Looking for a unique spot for your Vietnam holiday? Why not explore UNESCO Global Geopark, Cao Bang which is a hidden gem in northern Vietnam. This beautiful place is known for its amazing scenery, lush green valleys, stunning waterfalls and tall mountains.
You can explore the famous Ban Gioc Waterfall and trek through an untouched forest which is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, this destination is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.
This Cao Bang Vietnam travel guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make the most of your visit to this UNESCO Global Geopark.
Cao Bang is located in the northeast region of Vietnam. The province has been home to various ethnic groups, including the Tay, Nung, Dao, and Hmong for centuries. It was once a trade destination and cultural exchange route between China and Vietnam. During the 11th and 12th centuries, the area came under the Ly and Tran Dynasties of Vietnam, which consolidated their power and protected the northern borders from Chinese invasions.
In the 19th Century it became a French colony because of its strategic location, but today Cao Bang is a peaceful province and known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Ban Gioc Waterfall and the Nguom Ngao Cave. You can explore its historical sites and learn about the revolutionary activities and its diverse ethnic communities.
Best Time To Visit Cao Bang
The best time to visit Cao Bang, Vietnam is from October to April. During this period, the weather is cool and dry which makes it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The months of October and November are particularly beautiful as the rice fields turn golden, creating a scenic beauty.
The winter months are from December to February, bringing a chill to the air, but the landscapes remain breathtaking with foggy mountains and stunning views, which is perfect for sightseeing and photography.
If you are looking for how to reach Cao Bang, then here are the option from which you can select:
- By Air – The nearest airport for Cao Bang is Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, which is 280 Kilometers away from the city. You can hire a cab from the airport to reach here.
- By Car – You can hire a taxi from Hanoi to reach the UNESCO city, it will take 7 to 8 hours.
Places To Visit Near Cao Bang
Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of the most beautiful and famous waterfalls in Vietnam. Located on the border between Vietnam and China, it is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the northern region. The waterfall is about 70 meters wide and 30 meters high.
You can take a boat ride to get closer to the falls and feel the mist on your face. The surrounding area is lush and green, which is perfect for photography and relaxation. Considered one of the places to visit near Cao Bang, you can also visit the Truc Lam Phat Tich Pagoda which offers panoramic views of the waterfall and the surroundings.
Phong Nam Valley is a hidden gem located near Cao Bang in Vietnam. This valley is known for its stunning natural beauty with lush green fields, rolling hills, and tranquil rivers. There are traditional stilt houses in the valley which give a glimpse of the rural life of the local ethnic communities.
You can enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride through the valley and see beautiful scenery. The Phong Nam Valley is also home to several small villages where you can interact with the friendly locals and learn about their culture and traditions.
Thang Hen Lake is one of the most popular places to visit near Cao Bang in Vietnam. This picturesque lake is part of a group of 36 interconnected lakes in the area in which each lake offers unique and breathtaking views. Thang Hen Lake is particularly famous for its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush green hills and limestone mountains. Enjoy various activities at Thang Hen Lake such as boating, fishing, and picnicking along the shores. The area is also ideal for hiking and exploring the nearby forests and caves.
Mat Than Mountain, also known as Angel Eye Mountain is a natural wonder located near Cao Bang, Vietnam. The best time to visit Mat Than Mountain is during the dry season which is from October to April, when the weather is clear and cool. The mountain is surrounded by lush green fields and scenic landscapes which makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers. You can hike up the mountain to get a closer look at the eye and enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings and this trek is one of the best treks in Vietnam.
Nguom Luom Cave is located near Cao Bang in Vietnam which is known for its stunning rock formations and intricate limestone structures. Visiting Nguom Luom Cave is best during the dry season which is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant and the cave is more accessible. Tour guides are also available, they can provide you insights of the cave’s geological history and significance to the local culture.
Here is a list of things to do in Cao Bang which you must include during your visit to the city.
1. Explore the local markets – One of the must things to do in Cao Bang is to visit the local market to buy fresh products, traditional handicrafts, and unique souvenirs.
2. Trek through scenic trails – Enjoy trekking through Cao Bang’s beautiful landscapes. The region has numerous trails that take you through dense forests, green fields and along rivers. This is one of the best things to do in Vietnam.
