Unveiling the Hidden Wonders: Top Caves to Explore 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

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

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

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)

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

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 

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)

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 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)

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)

• 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)

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)

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.

1. Thrill and Adventure

-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

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

3. Scientific and Historical Significance

 – 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

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

5. Personal Growth and Resilience

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

6. Environmental Awareness

– 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

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

Conclusion-

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.