Quang Binh, a land in Central Vietnam characterized by sunshine and winds, is not only famous for its long white sandy beaches but also home to a precious gem of Vietnamese nature – Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site, Phong Nha-Ke Bang possesses a pristine and majestic beauty with magnificent cave systems, diverse vegetation, and mysterious underground rivers. If you are a nature lover, passionate about exploration, and seeking unique experiences, Phong Nha-Ke Bang is definitely a must-visit destination on your upcoming trip to Vietnam.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is not just a regular tourist spot, but a journey to discover the unspoiled beauty of creation. With a vast area of nearly 200,000 hectares, it is home to hundreds of rare animal and plant species, along with countless majestic caves with unique limestone formations. To have a complete and memorable trip, let “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) explore the Phong Nha-Ke Bang travel guide from A to Z, compiled in detail and helpfully below:
1. Overview of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is located in Quang Binh province, about 45km northwest of Dong Hoi city center. Established in 2001, this national park is one of the largest and most important nature reserves in Vietnam. The name “Phong Nha-Ke Bang” is derived from the name of Phong Nha Cave, the first cave discovered in the area, and the majestic Ke Bang limestone mountain range.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang boasts a diverse and rich ecosystem, including primary forests, limestone mountains, underground rivers, and especially a massive limestone cave system with over 300 large and small caves discovered. This place is also a land rich in cultural and historical values, with traces of the ancient Champa culture.
With its unique natural and cultural values, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park was honored by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site in 2003 and re-recognized with expanded boundaries in 2015. This is the pride of Vietnam and an attractive destination for tourists from all over the world.
Introduction to Phong Nha Ke Bang
Discover the magnificent beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Photo source: @bea_adventurous_)
2. Ideal Time to Visit Phong Nha-Ke Bang
Quang Binh is located in the tropical monsoon climate region of North Central Vietnam, divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. To have the most convenient and fulfilling Phong Nha-Ke Bang exploration trip, the best time to visit is from March to September.
Dry season (March – September): Quang Binh’s weather during this period is dry, with little rain, and sunny skies, which is very suitable for sightseeing, cave exploration, forest trekking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. Especially from April to August is the most beautiful time, when Phong Nha-Ke Bang nature puts on a fresh green color, the Son River water is crystal clear, creating an extremely poetic scene.
Rainy season (October – February of the following year): From October to December is the peak rainy season in Quang Binh, often with heavy rain, storms, causing flooding and danger. Water cave tourism activities are also limited due to rising river water levels. From January to February, the weather has stabilized but is still chilly and drizzly, not really ideal for outdoor exploration activities.
Therefore, to have the most wonderful Phong Nha-Ke Bang exploration trip, plan and schedule your trip in the dry season, especially between April and August.
Ideal time to explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang
Choose the ideal time to fully enjoy the beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang (Photo source: @ngockii)
3. Getting to Phong Nha-Ke Bang
To reach Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, you first need to travel to Quang Binh, then continue your journey to Phong Nha. Below are popular means of transportation:
3.1. Traveling to Quang Binh
By Plane
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Quang Binh, especially if you are departing from major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Dong Hoi Airport (VDH) is the air gateway of Quang Binh, with domestic flights from Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways. Flight time from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Dong Hoi is about 1-1.5 hours.
To save costs, you should book your flight tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Airlines often have many promotions, helping you to hunt for cheap tickets.
By Train
Train is an interesting option to get to Quang Binh, especially if you want to enjoy the scenery along the way. The North-South railway line runs through Quang Binh, with the main station being Dong Hoi station. Travel time by train from Hanoi or Da Nang to Dong Hoi is about 8-12 hours, depending on the type of train and departure station.
Train ticket prices vary depending on seat type and distance, usually ranging from 300,000 – 800,000 VND/one way. You can book train tickets online or buy them at train stations.
By Bus
Bus is a popular and economical means of transportation to Quang Binh, especially if you are departing from neighboring provinces and cities. There are many high-quality bus operators running routes Hanoi – Quang Binh, Da Nang – Quang Binh, Hue – Quang Binh, with ticket prices ranging from 200,000 – 500,000 VND/one way.
You can easily buy bus tickets at bus stations or book tickets online through bus ticket booking applications. Sleeper buses are a comfortable choice for long journeys.
3.2. Traveling from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha-Ke Bang
From Dong Hoi city, you can travel to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park by the following means:
By Bus
Bus is the most economical public transport option to get to Phong Nha-Ke Bang. Bus route B4 runs from Dong Hoi city center to Phong Nha, with a frequency of about 30 minutes/trip. Bus ticket price is about 35,000 VND/person/trip.
