Explore Son Doong Cave: The Ultimate Guide To The World’s Largest Cave

Imagine stepping into a hidden world under the ground, a place so big and beautiful that it feels like a different planet. This is Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world located in Vietnam’s Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. 

With its huge chambers and unique plants and animals, Son Doong Cave is an adventure like no other. If you’re looking for a unique travel experience, make sure to add Son Doong Cave to your Vietnam package which will make your journey unforgettable.

In this Son Doong Cave Vietnam travel guide, we’ll explore the amazing features of Son Doong Cave, its interesting history, and give you helpful tips, best time to visit and more.

The History Of Son Doong Cave

Son Doong Cave in Vietnam was discovered by a local farmer Ho Khanh in 1991. However, the cave was fully explored by a team of British cavers led by Howard Limbert. Their exploration revealed the cave’s astounding dimensions, solidifying Son Doong Cave’s status as the largest cave in the world. This massive cave is over 5 kilometres in length with its height 200 metres and widths of 150 metres.

Best Time To Visit Son Doong Cave

The best time to visit Son Doong Cave Vietnam is from January to August. During these months, the weather conditions are perfect for trekking and exploring the cave. Here’s a detailed Son Doong Cave Vietnam travel guide to what to expect during these months.

January to April – The weather is dry which is ideal for trekking and explorations. The sky is clear and mild temperatures make your exploration journey more comfortable.

May to August – During these months the temperature is warmer but still manageable for trekking.

September to December – Son Doong Cave is closed to visitors during these months due to the rainy season. The heavy rains make the paths slippery and dangerous so they banned the entry of travellers.

How To Reach Son Doong Cave Vietnam

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to reach this magnificent natural wonder:

Travel to Dong Hoi

• By Air – The nearest airport is Dong Hoi Airport (VDH), which has direct flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other major Vietnamese cities.
• By Train – Dong Hoi Railway Station is connected to the North-South Railway line, and is accessible from Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City.

From Dong Hoi to Phong Nha

• Bus – Local buses run from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha town, which is approximately 50 kilometres away.
• Taxi/Private Car – Taxis and private car services are available and offer a more comfortable ride to Phong Nha.

Guided Tour – To enter Son Doong Cave, you must book a tour with an authorised operator. Oxalis Adventure is currently the only company licensed to conduct tours to Son Doong Cave. They offer a comprehensive package that includes transportation from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha and all necessary equipment and guides for the trek.

Tour Duration  – The tour duration is 5 days and 4 nights which starts from Phong Nha town. The tour includes trekking through the jungle, crossing rivers and spending nights in the cave.

Things To Do In Son Doong Cave

Son Doong Cave is full of exciting activities that make for a unique adventure. These activities will help you fully appreciate the natural beauty and wonder of Son Doong Cave. Including these activities in your list of things to do in Vietnam will make your adventure truly unforgettable. Here is a list of Things to do in Son Doong Cave in Vietnam.

1. Explore the vast spaces inside the cave, especially the “Watch Out for Dinosaurs” chamber which is incredibly large.
2. Observe the impressive stalactites and stalagmites that hang from the ceiling and rise from the floor and some reaching up to 70 metres.
3. Hike beside the underground river and enjoy the cool and refreshing atmosphere created by the flowing water.
4. Experience camping inside the cave at designated sites where you can sleep.
5. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool waters of the underground lakes and rivers within the cave.
6. Discover rare plants and animals that have adapted to the cave’s environment.

What To Eat In Son Doong Cave

When you start your tour of Son Doong Cave, food will be provided by the tour operators like Oxalis Adventure. They provide foods including local Vietnamese food which ensures that you will get a taste of Vietnam white maintaining the energy needed for the trekking. You can get a variety of foods which are made up of rice, noodles with meat and vegetables. 

These meals are nutritious and balanced with the right mix of carbohydrates, protein and fats to keep you energised. If you have specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free requirements then the tour operators can accommodate these preferences if informed in advance.

During the trek you will also get  packed meals to eat. These convenient and energy-boosting options might include sandwiches, energy bars, dried fruits and nuts, which are easy to carry and consume during the hike. 

Tips For Son Doong Cave In Vietnam

By following these tips from our Son Doong Cave travel guide will help you ensure a smooth and memorable adventure.

1. Tours to Son Doong Cave are highly limited with only a few spots available each year. So book your tour in advance.
2. The trek is demanding and involves multiple days of hiking through dense jungle and crossing rivers. So keep yourself physically fit for the trek.
3. Pack sturdy hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a headlamp and a waterproof backpack. Tour operators also provide necessary equipment like helmets and harnesses.
4. Consult your doctor before the trip, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
5. Inform your tour operator about your dietary preferences in advance. So that they can accommodate vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets.

Places To Visit Near Son Doong Cave In Vietnam

Here is a detailed Son Doong Cave travel guide for the best places to visit near Son Doong Cave in Vietnam

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in Quang Binh Province, Vietnam. Situated about 50 kilometers northwest of Dong Hoi City, this park is renowned for its incredible caves and rich biodiversity. 

One of the most famous attractions in the park is the Son Doong Cave which is the largest cave in the world.

Visitors can also explore other stunning caves like Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave, which have impressive stalactites and stalagmites.The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including many rare and endangered species. Visitors can enjoy  hiking, boat trips, and exploring the jungle. 

Dark Cave (Hang Toi)

Dark Cave or Hang Toi, is an adventure lover’s dream in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam. Visiting Dark cave is a thrilling experience with exciting activities. Your adventure starts with a zipline ride over the Chay River, which gives you a bird’s eye view of the lush surroundings before you enter the cave. From there board into kayak and paddle your way along the scenic Chay River to reach the cave.

Inside Dark Cave, the real excitement begins. As you walk through narrow, pitch-black passageways, you’ll see stunning stalactites and stalagmites that make you feel like you’re in another world. One of the highlights is the natural mud bath – a messy but fun experience that leaves you feeling refreshed.  After the mud bath, you can swim in the cave’s  underground river.

Paradise Cave

Paradise Cave, also known as Thien Duong Cave is a stunning natural wonder located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and one of the top attractions in Quang Binh. It was  discovered in 2005. It is one of the longest dry caves in Asia and is 31 kilometers long.

The cave is famous for its breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites which create an otherworldly landscape. Inside the cave you’ll find vast chambers filled with intricate rock formations that look like waterfalls.

Visitors can access the cave through a wooden staircase that descends into its depths. The main sightseeing area spans the first kilometer of the cave, showcasing the most impressive formations. This cave is considered as one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

Mooc Spring Eco Trail

Mooc Spring Eco Trail is a beautiful and serene nature trail in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam. The trail is easy so it is suitable for people of all ages. You’ll see crystal-clear streams, vibrant tropical plants and a variety of wildlife. 

Along the trail, there are wooden bridges and bamboo walkways that add to the charm of the journey. There are also several spots where you can stop and relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the sounds of nature. For those looking for a bit more adventure there are opportunities for swimming in the natural pools formed by the spring.

Phong Nha Cave

Phong Nha Cave, located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam, is one of the most impressive caves in the world. It is famous for its stunning limestone formations, beautiful underground rivers, and large caverns. 

Visitors can explore the cave by taking a boat ride along the Son River, which leads right into the cave’s mouth. As you enter, you’ll be amazed by the cool, dark interior, illuminated by the lights on the boat. The stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave have formed over millions of years which looks like a shape of animals, plants, and even human figures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)