Unveiling the Hidden Wonders: Top Caves to Explore in Vietnam

 In Adventure, Caves, Places To Visit, Travel, Travel Tips, Vietnam

Exploring caves in Vietnam is one of the most wonderful experiences for your Vietnam trip. In this blog, we will cover top attractions in the best caves in Vietnam which you can get on our Vietnam tour packages. Before finalising the option of visiting Vietnamese caves, do check this article to get the most out of your trip.  In this blog we will share the complete tips For caves in Vietnam.

There are so many caves places in Vietnam. From the vast chambers of Son Doong, the largest cave in the world, to the intricate formations of Phong Nha Cave, Vietnam’s caves are a testament to the powerful natural forces that have shaped them over millions of years.

The allure of these caves lies in their breathtaking beauty and the sense of adventure they offer. Exploring these caves not only provides thrilling experiences but also offers a deep connection to nature and insights into the geological history of the region.

Top 12 Adventure Caves in Vietnam

1. Son Doong Cave

son-doong-cave

Son Doong Cave is not just the biggest cave in the world, it is also one of the longest caves in the world. Located in the heart of the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in the Quang Binh province, these caves are open only to a few people, every year. 

Best Time for Caves in Vietnam is from February till April. The Son Doong Cave is so large, it has forests inside it and an entire weather system of its own. The only tour operator allowed to conduct cave expeditions of this cave is Oxalis Adventure Tourism. The total trek duration is four days and three nights, in addition to the two days stay at local hotels before the trek.

  • Cost: Around 68,700,000 per person (approx. USD 3000 per person)
  • Difficulty: Very Difficult
  • Best Time: January to August
  • Location: Tan Trach Commune, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province
  • Caution: Unexpected accidents (insect bites, floods, snake bites,…); be careful of darkness; trekking training courses; fitness preparation; a limited age range of 18 to 70.

2. Phong Nha Cave

The Phong Nha Caves were among the first caves to be discovered in Vietnam, and one of the most-visited caves here. Best Time for Caves in Vietnam is from March to  August. There is much variation in the topography of the cave, making it a delightful spot for caving in Vietnam, though only the first 1.5 km of the total 44 km is open to tourists. It is one of the best caves in Vietnam. You can also check out Vietnam in the Summer

It is one of the few caves in Vietnam where you can find native wildlife, preserved in the sanctuary at the entrance of the mysterious cave. One must enter the cave by boat, sailing over the Son River that flows through this cave system.

  • Cost: Entrance: Around VND300,000 per person, Boat cost: VND 360,000 (accommodates 14 passengers)
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
  • Location: Tan Trach Commune, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province
  • Caution: Riding in darkness, trekking routes, bad weather, floods, landslides, and unexpected accidents

3. Hang En Cave

hang-en-cave

Hang En Cave, the third largest cave in the world, will make you feel like you’ve been transported straight into a Disney movie. Also check the best places to visit in Vietnam.  It is one of the best adventure caves in Vietnam. Located deep inside Phong Nha Ke Bang, this caves is surrounded by limestone mountains, jungle canopy and the gushing Rao Thuong River.

The cave entrance is a slit in the cliff. The narrow trails continue for a long distance, terminating at an aquamarine lake with sandy beaches. This 2 days 1-night trip includes swimming in the lake inside the cave, so packing your swimming gear is essential.

  • Cost: Around VND1,100,000 per person
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Location: Tan Trach Commune, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province
  • Best time to visit: April to August
  • Caution: Physical exertions for various activities (climbing, trekking, or even swimming); safety guidelines from tour guide; local regulations; essential supplies (insect repellent; snacks; sunscreen; water)

4. Paradise Cave (Thien Duong)

The Grand Cathedral like the entrance of the Paradise Caves beckons you inside. With its vaulted ceiling and spectacular stalactites, this cave lives up to its name. It is one of the Spectacular Caves In Vietnam. You can perform other adventure activities in Vietnam.Paradise cave is 31 kilometres long, making it one of the longest caves in the world. 

Out of the 31 kilometres, the maximum distance that the public is allowed up to is 3.5 kilometres deep. In the rainy season when the water level is high, the expedition is up to a distance of 2 kilometres. 

  • Cost: (3.5 km) Around VND2,650,000 per person, (2 km) 1,800,000 VND per person
  • Difficulty: Beginner
  • Best Time: January to August
  • Location: Tan Trach Commune, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province
  • Caution: Relevant-climbing activities; unexpected weather; low-lighting areas; no littering and no vandalism; joining guided tours for instructions.   

 

5. Hang Va Caves

hang-va-cave
Image Source : Tripadvisor

The entrance to the Hang Va caves seems nondescript, unimpressive even, but one step inside the cave will leave you breathless. The entrance is surrounded by cliffs on all sides. Upstream after about 350 metres, the narrow cave opens up into a spectacular chamber. This is amongst the Famous caves in Vietnam.

The chamber consists of numerous dry gour lakes, partially filled with water, out of which pops out conical calcite rocky structures. This region is called the ‘Tower of Cones’.The entire expedition to the Hang Va caves takes 2 days and 1 night and includes swimming and rappelling.

