes a tour to explore Son Doong cave, which is allowed to be exploited from January to August every year. The remaining months are the rainy season in Quang Binh, so it is not safe to explore Son Doong Cave.

According to the experience of visiting Hang Son Doong, the best time to explore it is from the end of February to April . This duration is the most beautiful time with cool and pleasant weather, which is going for trekking.

Prepare before traveling to Hang Son Doong

What should you prepare before going to Son Doong cave? That is a question that many guests ask us about this tour. There are some notes that you need to know.

The items are necessary, such as clothes and personal belongings. The most important point is that you need to train and keep good health and fitness. The journey to conquer Son Doong Cave is a hard level of trekking and walking in the forest and overcoming many hills, rivers, and cliffs, which requires you to have a suitable condition.

Before taking part in this tour, health professionals will check your wellness by asking about your health status. You should answer these questions correctly.

To join the tour comfortably, before joining this conquest, you need to practice walking and running at least 10 km/day for about 3 to 6 months. All these things aim to give you the best preparation for your fitness. And when you take the average speed to walk up the stairs of a 10-storey building and you feel alright, that’s when you can join the Son Doong Tour.

Hang Son Doong Cave Vietnam – the Biggest Cave in Vietnam

Journey to explore the biggest cave in the world

After you’ve had the best preparation for your physical state, it’s time to start your journey to explore the fascinating Son Doong Cave. The company van can only take you to kilometer 39 of Ho Chi Minh Road, and then from here, you will start your exploration to conquer Son Doong Cave.

It is because the cave is located further in the primitive jungle, so to reach this cavern; you have to
The cave is located further in the primitive jungle, so you have to walk a long distance to reach this cavern.
You will walk down the valley and through the village of Van Kieu ethnic group.
As usual, you will have lunch and rest here and then continue to En Cave (Hang En).
The group has dinner and spends overnight at En Cave to power up an adventurous journey for the next morning.
The duration to explore Hang Son Doong is about 4 days and 3 nights with many difficulties, but an exciting and valuable discovery for people who love nature.
The mysterious and charming world inside the cave makes you feel breathtaking and impressive.

You will admire the incredible stalactites and a primeval forest with rich and unspoiled vegetation. The inside of the cave is a different life from the outside. You will discover the creativity of nature.

Top 5 highlights inside Son Doong Cave

Son Doong is the largest natural cave in the world with a height of 200m enough to accommodate 40-storey buildings or dozens of big Boeing types.
Eden garden in the ground: The landscape inside Son Doong creates an incredibly majestic scene with rivers, mountains, and a forest with an immensely unique and diverse ecosystem.
The Great Wall of Vietnam: The system of natural cliffs with a height of more than 80m makes this area known as the Great Wall of Vietnam.
Large stalactite system: in Son Doong, the stalactite system resembles the strong giants with stalagmites up to 70m high and has different shapes.
The biggest grotto pearls are found in the cave, with a size larger than a baseball.

Some notes you need to remember when traveling to this cave

A tourist experiencing Son Doong Cave does not need to carry anything. There are members of staff who support you.
The travel office also prepares your tents to rest. A number of public toilets are also set up in the cave to ensure hygiene for visitors and the surrounding environment.
In order to have a perfect excursion, you need to comply with all the regulations set by the company.
If there is a problem that makes the journey impossible to continue, travelers have to return, not to go on.
Normally, this nature tour has activities such as climbing, wading streams, and some essential items, including soft shoes, flashlights, anti-squeeze drugs, and anti-fungal drugs.
Clothes should be light and easy to dry. Thin warm coats are the most convenient for the night.
Should choose shoes for trekking, easy to drain because they will have to operate in a humid environment for a long time.
There is no bathing room in the cave. There is only a limited amount of water to eat and basic personal hygiene. If you want to be cleaner, you can bring a lot of wet towels and hand sanitizer with you.

Tips to take pictures in the dark cave

The techniques of taking photos in the cave are really different because the environment of Hang Son Song is very dark, completely wild, and wet. Thus, in addition to cameras, lenses, and brackets, you need to prepare big lighting systems for lamps.

“Flash types are just like fireflies, hardly bright enough to reflect the grandiosity of the cave. The most effective way to shoot is to expose it with the support of many people to take the vast space without any natural light,“ Anh Cuong shared.

These activities often consume camera batteries very quickly and certainly can’t just take a photo. You should carry them enough to get more pictures of your wish.

When broadcasting live inside Son Doong cave to the United States, ABC TV show needs 150 people to carry goods and equipment for their work.

FAQ about Hang Son Soong

Why the price of the son doong tour is quite high .

$3,000 is high for a tour with 4 days and 3 nights (including 2 days for accommodation before and after the tour). It’s valuable to do this because the $ 3,000 tour price includes 10% VAT, a 660USD visiting fee, and forest environmental services submitted to the management board of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

Each tour of Son Doong needs a lot of people to support tourists to make sure safety, comfort, hygiene, and guidance.

Teh largest cave in the world - hang son doong

Does $3000 include airline tickets?

No, $3,000 is only the tour cost, excluding other expenses to Quang Binh. The guest must pay for airline tickets, trains, or cars to travel to Quang Binh to start the tour. Thus, the total amount they have to pay for the Son Doong trip can be higher than this price depending on how far you will travel to this province.

If I cannot afford to tour, can I discover Son Doong cave by myself?

No, you cannot. Anyone or any group, who wants to visit Son Doong Cave without the permission of the management board of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, violates the law.

Thus, if you cannot visit Son Doong Cave, you can visit the Paradise Cave or Phong Nha Cave instead.

