If you are among the fans of the Hollywood movie “Kong: Skull Island”, it is the spectacular landscapes of the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park that await you. It's time to let yourself be tempted by a green route combining sea, mountains, caves, and rivers. Our suggestions for a 2-3 day trip to make you experience the Eldorado in Central Vietnam.

Quang Binh province is known for its ancient historical remains and in particular for its exceptional natural heritage full of discoveries. The place owes its reputation to the incredibly rich Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park which presents the primitive forest, the Son River, and the dry and flooded caves full of karst mysteries. The park is renowned as one of the largest and oldest tropical karst reliefs in the world covering more than 200,000 ha, sheltering around three hundred superb caves.

1. When to go to Phong Nha - Ke Bang?

The park is located in Quang Binh Province which has two distinct seasons, the dry season and the rainy season.

The dry season (April to August) is ideal both for visiting the Phong Nha caves and for adventures on the Son and Chay rivers. The weather is very pleasant between 20-21 degrees inside the caves compared to 37 – 38 degrees outside in summer.

The rainy season (from September to March), monsoons and abundant water are not favourable for all activities. There’s a possibility of visiting only the dry caves like Tien Son, Thien Duong or Paradise.

2. How to get there?

All means are practicable to go to Phong Nha-Ke Bang, plane, bus, train and motorbike too, according to your wishes and your budget.

By plane: departure from Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh - city to Dong Hoi City, around an hour's flight.  

By train/bus: around 10 hours’ drive. For information: departure at 6 p.m. from Hanoi, arrival at 4 a.m. the next day in Dong Hoi Town.

In the city, given the size of Dong Hoi, it is better to rent a motorbike to discover all the attractive sites and corners of the place, and it’s a good way to save money for sure.

3. IDEAS FOR DISCOVERY ROUTES IN THE PHONG NHA – KE BANG REGION

3.1. 2 days 1 night tour in Phong Nha - Ke Bang (in Quang Binh)

Day 1: Arrival in Dong Hoi, discovery of the beauty of Phong Nha and Paradise caves

Arrive at Dong Hoi Town. Start discovering Quang Binh province - the narrowest part of Vietnamese territory, which is known for the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park listed as a World Heritage Site in 2003. Covering 85,754 ha, the site is of geological value and an exceptional ecological environment will immerse you in a sumptuous world combining karst plateaus and tropical rainforests. Exploring its spectacular caves and underground rivers will also reveal abundant endemic species.

Enjoy a 1-hour drive up the hill through the countryside, then enter the national park for an exploration of Phong Nha Cave. Discovered in 1994, this famous cave is renowned for its underground river and its system of fantastic stalactites and stalagmites. From the pier, take the boat along the Son River to the gigantic cave door. Enjoy a relaxing walk to admire the natural masterpieces as you pass through secret corners: the Bi Ki Cave and the Palace Cave.

Then take a short transfer to Paradise Cave (Thien Duong). New surprises await you. Discovered in 2005, measuring 31.4 kilometres long, 60 m high and 30 to 100 m wide, it is reputed to be the longest in Asia. After a short walk in the forest, begin discovering this earthly paradise through the different grandiose rooms. Let yourself be amazed by stalactites and stalagmites that are as mystical as they are extraordinary.

At the end of the day, transfer to the hotel, check-in and enjoy your stay in the peaceful town.

Day 2: Departure from Hue, visit the famous 17th parallel and the Vinh Moc tunnel

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam. On the way, visit the famous Vinh Moc Tunnel.

Dug by residents over 2 years (1965 – 1967), this tunnel, 1.7 km long and 10 to 23 m deep, was the bomb shelter during the Vietnam War. The site is known as a witness to the heroism of the Vietnamese people.

Continue your journey and explore the famous 17th parallel. According to the Geneva Agreement, this historic site was a dividing line between the communist North and the non-communist South of Vietnam. Visit the museum, Flag Tower, Ben Hai River and Hien Luong Bridge to learn about the special history of this land.

Arrive in Hue late afternoon and check in at the hotel. You are free to take a stroll to visit the ancient capital in the evening.

3.2. 3 days 2 nights tour in Phong Nha - Ke Bang

Day 1: Exploring Phong Nha Cave, hiking in the botanical garden with Gio Waterfall

Arrive in Dong Hoi to discover the province of Quang Binh which is known for the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park classified as a world heritage site in 2003.

Departing from the Son River pier, which is still discreet, you will enjoy a pleasant and exciting cruise on the longest underground river in the world, which is home to the Phong Nha caves. The rowers will accompany you to another world where a kingdom of magical stalactites triumphs. The intrepid can opt for a sensational discovery offered in a daytime adventure program.

In the afternoon, depart for a 2-hour trekking experience on a marked trail through the botanical garden. One of the highlights is the Thac Gio Waterfall, truly picturesque despite its modest size. Discover the lush tropical forest, home to many plant species, especially orchids and birds that will attract you. The hike will especially warm you during the cold months of December to February.

Transfer back to your accommodation, and enjoy your stay in the town.

Day 2: Mystery of Paradise Cave and Adventure to Black Cave

Breakfast at the hotel then transfer to Paradise Cave (Thien Duong). New surprises await you. Discovered in 2005, measuring 31.4 kilometres long, 60 m high and 30 to 100 m wide, it is reputed to be the longest in Asia. After a short walk in the forest, begin discovering this earthly paradise through the different grandiose rooms. Let yourself be amazed by stalactites and stalagmites that are as mystical as they are extraordinary.

Then, treat yourself to a thrilling day of adventure on the Chay River and the Black Cave which are also part of the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park. You will be so surprised by the emerald waters of the Chay River, especially during the months between February - August. Its atmosphere, both magnificent and sporty, will captivate visitors as well as kayaking and zip-lining enthusiasts. Be prepared for intense activities that require the most energy along the route.

Finally, the visit to the wild and mysterious Black Cave where the lighting system is not available as in the Phong Nha caves. Don't miss an hour of relaxation to end your day with a half-hour thermal mud bath in the cave. This atypical atmosphere and the refreshing mud will surely compensate for hours of effort.

Return to your accommodation late in the afternoon.

(Paradise Cave)

(Zip line at Suoi Mooc)

Day 3: Visit Vinh Moc Tunnel and Hien Luong Bridge, drive to Hue

After breakfast, transfer to Hue - the ancient capital of Vietnam. On the way, you visit the famous Vinh Moc Tunnel. Dug by residents over 2 years (1965 – 1967), this tunnel, 1.7 km long and 10 to 23 m deep, was the bomb shelter during the Vietnam War. The site is known as a witness to the heroism of the Vietnamese people.

Continue your journey to Hue and take a stop to explore the famous 17th parallel. According to the Geneva Agreement, this historic site was a dividing line between the communist North and the non-communist South of Vietnam. Visit the museum, Flag Tower, Ben Hai River and Hien Luong Bridge to learn about the special history of this land.

Arrive in Hue late afternoon and check in at the hotel. Free for a walk in the ancient capital in the evening.

4. Extension: Relaxation on Nhat Le Beach

If you have more time, consider a relaxing moment at Nhat Le Beach, one of the wildest in the country, just 1 km North of Dong Hoi Town, linked to the mouth of the Nhat Le River. Discreet corners between wind and white sand, everything is there to please swimmers, hikers and seafood lovers.

Wish you a good discovery!

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