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Phong Nha - Ke Bang Guide: Complete Info for Exploring Vietnam’s Cave Paradise

Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning karst landscapes, extensive cave systems, and rich biodiversity. Rising like a shining star in the world of adventure tourism, Phong Nha - Ke Bang has earned the nickname "Kingdom of Caves". This natural wonder in central Vietnam is a must-visit for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.Follow the Phong Nha - Ke Bang travel guide by Incredible Asia Journeys to prepare for an unforgettable journey with Phong Nha - Ke Bang Tours ![incredible_toc]1. Phong Nha - Ke Bang OverviewExplore The Marvelous Cave World at Phong NhaHave you ever heard about the amazing cave exploration site called "Phong Nha - Ke Bang"? If not, let’s dive into more detailed information about this incredible formation!1.1. Where is Phong Nha - Ke Bang?Phong Nha - Ke Bang is located in Quang Binh Province, about 500 kilometers south of Hanoi and 200 kilometers north of Hue. Nestled in the Annamite Mountains, the park spans over 1,233 sqkm, making it one of Vietnam's largest national parks.1.2. Phong Nha - Ke Bang HistoryPhong Nha - Ke Bang Vietnam has a rich history that dates back millions of years. The area is known for its karst landscapes, which were formed over 400 million years ago, making it one of the oldest karst areas in Asia.About Phong Nha Ke Bang meaning, the name "Phong Nha" translates to "Wind and Teeth," referring to the wind that blows through the caves and the jagged stalactites and stalagmites found within. "Ke Bang" refers to the Ke Bang karst mountain region.Phong Nha - Ke Bang was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003 due to its geological significance and outstanding natural beauty. Then, by 2015, this place was recognized by UNESCO as a world natural heritage for the second time in terms of biodiversity and ecology. This marked an important turning point in the conservation and tourism development of Phong Nha - Ke Bang region.2. Best Time to Visit Phong Nha - Ke BangWhen should you travel to Phong Nha - Ke Bang? A question of every tourist when planning to travel to Quang Binh, Phong Nha Ke Bang experiences 2 seasons: dry season and rainy season.2.1. Peak Season (March to August)The best time to visit Phong Nha - Ke Bang is during the dry season, from March to August. During this period, the weather is warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities such as Phong Nha - Ke Bang cave exploration, hiking, and river tours. The clear skies and pleasant weather make it perfect for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of the park.The best time to visit Phong Nha - Ke Bang2.2. Off-Peak Season (September to February)The rainy season in Phong Nha - Ke Bang runs from September to February, with higher chances of rainfall and occasional flooding. While this can restrict access to certain caves and trails, the park is less crowded during this time, offering a quieter experience for those who don't mind a bit of rain. The lush greenery and misty landscapes during the rainy season provide a different, yet equally beautiful, perspective of Phong Nha - Ke Bang.3. Phong Nha - Ke Bang Things to SeePhong Nha - Ke Bang National Park is home to numerous natural wonders and attractions. Here are some must-see sights in Phong Nha - Ke Bang!3.1. Phong Nha CaveEntrance Fee: 150,000 VND (approximately $7)Boat Ride Fee: 550,000 VND (approximately $22) per boat (shared among up to 12 people)Phong Nha Cave is one of the park's most Vietnam famous caves, known for its impressive rock formations and underground river. A boat ride through the cave reveals stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and the illuminated pathways highlight the cave’s natural beauty. The cave extends for about 7.7 kilometers, but only the first 1.5 kilometers are accessible to tourists.3.2. Paradise CaveEntrance Fee: 250,000 VND (approximately $11)Electric Cart Fee (optional): 60,000 - 350,000 VND ($3-14) per round depending on the number of groupsDubbed the "underground palace", Paradise Cave is one of the longest dry caves in Asia, stretching for 31 kilometers. The cave features breathtakingly beautiful limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites of various shapes and sizes. The first kilometer is equipped with wooden pathways and lighting, making it accessible for all visitors. The more adventurous can explore further with guided tours.Paradise Cave3.3. Son Doong CaveTour Price: Approximately $3,000 per person (including guide, equipment, and meals)Son Doong Cave is the largest cave in the world, discovered in 2009. Its immense size and unique ecosystem, including a jungle and river inside the cave, make it a bucket-list destination for adventurous travelers. Exploring Son Doong requires a multi-day expedition, complete with camping inside the cave and navigating challenging terrains. Now, please note that the slots for the Son Doong adventure tour each year are limited, so book early to secure your spots. The Son Doong Cave Expedition is fully booked for the years 2024-2025.Son Doong Cave3.4. Dark CaveEntrance Fee (including activities): 450,000 VND (approximately $19) per personDark Cave offers a more adventurous experience, with activities like zip-lining, kayaking, and swimming in its mud bath. Visitors start with a thrilling zip-line ride over the river, followed by a swim into the cave. Inside, you can wade through the dark passages and enjoy a unique mud bath experience. The combination of adventure and natural beauty makes Dark Cave a popular choice for thrill-seekers.3.5. Tien Son CaveEntrance Fee: 80,000 VND (approximately $3.50)Located near Phong Nha Cave, Tien Son Cave is known for