Travel Guide To Phong Nha

Phong Nha is a stunning destination in Vietnam, known for its natural wonders as the world's largest cave Son Doong Cave, Phong Nha cave system with plenty of things to see and do. With its unique beauty and charm, Phong Nha has become a must-visit destination for travelers from all over the world. To make your journey to Phong Nha easier, below are the different ways you can travel to Phong Nha from various locations:

Please note: There is limited English communication on the transport network throughout Vietnam.

Travel to Vietnam

Vietnam, a country with diverse and captivating beauty, offers easy and convenient access for travelers from around the world. Visitors from abroad can reach Vietnam through air travel, waterways (from Cambodia), railways (from China to the capital city Hanoi), and roadways (international bus routes from Laos or Cambodia to Vietnam).

International Airports in Vietnam: Foreign travelers have convenient access to Vietnam through three main international airports: Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), and Da Nang (Da Nang).

Visa to Vietnam: For foreign travelers, it is crucial to check and obtain the appropriate visa before arriving in Vietnam. In the article "Vietnam Travel Policy Updates" on the Oxalis Adventure website, travelers can find detailed information about visa regulations and changes related to Vietnam.

From Dong Hoi to Phong Nha

Note: As of July 1st, 2025, Quang Binh province has officially been merged with Quang Tri, forming the new Quang Tri province. However, names of familiar destinations such as Phong Nha – Ke Bang are still used and recognized by locals and travelers alike.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is an important tourist destination in the former Quang Tri Province (formerly Quang Binh), and is located about 45 km west of Dong Hoi. It is easy and convenient to get here by taxi, motorbike, public bus, or private car.

We are happy to offer you a private transfer from Phong Nha to Dong Hoi (or vice versa) for VND 650,000/one-way/7 seater car.

If you have any questions regarding transfers or need help deciding the best means of transportation before or after an Oxalis Adventure tour, please do not hesitate to contact Oxalis consultant team for recommendations regarding your travels.

Hanoi to/from Phong Nha

It is relatively easy to reach Phong Nha from Hanoi. There are a number of transport options including train, bus and plane. Most bus companies now stop directly in Phong Nha, so this is becoming a more popular option as it saves time on having to transfer in Dong Hoi (closest train station and airport to Phong Nha).

(Please be aware that all suggested bus, train and airline companies, and their agencies, operate entirely independently of Oxalis Adventure. Bear in mind that all information is subject to change as per the transportation company’s discretion, and we accept no responsibility for the service provided by any other company)

AIR TRAVEL

Of course, the fastest mode of transport is to fly direct: Hanoi to Dong Hoi is just a 1 hour and 5-minute flight. However, you have to factor in travel time to the airport (1 hour from the Old Quarter).

Currently, there are 2 airlines that operate direct flights between Hanoi and Dong Hoi: Vietnam Airlines and Sun PhuQuoc Airways. All flights depart from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) to Dong Hoi Airport (VDH).

Vietnam Airlines currently operates 2 daily direct flights. The current flights are scheduled as follow:

  • Hanoi - Dong Hoi: 05:05 - 06:10 and 08:45 - 09:50.
  • Dong Hoi - Hanoi: 06:45 - 07:50 and 10:25 - 11:30.

Official booking website: http://vietnamairlines.com/

Starting from 16 August 2026, Sun PhuQuoc Airways is expected to introduce 1 daily round-trip flight between Hanoi and Dong Hoi, equivalent to 7 round-trip flights per week. The current flights are scheduled as follow:

  • Hanoi - Dong Hoi: 10:20 - 11:25 (daily)
  • Dong Hoi - Hanoi: 12:05 - 13:10 (Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays) and 16:15 - 17:20 (Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays)

Official booking website: https://sunphuquocairways.com/

As flight schedules may change seasonally, we recommend checking the airlines' official websites before booking to ensure your preferred flight is available.

If you choose to fly, you'll also need to arrange transportation between Dong Hoi Airport and Phong Nha. We offer a private transfer service for VND 650,000 per one-way trip in a 7-seater vehicle. Otherwise, taking the train or sleeper bus remains a convenient alternative for many travelers.

TRAIN TRAVEL

Trains are an enjoyable way to travel and see a bit of the countryside. A soft-sleeper cabin is the most comfortable option with only 4 people per cabin, allowing travelers to sit up or lie down. A hard-sleeper cabin does not provide enough room to sit up, and there are 6 beds per cabin. Overnight trains are a good option; you not only get somewhere to sleep for a night but also avoid missing out on another day of adventure.

