Phong Nha Cave
Journey into the river's heart.
π₯ Best of Vietnam
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Introduction
Phong Nha Cave (Δα»ng Phong Nha) is a river cave system within the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh province. It is distinguished by its vast underground river, which visitors traverse by boat to witness its large chambers and geological formations. The cave's historical significance includes its use as a shelter and depot during the American War, adding a layer of history to its natural appeal.
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The Son River Boat Trip
The journey to the cave is an experience in itself. You will board a wooden dragon boat at the Phong Nha town tourism center for a 30-minute trip up the serene Son River, passing by limestone karsts, local villages, and churches before reaching the cave entrance.
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The Cave Entrance
As the boat approaches the towering limestone cliff, the engine is cut, and the boat is paddled by hand into the mouth of the cave. This transition from bright daylight and river sounds to the cool, quiet darkness of the cave interior is a memorable moment.
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The Main Cave Chambers
Inside, the boat glides through enormous, naturally lit chambers. You will see massive stalactite and stalagmite formations that have been given names based on their shapes, such as "Lion", "Fairy Caves", and "Royal Court".
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Bi Ky Cave
Deeper inside, the boat docks, allowing you to disembark and explore a section of dry passage on foot. This area contains ancient Cham inscriptions etched on the rock, believed to be from the 9th or 10th century, though their meaning is not fully understood.
Getting there
From Dong Hoi (the nearest city with an airport and train station) to Phong Nha Town (approx. 45 km):
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π Taxi: 45-60 mins | 450,000 - 600,000 VND ~ $18 - $24 USD
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π Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): Limited availability for cars from Dong Hoi. Booking a private car or taxi in advance is more reliable.
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π Public Bus: 90 mins | ~35,000 VND ~ $1.40 USD. Look for local bus B4 (Δα»ng Hα»i - Phong Nha). This is the most budget-friendly option.
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π΅ Motorbike: 60-75 mins. A popular option for experienced riders, allowing flexibility to explore the whole park.
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β οΈ Most visitors stay in Phong Nha town, making access to the tourism center very easy on foot or by bicycle from local hotels. If traveling from Dong Hoi, arranging a private car for the day to visit multiple park sites is a common and efficient strategy.
Hours & Admission
π Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Notes: The ticket office closes around 4:00 PM, as the round trip takes time. The park may close access during the rainy season (typically October-November) due to high river levels.
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π« Ticket prices:
- Cave Entrance Fee: 150,000 VND ~ $6.00 USD per adult. 75,000 VND ~ $3.00 USD for children (1.1m - 1.3m).
- Boat Fee: 550,000 VND ~ $22.00 USD per boat.
- Notes: The boat fee is a flat rate for the entire boat, which can be shared by up to 12 people. If you are in a small group, you can wait at the ticket counter to join others and split this cost. Tickets are purchased at the Phong Nha Tourism Center in town.
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πΆ Best time to visit:
- Visit during the dry season, from March to August, for the best weather and lowest risk of flooding. To avoid the midday heat and larger tour groups, plan your visit for the early morning (right at opening) or later in the afternoon (around 2:00 PM).
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β Recommended duration:
- Budget approximately 3 hours for the entire experience. This includes purchasing tickets, the round-trip boat journey on the Son River, and the time spent inside the cave.
Tips from locals
Local tips
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π€ To save money, go to the ticket office and let the staff know you're looking to share a boat. They can often pair solo travelers or couples with larger groups to split the 550,000 VND boat fee, significantly reducing the per-person cost.
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π€ For the best photos and initial views, try to get a seat at the very front of the dragon boat. This gives you an unobstructed perspective as you enter the cave mouth, which is one of the most impressive parts of the tour.
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π§₯ The temperature inside the cave is consistently cool, regardless of the heat outside. Bring a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt to stay comfortable during the hour-long journey through the caverns.
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π‘ The boatmen and women who paddle you through the cave do so by hand to preserve the tranquility of the environment. While not mandatory, a small tip (around 20,000 - 50,000 VND) for their hard work is a common and appreciated gesture at the end of the trip.
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Be aware
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π₯ During peak season and on weekends, the boat-sharing system can lead to waiting times at the ticket office until a boat fills up. If you are on a tight schedule, arriving early or being prepared to pay for a private boat is advisable.
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ποΈ Be prepared for persistent souvenir vendors at the dock area when you return from your tour.
FAQs
What is the total cost to visit Phong Nha Cave for one person?
It depends on your group size. You must pay the 150,000 VND entrance fee. The boat costs 550,000 VND, which is divided by the number of people in it (up to 12). If you travel solo and cannot find a group, the total cost would be 700,000 VND.
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Can you visit Phong Nha Cave without a tour?
Yes, you can visit independently. Simply go to the Phong Nha Tourism Center in town to buy your entrance ticket and arrange a boat. You do not need to join a large organized tour group.
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What is the difference between Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave?
Phong Nha Cave is a "wet cave", meaning you explore it primarily by boat on an underground river. Paradise Cave is a "dry cave" where you walk on a long wooden boardwalk to see its formations. Many visitors see both as they offer very different experiences.
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How long does the boat trip to Phong Nha Cave take?
The entire experience, from leaving the dock to returning, takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. This includes about 25-30 minutes on the Son River each way and over an hour inside the cave itself.
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Is it necessary to book tickets for Phong Nha Cave in advance?
No, for general visits it's not necessary. You can buy tickets directly at the tourism center on the day of your visit. The only exception might be during major public holidays like Tet or the Reunification Day weekend.
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Is there a lot of walking involved in the Phong Nha Cave tour?
No, the tour is mostly seated on the boat. There is a short, flat walking section of a few hundred meters inside the Bi Ky Cave chamber, but it is easy and not strenuous.
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Are there life jackets provided on the boat?
Yes, wearing a life jacket is mandatory for all passengers during the boat journey on the Son River and inside the cave. They are provided before you board.
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Can I swim inside Phong Nha Cave?
Swimming is not permitted on the standard tourist boat trip. The water is deep and the area is managed for conservation and safety.
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What happens if it rains?
Tours usually still operate in light rain. However, during the peak rainy season (October-November), heavy rainfall can cause the river to flood, making the cave entrance inaccessible. In such cases, the tour will be suspended.
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Is Phong Nha Cave better than Son Doong Cave?
They are not comparable. Phong Nha Cave is an easily accessible show cave for all visitors. Son Doong is the world's largest cave, requiring a multi-day, physically demanding, and very expensive expedition that must be booked years in advance with a specialized company.
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