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 & Excursions!
1. Phong Nha - Ke Bang Overview
Have 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 History
Phong 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 Bang
When 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.
2.2. 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 See
Phong 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 Cave
Entrance 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 Cave
Entrance Fee: 250,000 VND (approximately $11)
Electric Cart Fee (optional): 60,000 - 350,000 VND ($3-14) per round depending on the number of groups
Dubbed 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.
3.3. Son Doong Cave
Tour 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.
3.4. Dark Cave
Entrance Fee (including activities): 450,000 VND (approximately $19) per person
Dark 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 Cave
Entrance 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 Cave
Tour 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.
3.7. Mooc Spring Eco Trail
Entrance 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.
3.8. Phong Nha Botanical Garden
Entrance 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 Bang
Phong 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 Tours
Joining 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!
4.2. Hiking Mooc Spring and Hang En Cave
Phong 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 Watching
The 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 River
Kayaking 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 Cave
Zip-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.
4.7. Camping in Son Doong Cave
For 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 Bang
5.1. Coming to Phong Nha - Ke Bang by Air
The 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 Train
Trains 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 Bus
Buses 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!