We recommend the following overnight train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi:

Train No

Departs

Arrives

SE3

07:20 PM

05:00 AM

NOTE:

  • Unfortunately, train schedules cannot be guaranteed, so for 1-day tours we advise you to travel directly by bus, arriving in Phong Nha on the day of your tour. If you choose to fly or travel by train, you should plan to arrive in Phong Nha one day before the tour.
  • If you do arrive by train on the same morning the tour departs, please make sure you take the SE3 and have private transfer booked with Oxalis Adventure in advance.
  • If you plan on traveling to Hanoi on the same evening that you complete your tour, we highly recommend you to take the overnight bus that departs at around 9:30 PM. If the train is your preferred method of travel, you will need to book a private transfer from Phong Nha to Dong Hoi. You can check the train schedule via the Vietnam Railway official website http://dsvn.vn (English/Vietnamese) to book your tickets in advance.
  • You will need to book a transfer from Phong Nha to Dong Hoi in advance. We are happy to offer you a private transfer between Dong Hoi and Phong Nha in a 7-seater car for VND 650,000 each way.

BUS TRAVEL

Hung Long, Queen Cafe Bus and Camel Travel operate regular services, departing from Hanoi between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM.

You can either book in person through your hotel in Hanoi, or telephone/visit their offices.

Hưng Long Bus
• Address: 338 Tran Khat Chan or House No. 01, Alley 2, Dinh Thon Village Gate, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi.
• Tel: 02436 889 889 / 0963 388 388
• Departure time: 7:30 PM
• Arrival time: About 6:00 AM
• Arrival address: Hung Long Office, Xuan Tien Village, Phong Nha Commune, Quang Tri Province.

Camel Travel Bus
• Address: 459 Tran Khat Chan St.
• Tel: 0906266464
• Departure time from Hanoi: 7:00 PM
• Arrival time in Phong Nha: Around 5:00 AM the next morning
• Arrival address in Phong Nha: Central Backpacker Hostel

Queen Cafe Bus
• Address: 208 Tran Quang Khai St.
• Tel: +84 24 3903 6036 - 02439283666
• Departure time from Hanoi: 6:00 PM
• Arrival time in Phong Nha: Around 5 AM the next morning
• Arrival address in Phong Nha: Central Backpacker Hostel

NOTE:

These buses also provide a Phong Nha – Ha Noi route, departing between 7:45 PM and 9:00 PM, and arriving into Ha Noi at 5:00 – 6:00 AM. You can buy tickets at their offices in Phong Nha or through your hotel.

Ho Chi Minh City to/from Phong Nha

Ho Chi Minh City, still known by its former name of Saigon, is the biggest city in Vietnam. It is a focal point for those looking to see highlights such as the Mekong Delta, and it is an international transport hub.

(Please be aware that all suggested bus, train and airline companies, and their agencies, operate entirely independently of Oxalis Adventure. The following information is given in good faith, and Oxalis Adventure Tours accepts no responsibility for the services provided by any other company.)

AIR TRAVEL

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Ho Chi Minh city and Phong Nha. Currently, both Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air operate direct flights between Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) to Dong Hoi Airport (VDH). The flight takes 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Vietnam Airlines operates 2 round-trip flights daily between Ho Chi Minh city and Dong Hoi. The current flights are scheduled as follow:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) - Dong Hoi (VDH): 06:55 - 08:30 and 11:15 - 12:50.
  • Dong Hoi (VDH) - Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): 09:05 - 10:45 and 13:25 - 15:05.

Official booking website: https://vietnamairlines.com/

Vietjet Air also operates 2 direct round-trip flights daily between Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Hoi. The current flights are scheduled as follow:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) - Dong Hoi (VDH): 06:35 - 08:10 and 17:40 - 19:15.
  • Dong Hoi (VDH) - Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): 08:40 - 10:15 and 19:45 - 21:20.

Official booking website: https://vietjetair.com

Flight schedules may change depending on the season or airline operations, so it is advisable to check the latest timetable before booking your trip.

If you choose to fly, you'll also need to arrange transportation between Dong Hoi Airport and Phong Nha. We offer a private transfer service for VND 650,000 per one-way trip in a 7-seater vehicle. Otherwise, taking the train remains a convenient alternative for many travelers.

TRAIN TRAVEL

Travelling by train is a good option for travellers with a flexible schedule and prefer a more scenic journey. All North-South trains depart at Sai Gon Railway Station and stop at Dong Hoi Railway Station. The journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Dong Hoi takes approximately 16 - 20 hours, depending on the train service.

