Cao Bang, a mountainous province in northeastern Vietnam, offers a less-traveled escape into breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences. It is renowned for its majestic waterfalls, particularly the Ban Gioc Waterfall, as well as dramatic limestone karst formations, expansive caves, and serene valleys.
While not a dedicated party destination, Cao Bang City provides a welcoming base with affordable accommodations, local eateries, and a riverwalk area that functions as a public space for communal activities. Popular backpacker hostels like Lan's Home are noted as places where travelers tend to gather and often organize tours together.
Top 6 Things to do in Cao Bang
One can explore breathtaking waterfalls and karst landscapes, delve into ancient caves, visit historical revolutionary sites, and experience authentic local life.
1. Ban Gioc Waterfall
Witness the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, one of Southeast Asia's largest, straddling the border between Vietnam and China. Visitors can take a bamboo raft directly to the base of the falls for an immersive experience, feeling the mist and appreciating its immense scale. Adjacent to the falls, the Truc Lam Pagoda offers a panoramic viewpoint over the cascading water and surrounding valleys.
Cost: Entrance fee is approximately 45,000 VND (around 1.8 USD). A bamboo raft ride costs an additional 50,000 VND (around 2 USD) per person.
Transport: Ban Gioc Waterfall is approximately 90 km from Cao Bang City. Public minibuses from Cao Bang City to Ban Gioc take about 2 hours and cost around 85,000 VND (around 3.4 USD). Motorbike rental is an option for independent travel, typically starting from 200,000 VND (around 8 USD) per day. Taxis or private cars with drivers can be hired for around 500,000 VND (around 20 USD) for a day trip.
2. Nguom Ngao Cave
Explore the impressive Nguom Ngao Cave, also known as the 'Tiger Cave,' which lies near Ban Gioc Waterfall. This extensive cave system boasts unique stalactite and stalagmite formations that have developed over millions of years. Guided tours offer a deeper exploration, including sections where one might navigate by boat or trek through deeper caverns.
Cost: Entrance fee is typically nominal. Some extended tours into deeper parts of the cave may incur additional costs.
Transport: Nguom Ngao Cave is a short distance from Ban Gioc Waterfall, often visited together. It is about a 15-minute walk from nearby accommodations.
3. Pac Bo Historical Site
Step back in time at Pac Bo, a significant historical site where Ho Chi Minh returned to Vietnam in 1941 to lead the revolutionary movement. Visitors can explore Lenin Stream, Karl Marx Peak, and the cave where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked, gaining insight into Vietnam's revolutionary past amidst a peaceful natural setting.
Cost: Entrance fees are typically nominal or included in organized tours.
Transport: Pac Bo is located about 50 km north of Cao Bang City. It can be reached by motorbike or taxi. Tours often include this as part of a historical route.
4. Thang Hen Lake and Mount Mat Than (God's Eye Mountain)
Discover the serene Thang Hen Lake system, a collection of 36 interconnected lakes known for their unique hydrological phenomena. Nearby, Mount Mat Than, or 'God's Eye Mountain,' features a distinctive hole through its peak, offering a captivating natural landmark. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake, picnics, and gentle hikes around the area, especially magical during the dry season when the 'eye' is clearly visible.
Cost: Entrance fees are typically nominal; boat rides may have a separate fee.
Transport: Thang Hen Lake is approximately 30 km from Cao Bang City. It is accessible by motorbike or taxi. Some tours combine this with other natural attractions.
5. Phong Nam Valley
Immerse oneself in the tranquil beauty of Phong Nam Valley, a less-explored gem showcasing a pristine rural landscape. This valley is characterized by stunning limestone karst formations, traditional Tay ethnic villages, and expansive rice fields. It offers excellent opportunities for gentle trekking, cycling, and observing local village life, providing an authentic cultural experience away from crowds.
Cost: Exploration is generally free. Guides can be hired for specific treks or village visits, with costs varying.
Transport: Phong Nam Valley is about a 45-minute drive from Ban Gioc Waterfall. It is best explored by motorbike or as part of a guided tour.
6. Local Markets and Cao Bang City Nightlife
Experience the vibrant local markets in Cao Bang City, and the Po Tau and Quang Uyen districts, which offer a glimpse into the daily lives and diverse cultures of ethnic minority groups. These markets, often operating on a lunar calendar, are bustling hubs for fresh produce, traditional crafts, and local delicacies. In Cao Bang City, the weekend 'Walking Street' on Kim Dong street transforms into a lively evening market with street food and local shops, providing a social atmosphere.
Cost: Free to enter; costs apply for purchases. Street food is generally very affordable.
Transport: Markets within Cao Bang City are within walking distance of the city center. District markets like Po Tau and Quang Uyen require a short drive or motorbike ride.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
