Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, a natural masterpiece honored by UNESCO, is always a dream destination for those who love exploration and adventure. If you are looking for a vacation to immerse yourself in unspoiled nature and escape the hustle and bustle of city life, then Phong Nha – Ke Bang is the perfect choice. Let’s explore the endless beauty and unique experiences that this “kingdom of caves” offers with “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around The World).
Phong Nha – Ke Bang Travel Guide
Phong Nha – Ke Bang is not only a famous tourist destination in Quang Binh but also the pride of Vietnam on the world tourism map. Nature has bestowed upon this place a diverse ecosystem and magnificent caves with unique limestone formations, promising exciting exploration journeys.
With a vast area of nearly 200,000 hectares, planning a complete exploration of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park can be daunting for many visitors. Don’t worry, “Du lịch khắp thế gian” will share A-to-Z travel tips for Phong Nha – Ke Bang, helping you have a memorable and perfect trip.
1. Overview of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park: Quang Binh’s Emerald Gem
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, located in Quang Binh province, about 45km northwest of Dong Hoi city center, is one of the largest and most important nature reserves in Vietnam. This national park is formed from two main areas: Phong Nha Cave, the first cave discovered in the region, and the majestic Ke Bang limestone mountain range.
Coming to Phong Nha – Ke Bang, you will feel like stepping into a mysterious and pristine world with over 300 caves of all sizes, ancient limestone mountains hundreds of millions of years old, unique underground river systems, rich vegetation, ancient Cham Pa cultural imprints, and countless challenging adventure activities.
With invaluable natural values, Phong Nha – Ke Bang has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site, becoming a dream destination for domestic and international tourists who wish to explore the majestic and mysterious beauty of creation.
Overview of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Explore the beauty of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park (@bea_adventurous_)
2. Ideal Time to Visit Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
Quang Binh, located in the North Central Coast region, has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. To have the most complete Phong Nha – Ke Bang exploration trip, you should come here in the dry season, from April to the end of August.
During this time, Quang Binh puts on the fresh green color of nature, the weather is dry and sunny, ideal for trekking, cave exploration, sightseeing, and boating on rivers. The clear blue sky and warm sunshine will further highlight the majestic beauty of Phong Nha – Ke Bang.
However, you should avoid traveling to Phong Nha – Ke Bang in the rainy season, from September to December. This is when Quang Binh is often affected by storms and rains, prone to dangerous floods and landslides, affecting tourism activities.
From January to March, the weather is more stable, but the river water is still quite high, limiting the exploration of water caves, especially Phong Nha Cave. Therefore, plan your trip to Phong Nha – Ke Bang in the summer to fully enjoy the beauty of this place.
Ideal time to explore Phong Nha Ke Bang
Summer is the best time to explore Phong Nha – Ke Bang (@ngockii)
3. Directions to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
To get to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, you first need to travel to Quang Binh, then continue your journey to Phong Nha.
3.1. Getting to Quang Binh
Quang Binh has a convenient geographical location, easily accessible by various means of transport:
By Plane
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Quang Binh, especially if you depart from major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Dong Hoi Airport (VDH) is about 6km from the city center.
Domestic airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways all have direct flights to Dong Hoi. Flight time is only about 1 – 1.5 hours. Airfares may vary depending on the booking time and airline. To save costs, you should book tickets early and hunt for promotions.
By Train
Train is an interesting transportation option, especially if you want to enjoy the scenery along the way. Dong Hoi Station is located on the North – South railway line, convenient for traveling from many provinces and cities.
Traveling by train to Quang Binh will take about 4 – 8 hours depending on the departure point. Train ticket prices range from 200,000 VND/one way. You can book train tickets online or at train stations.
By Bus
Bus is a popular and economical means of transport to Quang Binh. There are many high-quality bus operators khai thác routes to Quang Binh from neighboring provinces and major cities.
Traveling by bus will take about 6 – 12 hours depending on the departure point and route. Bus ticket prices range from 150,000 VND/one way. You can buy bus tickets online or at bus stations.
3.2. Getting from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
From Dong Hoi city, you need to travel another 45km to reach Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. Popular means of transport include:
By Bus
Bus is the most economical public transport to get to Phong Nha – Ke Bang. You can take bus B4 from Dong Hoi city center for about 35,000 VND/one way. This bus route will take you directly to Phong Nha.
However, buses in Quang Binh may not be as comfortable as in major cities, and travel time may be longer.
Renting a motorbike or car for self-driving
Renting a motorbike or car for self-driving is an ideal option for those who want to freely explore Phong Nha – Ke Bang on their own schedule. You can easily rent a vehicle in Dong Hoi with many choices of vehicle types and prices.
Motorbike rental: Motorbike rental prices range from 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day. You can rent a motorbike at hotels, homestays, or motorbike rental shops in Dong Hoi.