We recommend choosing a soft-sleeper cabin (4 berths) for a more comfortable overnight journey. The following trains operate daily between Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Hoi:

Train No

Departs

Arrives

SE8 06:00 05:22 (next day)
SE6 08:45 08:13 (next day)
SE10 13:15 15:18 (next day)
SE24 14:25 20:44 (next day)
SE4 19:20 18:06 (next day)
SE2 20:35 18:56 (next day)
SE12 21:00 22:17 (next day)

NOTE:

  • From Dong Hoi Railway Station, Phong Nha is about 45km away. Oxalis Adventure offers a private transfer service for VND 650,000 per one-way trip in a 7-seater vehicle.
  • If you're joining an Oxalis Adventure tour, plan to arrive in Phong Nha at least one day before your tour starts to avoid delays caused by changes to the train schedule.
  • Train schedules may change throughout the year. Please check the latest timetable on the official Vietnam Railways website http://dsvn.vn (English/Vietnamese) before booking your tickets.

BUS TRAVEL

Sleeper buses are available between Ho Chi Minh City and Phong Nha, with the journey taking 20 - 24 hours. However, we generally don’t recommend them for this route due to the long travel time and lower level of comfort. Unlike trains, where you can walk through the carriages, visit the canteen or simply stretch your legs, bus travel means spending most of the journey in your seat or cabin.

Alternatively, for those on a budget who have a little more time, the cheapest flights are often available between HCMC and Da Nang or Hue (versus direct to Dong Hoi). From Da Nang or Hue, one can take a train to Dong Hoi or even a bus directly to Phong Nha.

Ninh Bình to/from Phong Nha

Ninh Binh is located on the way from Hanoi to Phong Nha, so you can take the same bus or train.

(Please be aware that all suggested bus, train and airline companies, and their agencies, operate entirely independently of Oxalis Adventure; bear in mind that all the information is subject to change as per the transportation company’s discretion and we accept no responsibility for the service provided by any other company)

TRAIN TRAVEL

Trains are an enjoyable way to travel and see a bit of the countryside. A soft-sleeper cabin is the most comfortable option with only 4 people per cabin, allowing travelers to sit up or lie down. A hard-sleeper cabin does not provide enough room to sit up, and there are 6 beds per cabin. Overnight trains are a good option; you not only get somewhere to sleep for a night but also avoid missing out on another day of adventure.

We recommend the following overnight trains from Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi:

Train No

Departs

Arrives

SE3

09:35 PM

05:00 AM

Unfortunately, train schedules cannot be guaranteed, so for 1-day tours we advise you to travel directly by bus, arriving in Phong Nha on the day of your tour. If you choose to fly or travel by train, you should plan to arrive in Phong Nha one day before the tour.

If you do arrive by train on the same morning the tour departs, please make sure you take the SE3 and have a private transfer booked with Oxalis Adventure in advance.

If you plan on traveling to Ninh Binh on the same evening that you complete your tour, we highly recommend you to take the overnight bus that departs at around 9:30 PM. If the train is your preferred method of travel, you can check the train schedule via the Vietnam Railway official website http://dsvn.vn (English/Vietnamese). You will need to book a private transfer from Phong Nha to Dong Hoi in advance for VND 650,000/one-way/7 seater car.

BUS TRAVEL

Queen Café Bus
• Address: 46 Street 27/7, Ninh Binh City, or Tam Coc Wharf, Vietnam.
• Tel: 02439283666
• Departure time: 8:30 PM
• Arrival time in Phong Nha: Around 5:00 AM
• Arrival address in Phong Nha: Central Backpacker Hostel

Hung Long Bus
• Address: Near Big C Supermarket or Tam Diep - Tam Coc, Ninh Binh.
• Tel:02436 889 889 / 0963 388 388
• Departure time: 9:00 - 9:30 PM
• Arrival time in Phong Nha: Around 6:00 AM
• Arrival address: Hung Long Office, Xuan Tien Village, Phong Nha Commune, Quang Tri Province.

Camel Travel Bus
• Address: Near Big C Supermarket of Ninh Binh
• Tel: 0906266464
• Departure time from Hanoi: 8:00 - 8:30 PM
• Arrival time in Phong Nha: Around 5:30 AM the next morning
• Arrival address in Phong Nha: Central Backpacker Hostel

NOTE:

These buses also provide a Phong Nha – Ninh Binh route, departing between 7:45 PM and 9:00 PM, and arriving into Ninh Binh at 3:00 – 5:00 AM. You can buy tickets at their offices in Phong Nha or through your hotel.

Ha Long to/from Phong Nha

Ha Long’s remote location means that you must travel to Hanoi before heading to Phong Nha by bus, train or air.