its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Often referred to as the "Dry Cave”, it offers a contrasting experience to the water-filled Phong Nha Cave. The cave's intricate formations and the peaceful, dry environment make it a fascinating place to explore.3.6. Hang En CaveTour Price: Approximately $335 per person (including guide, equipment, and meals)Hang En Cave is the 3rd largest cave in the world and offers an incredible adventure for those willing to trek through the jungle to reach it. The cave features a large cavern with a river running through it and a natural beach inside. Camping inside Hang En provides a unique and memorable experience, surrounded by the cave's vastness and beauty.Hang En Cave3.7. Mooc Spring Eco TrailEntrance Fee: 180,000 VND (approximately $7.50)Mooc Spring Eco Trail offers a serene experience in the heart of the jungle. The trail includes wooden walkways, hanging bridges, and crystal-clear springs where visitors can swim and relax. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the park.Mooc Spring Eco Trail3.8. Phong Nha Botanical GardenEntrance Fee: 40,000 VND (approximately $1.75)The Botanical Garden in Phong Nha - Ke Bang is a great place to learn about the Central Vietnam region's flora and fauna. The garden features various trails, Gio waterfall, Vang Anh Lake, and observation towers, providing opportunities to see diverse plant species and wildlife.4. What to Do in Phong Nha - Ke BangPhong Nha - Ke Bang is a great place for nature lovers with many activities to enjoy. Here are some top things to do in Phong Nha - Ke Bang!4.1. Taking Phong Nha - Ke Bang Cave ToursJoining a Phong Nha cave tour is the best way to explore the park's magnificent caves. Tours range from easy boat trips to challenging multi-day treks through remote caves. Guided tours provide insights into the geological and ecological significance of the caves, enhancing the experience. Contact Incredible Asia Journeys for tour information and free consultation about Phong Nha Cave tours!Taking Phong Nha - Ke Bang Cave Tours4.2. Hiking Mooc Spring and Hang En CavePhong Nha - Ke Bang offers numerous hiking trails through its lush jungle and karst mountains. Popular hikes include the Nuoc Mooc Eco Trail and the trek to Hang En Cave. Hiking in the park provides opportunities to see diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endemic species.4.3. Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park Wildlife WatchingThe park is home to diverse wildlife, including rare species like the saola and langur monkeys. Guided wildlife tours provide opportunities to spot these animals in their natural habitat. Birdwatching is also popular, with many species of birds found in the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National park.4.4. Sailing Son River Boat Trips Taking a boat trip along the Son River is a scenic way to experience the park. You can enjoy the beautiful landscape and visit caves like Phong Nha Cave and Dark Cave. The poetic boat trips offer a relaxing and picturesque way to explore the park's waterways.4.5. Kayaking on the Chay RiverKayaking on the Chay RiverKayaking on the Chay River offers a peaceful way to explore the park's waterways. The river is surrounded by lush jungle and limestone cliffs, providing a serene backdrop for paddling. Kayaking tours often include stops at caves such as Dark Cave and Paradise Cave,... and other points of interest along the river.4.6. Zip-lining at Dark CaveZip-lining is a thrilling activity available at Dark Cave. The zip-line ride takes you over the Chay River and into the entrance of the cave, providing an adrenaline rush and stunning views. Zip-lining at Dark Cave4.7. Camping in Son Doong CaveFor a truly immersive Phong Nha Cave experience, consider camping in the park. Multi-day cave expeditions often include camping inside the caves, such as Son Doong and Hang En. Camping allows you to fully appreciate the park's natural beauty and tranquility. Moreover, tourists need to accompany professional guides to ensure security during the trip.5. How to Get to Phong Nha - Ke BangGetting to Phong Nha - Ke Bang is suggested to come to the major cities in Vietnam such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City with several transportation options available.5.1. Coming to Phong Nha - Ke Bang by AirThe nearest airport is Dong Hoi Airport in Quang Binh, located about 45 kilometers from the park. Flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are available ranging from 3,000,000 VND ($120) in 1.5 hours. From the Dong Hoi Airport to Phong Nha, you can take a taxi or bus to the park.5.2. Travel to Phong Nha - Ke Bang by TrainTravel to Phong Nha - Ke Bang by TrainTrains run from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Dong Hoi, the closest train station to Phong Nha - Ke Bang. The journey from Hanoi to Dong Hoi takes around 10 hours, while from Ho Chi Minh City it takes about 20 hours. From Dong Hoi Train Station, it is about 45 km far away so you can hop on a bus or taxi to the park.5.3. Visit Phong Nha - Ke Bang by BusBuses from Hanoi, Hue, and other major cities frequently travel to Phong Nha. The journey from Hanoi to Phong Nha takes around 9-10 hours, and from Hue, it takes about 4 hours. Buses are a budget-friendly option and offer scenic views of Vietnam's countryside.Phong Nha - Ke Bang is an awesome Vietnam destination that promises awe and adventure, at every turn. Whether you're exploring its vast caves, hiking through lush jungles, or learning its rich history, there's always something remarkable to discover in Phong Nha. Ready to start your Vietnam tour packages to this natural wonder? Share your travel plans or ask any questions in the chat box. Book your tour with Incredible Asia Journeys today and kick off your adventure in Phong Nha - Ke Bang!

