Explore the Tu Lan Cave System through these 10 exciting experiences

1. Trekking through pristine jungles

Trekking through the jungles in Tu Lan is a rough adventure not for the faint-hearted. The trails weave through dense foliage, over steep hills, and across meandering streams, making each step a push to your threshold. As you trek, you get away from the stress of everyday life, finding relief and renewal. The trek pushes you to persevere, confront your fears, and boldly test your limits, allowing you to conquer them and emerge stronger.

One of the best things about this journey is the opportunity to identify and photograph exotic plants and animals. The Tu Lan jungle is home to a plethora of wildlife, including rare bird species, vibrant butterflies, and unique flora that you won’t find elsewhere. Capture these moments with your camera to preserve the memories of these encounters.

Another highlight is discovering waterfalls and natural pools. These spots provide perfect rest stops where you can cool off and rejuvenate. Find yourself the perfect setting where waterfalls cascade waters for relaxation and photography. However, be mindful when using your phone or camera for a shot. A simple drop could lead to damage that can’t be fixed.

Trekking through the jungles in Tu Lan is a rough adventure not for the faint-hearted.

2. Exploring massive caves

The challenging trek through the jungle to reach the stunning caves of Tu Lan is a reward for every trekker. The trek itself is tough, but the breathtaking beauty of the hidden caves makes every step worthwhile. With over 25 caves across a 650-hectare limestone mountain range, the Tu Lan Cave System is all about geological marvels.

Behold the stalactites and stalagmites, some resembling grand chandeliers and others with whimsical shapes. These rock formations, coupled with the vast chambers and narrow passages, make for a perfect photographic background. Practicing cave photography here can result in stunning images that capture the grandeur of these underground spaces.

Navigating through the narrow passages and expansive chambers of the caves is another thrilling experience. Your heartbeat sounds palpable as you squeeze through tight spots and emerge into vast, echoing halls. Try turning off your headlamp deep inside a cave and feeling the complete silence and darkness. In these moments, hear the beat of your heart and the blood coursing through your veins as you sink into vast darkness.

The Tu Lan Cave System has over 25 caves across a 650-hectare limestone mountain range.

3. Swimming in underground rivers

Swimming in the underground rivers inside Tu Lan’s caves is an exciting and unique experience. Among the highlights is Ken Cave, known as the longest river cave in the system, where the strong and cold currents send you a rush of adrenaline.

As you glide through the river, the light from your headlamp hits the stalactites and bounces off the water’s surface. On the cave walls, you may see little streams cascading down, adding to the reverberating sound of flowing water. The exhilarating sensation is enhanced by the freshness of damp air with tiny little water drops everywhere in the atmosphere.

Kim Cave is another thrilling cave with 450 meters of underground river swim. This cave is known for its intriguing activities, and the swim is a favorite among visitors. Other smaller caves, like Fun Cave and Hung Ton Cave, also offer delightful swimming experiences.

And don’t you worry if you can’t swim!

Everyone wears a life jacket during the swim, and our tour guides and safety assistants are always on hand to help you navigate the underground river if needed.

Swimming in the underground rivers inside Tu Lan’s caves is an exciting and unique experience.

4. Abseiling cliffs and caves

Abseiling inside vast caves in Tu Lan is another adrenaline-pumping activity that is both thrilling and awe-inspiring. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll learn proper abseiling techniques, ensuring a safe and exhilarating descent.

The rush of descending down the cliffs inside a cave, a unique experience only on the Tu Lan Expedition Tour (TL4), is unmatched. As you lower yourself, the world opens up below you, revealing the intricate beauty and silent grandeur of the cave at its depth.

To capture every moment during the descent, attach an action camera to your helmet. Recording actions from your point of view allows you to relive the adventure and share it with others. Imagine seeing the footage after years and recalling yourself overcoming challenges during the descent, all while having fun and a huge surge of adrenaline. Abseiling in Tu Lan is more than just an experience; it’s a way to connect with the natural beauty and challenge your fearlessness from a height that not everyone dares to reach.

Abseiling inside vast caves in Tu Lan is another adrenaline-pumping activity.

5. Camping overnight in the jungle

Camping overnight in Tu Lan is a one-of-a-kind experience that blends wildlife adventure with the highest level of comfort amidst stunning natural beauty. There are five beautiful campsites in Tu Lan, each offering a unique setting for an exclusive experience.

Located near rivers or streams, campsites in Tu Lan have a steady water supply. These campsites are well-provisioned with essential facilities, such as bug-proof tents, a full-sized kitchen, an outdoor gathering area, and an environmentally-friendly composting toilet.

Safety is our priority, so each campsite has access to safe routes for exiting the jungle in case of flooding and lightning rods for protection during thunderstorms. In the winter, sauna tents are available to provide warmth, making the camping experience enjoyable year-round.

Dining is also a highlight, with hot meals and drinks included, providing the energy you need for the next day’s adventures. As night falls, gather around the campfire by the river. The clear night skies, free from light pollution, offer a spectacular view of the stars.