Self-drive car rental: Self-drive car rental prices range from 500,000 – 800,000 VND/day depending on the type of car. Self-drive car rental is suitable for large groups or families who want privacy and comfort.
Taxi or motorbike taxi (Xe Om)
Taxis and motorbike taxis are fast and convenient means of transport, but the cost will be higher than buses or self-drive rentals. You can easily catch a taxi or motorbike taxi in Dong Hoi to get to Phong Nha – Ke Bang.
4. Accommodation in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
For convenient exploration of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, you can choose to stay at hotels or homestays near Phong Nha or in Dong Hoi city.
4.1. Hotels and Homestays Near Phong Nha – Ke Bang
The area near Phong Nha concentrates many hotels, guesthouses, and homestays with affordable prices, suitable for many types of tourists. The advantage of staying here is that you will save travel time to attractions and immerse yourself in the peaceful natural space.
Popular accommodation options near Phong Nha:
Son Doong Riverside: Hotel with a beautiful location by the Son River, quiet and airy space. Reference price from 350,000 VND/night.
Carambola Bungalow: Lovely bungalows with nature-friendly design, private space. Reference price from 475,000 VND/night.
Phong Nha Coco Riverside: Cozy homestay with beautiful river views, green space. Reference price from 385,000 VND/night.
Hotels near Phong Nha Ke Bang
Nature-friendly homestay in Phong Nha (@imla1403)
4.2. Hotels in Dong Hoi City
If you want to experience more amenities and services, you can choose to stay at hotels in Dong Hoi city. Dong Hoi has many hotels from budget to luxury, meeting the diverse needs of tourists.
Popular hotel options in Dong Hoi:
Vinpearl Quang Binh: Luxurious 5-star hotel with full amenities and high-class services. Reference price from 1,800,000 VND/night.
Riverside Hotel – Quang Binh: 4-star hotel with a central location and beautiful Nhat Le River views. Reference price from 850,000 VND/night.
Hoa Binh Hotel: Good quality 3-star hotel, reasonable price. Reference price from 450,000 VND/night.
5. Must-Visit Destinations in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park boasts countless attractive destinations, from magnificent caves to pristine primeval forests. Below are the highlights that you should not miss:
5.1. Phong Nha Cave – “The First Cave of the South”
Phong Nha Cave, known as “The First Cave of the South,” is a tourism symbol of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. To explore Phong Nha Cave, you will take a boat upstream of the blue Son River to the cave entrance, which is about 10m high.
Entering Phong Nha Cave, you will be overwhelmed by the magical beauty of the nearly 8,000m long cave system with 12 large and small caves. Inside the cave, you will admire sparkling golden sandbanks, blue underground lakes, and especially the magnificent stalactite system formed over millions of years, giving you the feeling of being in a fairyland.
Entrance fee:
- Peak season (April – September): 150,000 VND/adult, children free.
- Low season: 120,000 VND/adult, children free.
- Boat rental: 550,000 VND/boat (12 seats).
Phong Nha Cave
The magical beauty of Phong Nha Cave (@thomaschuphoto)
5.2. Paradise Cave – “Underground Palace”
Paradise Cave, known as “Underground Palace,” is one of the longest dry caves in Asia with a total length of 31.4km. The cave is located deep in the ancient limestone mountains, surrounded by pristine primeval forests.
To reach the cave entrance, you will take an electric car and climb about 524 stone steps. Stepping inside the cave, you will be amazed by the magnificent beauty of the majestic stalactite system, illuminated by a modern lighting system, creating a shimmering and magical space. Don’t forget to check-in at the Well of Heaven (Giếng Trời), the last point of the cave, where natural light shines down, bringing a surreal beauty.
Entrance fee:
- Peak season (April – September): 250,000 VND/adult, 125,000 VND/child.
- Low season: 200,000 VND/adult, 100,000 VND/child.
Paradise Cave
The magnificent beauty of Paradise Cave (@dkadoption)
5.3. Phong Nha Botanical Garden – Explore Diverse Ecosystems
Phong Nha Botanical Garden, with an area of over 40ha, is a large primeval forest, where the diverse ecosystem of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is preserved. This is an ideal destination for those who love nature exploration and trekking.
At the botanical garden, you can join short trekking routes to explore Gio Waterfall, Vang Anh Lake, seedling nursery, rare plant growing area, and animal release area. Don’t forget to visit the specimen display house to admire the rare flora and fauna being conserved here.
Entrance fee: 40,000 VND/adult and 20,000 VND/child from 1.1m tall.