Can I join a group when I am alone?

Although each tour is limited to 10 guests, you can join the tour if traveling alone. When registering to do a tour, please tell the tour operator!

How is the temperature in the cave?

On the way to travel to the cave, the temperature can be very cold from December to March (8-15 degrees Celsius) or hot from June to August (32-38 degrees Celsius). If it rains, the roads are slippery and full of mud. However, the temperature in the cave remains stable at 23 – 24 degrees Celsius, and you should bring a light jacket.

How far will the group have to walk and climb?

The entire trip will be longer than 50 km, but this number is only approximate because you will have to climb up the mountains and cliffs, trekking in the trails, and cross the river.

Do I need to carry helmets, seat belts, or caving tools?

The company will provide you with a full range of caving tools, including helmets, safety belts, and flashlights. You can bring a small flashlight to move to the campsite at night.

How does the group eat and spend overnight during the trip?

You are provided with tents, a thin mattress, and sleeping bags. Also, you should bring a small pillow to sleep comfortably.

The tour company will serve a varied and rich menu in the cave, including pork, beef, chicken, fish, rice, and vegetables. Food is stored in the best safe and hygienic condition. Guests must inform before wanting to bring more food.

Which outfit should I wear to explore?

You bring 3 sets of clothes made of dry materials. One of them is used for cave exploration and trekking (hiking) because it can get wet along the road. A set of dry clothes is used at the campsite and the last set is to change. If you go in February – March, you need to bring more coats to keep warm.

What kind of shoes should be brought along during the trip?

The road is quite dangerous; visitors will wade in stages and climb over the big cliffs. Therefore, you should choose the type of boots that can be drained quickly (absolutely do not use shoes with waterproofing agents that will not remove, so your shoes will be heavier than usual).

If you have a pair of shoes with a good grip, you should use them. Make sure the shoes can be used for 6 days of exploration. If you cannot find suitable shoes, the company can lend you a special type of shoes, but you need to prepare shoe linings to protect your foot.

What type of backpacks should you wear?

You should carry a small backpack containing cameras, water bottles, and personal drugs. The service staff will bring your entire remaining luggage. Dry or waterproof bags are not really necessary because you only cross the shallow streams.

How can I go to the toilet?

At each campsite, the servers will prepare a microbial composting toilet (using rice husks to eliminate bad smell and decompose quickly). Gel to wash hands is also available for the guests to use before meals and after going to the toilet, avoiding infection.

Which personal belongings should you bring?

You only need regular items like insect repellent spray, deodorant spray, chrome powder (used when camping for the foot to keep it dry), anti-fungal medicine, and shampoo which are friendly to the environment.

Is there a place in the cave to bathe?

You will have a place to bathe at Hang En campsite (first and last night). There are also bathing places inside Son Doong, but you have to go further to get water. Guests can bring a small towel to use on the trip.

Do I need to check a good physical status to join the expedition?

Yes, you do. To conquer Son Doong, you must register for the tour and wait for your turn. The guests must pass two theoretical and practical tests of extremely strenuous physical strength. If you do not pass, you will not be allowed to participate in the Son Doong Tour, because this is a hard adventure tour.

Do I need to buy travel insurance?

Yes, you should. The tour company will buy travel insurance for travelers, but the coverage has value in Vietnam (Vietnamese quality). Thus, you should purchase travel insurance from an international travel insurance company or your country.

What type of camera and devices support photography?

You should carry your own kinds of devices such as digital cameras, GoPro, and batteries. If you are a professional or semi-professional photographer, you will not regret bringing an excellent camera to take pictures for great moments. If you bring a GoPro, carry a strap to attach it to the helmet.

You will have a lot of time to take pictures in Son Dong Cave, and it is easy to have beautiful photos here with the support of the expedition. Explorers should have enough batteries for cameras. Also, protection covers your camera from sand and dust.

Can I charge a camera in a cave?

The best way is to bring extra batteries and make sure the camera is fully charged before you go. Many phones need extra chargers to take precautions.

Son Doong Cave Discovery Tour For 3 Days

Best places to visit: Dong Hoi Town – Phong Nha Ke Bang NP – En Cave - Son Doong Cave - Dong Hoi Town

English & Czech

Son Doong, a cave belongs to the Phong Nha-Ke Bang grotto system in central Quang Binh Province, has been discovered to be the biggest in the world. Son Doong cave, discovered by a local 18 years ago, is more than 200 meters wide, 150 meters high, and at least 6.5 kilometers long, though the explorers said they were unable to explore it fully. British explorers have recently discovered that So Dong is much larger than the world’s biggest known cave. The biggest section of Son Dong is five kilometers in length, 200 meters high and 150 meters wide, said Howard Limbirt of the British Cave Research Association team searching the area April 10-14, 2009. Son Dong is much larger than Deer Cave in Malaysia, currently considered the world’s largest, an explorer said (Deer is 90 meters wide, 100 meters high and 2 kilometers long). The Son Doong cave has replaced to take pole position as the world’s largest cave.

Itinerary :

Son Doong Cave Discovery Tour For 3 Days – Itinerary:

Day 1: Dong Hoi Town – Phong Nha Ke Bang NP – En Cave Day 2: En Cave – Discover Son Doong Cave – return to En Cave Day 3: Back to Dong Hoi Town

Day 1 – Dong Hoi – Phong Nha Package Tours – Ke Bang

08:00 Our tour guide will meet you at your hotel in Dong Hoi city and brief the tour plan before we leave for Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park ’s core zone to discover Son Doong Cave. 11:30 We reach Doong Village, a secluded village in jungle. We will have picnic lunch in the village. After lunch we begin a trek through jungle toward En Cave (Swallow Cave).