Camping overnight in Tu Lan blends wildlife adventure with the highest level of comfort.

6. Waking up to the freshness of nature

Waking up in Tu Lan offers an unparalleled experience that invigorates the senses. As dawn breaks, the first rays of sunlight pierce through the mountain range, casting a warm glow over the jungle. The air is crisp and fresh, filled with the soothing sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. This natural symphony is perfect for welcoming a new day.

To enhance the morning experience, consider practicing meditation or yoga in these serene surroundings. Feel rejuvenated as the tranquility of the jungle provides a peaceful setting to center yourself and prepare mentally for the day ahead.

Don’t forget to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. There’s always something magical about sipping a warm beverage, available at every campsite in Tu Lan while being surrounded by the beauty of the wilderness. Morning is also a great time to socialize with your fellow trekkers, telling stories and building bonds over the shared adventure.

As dawn breaks, enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, available at every campsite in Tu Lan.

7. Starting a cool day off with a bath in a stream

There’s no better way to kickstart your day in Tu Lan than with a refreshing bath in the cool, crystal-clear streams that crisscross the area. As you soak yourself in the cold water, the gentle sound of the flowing stream creates a soothing ambiance, instantly washing away any lingering fatigue from the previous day’s adventures.

Cold water can be invigorating. It penetrates deep into your muscles, providing a revitalizing wake-up call. This rejuvenating experience not only refreshes your body but also fortifies your mind for any challenge ahead. The purity of the stream water makes the experience even more special, as you feel a direct connection to the ground under your feet.

Soaking in the stream while surrounded by the lush greenery and the sounds of nature can be the new morning ritual for every trekker and a highlight of the Tu Lan experience. It offers both physical rejuvenation and a deep sense of tranquility.

There’s no better way to kickstart your day than with a refreshing bath in the streams.

8. Learning about the local nature and culture

One of the best experiences in Tu Lan is the opportunity to learn about the local culture in the most authentic way possible. Our local tour guides are residents who have lived in the area their entire lives. Their deep-rooted knowledge of the region, whether it’s history, geography, or culture, adds a rich layer of context to your adventure.

Listening to the stories shared by our local guides provides a deeper insight into Tu Lan. They can explain the significance of various plants and animals you encounter, unraveling the complex network of life that thrives in the jungle.

Feel free to engage with your guides, asking questions about everything from the flora and fauna to the cultural practices in and around Tu Lan. Their stories about the origins of certain plants, the meaning behind animal tracks, and the traditional uses of natural resources bring the environment around you to life in a way that is both educational and captivating.

Our local guides have deep knowledge of the region, from history, geography, to culture.

9. Sampling local dishes with local people

After coming out from the jungle and upon the accomplishment of your adventure, you’ll feel exhausted. We understand that. That’s why after every multi-day Oxalis tour, recovery through proper nutrition is vital. In Tan Hoa Village, only 20 minutes from Tu Lan, we await your return with delectable local dishes, a culinary experience that you won’t forget.

At a local house, you’ll be welcome to a heartfelt dinner made by the very host of the house. Among a whole menu of scrumptious dishes, one of the standouts you must try is Com Poi. Com Poi, made from cornstarch and cassava flour, serves as an alternative to white rice, which was once scarce in the high-slope terrain of Tu Lan. Its mild sweetness and soft, powdery texture offer a delightful change from typical Vietnamese food.

You won’t be having dinner alone but with the same group of fellows you trekked with and a local tour guide. Engage in conversations, get insights into the culinary traditions and ingredients used in the dishes, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

10. Recovering in unique accommodation

After days of trekking, recovering in comfortable and well-equipped accommodations in Tan Hoa is a treat that combines luxury with nature. Tu Lan Lodge has some of the best views out to the distant mountain ranges and meandering river, making it an ideal place to unwind. Choose between the Mountain Bungalow and River Bungalow, each providing distinct perspectives of the surrounding landscape.

For a more immersive experience, consider staying in Rural Homestay, a weather-adaptive lodging model of Tu Lan Lodge. These homestays, located within the homes of local people, offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and warm hospitality of the region.

We always make sure you have everything you need for the best recovery. At Tu Lan Lodge, enjoy nutritious meals at the restaurant and bar, give yourself a foot massage, and take in the spectacular views from every corner of your room. Whatever you need, recovering in Tu Lan Lodge gives your adventurous days a perfect ending.

After days of trekking, tour participants can recover in style at Tu Lan Lodge.

What do you think is the best experience you can get while exploring Tu Lan? Oxalis Adventure offers exclusive tours into the wilderness of Tu Lan. If you’re looking for any of the experiences above, don’t hesitate to have a quick look at the offers below:

• Tu Lan Family Experience Tour • TF1
• Tu Lan Family Adventure Tour • TF2
• Tu Lan Experience Tour • TL1
• Tu Lan Cave Encounter Tour • TL2
• Hang Tien-Tu Lan Discovery • HTL
• Wild Tu Lan Cave Explorer Tour • TL3
• Tu Lan Expedition Tour • TL4

The Oxalis Experience.