Phong Nha Ke Bang Botanical Garden
Phong Nha Botanical Garden – a place to explore diverse ecosystems (@centralvietnamguide)
5.4. Ozo Park – Experience Adventure in the Green Forest
Ozo Park, located within Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, is an eco-park with the most magnificent treetop game system in Vietnam. Coming to Ozo Park, you will immerse yourself in unspoiled nature and participate in diverse entertainment activities.
You can walk on wooden bridges in the primeval forest, relax in the green space, and have fun playing in the cool Ozo stream. In particular, don’t miss the thrilling treetop games, kayaking and SUP challenges, or conquering the 999m waterfall by kayak.
Entrance fee:
- Package 1 (sightseeing + treetop and water games + mountain biking): 200,000 VND/adult and 100,000 VND/child from 1m tall.
- Package 2 (package 1 + 999m Ozo stream kayaking challenge + park shuttle bus): 450,000 VND/person (only for people over 1.4m tall).
Ozo Park
Ozo Park – an ideal destination for adventure lovers (@hello.qb)
5.5. Mooc Spring Eco-Tourism Area – Relax in Nature
Mooc Spring Eco-Tourism Area, located in the green valley by the banks of the Chay River, is surrounded by majestic limestone mountains. Coming here, you will not only admire the beautiful natural scenery but also participate in exciting water sports activities such as kayaking, fishing, ziplining, and spring bathing.
Mooc Spring is famous for its cool, clear blue water, originating from the heart of the limestone mountains, flowing year-round. This is an ideal destination for you to relax, immerse yourself in nature, and enjoy happy moments with friends and family.
Entrance fee:
- Entrance ticket: 65,000 VND/adult and 35,000 VND/child over 1.1m tall.
- All-inclusive ticket (including entertainment activities): 110,000 VND/adult and 70,000 VND/child over 1.1m tall.
Mooc Spring Eco-Tourism Area
Mooc Spring – a relaxing destination in nature (@macanhh)
6. Phong Nha – Ke Bang Cuisine: Rich Local Flavors
Phong Nha – Ke Bang cuisine has a strong Central Vietnamese flavor, with rustic, delicious, and affordable dishes. Here are some specialties you should try when visiting Phong Nha:
6.1. Quang Binh Filtered Cake (Banh Loc) – Rustic Dish with Rich Flavor
Quang Binh filtered cake (Banh Loc) has many differences compared to Hue filtered cake. The cake is made from fresh tapioca flour, filled with shrimp, meat, wood ear mushrooms, or green beans. Quang Binh filtered cake has many types such as leaf-wrapped cake, clear cake served with bamboo shoots, and crispy fried cake.
When enjoying filtered cake, you will feel the chewy softness of the crust, the rich flavor of the filling, combined with spicy and salty chili fish sauce, creating an unforgettable taste.
6.2. Grilled Chicken with Cheo Salt – Mountain Forest Flavor
Grilled chicken with Cheo salt is a famous specialty in Phong Nha. The chicken chosen is free-range chicken, small but with firm and delicious meat. The chicken is grilled over charcoal until golden brown, dipped in special Cheo salt, made from basil, lime leaves, green peppercorns, green chili, and finely ground salt.
Grilled chicken with Cheo salt is often served with hot sticky rice, creating a meal rich in mountain forest flavor.
Grilled Chicken with Cheo Salt
Grilled chicken with Cheo salt – a must-try dish (@duyen_legend)
6.3. Clam Stir-fry with Rice Paper (Chat Chat Xuc Banh Trang) – Seafood Flavor
Chat Chat is a small type of clam, living in brackish water areas. Quang Binh Chat Chat has a unique flavor, processed into many delicious dishes, the most famous of which is Chat Chat stir-fry with rice paper.
Chat Chat after being boiled will be stir-fried with onions, seasoned to taste. This dish is often served with crispy grilled rice paper. When enjoying, you will feel the natural sweetness of Chat Chat, the spiciness of chili, the crispiness of rice paper, combined with the aroma of roasted sesame seeds.
You can enjoy Phong Nha specialties at restaurants in the Phong Nha area with prices ranging from 50,000 – 200,000 VND/dish.
7. Important Notes When Exploring Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
To have a complete and safe Phong Nha – Ke Bang exploration trip, you need to note a few things:
- Clothing: Wear comfortable, cool, and easy-to-move clothing. Wear sports shoes or hiking shoes for convenient movement and trekking.
- Personal items: Bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, camera, phone, and power bank.
- Safety: When participating in water activities, wear a life jacket fully and comply with the safety regulations of the amusement park.
- Environmental protection: Maintain general hygiene, do not litter indiscriminately, and protect the natural landscape.
Phong Nha – Ke Bang is not just a tourist destination, but also a journey to explore the wonderful beauty of nature, where you can find peace in your soul and love the priceless gifts that creation has bestowed. Plan your exploration of Phong Nha – Ke Bang today to experience the most wonderful things!