Son Doong Cave Discovery Tour For 3 Days

14:00 We reach En Cave , a beautiful cave with over 2km in length and 49m in height. We will explore the cave, taking photo then set our camp near a stream. Our support team will catch fish in the stream to cook our dinner. 18:00 Have dinner and sleep in tent.

Transfer: Private transfer 3hrs
Activity: Trekking, camping, En Cave discovery
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Local guide: Yes
Support team: Yes
Accommodation: Camping

Day 2 – Son Doong Cave Adventure Tours

07:30 Breakfast at the campsite before we begin our 2hr-trek through jungle to Son Doong Cave . Discover a part of the world’s biggest cave. 12:00 Have picnic lunch in the cave 15:00 Leave Son Doong Cave after 5-6hr discoverring inside the cave. We return to En Cave and take a swim in the stream before dinner.

Overnight at the campsite.

Activity: Trekking, Son Doong Cave Discovery
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Support team:Yes

Day 3 – Son Doong Cave Discovery Tour For 3 Days: Son Doong – Dong Hoi

08:30 Breakfast at the campsite before we trek toward Doong Village where we have lunch break before driving back to Dong Hoi Town. Trip ends.

Activity: Trekking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

End of the trip!

*Inclusion:

Camping gears
Permission to discover the cave
Transfer two ways from/to Dong Hoi
English speaking guide
Porters & Cook
First-aid kit
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Drinking water
Entrance fees & sightseeing fees

*Exclusion:

Travel insurance
Hotel in Dong Hoi
Train ticket
Tips for guides & driver
Personal expenses

Note: This tour is close on Oct & Nov due to bad weather.

=> Please take a note that we are now in a process of updating the cost for this tour & this work will be completed soon after a time. If you need further details on our updated quotes, kindly email us at [email protected] or [email protected] directly!

How do I create a custom itinerary?

In our web site we provide over hundred tour samples but if you do not find a suitable trip, and want Vietlong Travel to do all the work for you, just click on the customized trip and fill up the form to tell us what you have in mind. Our travel expert will create a trip and provide your with invaluable information!

How do I book the trip?

To book our trip, please select your preferred trip and click on ” Enquiry Now” on the web page. Our booking form wizard will automatically call the trip name, and ask you to fill out some fields for information. Once completed filling the form, you just click Submit to send us your inquiry or Reset to cancel what you have filled up. After receiving your reservation request, we will immediately make all the necessary arrangements in accordance with your request. This will takes about 1-2 business days, and we will send to you our confirmation message by e-mail with all the details of hotels, flights, tours, the booking status and also payment term

How do I pay for the trip?

To book our trip, please select your preferred trip and click on ” Book this trip” on the web page. Our standard payment policy is to ask for a 30% deposit of the package value at the time we send you the final confirmation and the booking code for your trip. The balance of the total package tour price should be paid at least 21 days (twenty-one days) before starting date of the trip.

Is there any hidden cost you do not mention? What about tipping

To book our trip, please select your preferred trip and click on ” Book this trip” on the web page. Our booking form No, all inclusions and exclusions are mentioned at our final confirmation for your trip. Generally, tipping is not compulsory. If you are satisfied with your guides, drivers, a small gratuity is an appropriate way in which to show appreciation to them.

How can I get Vietnam visa on arrival?

For those who travel with VIETLONG TRAVEL, we can arrange the visa approval letter allowing them to obtain a visa on arrival at Noibai Airport in Hanoi, Danang Airport in Danang, Tan San Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh. To apply for the visa, you are required to provide us such information as full name, gender, date of birth, home address, passport number, the expiry date of passport, nationality, date in & out of Vietnam, arrival flight number, place of getting the visa. After 3 or 4 working days, we will send you the visa approval letter. At this time, we charge US$ 50 for visa on arrival at the airport. This fee is subject to change without prior notice.

How safe is Vietnam?

iVietnam is a relatively safe country to visit but there are increasing instances of theft, especially in HCMC where pickpockets and snatch thieves on motorbikes are the worst menace. The best tip is to be vigilant at all times. Often cute kids or old grannies have deft fingers. Leave all valuables (expensive watches, jewellery, glasses, etc.) at home, and don’t even wear flash costume jewellery. Make sure you have a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags at all times and never leave anything you value lying around unattended. I would also not advise taking cyclos late at night, especially in HCMC. our guides will advise you what is “do and don’t” case by case.

What about medical insurance?

It is advised that travelers should have some form of medical insurance before arriving in Vietnam. Although there are several international medical clinics in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, generally the country still lacks adequate medical care for serious illnesses and injuries, especially in other areas. Therefore, we advise that travelers have sufficient cover for emergency medical care as a precautionary measure. Should I take my money in cash or travellers’cheques? The official currency of Vietnam is the dong, which can not be purchased outside Vietnam. The main banks in Hanoi and HCMC can handle a fairly broad range of currencies nowadays, but the dollar is still the most widely accepted. I therefore recommend taking a combination of US$ cash and US$ travellers’ cheques, with the bulk in travellers’ cheques for safety. American Express, Visa and Thomas Cook cheques are the most recognised brands.