However, buses are often crowded and may not be as comfortable as other means of transport, especially if you are carrying a lot of luggage.
By Motorbike Taxi or Taxi
Motorbike taxis and taxis are fast and convenient means of transportation, suitable for small groups or families. Motorbike taxi fare from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha is about 200,000 – 250,000 VND, taxi is about 300,000 – 400,000 VND.
You can easily catch a motorbike taxi or taxi at the airport, train station, or Dong Hoi city center.
Renting a Motorbike or Car for Self-Driving
Renting a motorbike or car for self-driving is an ideal choice for those who want to freely explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang and the surrounding areas. There are many motorbike and car rental shops in Dong Hoi, with motorbike rental prices ranging from 150,000 – 250,000 VND/day, self-driving car from 500,000 – 1,000,000 VND/day depending on the type of vehicle.
When renting a self-driving vehicle, you can be proactive about time and itinerary, and can also explore lesser-known destinations along the way.
Ideal time to explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang
Bus – a popular and economical means of transportation to Phong Nha-Ke Bang (Source: Kenhhomestay.com)
4. Accommodation in Phong Nha-Ke Bang
Phong Nha-Ke Bang has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly homestays, catering to all needs and budgets of tourists.
4.1. Luxury Hotels and Resorts
If you want to enjoy a luxurious and comfortable vacation, you can choose high-end hotels and resorts in Phong Nha, such as Phong Nha Lake House Resort, Sai Gon Phong Nha Hotel, Victory Road Villas. These resorts often have beautiful locations, professional services, and many amenities such as swimming pools, spas, restaurants…
4.2. Homestays and Budget Guesthouses
For tourists who want to save costs and experience closeness to nature and local culture, homestays and budget guesthouses are suitable choices. Phong Nha has many lovely and cozy homestays, such as Phong Nha Coco Riverside, Son Doong Riverside, Carambola Bungalow. These homestays often have affordable prices, green and friendly spaces.
4.3. Hotels in Dong Hoi
If you want to have more choices for dining and shopping, you can choose to stay in Dong Hoi city and travel to Phong Nha-Ke Bang during the day. Dong Hoi has many hotels from budget to luxury, such as Vinpearl Quang Binh, Muong Thanh Grand Quang Binh Hotel, Riverside Hotel Quang Binh.
Hotels near Phong Nha-Ke Bang
Choosing a homestay close to nature in Phong Nha (Photo source: @imla1403)
5. Must-Visit Destinations in Phong Nha-Ke Bang
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a paradise of magnificent caves and beautiful natural landscapes. Here are the highlights that you should not miss:
5.1. Phong Nha Cave
Dubbed “The First Wonder Cave of Vietnam,” Phong Nha Cave is the symbol of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. To explore Phong Nha Cave, you will take a boat upstream on the poetic Son River, weaving through majestic limestone mountains. The wide mouth of Phong Nha Cave opens up a magical world with a cave system nearly 8km long, including water caves and dry caves.
Inside Phong Nha Cave, you will be overwhelmed by the magnificent beauty of stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. Golden sandy beaches, blue underground lakes, and a diverse system of stalactites create a beautiful natural painting.
Entrance Fee:
- Peak season (April – September): 150,000 VND/adult
- Off-peak season: 120,000 VND/adult
- Boat rental: 550,000 VND/boat (maximum 12 people)
Phong Nha Cave
The magical beauty of Phong Nha Cave (Photo source: @thomaschuphoto)
5.2. Paradise Cave
Paradise Cave is known as the “underground palace,” one of the longest dry caves in Asia with a total length of over 31km. Paradise Cave is hidden in the heart of limestone mountains, surrounded by pristine primary forests.
To reach the cave entrance, you will take an electric car and walk about 500 stone steps. Stepping inside the cave, you will be amazed by the majestic and magnificent beauty of the diverse system of stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by a modern LED lighting system. Paradise Cave offers a completely different cave exploration experience compared to Phong Nha Cave.
Entrance Fee:
- Peak season (April – September): 250,000 VND/adult
- Off-peak season: 200,000 VND/adult
Paradise Cave entrance
Exploring the “underground palace” – Paradise Cave (Photo source: @dkadoption)
5.3. Botanical Garden
Phong Nha-Ke Bang Botanical Garden is a large primary forest with an area of over 40ha, where the diverse and rich ecosystem of this land is preserved. The Botanical Garden is an ideal destination for those who love nature and want to explore the unique flora of Phong Nha-Ke Bang.
Here, you can participate in light trekking activities, explore Gio Waterfall, Vang Anh Lake, seedling nurseries, and display areas of rare animal and plant specimens. The Botanical Garden offers a green, peaceful space and experiences close to nature.
