1. Location and history of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
Where is Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park? Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is located in the districts of Bo Trach and Minh Hoa in Quang Binh Province, approximately 50 kilometers northwest of Dong Hoi City. This vast area, primarily composed of limestone, forms a significant karst landscape in Southeast Asia, connecting with the Hin Namno National Protected Area in Laos.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003 for its geological significance and again in 2015 for its biodiversity, the park showcases the result of five geological development stages from the Ordovician period (464 million years ago) to the Quaternary period (present). This rich geological history is evidenced by a diverse array of fossil complexes representing different stratigraphic ages.

The Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park map highlights the park’s key attractions (Source: Collected)
2. What is Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park best known for?
2.1. Magnificent cave systems
Phong Nha Ke Bang Vietnam is renowned for its extraordinary cave system with over 404 caves mapped and measured, which total 220 kilometers in length. The park has three major cave systems: Phong Nha, Vom, and Mooc Spring. These cave systems hold significant geological values, formed through long-term tectonic activities.
Some notable caves in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park include:
- Phong Nha Cave: As one of the most beautiful water caves in the world, it showcases spectacular stalactites
- Son Doong Cave: As the largest cave in the world, it features colossal stalagmites, a unique ecosystem, and a subterranean river
- Paradise Cave: Discovered in 2005, this is a dry cave with a consistently cool temperature
- En Cave: As the third largest cave in the world, En Cave is part of many adventure tours due to its immense size and the unique natural formations within.
- Ba Cave and Va Cave: These caves are part of the more challenging tours in the park, known for their pristine, less-explored interiors.
- The Tiger Cave system: A complex network of caves that offers thrilling exploration opportunities for experienced spelunkers.
Together, these caves have made Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park a premier destination for adventure tourism.
2.2. Animal and plant diversity
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is not only renowned for its magnificent cave systems but also for its rich biodiversity, hosting a wide range of rare and beautiful flora and fauna. The park is home to 1,394 animal species, including 116 listed in the IUCN Red List and 82 in the Vietnam Red Data Book, with numerous species under urgent protection by the government and international conservation organizations. The diverse ecosystems provide ideal habitats for 10 species of primates, which make up 42% of Vietnam’s total primate species.

Son Doong Cave has its own ecosystem (Source: Collected)
Additionally, the park boasts 2,953 species of higher plants, with 121 listed in the IUCN Red List and 111 in the Vietnam Red Data Book. Visitors can explore this botanical diversity by visiting the Botanical Garden, which offers an immersive experience. Other notable spots for exploring the park’s biodiversity include the Chay River, Gao Forest, Gio Waterfall, Mo Waterfall, Wildlife Rescue Center, and Mooc Spring Eco-Trail.
2.3. Scenic cycling and trekking routes
Phong Nha Ke Bang Vietnam offers a variety of scenic cycling and trekking routes, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. A popular cycling route is the one through Bong Lai Valley, where you can spend the day exploring local villages and enjoying the serene landscape of mountains and forests. For a more challenging adventure, try exploring Tu Lan Cave, a two-day journey that includes camping near Ken Cave on the first night before venturing deeper into Tu Lan Cave on the second day. The rugged terrain here makes for a memorable challenge.
Another exciting option is camping inside En Cave, the third largest cave in the world, located next to Son Doong Cave. En Cave, with its underground river and unique ecosystem, offers a beautiful and adventurous alternative for those who may not be able to explore Son Doong Cave. For those who prefer ecotourism, a forest hiking excursion is ideal, allowing you to explore lush vegetation and visit the Wildlife Rescue Center to learn about endemic animal species.

En Cave is the third largest cave in the world (Source: Collected)
2.4. Amazing kayaking spots
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park features a complex river system, home to some of the longest underground rivers in the world. Among the major rivers are the Trooc, Chay, and Son, each with crystal-clear waters flowing through picturesque mountains and lush forests. Kayaking enthusiasts can explore the enchanting Chay River, where the calm water offers a peaceful paddling experience amidst the breathtaking scenery. Along the Chay River, you can even kayak to the entrance of Dark Cave.
The Son River, with its gentle flow and scenic surroundings, is perfect for a leisurely kayak ride. The ride often starts near Phong Nha Cave for a unique blend of cave exploration and river paddling. Additionally, the park features numerous beautiful streams and waterfalls such as Gio Waterfall, Me Loan Waterfall, Mooc Spring, and Tra Ang Stream. These spots provide not only incredible kayaking opportunities but also a chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of Phong Nha – Ke Bang Vietnam.
2.5. One of the best places to go ziplining in Asia
Renowned as one of the best places for zipline in Vietnam and Asia, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park offers an exhilarating experience that begins with a ride over the picturesque Chay River. This adventure sets the stage for exploring the Dark Cave, where visitors will zipline into the cave’s entrance before swimming in its mystical water. As the light fades and the scenery becomes more enchanting, the journey continues through narrow, muddy passages leading to Thuy Tien Lake, which is nestled deep within the cave. After some swimming, visitors can enjoy a peaceful kayak ride back to the dock.

