• Ban Gioc Waterfalls: Vietnam’s Majestic Natural Wonder in Cao Bang
  • Ban Gioc Waterfalls: Vietnam’s Majestic Natural Wonder in Cao Bang

  • on Apr 16, 2025       By: Phuong Mai NGUYEN

Cao Bang Province is a remote region of wild beauty, characterized by rugged terrain and dramatic landscapes made up of an intricate maze of karst peaks and knolls.

It is in this region of northeastern Vietnam, bordering China, that the Ban Gioc Waterfalls are located. They are the largest waterfalls in the country, offering a magnificent spectacle throughout the year, changing with the seasons.

Ban Gioc Waterfalls is the largest waterfalls in Vietnam. Photo taken by Authentik Vietnam

Similar to Victoria Falls, Iguaçu Falls, and Niagara Falls, Ban Gioc Falls are also uniquely situated on a border. Here, it marks the boundary with China. The situation is somewhat complicated since the territorial limits run through the middle of the waterfalls and the river, with both countries sharing control over the main falls. A permit, which is quite easy to obtain, is required to access the base of the falls.

This site is even more breathtaking, captivating in its charm and authenticity, as it sits in the middle of a vast natural setting of karst peaks, characteristic of the Tonkin mountains.

Ban Gioc waterfalls sit in the middle of a vast natural setting of karst peaks. Photo taken by Authentik Vietnam

First, a few figures and details to set the scene: The width of the falls exceeds 150 meters, with three levels of waterfalls ranging in height from 35 meters to approximately 30 meters for the secondary cascades. It’s important to note that the secondary falls are located in Vietnamese territory.

Levels of Ban Gioc Waterfalls. Photo taken by Authentik Vietnam

Together, these waterfalls form a harmonious, fairy-tale-like ensemble, divided into multiple cascades separated by rocky spurs covered with trees and vegetation. It is a true jewel that reveals itself before our eyes, evoking the poetry and art of prints. It has the perfection but also the fragility of a work of art.

The presentation is not yet complete... After the waterfalls, a series of terraces formed by small turquoise lakes carved into the limestone rocks follow. These are natural pools! Let’s take the time to visit, walk around, and climb a little higher to admire and meditate on this natural wonder, which also presents a beautiful page of geology.

Ban Gioc Waterfalls in Cao Bang, Northeast Vietnam. Photo taken by Authentik Vietnam

The sounds, like the peaks made of limestone, the green of the trees, and the bluish transparency of the water, make this site unforgettable—a strong moment of the journey in the heart of a magnificent region of Cao Bang, which has retained all its authenticity. Hidden here are numerous villages of various ethnic minorities.

Let's admire the beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfalls in motion through this short video with Authentik Vietnam!

Related articles:

>> Explore the Ban Gioc Waterfalls from every angle in Autumn

>> The 8 Best Things to See and Do in Cao Bang

>> Tour in Northeast Vietnam: Where to go? Which itinerary? What to do? How many days?


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Phuong Mai NGUYEN has the biggest love and pride for Vietnamese culture, which drives her to ensure that every visitor who explores Vietnam encounters an authentic and richly nuanced portrayal of her beloved country. To her, each traveler is not just a guest but a valued friend of both the country and herself. With dedication, she strives to reveal that Vietnam boasts a wealth of experiences far beyond the familiar clichés of phở, bánh mì, or historical narratives of war.

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