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Son Doong Cave Expedition 7 Days

Son Doong Cave Tour will take you into the heart of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh Vietnam, on one of the most thrilling adventure tours in the world. Join this ultimate adventure, you’ll explore the entire length of Son Doong Cave…

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Product Description

Son Doong Cave Tour will take you into the heart of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh Province, Vietnam, on one of the most thrilling adventure tours in the world. Join this ultimate adventure, you’ll explore the entire length of Son Doong Cave, Hang En Cave as well as visiting the Ban Doong ethnic minority village deep in the jungle. Imagine trekking straight into the depths of the world’s largest cave on an expedition unlike any other. A cave that can fit a 747 flying through its largest cavern, a foreign landscape, with enormous stalagmites and statuesque stalactites, hanging from the ceiling and rising from the ground like an alien species.

Day-To-Day Itinerary

Day 1: dong hoi – phong nha ke bang national park..

Arrive in Dong Hoi by no later then the afternoon of day 1 where you will be met by our local guide and transferred to Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. You’ll be dropped off at the Saigon Phong Nha Hotel where you’ll have the rest of the day to rest, relax and wander around the village. At 5:30 pm you are required to meet in the hotel restaurant where you’ll meet your cave experts and guide team for your safety briefing and equipment check.

Day 2: Phong Nha – Hang En Cave.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel at 8:00 am with your guide before departing at 9:00 am for the first leg of the expedition. After a 45 mins drive along Road 20 of the Ho Chi Minh Highway you’ll reach your trekking point, where you’ll start trekking for approximately 1 hour downhill through the forest, which is quite steep at times. Walk for half an hour along a small stream to the minority village of Ban Doong, which is a real highlight for many on this expedition. Learn more about this unique ethnic group of people and enjoy lunch beside a small river. After this point, you will be in the sun all afternoon with about 2 hours along a river, with very little shade. You’ll cross the river many times and so will have wet feet for the whole day. In the summer, the water is only usually knee deep, but gortex boots will fill and hold the water so are not recommended. You’ll then reach the entrance to Hang En Cave, home to thousands of swifts. Here you’ll be given your headlight and helmet and trek/bouldering approximately 20-30 mins to your campsite inside the cave. The group should arrive at camp by 3:00 pm where you can enjoy swimming and washing within the underground river. Dinner will be served at the spectacular campsite with numerous photographic opportunities. Anyone who is unable to complete any stage of this first day comfortably will be turned around to Phong Nha and cannot join the expedition. No refund will be offered.

Day 3: Hang En Cave – Son Doong Cave.

You’ll again begin your day with breakfast at around 8:00 am. You’ll be in for a very tough day today so its best to enjoy a big breakfast, as you’ll need your energy! Start your trek at 9:00 am through Hang En Cave for about 30 mins to reach the magnificent exit, made famous by many a photographer over the past few years. You’ll scramble down to the river valley and then it’s an hour’s walk through the river, so your boots are going to be wet for most of the day and it is unavoidable! You’ll then start climbing a big hill with a couple of rope sections where you’ll need to pull yourself up, and in one point strap into a safety line. You’re then at the entrance of Son Doong Cave where you’ll enjoy lunch and countdown to your big journey underground! With your safety harnesses, you’ll then start the 80 m descent into the cave by making a number of short climbs, using ropes and safety lines and with your guides’ assistance. There is no rappelling or abseiling involved. You’ll then enjoy a few more climbs and bouldering to reach the first and second river crossing inside the cave, which is no more than knee-to-thigh deep depending on the water levels. You should have a wash here, as it will be the last place before reaching your first campsite in Son Doong Cave! On your way to the first campsite in the first large passage of the cave, you’ll have to be extra careful as there are a number of big drops along a rocky path before reaching one of the most spectacular views: Hand of Dog and daylight streaming through the cave thanks to the first doline! You will then scramble down to your campsite and have the afternoon to soak up the views and rest your weary bodies. You’re in for another big meal with your team before turning in for the night. There are no washing facilities on this day.

Day 4: Son Doong Cave Trekking.

Your day begins with a hearty breakfast with your team before a 9:00 am departure towards your second campsite in Son Doong Cave! You’ll start with some rocky climbs, which are quite steep in some places, as you reach the first jungle within the cave at Watch Out For Dinosaurs. After a short break you’ll be trotting down the rocky path to reach the enormous Green Gours! A light lunch is provided with an incredible backdrop of the first doline. If you are lucky you may even catch some sunbeams, which make for truly spectacular photographs! It is then an easy walk through the cave past gigantic formations and plenty of cave pearls towards the light of the second doline and main jungle within the cave. Follow the path past the beautiful foliage reaching towards the light, to reach the underground jungle, unlike anything you could experience on the planet! Cross the jungle for around 45 mins to reach the steep and sometimes slippery path down to your second campsite within Son Doong Cave. After a short rest at your campsite, you are back on your feet and heading deeper within the cave towards the Great Wall of Vietnam! You’ll pass through a very large dry passage with huge stalagmites and great views back to the second doline. Many new creepy crawlies have been discovered within this passage including white spiders, fish, woodlouse and shrimp species! You will reach at this point a very large beautiful underground lake, where you’ll then paddle to reach the Great Wall of Vietnam, or you will find a muddy pit for hundreds of meters, at which you will need to trudge your way through to reach the wall. It is entirely optional if you wish to go further and reach the actual wall, as you will get very dirty in the mud and there are no bathing facilities on this day at camp (pack plenty of wet wipes if you decide on the plunge!). You’ll again enjoy a fantastic dinner with your team and enjoy an evening of games and entertainment, or simply relax and enjoy the views at what is quite possibly the very best campsite in the world! Quick note, you may use a pair of dry boots on this day, as aside from the mud there are no water crossings!

Day 5: Son Doong Cave – Hang En Cave.