Entrance Fee: 40,000 VND/adult
Phong Nha-Ke Bang Botanical Garden
Immersing yourself in nature at Phong Nha-Ke Bang Botanical Garden (Photo source: @centralvietnamguide)
5.4. Ozo Park
Ozo Park is a unique eco-tourism area located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Ozo is famous for its system of adventurous tree-top games, wooden suspension bridges in the primary forest, and the cool Ozo stream.
Coming to Ozo Park, you can challenge yourself with zipline games, rope swings, monkey bridges, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and especially experience the thrilling 999m waterfall kayaking. Ozo is an ideal destination for those who love outdoor activities and want to seek adventurous experiences.
Entrance Fee:
- Package 1 (sightseeing + games): 200,000 VND/adult
- Package 2 (Package 1 + waterfall kayaking): 450,000 VND/adult
Ozo Park adventure activities
Challenging yourself at Ozo Park (Photo source: @hello.qb)
5.5. Mooc Spring Eco-Tourism Area
Mooc Spring Eco-Tourism Area is located in a green valley on the banks of the Chay River, surrounded by majestic limestone mountains. Mooc Spring is an attractive destination with pristine natural scenery, clear spring water, and many interesting water activities.
Here, you can swim in the spring, kayak, zipline, participate in water games, and enjoy the peaceful natural space. Mooc Spring is an ideal place to relax and cool off on hot summer days.
Entrance Fee:
- Entrance ticket: 65,000 VND/adult
- All-inclusive ticket (including games): 110,000 VND/adult
Mooc Spring Eco-Tourism Area
Having fun and relaxing at Mooc Spring (Photo source: @macanhh)
6. Phong Nha-Ke Bang Cuisine – What to Eat?
Exploring Phong Nha-Ke Bang is incomplete without experiencing unique local cuisine. Quang Binh in general and Phong Nha in particular have many attractive specialties, imbued with the flavors of Central Vietnam.
6.1. Banh Loc (Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings)
Banh loc is a rustic but famous dish of Quang Binh. The dumpling is made from fresh tapioca flour, with many different fillings such as shrimp and pork, green beans, and wood ear mushrooms. Quang Binh banh loc has a distinctive flavor, with a translucent, chewy crust, served with spicy fish sauce.
You can enjoy banh loc la (steamed in banana leaves), banh loc tran (naked dumplings), or crispy fried banh loc at many eateries in Phong Nha.
6.2. Grilled Chicken with Salt Cheo
Grilled chicken with salt cheo is a famous specialty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang. The chicken chosen is free-range chicken, with firm and fragrant meat. The chicken is grilled over charcoal until the skin is golden crispy and the meat is tender and sweet. The highlight of this dish is salt cheo, a special dipping salt of Quang Binh made from basil, lemon leaves, green peppercorns, green chili, and pure salt pounded finely.
Grilled chicken with salt cheo is usually served with hot sticky rice and cold beer, creating a delicious and flavorful local meal.
Grilled Chicken with Salt Cheo
Enjoying delicious grilled chicken with salt cheo (Photo source: @duyen_legend)
6.3. Chat Chat (Baby Clams) Served with Rice Paper
Chat chat is a small mollusk that lives in the brackish waters of Quang Binh. Chat chat is processed into many delicious dishes, of which the most famous is chat chat served with rice paper. Chat chat meat is stir-fried with onions and rich spices, served with crispy grilled rice paper. This dish has a unique flavor, combining the sweetness of chat chat, the spiciness of chili, the savouriness of roasted sesame seeds, and the crispiness of rice paper.
You can find chat chat served with rice paper at restaurants and eateries in the Phong Nha area.
7. Important Notes When Traveling to Phong Nha-Ke Bang
To make your Phong Nha-Ke Bang exploration trip smooth and safe, you need to note a few things:
- Clothing: Choose comfortable, cool, and easy-to-move clothing. Bring sports shoes or hiking shoes for convenient walking and cave exploration.
- Personal items: Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent. If participating in water activities, bring swimwear and towels.
- Safety: Comply with safety regulations at tourist attractions, especially when participating in adventurous activities. Always wear a life jacket when participating in water activities.
- Environmental protection: Do not litter indiscriminately, maintain general hygiene at tourist attractions.
- Prepare photo equipment: Don’t forget to bring a camera, phone to capture beautiful moments in Phong Nha-Ke Bang. You should equip yourself with a waterproof bag for electronic devices.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang is an attractive tourist destination with magnificent natural beauty and unique experiences. Hopefully, with this Phong Nha-Ke Bang travel guide from A to Z, you will have a truly memorable and fulfilling trip. Plan your trip and explore the precious gem of Quang Binh now!