  • Cost: Around VND1,200,000 per person
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (Swimming Compulsory)
  • Best Time: February to August

6. Nuoc Nut Caves 

Nuoc Nut Caves provides the perfect opportunity for serious amateur cavers who are just starting off, to get a taste of the intense caving Vietnam’s caves can offer. This is one of the must-see caves in Vietnam. The Nuoc Nut caves are located right in the centre of a valley surrounded by cliffs. 

It is one of the top caves in Vietnam. Once through the cave, you have to wade 500 metres, then scale a 15-metre high wall, after which you will find yourself at a stalactite lake. The expedition is for one day and includes swimming and relaxing on the sand.

  • Cost: 800,000 VND per person
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Best Time: January to June

7. Tu Lan Caves (Quang Binh Province)

tu-lan-caves

The Dau Go Cave (Wooden Stake Caves) is the largest and most beautiful grotto in the Halong Bay area. It is one of the top caves in Vietnam. Located about 6 kilometres from Bai Chay Wharf in Halong, this cave is 27 metres above the sea level. Inside the cave is a huge space with the size of 5,000 square metres. 

The height of the dome is 25 metres. Stalagmites and stalactites of various shapes may be found within, illuminated with mysterious lights to give off an ethereal appearance. The caving experience is just a day trip and the activities involve rock climbing and cave exploration.

  • Cost: Boat to the Caves: VND 1,500,000, Entrance: VND 30,000 per person
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Best Time: January to October
  • Location: Dau Go Island, Ha Long Bay, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province
  • Caution: Any accident (slips or falls); unexpected weather; narrow passages and uneven terrains; dim lighting areas; no littering; medical conditions and physical fitness.

8. Dau Go Cave (Halong Bay Area)

The Dau Go Cave (Wooden Stake Caves) is the largest and most beautiful grotto in the Halong Bay area. It is one of the top caves in Vietnam. Located about 6 kilometres from Bai Chay Wharf in Halong, this cave is 27 metres above the sea level. Inside the cave is a huge space with the size of 5,000 square metres. 

The height of the dome is 25 metres. Stalagmites and stalactites of various shapes may be found within, illuminated with mysterious lights to give off an ethereal appearance. The caving experience is just a day trip and the activities involve rock climbing and cave exploration.

  • Cost: Boat to the Caves: VND 1,500,000, Entrance: VND 30,000 per person
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Best Time: January to October
  • Location: Dau Go Island, Ha Long Bay, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province
  • Caution: Any accident (slips or falls); unexpected weather; narrow passages and uneven terrains; dim lighting areas; no littering; medical conditions and physical fitness.

9. Tam Coc Caves (Ninh Binh)

tam-coc-caves

Tam Coc’ literally translates into three caves. Tam Coc is a collection of three caves – Hang Ca, Hang Giua and Hang Cuoi. Each of these caves is submerged in the Ngo Dong Rivers and hence do not have floors. It is one of the top caves in Vietnam. They can only be reached by boat from the mainland. Hang Ca cave is the first cave and the largest of the three. 

While exploring the caves don’t forget to taste the delicious Vietnamese food at different restaurants in Vietnam. It is 127 metres long and its entrance is 20 metres wide and 2 metres high.There are a number of ‘sampans’ or small boats available from Pier Van Lam. The entire cave exploration in the boats takes about four hours.

  • Cost: Entrance: VND 55,000 per person, Boat to the Caves: VND 150,000 per person
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Best Time: January to October

10 .Mua Cave (Ninh Binh)

Mua Cave is featured as one of the best caves in the North of Vietnam for its special location in the centre of Trang An Heritage. It is one of the top caves in Vietnam. From the peak above, visitors have an opportunity to see stunning views of the Ngo Dong River, Ngoa Long Mountain, and especially water rice paddy fields. Along the ascent, you can visit some worship sites for a glimpse into Buddhist culture in Vietnam.

  • Location: Ninh Xuan commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh Province
  • Best time to visit: November and April
  • Cost: 5 – 10 USD/person
  • Difficulty level: Easy
  • Caution: Hiking activities, boat-renting fees, and the ideal to visit being in the early morning.

11. Sung Sot Cave (Ha Long Bay)

sung-sot-cave

It belongs to the cave system in HaLong Bay, with an area of up to 10,000 sqm. This cave includes 2 main chambers, the first one called the “Waiting Room” and the second one namely “Serene Castle”. With both these sights, visitors have a chance to witness the beauty of rock formations, stalactites, stalagmites, and especially multicoloured lights. It is one of the top caves in Vietnam

To reach this cave, you can select a canoe or cruise renting service. However, we consider that you should select itineraries of cruises to HaLong Bay, including Sung Sot Cave. It is great for you to get more unforgettable memories of caves in Vietnam and save a lot of money.