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is an ideal place for ziplining (Source: Collected)
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3. Lesser-known highlights of the national park
3.1. Ozo Park ecotourism area
Ozo Park, an ecotourism area within Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, offers a lesser-known experience for visitors. Spanning nearly 5 hectares, this area provides a pristine open space, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to gather, play, and explore. With a capacity of up to 1,500 guests, Ozo Park is gradually becoming a favorite destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities here, from picnicking to exploring the lush surroundings, all within the embrace of a UNESCO’s recognized site.
3.2. Cultural and historical experiences
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is not only a natural wonder, it is also a repository of cultural and historical heritage. Here, visitors can explore numerous historical and cultural sites such as Xuan Son Ferry, Ho Chi Minh Trail, Victory Road, Mu Gia Pass, Eight Ladies Cave, Nguyen Van Troi Ferry, Tien Su Tu Coc Temple, etc. Each of these sites offers a glimpse into the region’s storied past and its significance during the Second Indochina War.
In addition, the park provides opportunities for community-based tourism, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the cultures of the Arem, Ruc, Bru, and Van Kieu ethnic groups. You can participate in various local festivals and cultural activities, such as the drum-beating festival in Thuong Trach, the tuong singing festival in Hung Trach, and the full moon Festival in Minh Hoa. Other notable festivities include the Den Nghe Festival, the New Rice Celebration, the Water Request Ceremony, and the Forest Opening Ceremony.

These ethnic communities offer a unique perspective on traditional customs (Source: Collected)
4. Tours at Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
4.1. Daily tours
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park offers a variety of daily tours. Here are some popular routes:
- Phong Nha Cave: Purchase tickets – Take a boat ride to Phong Nha Cave – Explore Bi Ky Cave – Explore Tien Cave – Explore Cung Dinh Cave – Return to the boat
- Tien Son Cave: Purchase tickets – Take a boat ride to Tien Son Cave – Return to the boat
- Chay River – Dark Cave Tour: Purchase tickets – Ride the zipline – Explore Dark Cave – Have a mud bath in Dark Cave – Kayak back – Have a meal and rest at Dark Cave Restaurant
- Mooc Spring Ecotourism area: Purchase tickets – Visit Mooc Spring – Have a meal and rest at Mooc Spring Restaurant – Enjoy activities like swimming and cliff diving
- Victory Road Memorial Temple: Follow Ho Chi Minh Trail – Pass through dense forest to Eight Ladies Cave – Pay tribute
- Xuyen Son Lake: Depart from Dong Hoi – Kayak for 10 minutes at the entrance of Phong Nha Cave – Explore the cave on foot – Explore Xuyen Son Lake – Have lunch – Walk and kayak back – Visit dry caves such as Tien Cave, Cung Dinh Cave, and Bi Ky Cave
- Paradise Cave: Ride an electric shuttle to the cave entrance – Explore the first 4 km of the cave – Have lunch by the stream – Kayak across the stream – Explore the remaining 3 km of the cave – Go back
- Botanical Garden: Specimen exhibition – Animal rehabilitation area – Vang Anh Lake – Peacock-watching area – Gio Waterfall

Daily tours are perfect for those with limited time (Source: Collected)
4.2. 1-day tours
For those looking for a short immersive experience, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park offers several 1-day tours. Here are some popular routes:
- Gieng Vooc Cave: Depart from Phong Nha – Explore Gieng Vooc Cave – Visit Cau Chay Cave – Return to Phong Nha
- Tra Ang Cave: Depart from Phong Nha – Travel to Victory Road – Explore Tra Ang Cave – Walk along the Tra Ang River – Return to Phong Nha
- Survival Valley – Thuy Cung Cave: Depart from Phong Nha – Travel to Ho Chi Minh Trail – Explore Survival Valley – Enter the back entrance of Dark Cave – Visit Thuy Cung Cave – Return to Ho Chi Minh Trail – Return to Phong Nha
- Nuoc Nut Cave: Depart from Phong Nha – Explore Nuoc Nut Cave, which is known for its stunning underwater stalagmites
4.3. 2-day-1-night tours
For a longer adventure, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park offers 2-day-1-night tours. Here are some popular routes:
- Vom Cave – Gieng Vooc Cave
- Day 1: Travel to Ho Chi Minh Trail – Cross the stream and valley to get to Vom Cave (2 hours) – Kayak, swim, and snorkel – Have lunch – Continue exploring the cave – Camp at Ha Giang Valley
- Day 2: Have breakfast at the campsite – Explore Gieng Vooc Cave – Explore Da Lan Lake – Have lunch at the lake – Explore Gio Cave and Chay Waterfall – Kayak back to Ho Chi Minh Trail
- Ha Ma Da Valley – Tra Ang Cave
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- Day 1: Depart from Phong Nha – Travel to Ho Chi Minh Trail – Explore Ha Ma Da Valley – Camp at the entrance of Tra Ang Cave
- Day 2: Explore Tra Ang Cave – Visit Tra Ang Stream – Return to Phong Nha
- Survival Valley – Thuy Cung Cave: Depart from Phong Nha – Travel to Ho Chi Minh Trail – Explore Survival Valley – Enter the back entrance of Dark Cave – Visit Thuy Cung Cave – Return to Ho Chi Minh Trail – Return to Phong Nha
- Va Cave, Nuoc Nut Cave
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- Day 1: Depart from Phong Nha – Explore Nuoc Nut Cave – Camp and spend the night near the entrance of Va Cave
- Day 2: Explore Va Cave – Return to Phong Nha
- Rao Thuong Stream – En Cave
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- Day 1: Phong Nha – Ho Chi Minh Trail – Rao Thuong Stream – En Cave
- Day 2: En Cave – Nuoc Lanh Cave – Doong Village – Ho Chi Minh Trail – Phong Nha
- O Ro Cave – Hoan My Cave
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- Day 1: Phong Nha – Provincial Road 562 – O Ro Cave
- Day 2: Campsite – Ho Chi Minh Trail – Hoan My Cave – Phong Nha