3. Experience local cuisine – You can taste Cao Bang’s authentic food which is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Cao Bang, especially for foodies. Try local dishes such as “Banh Cuon Cao Bang” and “Vit Quay”. Visit local restaurants to enjoy authentic Vietnamese meals.
4. Visit local villages – Cao Bang is home to various ethnic communities, each with its own unique culture and traditions. Spend time with the locals and learn about their way of life.5. Kayaking on Quay Son River – Kayaking on Quay Son River in Cao Bang is a peaceful adventure. You paddle through beautiful hills and tall rocks. It’s best from October to April when the weather is good. Your visit to the city is incomplete without experiencing the nightlife in Cao Bang. Here’s a detailed look at what you can enjoy when the sun goes down in Cao Bang:
1. Thanh Binh Bar is one of the more popular spots to experience the nightlife in Cao Bang for both locals and tourists. It has a relaxed atmosphere with a good selection of drinks including local beers and spirits.
2. Cao Bang Night Pub is known for its vibrant atmosphere and this pub is a favorite among young locals. Visitors can enjoy live music both live and DJ performances and a variety of cocktails and beers.
3. To have a taste of local cuisines Cao Bang night market is a must-visit place. Open late into the night, it has a variety of street food stalls where you can taste local dishes like Banh mi, Pho, and Nem Nuong.
4. Kim Hoan Karaoke is a well-known spot where you can enjoy singing your heart out with friends. The place offers private rooms and a wide selection of songs in both Vietnamese and English. Visitors can get one of the best experiences of Vietnam’s nightlife here.
5. Cong Caphe coffee shop has a unique retro atmosphere with a variety of drinks, including traditional Vietnamese coffee and creative cocktails. It is a must visit place, especially for the people who want to feel the nightlife in Cao Bang.
Shopping in Cao Bang offers a unique experience. The bustling markets such as Dong Kinh are vibrant centers where locals buy and sell various products. Visitors can explore stalls which have fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs and spices.
These markets are the best places for shopping in Cao Bang to buy handmade crafts which are woven textiles, intricate embroidery and bamboo products that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. Markets like Trung Khanh are known for unique local products such as Trung Khanh chestnuts, and traditional medicinal herbs. These markets are one of the best places to shop in Vietnam.
With an array of various cuisines, you will get confused on what to eat in Cao Bang. Here are some of the famous dishes that must be must-try when visiting Cao Bang, Vietnam:
1. Banh Cuon Cao Bang is a rice roll filled with minced pork, mushrooms and shallots, then steamed to perfection.
2. Pho Chua is a soup made with fermented vegetables, rice noodles and shredded chicken or pork with various fresh herbs.
3. Vit Quay is a flavoured roasted duck which is marinated in spices then roasted until it becomes crispy.
4. Trung Kien is an ant egg cake which is made from ant eggs and rice flour. It is steamed or grilled and served with fresh herbs and sauce.
5. Banh Gai is made from glutinous rice, black sesame seeds and bean paste. It’s wrapped in bamboo leaves. This dish is served in almost every restaurants of Vietnam.
6. Com Lam is a traditional Vietnamese dish made from sticky rice cooked inside bamboo tubes which is served with grilled meats.
Cao Bang has various accommodations catering to different preferences and budgets, providing travelers with a comfortable and memorable stay. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or want to live with a local family, Cao Bang in Vietnam has something for everyone.
Enjoy traditional Vietnamese hospitality with delicious local cuisines and the natural beauty of this northern province. Here is a list of a few accommodations to stay during your visit to Cao Bang, Vietnam.
- Tay Homestay Pac Bo – Cao Bang
- Indigo Boutique Hotel
- Com Homestay Cao Bang
- La Maison Boutique Hotel
- Muong Thanh Luxury Cao Bang
- Thanh Xuan Hotel
- Minh Hoang & Homestay
- Bao Ngoc Diamond Hotel
- Indigo Boutique Hotel
- One of the most useful tips to visit Cao Bang is to consider hiring a local guide to explore the area more thoroughly.
- It’s advisable to bring cash as ATMs are limited.
- If you are tight on budget, then a bus is the best option for you to reach here from Hanoi.
- It’s recommended to check out the local cafes and small bars for a quiet evening.
- It’s also highly recommended to try the local dishes, such as "Bánh cuốn Cao Bằng" and "Thắng Cố".