How to get to Phong Nha

One of Vietnam’s most impressive national parks has both benefitted and suffered from the isolation of its location. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park sits inland, pressed up against the border with Laos, a world away from the coastline which many tourists cling to when travelling the country. Improved roads have made it much easier to reach the secluded destination, but the best way to get to Phong Nha from the north or centre of the country still eludes many tourists, and a quick glance at the distance and required time allowances, unfortunately, mean that a lot of tourists miss out on the UNESCO World Heritage Site.[incredible_toc]Phong Nha - Ke Bang CaveWith this guide on how to get to Phong Nha, we hope to bring the beauty of its magnificent karst rocks, world-beating caves and serene rivers that little bit closer to you.1. How to get to Phong Nha from HueThe most popular way to get to Phong Nha is from the ancient capital of Hue. Despite the four-hour drive time, there are many Hue to Phong Nha day trips that leave early and arrive back late, giving you about four hours to explore the caves and take a serene boat ride down the river.1.1. Hue to Phong Nha by TourAlthough it takes over four hours to travel between Hue and Phong Nha, the way is littered with relics from Vietnam’s troubled pass, making tours a very interesting option for history buffs or anyone wanting to expand their understanding of the American War. On the way, Phong Nha day trips usually visit historic sites strewn across the country’s DMZ and around, including the Hien Luong Bridge over the Ben Hai River – the exact point at which the country was cleaved in two. Slightly longer tours might pass the Vinh Moc Tunnels, where an entire village hid underground near the DMZ, and the veterans’ cemetery, where the unfortunate soldiers are still remembered.Phong Nha Cave in Quang Binh ProvinceOnce arrive at the cave, tours will have lunch and head out on rowing boats down the Con River. Passing underneath the gorgeous slanted entrance, visitors will enter and explore the three accessible chambers of Phong Nha Cave, before having free time to explore the magnificent stalactites and stalagmites on the dry banks of the river inside. With the benefit of one of these Phong Nha tours, you will hear of the cave’s importance during the war, where the North Vietnamese Army would stockpile their weapons, treat their wounded and rest up for the continuation of a 3 or 4-month trek to the South along the Ho Chi Minh Trail.Best day tours to Phong Nha from Hue:- Hue - Phong Nha Cave Full Day Tour- Paradise Cave Tour from Hue1.2. Hue to Phong Nha by BusThere are no local public buses between Hue and Phong Nha, but tourists find many of the company buses to be efficient, cheap and easy to navigate. The most reliable service is offered by the Tan Nhat Bus, which leaves at 07:00 from 1A Hung Vuong Street and arrives to Phong Nha at 11:00. The bus costs 250,000 VND ($10.75) and can be booked either online or with the travel company in Hue.1.3. Hue to Phong Nha by TrainPhong Nha Cave explorersThough there is no direct train from Hue to Phong Nha, it is possible to get the train from Hue to Dong Hoi, followed by a bus or taxi onwards to Phong Nha. The Reunification Express runs between Hue and Dong Hoi and costs the same regardless of which of the five services you take. Amongst these five options, you have a choice between a ‘hard seat’ and a ‘soft seat’, the former being about $12 and the latter being about $17. From Dong Hoi, jump on the B4 bus from any of the bus stops around the city, pay about $3 for the ticket and sit back for the 90-minute journey to Phong Nha.1.4. Hue to Phong Nha by MotorbikeThe 220km distance to Phong Nha from Hue is traversable by motorbike, which takes the same time on both of the two roads that connect the city and the national park. The Ho Chi Minh Highway features much better views and less traffic, so we strongly advise following that road up. On the way, you will pass lakes and mountains, as well as the perfectly spaced-out towns of Dong Ha and Dong Hoi, which can be used for rest stops.2. How to get to Phong Nha from Ninh BinhDespite the distance of about 400 kilometers between Phong Nha and Ninh Binh, there is not much in the way of developed tourist facilities south of Ninh Binh and north of Phong Nha. A 7-8 hour journey is unfortunately unavoidable, but it does enhance the overall feeling of reward when the feat is accomplished. Given the other large distance between Phong Nha and Hue, the caves actually act as a great rest stop on any northern Vietnam tour between Hanoi and Hoi An.Phong Nha Cave entrance2.1. Ninh Binh to Phong Nha by BusThe eye-watering travel time between Ninh Binh and Phong Nha puts many potential visitors off