After refueling with another hot breakfast you’ll pack up camp and start heading back to the first doline, with a slightly different route through a small oxbow passage above the underground river with a very steep drop, where you will need to use a rope and safety line. Once you have reached your first campsite, you’ll have time for a short break before climbing down to the ancient fossil passage, where you will witness 350 million year old coral fossils! Enjoy a small wash in the pools and a hearty lunch before climbing up to the National Geographic viewpoint. You will then descend back to the main passage, cross the river twice and proceed to climb up to the entrance, again strapped in with your harness and safety lines. At the entrance of Son Doong you’ll have a chance to enjoy a small break and some snacks, before heading back towards the river valley, where you can enjoy a deserved wash! Walk along the river back to Hang En for your final evening and celebration with porter team at this underground campsite.

Day 6: Hang En Cave – Phong Nha Ke Bang – Dong Hoi.

Wake early and after breakfast start your 10 km trek back to Road 20. You’ll follow the river along the valley and back through Ban Doong Village. You will enjoy lunch along the way before starting on what is quite a difficult climb back up the mountain for the last hour of your big adventure! Cold drinks await you at the top of the hill before a 45 mins drive back to Phong Nha. You can then enjoy a well deserved wash and either swim in the pool or enjoy the beach. There is also a good spa at the hotel if you would like to treat your body with some pampering! You’re then free to grab dinner at any time you want with a voucher you’ll be provided. Please advise the hotel of your departure time on the following day upon check-in so they can arrange your transfer back to the airport or train station.

Day 7: Departure .

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and your transfer to the airport will be arranged by the hotel reception. End of tour.

Vietnam private tours

Lotussia Travel is a Hanoi tour operator offering a wide selection of multi-activity holidays in Vietnam. Options include countryside cycle, biking, road cycling, jungle trek, trekking homestay, mountain hiking, peaks climbs, motorbike, scouter touring, camping, caving expeditions, kayaking, boat trips, cruise, street food, sightseeing, culture tours. Most of our trips are private customized, and specially designed for small group tours, family vacations. The itinerary above – Son Doong Cave Tour is only a sample that can be further customized to fit your requirements better. Just follow it or contact us for designing your perfect adventure in Phong Nha national park, Vietnam.

Son Doong Cave
Ben En National Park
Mau Son Mountain
Vietnamese rice pyramid dumpling

Additional Information

Itinerary disclaimer.

Occasionally our tour itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travelers’ comments and our own research. The information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the service proposal. It’s very important that you print and review a final copy of your itinerary a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. If you have any queries, please contact us . We are here to help you!

Please note that while we operate successful trips in Vietnam throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary from time to time.

Depending on the proposed option (semi-guide tour or all-inclusive package tour), the price may include the following services. Please bear in mind Lotussia Travel is specialized in tailor-made trips. Trip cost vary depending on group size and other details.

Car transfers.
Local tour guide. The English-Speaking guide is provided by default. Other language may be available upon request (with extra charge).
Entrance fees.

Unless required most of the following services are usually not included in our tour price.

Flight/Train tickets.
Accommodation.
Tour leader.
Local porter(s).
International travel insurance.
Personal expenses.

Our tour guides speak English or French. They hold a university degree in tourism and national license as a guide. If you wish to send a tour leader along with any group, he or she can fully rely on the knowledge and experience of our local guides.

Remote treks are always accompanied by a local representative to deal with permits and authorities and manage the porter team. They speak the local dialects, know the cultural traditions and give tips on suggested behavior in fragile ecological areas and tribal communities. For some itineraries, the role of tour leader and representative is combined.

Our drivers don’t speak English. It’s possible that a few of them might know some basic words, such as telling time, stop, and lunch. If you’re looking for effective communication throughout the journey, we highly recommend booking a tour guide.

Trip routes

Principally, Lotussia Travel requires all the trip associates to know the destinations well by any means of traveling or enquiry to the local suppliers to figure out all the relative details of any trip. For adventure tours such as jungle trekking, mountain hiking, sea kayaking, river rafting or biking, cycling tours, Lotussia Travel will never add any new routes into available schedule until survey or pre-view it.

Accommodation

Lotussia Travel carefully choose all the hotels, guest-houses or home-stays based on service quality, location, and characteristics, doing best to make the accommodations in the remote small places as comfortable as possible. Please bear in mind that hotels in Vietnam might not be in the same standard in other country. Generally hotels in major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh city, Hoian, Hue…are much better than hotels and guest-houses in mountainous areas.

Lotussia Travel take dinning as an indispensable experience to clients since it is an important part in Vietnamese culture. Therefore, Lotussia Travel will not intend take clients to the most expensive restaurants but non-touristy local ones which offer delicious, local food, with nice or interesting atmosphere. The restaurants might be simple in the country but LOTUSSIA Travel guarantee is sanitary and cleanliness. Or even on our trek, we encourage our cook offer client food with new tastes from day to day. During adventure itineraries to mountainous or remote areas, there is sometimes no choice for hotel and restaurants. We will try our best to bring you the best taste of local food.

As the tap water in Vietnam is undrinkable, Lotussia Travel recommend clients to drink bottled water throughout your trip, or boiled water on treks. Lotussia Travel offers bottle water all the day, and soft drinks like Cola, Sprite or Vietnamese Tea or if possible juice in restaurants (if mentionned in itinerary). This is not automatically included in the packages. In simple restaurant or on camping, Lotussia Travel offers boiled water, instant coffee or juice, wrapped milk (Details are confirmed in bottom of your itinerary).

Transportation

In most destinations of Vietnam, all the roads are well paved though the traffic is quite messed up like in Hanoi, Hai Phong… We use proper vehicles, car, minibus or coach in good condition based on the size of the groups. We use 4WD only on the rough road where the other vehicles could not pass through or based on clients requirement on overland journeys or treks. For cycling itineraries, we usually use our support minibus or minibus with support truck. For sea kayaking, river rafting trips, diving packages we use standard boat as support. Detailed information is provided on our service proposal.