Thuy Cung Cave is a hidden gem in the heart of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park (Source: Collected)
4.4. Other tours
For adventure enthusiasts looking for something more challenging, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park features a variety of multi-day tours:
- Son Doong Cave – the world’s largest cave (5-day-4-night)
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- Day 1: Phong Nha – En Cave, camp overnight in En Cave
- Day 2: En Cave – Doline 1, camp overnight at Doline 1
- Day 3: Doline 1 – Doline 2, camp overnight at Doline 2
- Day 4: Doline 2 – En Cave, camp overnight in En Cave
- Day 5: En Cave – Phong Nha
- Dai A Cave, Over Cave, Pygmy Cave (3-day-2-night)
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- Day 1: Phong Nha – Victory Road – Dai A Cave
- Day 2: Over Cave – Pygmy Cave
- Day 3: Pygmy Cave – Victory Road – Phong Nha

Exploring Son Doong Cave should take a few days (Source: Collected)
*Note: These tours are operated by different operators. Check the contact information of these operators on the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park website to learn more about the tours and how to book them.
5. Services at Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
5.1. Accommodations
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park caters to a wide array of accommodation preferences:
- Homestays
- Farmstays
- Guesthouses
- Hotels
Visitors can choose from intimate homestays that provide a local experience or opt for serene farmstays that blend rustic charm with natural beauty. For those seeking more convenience, there are numerous comfortable guesthouses as well as well-appointed hotels that offer modern amenities.
5.2. Restaurants
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park has a variety of dining options. Whether you are looking for local specialties or international cuisines, you will find several restaurants offering a range of delicious choices:
- Son Doong Restaurant
- Dark Cave Restaurant
- Mooc Spring Restaurant
- Phong Nha Restaurant

Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local specialties (Source: Collected)
6. FAQs about Phong Nha Ke Bang Vietnam
6.1. How to get there?
Here is how to get to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park from various locations:
- From Dong Hoi: Phong Nha – Ke Bang is about 45 km west of Dong Hoi, and reaching it is quite convenient by taxi or motorbike rental. If you book a tour, the operator may even arrange free shuttle services for you.
- From Hanoi: There are many options for traveling from Hanoi to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, including trains, sleeper buses, and flights. Trains and flights will take you to Dong Hoi, then you can continue the journey similar to the above-mentioned point. Sleeper buses often take you to Dong Hoi also, but some operators may offer direct trips to Phong Nha, avoiding the need for transfers from Dong Hoi.
- From Ho Chi Minh City: Going from Ho Chi Minh City to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is pretty much the same as going from Hanoi. There are three options: trains, sleeper buses, and flights.
- From Da Nang: The journey from Da Nang to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is often done by coach or train, which typically takes 6 – 7 hours. These coaches and trains will also take you to Dong Hoi. Flights are less popular due to the somewhat moderately short distance between the two destinations (300 km).

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is easily accessible from various destinations across Vietnam (Source: Collected)
6.2. When is the best time to visit the national park?
The best time to visit Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is from April to August, when the weather is dry and the temperature is pleasant – ranging from 24 to 30°C. This period offers ideal conditions for exploring the park’s caves and enjoying outdoor activities. While the rainy season from September to March may limit some activities, it also brings a unique charm to the park, especially for those interested in kayaking adventures.
6.3. What time does the national park open?
For more information on the opening hours, tours, and ticket prices, please contact the management board of the park via:
- Tel: +84 2323677021
- Email: [email protected]
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and adventurous experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you are exploring its majestic caves, engaging with the local communities, or simply soaking in the serene landscapes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers something truly unforgettable.
Vietnam travel doesn’t end here. You can extend your journey to other iconic destinations like the bustling streets of Hanoi, the ancient charm of Hoi An, the coastal beauty of Nha Trang, and the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc. Each offers its own unique slice of Vietnamese scenery, ensuring that your adventure through this vibrant country is nothing short of extraordinary.
During your time in these destinations, make sure to spare some time to visit VinWonders, a series of expansive entertainment complex with thrilling games, themed zones, captivating shows, and more.

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Then, you can come to the luxurious accommodations of Vinpearl, which provides a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. Both VinWonders and Vinpearl are located at many of Vietnam’s most sought-after destinations. Wherever your travels take you, there is always an opportunity to indulge in the best that Vietnam has to offer.
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