attempting the journey, but the option of a sleeper bus makes this a much more realistic idea. Buses usually leave in the evening, around 9 pm or 10 pm, and arrive very early in the morning, around 4 am or 5 am. While this is not ideal, most companies will drop you off on the main road and you will be free to walk to your accommodation– you may even be able to check in straight away if the room is free.Queen Café is one such bus service from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha, leaving at 20:30 from no.46, 27 Thang 7 Street in Ninh Binh City and arriving outside Thien Phu Hostel at 04:00 the next day, costing about $ 20.2.2. Ninh Binh to Phong Nha by TrainSon Doong Cave Expedition in Phong NhaLike from Hue, trains to Phong Nha only go as far as Dong Hoi, where you can disembark and head out on a bus or in a taxi to the caves. There are three services of the Reunification Express, all offering a smooth passage from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha:1. SE5 (Departs at 17:51 and arrives at 08:27)2. SE7 (Departs at 08:26 and arrives at 23:05)3. SE19 (Departs at 23:10 and arrives at 12:32)The train prices depend on the types of seats (hard or soft) and berth cabin (hard or soft) from $35 to $68 cost and provide safe passage on a calm route towards Phong Nha. The SE19 sleeper train is particularly appealing because of its arrival time around sunrise in Phong Nha, meaning those awake early enough can enjoy the sight of a bright red sun rising above the undulating karst landscape of the area.2.3. Ninh Binh to Phong Nha by MotorbikeIf you are thinking of taking the drive from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha, then you will need a decent motorbike capable of withstanding a few steep inclines. Again, there are two options and again, the Ho Chi Minh Highway is the much more preferable one for scenery, if not for time. It takes roughly 9 hours to traverse the Ho Chi Minh Highway, which may seem like a long time but actually pales in comparison to the arduous trekking journey of the NVA during the war.Ride a motorcycle to Quang BinhThe beauty of driving the Ho Chi Minh Highway is in the surroundings and the off-the-beaten-track atmosphere of the road. By skirting the edge of Cuc Phuong National Park and making stops at Xuan Lien Nature Reserve, Ben En National Park and the gorgeous Thanh An Tea Hills, drivers can enjoy a very scenic route with very few fellow tourists.3. How to get to Phong Nha from HanoiAs the capital of the country, Hanoi has some of the best connections for travelling to Phong Nha, in spite of the two destinations being about 500km apart via the Ho Chi Minh Highway. Exploring the magnificent cave of Quang Binh3.1. Hanoi to Phong Nha by BusHanoi lies just two hours north of Ninh Binh and therefore uses the same routes and bus companies as its southern neighbour. The Hung Thanh Bus runs overnight from Hanoi to Phong Nha, taking about 10 hours and costing around $ 17 (bookable from 162B Tran Quang Khai Street). Other companies like Camel Travel, Hung Long and Queen Café all operate similar routes between $10 and $20.3.2. Hanoi to Phong Nha by TrainThe train from Hanoi to Phong Nha takes roughly the same amount of time as the bus, but arrives in Dong Hoi rather than Phong Nha, meaning another bus or taxi must be taken, which may add another hour. If you are in no rush, then this might be a viable option, as the train is much safer than the bus and it is usually easier to sleep, depending on what seat you book. For a train from Hanoi by Tourist Train, you can opt to travel horizontally in a 4-berth cabin (About  $58) or a VIP Berth(2) cabin (About $135). You can book tickets online, at your accommodation, at a travel agency or directly at the central train station in Hanoi.3.3. Hanoi to Phong Nha by MotorbikeThe Best Road Motorbike Trails in Quang BinhThis route is exactly the same as the one from Ninh Binh, except for the 2 hours it takes to drive down to Ninh Binh from Hanoi. To shave an hour off the journey time, it is possible to take the QL1A, passing Thanh Hoa and Vinh on the way, but sacrificing much in the way of scenery.3.4. Hanoi to Phong Nha by FlightWith the services of Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport, it would actually be quicker, if not cheaper, to take a flight to Dong Hoi, followed by a bus to Phong Nha which is 1 hour far away. Another way is to take a flight to Da Nang or Hue where you can spend some time for sightseeing and head to Phong Nha in a 3-7 hour bus/private car. Overall, this may still come to about 7 hours, but it has the bonus of going over the Hai Van Pass, one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world.Don't hesitate to contact Incredible Asia Journey to make your Phong Nha tour more hassle-free with authentic local consultation!