We use drivers who are native or local of each travel destination and maintain good safety records for all trips. Most of our drivers can speak English but a little bit. This is just enough to understand basic words such as “time of departure”, “stop”, “restaurants”, “hotels”…If you want to learn more about Vietnamese culture and information about sightseeing sites, booking a tour guide is highly recommended.

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The 15 best things you can do in Vietnam in 2024

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Taking a cruise along the Mekong Delta is an incredible experience not to be missed © Cultura Exclusive / Rosanna U / Getty Images

The siren song of Vietnam has brought many travelers to its shores in search of incredible landscapes, pearl-white beaches , chaotic and vibrant cities, and one of the warmest welcomes in the world.

The tough decision for travelers isn't whether they should visit Vietnam, it's how they choose what to do with so many incredible options. Do you start in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)? Do you swap the big city experience for the beaches and seafood suppers of Phu Quoc island? Do you dive headlong into the history of a dozen rival empires, or embrace the dynamic, modern Vietnam that has emerged from the aftermath of conflict?

No matter what you want your vacation to look like, accept that you'll never cover everything in one trip and embrace it as a reason to return. Here are 15 incredible things to do that need to be on your Vietnam to-do list.

1. Embrace past and future Vietnam in historic Hanoi

The vibrant capital of the former North Vietnam – and today the capital of the nation – Hanoi is where old and new Vietnam come together. Traces of the imperial past float like ghosts in a city surging skywards – hawkers drift through the narrow lanes of the Old Quarter selling snacks from traditional yoke baskets, while the surrounding buildings are lit up with advertising displays and strip lights.

Exploring at street level is highly atmospheric and fantastic fun – mix up days visiting wartime and imperial relics with evenings feasting on some of Asia’s finest food and late nights dousing the sticky summer heat with glasses of bia hoi (local draught beer).

Planning tip: As they say, Hanoi rocks, and the best places to rock out like a local are lively live music venues such as the moody Binh Minh Jazz Club and keep-it-loud Hanoi Rock City .

2. Find your own island in the sun in Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Okay, we concede that Halong Bay – the atmospheric sprawl of rocky coves and eroded karst islands to the east of Hanoi – is firmly discovered, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more to discover away from the cruise ship crowds. If a tour on a diesel-powered luxury junk doesn’t appeal, consider hiring a kayak to potter around Lan Ha Bay near Cat Ba Island , where outcrops sculpted by wind and waves emerge from the water like the teeth of sea monsters.

Alternatively, leave the diesel fumes behind in calmer Bai Tu Long Bay to the north, where more jungle-capped islands shelter low-key resorts and languorous beaches.

High angle close up of a bowl of bun bo hue, or beef noodle soup.

3. Get your fill of imperial cuisine in handsome Hue

Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty held court in Hue until 1945, and the city’s damaged but still impressive historic relics feel somehow closer to imperial China than to the rest of Southeast Asia. However, for many travelers, it’s all about the food. More than half of Vietnam's estimated 3000 local dishes are believed to have originated in Hue, from the vermicelli-noodle-based bun bo Hue and crispy banh khoai pancakes topped with shrimp and pork to canapé-like, soft-and-crunchy banh ram it dumplings. The lavish imperial cuisine known as am thuc cung dinh – created by the emperors’ loyal chefs – can still be sampled in some of Hue's top restaurants, such as Thin Gia Vien and Hoang Phu .

Planning tip: Don’t restrict yourself to posh imperial banquets; for less than 100,000 dong you can gorge on tasty Hue staples at busy stalwart restaurants such as Madam Thu or at food stalls on the streets.

4. Meet Vietnam’s imperial leaders in the Hue tombs

Hue gets a second spot on the list thanks to the astounding imperial tombs, which preserve the mortal remains of a string of Nguyen emperors and empresses, from dynasty-founding Gia Long to Khai Dinh , the last Nguyen emperor to be buried on Vietnamese soil (his son, Bao Dai, the final emperor of Vietnam, was interred in the Cimetière de Passy in Paris ).

While crowds mob the Citadel and Imperial Enclosure, you can still find peaceful moments for contemplation by skipping the boat tours and renting a motorcycle to visit the extravagant mausoleums along the Perfume River. Don’t miss the towering Thien Mu pagoda , looming over the north bank on the city fringes.

Detour: Equipped with two wheels, you can also buzz north from Hue to enjoy unspoiled dune beaches on the sandy barrier island stretching north and south from Thuan An.

5. Learn to make soups, stir-fries and salads on a cooking course

There’s no better souvenir to bring home from Vietnam than being able to prepare your own Vietnamese feast. Indeed, Vietnamese food arguably has a bigger dinner-party cachet than more familiar Thai cuisine.

Up and down the country, you’ll find cooking courses that start with a fragrant market trip to buy fresh ingredients and local herbs and end with a banquet of the dishes you’ve prepared, covering everything from summer rolls to pho noodle soup.

Hoi An is the most popular destination for aspiring chefs – small and personal Green Bamboo Cooking School is highly recommended. There are also good cooking schools in Hue, Hanoi and HCMC.

A woman approaches a ruin surrounded by jungle

6. Unravel Vietnam’s complex religious history in My Son

While travelers mob the regal assembly halls, pagodas and historic homes of Hoi An, nearby My Son offers a calmer vision of Vietnam’s rich and layered past – particularly if you come in the afternoon. The big lure here is the atmospheric collection of UNESCO-listed Hindu temple ruins surrounded by jungle in a loop of the sacred Thu Bon river.