  • Location: Bo Hon Island, Ha Long Bay, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province
  • Best time to visit: April to October or October to December
  • Cost: 12 – 21 USD/person
  • Difficulty level: Easy

Caution: Insect bites; rain showers; cold or extremely hot weather; relevant trekking and climbing activities

12. Luon Cave (Ha Long Bay)

Although Luon Cave is not a large cave in Vietnam, it boasts the impressive beauty of geology and biodiversity, together with mysterious things. It is one of the top caves in Vietnam. This cave is an arch-shaped entrance, connecting a tranquil lake situated on Bo Hon Island. From the four sides of the lake, you can see plenty of limestone mountain cliffs and green markings of plants. Just make sure to follow the Safety Tips for Caves In Vietnam

If you want to discover the final point of Luon Cave, you should hire a kayak and a dinghy to enhance your journey’s safety. This can be explained that the ceiling of this cave is relatively low, thus; the cruise ship can not reach the inside lake. It is also a great chance for you to experience a new activity like kayaking.

  • Location: Bo Hon Island, Ha Long Bay, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province
  • Best time to visit: April and June
  • Cost: 32 – 300 USD/person
  • Difficulty level: Moderate
  • Caution: Using kayak or dinghy services; and unexpected weather (rain, wind, waves); booking tours in advance for tourism reasons; no littering.

Importance of cave exploration for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Exploring caves offers a unique blend of excitement, challenge, and natural beauty, making it a sought-after activity for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here’s why cave exploration holds such importance:

1. Thrill and Adventure

thrill-and-adventure

-Unique Challenges: Navigating through narrow passages, climbing rugged terrain, and discovering hidden chambers provide an adrenaline rush and a sense of accomplishment.

-Unpredictable Terrain: The unpredictable nature of caves, with their varying formations and conditions, adds an element of surprise and excitement to every expedition.

2. Connection with Nature

-Natural Beauty: Caves are home to some of the most stunning natural formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. Exploring these wonders fosters a deep appreciation for the planet’s geological processes.

– Pristine Environments: Many caves are relatively untouched by human activity, offering a glimpse into pristine and unspoiled natural environments.

3. Scientific and Historical Significance

scientific-historical-significance-1

– Geological Insights: Caves provide valuable information about the Earth’s history, including rock formations and fossil records. This helps geologists understand the planet’s evolution.

 – Archaeological Discoveries: Caves often contain ancient artefacts, cave paintings, and other historical treasures that shed light on past human civilizations and their ways of life.

4. Biodiversity Hotspots

– Unique Ecosystems: Caves host unique ecosystems with specialised flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. Exploring these habitats helps in understanding and conserving biodiversity.

– Biological Studies: Caves provide opportunities for biological research, particularly in studying organisms adapted to dark, isolated environments.

5. Personal Growth and Resilience

personal-growth-and-resilience

– Physical Fitness: Cave exploration demands physical endurance, strength, and agility, contributing to overall fitness and well-being.

– Mental Fortitude: The challenges of cave exploration, such as navigating dark and confined spaces, build mental resilience and problem-solving skills.

6. Environmental Awareness

-Conservation Efforts: Exploring caves raises awareness about the importance of preserving these natural wonders. Many cave explorers become advocates for conservation, promoting sustainable practices and responsible tourism.

– Environmental Education: Educational tours and expeditions highlight the significance of caves in the broader ecological system, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental interconnections.

7. Unique Travel Experiences

unique-travel-experiences

– Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: Caves often lie in remote and less-travelled areas, offering explorers a chance to discover hidden gems and experience solitude away from crowded tourist spots.

– Cultural Enrichment: Many caves have cultural and spiritual significance to local communities. Exploring these caves provides insights into local traditions, folklore, and histories.

Conclusion-

Vietnam’s stunning caves, from the colossal Son Doong to the beautiful Paradise Cave, offer unique adventures and breathtaking natural beauty. Do follow the Safety Tips for Caves In Vietnam. Most of the people also look for a honeymoon in Vietnam. As you plan your visit, remember the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems for future generations. Practise sustainable tourism and respect conservation guidelines to help protect these natural treasures

We at WanderOn encourage you to share your personal experiences and tips for exploring Vietnam’s caves. Apart from exploring these caves, do check the things to do in Vietnam. Your stories can inspire and guide fellow adventurers, fostering a community of responsible travellers. Let’s work together to cherish and protect these remarkable natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are some famous caves in Vietnam?

In Vietnam there are many caves that will attract your attention, some of them are Son Doong cave, Phong Nha cave, Paradise cave, Hang En cave and many others.

Are the caves in Vietnam accessible to the public?

For conservation reasons, local authorities restrict access to the larger caves. Some tour companies have exclusive rights to take travellers inside certain caves, while others are open to all.

What should I know before visiting caves in Vietnam?

Before visiting a cave in Vietnam, there are multiple things to check: price of tour, nature of the tour, local registration, age eligibility, technical sections, swimming, overnight camping, etc. 

Are there any safety precautions to consider when exploring caves in Vietnam?

 Safety precautions are there that need to adhere like; Always follow your guide’s instructions and stay within designated areas. Caves can be slippery and uneven, so be cautious and mindful of your footing.

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