Sharing many architectural features with the Khmer temples of Cambodia and Thailand , these crumbling, red-brick shrines were built between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Hindu kingdom of Champa, whose descendants – the Cham people – can still be found in pockets in central Vietnam. With only birdsong to disrupt the quiet, the site scores highly for atmosphere as well as history,

Detour: If you use Hoi An as a base for exploring My Son, set aside a day to explore the nearby Cham Islands , an impressive marine reserve whose granite islands are still inhabited by Cham people, most now followers of Islam.

Explore My Son effortlessly with GetYourGuide. Book your tour today .

7. Visit the Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh

One of the world’s youngest faiths, the Cao Dai religion was founded in the Mekong Delta town of Tay Ninh in 1926, fusing elements of ancestor worship, folk religions, Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and Roman Catholicism, with the ultimate goal of freeing the soul from the endless cycle of reincarnation.

To explore its complex customs, head to the cathedral-like Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh. Inside, you’ll see weapon-toting statues, an all-seeing eye, and even a Communist-looking red star – the sect reveres, amongst other figures, Jesus Christ, Buddha, Mohammed and even French novelist Victor Hugo.

Planning tip: Visitors can enter the shrine to witness prayers four times a day; if you have time to kill before or after a visit, detour 15km (9.3 miles) northeast to Nui Ba Den mountain. You can take a gondola then hike to reach its summit cave temples, then whoosh back downhill on a luge-style slide.

Dense, crowed scene of city traffic in rush hour, crowd of people wear helmet, transport by motorcycle,

8. Rumble through the highlands by motorcycle

Vietnam largely moves on two wheels, and a motorcycle is by far the most enjoyable way to explore the hill country of the northwest , even if it takes some courage to adjust to the driving conditions, the errant livestock, and the steep, winding roads. Rent a quality bike in Hanoi and pop your wheels on the train to Lao Cai, to avoid the nerve-jangling ride out of the capital.

Once you reach the heart of the hill country, you can rumble out to outlying villages far from the tourist crowds for epic views and nights in charming homestays run by members of Vietnam’s tribal minorities.

Planning tip: You’ll need an international driving permit to ride legally in Vietnam, and this is only available for some nationalities. Many travelers manage to rent a motorcycle without a permit, but if things go wrong, you won’t be covered by your travel insurance.

9. See the American War through Vietnamese eyes

Modern-day Vietnam is moving on from conflict, but the battlefields from the American War still linger as a sobering reminder of what people had to go through to get to this point. Sites of American losses such as Hamburger Hill in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) are etched into the popular consciousness, but the wartime tunnels at Cu Chi near HCMC and Vinh Moc near Hue offer a glimpse of the Vietnamese experience, as ordinary people went to extraordinary lengths to resist the world’s greatest superpower.

10. Visit villages in the "Asian Alps"

The former French Hill station of Sapa is surrounded by mountains so impressive that French colonizers called them the “Tonkinese Alps,” and the surrounding villages of the H'Mong and Dao ethnic minorities have become popular destinations for hikers – and somewhat commercialized in the process.

For a taste of the scenic serenity that first drew travelers to these lush green hills, head instead to drier, calmer Bac Ha , or the trails and mountain roads around Ha Giang province, tucked against the border with China and seemingly sculpted by the hands of the gods. Stay in hospitable homestays and explore markets, peaceful stilt-house villages, French-era relics and soaring limestone pinnacles, away from the maddening crowds.

Planning tip: There's a lot of competition for the title of best vista in Vietnam but the lookouts gazing over the Dong Van Karst Plateau are strong contenders. The area is designated as a UNESCO Geopark, and the trip from Yen Minh to Dong Van and over the Mai Pi Leng Pass to Meo Vac is particularly spectacular.

11. Find a perfect cup of coffee in the Central Highlands

It was the French colonizers who brought coffee from the Arabian peninsula to Vietnam, but it was the farmers of the Southwest Highlands who mastered the art of coaxing quality beans from these undulating hills. Rising to 1600m (5250ft), Dak Lak Province provides the perfect terroir for growing robusta beans, and the regional capital of Buon Ma Thuot is a great place to tour plantations and track down a quality cup of ca phe , particularly during the annual coffee festival in March. If you insist on arabica beans, head to Dalat and visit the community K'Ho Coffee cooperative, supporting local coffee growers from the K’Ho minority.

Planning tip: The best time to visit coffee country is from September to the end of December when the harvest season is in full swing and plantations are filled with baskets of red beans.

Transform your visit the Central Highlands by booking with GetYourGuide.

Man at the cave entrance in Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world in UNESCO World Heritage Site Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

12. Enter the world’s largest cave in Phong Nha

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in north central Vietnam is a lost world of jungles and caverns, including the world’s largest, Hang Son Doong. The scale of this wonder of nature is simply mind-blowing – a 747 airplane could fly through the cave’s main tunnel.

Parts of the limestone ceiling have collapsed, bringing in natural sunlight, so Hang Son Doong contains an entire rainforest ecosystem with flying foxes, rare langurs, and even a small population of tigers. Since 2012, one tour company – Oxalis Adventure – has been allowed to take a strictly limited number of visitors into Hang Son Doong on challenging four-day treks; the price is stratospheric but so is the scenery.

13. Walk with the ghosts of French Indochina in Ho Chi Minh City

The former capital of South Vietnam may have changed its name from Saigon to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) , but the past remains close to the surface, from the American War relics in the HCMC Museum and War Remnants Museum to the city’s elegant French-built mansions and civic buildings – many now housing museums, restaurants and boutique hotels.

To get a feel for vintage Saigon, stop for a cup of ca phe sua (milk coffee) at the elegant Hotel Continental Saigon , sample cutting-edge French cuisine at La Villa , and take a stroll past the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and the People’s Committee Building – built as HCMC’s Hôtel de Ville but rebranded as the Vietnamese sent the colonizers packing.

Planning tip: To fully appreciate the marvelous, lip-tingling variety of HCMC street food, join a foodie-focused scooter tour with Saigon Street Eats .

Explore Ho Chi Minh City effortlessly with GetYourGuide. Book your tour today .

14. Bask on beautiful beaches

It was the beaches of Phu Quoc Island and Danang – developed as a playground for GIs during the American War – that put Vietnam on the map for seaside vacations, but both have developed into lively resorts. To find unspoiled stretches of sand, modern-day castaways aim their sights at the kitesurfing beaches around Mui Ne , the island sands of the Con Dao archipelago and long, languorous Hong Van Beach on Co To Island in Bai Tu Long Bay .

Planning tip: The best time for a beach trip varies as you move around the country. In central Vietnam, skies are brightest from January to August, while December to April is the beach window on the south coast, and northern Vietnam sees plenty of dry days from October to April.

15. Float on the Mekong Delta

Reaching out into the East Sea like an enormous hand, the mighty Mekong Delta marks the end point of Southeast Asia’s longest river – a 4350km (2700 mile) monster, rising on the Tibetan plateau and emptying to the south of Ho Chi Minh City. This waterlogged wonderland is Vietnam’s rice bowl, nurturing a network of sleepy towns and stilt villages whose residents use the river as their primary artery for life and trade.

For comfortable exploring, book an overnight cruise along the main channel near Can Tho or a cross-border trip to Siem Reap in Cambodia. For a less commercial experience, take a day trip to the backwaters near Ben Tre with Mango Cruises or make your own arrangements with boat owners in Delta villages.

This article was first published Sep 22, 2021 and updated Feb 29, 2024.

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How to explore the world's largest cave, Hang Son Doong, in Vietnam
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Son Doong Cave tour: An ultimate guide to embarking on an epic

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The journey to Son Doong
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COMMENTS

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Son Doong Cave is the world's largest natural cave located in the heart of the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam. It is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and active travelers who are looking for an unforgettable experience. In this article, we will discuss the details of Son Doong Cave Tour and if it is feasible to do in 1 Day, the alternatives, and the pricing of 3-day ...
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Son Doong Cave. Son Doong Cave is in the heart of the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh province. This incredible cave was only explored in 2009/2010 by the British Cave Research Association. Situated in the deep jungle, the entrance to the cave was found by a local jungle man Mr Ho Khanh. Son Doong Cave is now the largest cave in ...
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Detailed itinerary for Son Doong Cave Vietnam tour Day 1: Phong Nha - safe popularity level. You need to be in Dong Hoi by 15:00 at the latest on the first day of the tour. Oxalis staff will pick you up at the Dong Hoi train station/airport and take you to the hotel. Around 17:30 - 18:00, you will meet the safety expert, tour guide, and ...
How to explore the world's largest cave, Hang Son Doong, in Vietnam
Son Doong was first discovered by a local man, Ho Khanh, in 1990. Taking shelter from a storm at the base of a huge cliff in the heart of the jungle, he found a deep hole at the base of the rock that was emitting wind and even puffs of cloud. He didn't explore further, and its location was forgotten for 19 years until he rediscovered the ...
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Being discovered and explored in the first time of 2009, Son Doong Cave only opened to the public since 2013. At more than 200m high, 175m wide and 9.4km long, Son Doong cave could fit an entire 40-story New York City block skyscraper or allowed a Boeing 747 comfortably fly through without any danger for its wings.
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Hang En 2-Day Adventure. Date: 20/12/2018. Come and explore Hang En, located within the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, and spend the night underground in its massive chamber below thousands of darting swifts. Hang En Cave is the world's 3rd largest cave and is quickly becoming one of the must-see natural wonders in Vietnam.
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Before the tour. 1. Tour Operator. Oxalis Adventure, based in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam, is the official and only adventure tour operator in the world that conducts tours in the Son Doong Cave. The rights to visit Son Doong Cave have been awarded by the Vietnamese Government to Oxalis Adventure since 2013 till now.
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Hang Son Dong is currently the largest natural cave in the world with an estimated length of 5km, a 200m height, and a width of 150m. Son Doong Cave to see from Dong Hoi, Quang Binh. In 1991, a local farmer Ho Khanh discovered the cave; however, until 2009, Son Doong Cave was known to the world for the trip of the explorers of the Royal British ...
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Tourist Activities
Son Doong Cave is managed by Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park Management Board. Tour Activities is operated by Oxalis Adventure. Do not copy, repost or re-produce any content in this website without a written agreement from Oxalis Adventure. Add: Phong Nha town, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam Tel: +84 919 900 357
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12. Enter the world's largest cave in Phong Nha. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in north central Vietnam is a lost world of jungles and caverns, including the world's largest, Hang Son Doong. The scale of this wonder of nature is simply mind-blowing - a 747 airplane could fly through the cave's main tunnel.
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On November 26, 2023, Hang Son Doong, Hang En and Hang Va were featured on Episode 6 - EXTREMES of the famous documentary series Planet Earth III made by BBC. The Hang En discovery tour is also a part of the world-famous Son Doong Expedition. On the first night of the Son Doong tour, the cave camp will be set up inside Hang En.