(Please be aware that all suggested bus, train and airline companies, and their agencies, operate entirely independently of Oxalis Adventure; bear in mind that all information is subject to change as per the transportation company’s discretion and we accept no responsibility for the service provided by any other company)

BUS TRAVEL

Van Luc Tung Bus
• Address: Bai Chay bus station, Ha Long, Quang Ninh
• Departure time from Ha Long: 2:00 PM
• Tel: 0915363377
• Arrival time in Dong Hoi: 1:00 AM
• Arrival address in Dong Hoi: Bypass road of Dong Hoi City

NOTE:

  • From Dong Hoi, you will need to book an additional transfer to Phong Nha.
  • We are happy to offer you a private transfer between Dong Hoi and Phong Nha in a 7-seater car for VND 650,000/one-way.

Hue to/from Phong Nha

Hue is located just a few hours’ drive from the jungle and caving capital of Vietnam. It is a relatively convenient route with trains and buses offered by a number of companies, as well a private transfer option if you prefer.

(Please be aware that all suggested bus, train and airline companies, and their agencies, operate entirely independently of Oxalis Adventure; bear in mind that all information is subject to change as per the transportation company’s discretion and we accept no responsibility for the service provided by any other company)

TRAIN TRAVEL

Hue is just a short 3-hour train journey from Dong Hoi and is a popular city to visit before, or after, one of our caving adventures. However, the connections in the late evening or morning are inconvenient, and would have you arriving in Dong Hoi, bleary-eyed, at 2:00 AM or 5:00 AM, making it difficult to check in to any hotel.

We would suggest arriving the day before if you intend to take a train from Hue. This ensures you have plenty of rest before your jungle and caving adventure. Do not forget, if you are traveling on the train to Dong Hoi, you will need to book an additional transfer between Dong Hoi and Phong Nha. We are happy to offer you a private transfer between Dong Hoi and Phong Nha in a 7-seater car for VND 650,000 each way.

In addition to standard Vietnam Railways services, travelers from Hue can choose to experience the Tourist Train connecting Hue and Phong Nha starting August 28, 2026. Designed for premium comfort and cultural immersion throughout the journey, the train offers two carriage class options:

  • Soft Seat Carriage (56 seats): Modern, spacious, and comfortable. Price: 420,000 VND / seat.
  • VIP Carriage (24 seats): Luxurious interior with low seat density for extra space, exclusive amenities including complimentary drinks and pastries, plus service robots. Price: 760,000 VND / seat.

You can check the train schedule via the Vietnam Railway official website: http://dsvn.vn (English/Vietnamese) to book your train tickets in advance.

Special Offer for Hue – Phong Nha Tourist Train Passengers: When you travel on the Hue – Phong Nha tourist train in either direction, you'll enjoy exclusive offers from Oxalis, including 10% off Oxalis Adventure tours and 15% off accommodation booked through Phong Nha Holiday. Learn more about the special offer.

BUS TRAVEL

Camel Travel Bus
• Address: 86 Nguyen Sinh Cung
• Departure time from Hue: 5:00 PM
• Arrival time in Phong Nha: 9:30 PM
• Tel: 0906266464
• Arrival address in Dong Hoi: Central Backpacker Hostel

NOTE:

PRIVATE TRANSFER

We are happy to offer private transfers between Hue and Phong Nha for VND 2,800,000/ 7-seater/each way. Please indicate the number of passengers when booking a private transfer with us.

If you have any questions regarding transfers, or need help deciding your best means of transportation before or after an Oxalis Adventure Tour, please do not hesitate to contact an Oxalis Travel Specialist.

Da Nang/Hoi An to/from Phong Nha

Da Nang is the biggest city in central Vietnam, with beautiful beaches, mountains and only a 45 min drive from the UNESCO world heritage town of Hoi An. It is a 7 hour train/bus journey between Da Nang and Phong Nha.

(Please be aware that all suggested bus, train and airline companies, and their agencies, operate entirely independently of Oxalis Adventure; bear in mind that all information is subject to change as per the transportation company’s discretion and we accept no responsibility for the service provided by any other company)

TRAIN TRAVEL

There is no train station in Hoi An. You will need to transfer to Da Nang first if you would like to travel by train.

We recommend arriving the day before your tour if you are taking the train from Da Nang. This ensures you get a good night’s sleep, and are not arriving too early in the morning. From Dong Hoi, you will need to book an additional transfer to Phong Nha. We are happy to offer you a private transfer between Dong Hoi and Phong Nha in a 7-seater car for VND 650,000 each way.

You can check the train schedule via the Vietnam Railway official website: http://dsvn.vn (English/Vietnamese) to book your train tickets in advance.

BUS TRAVEL

Hanh Luyen Bus
• Address: Da Nang Central Bus Station
• Departure time from Da Nang: 09:45 AM and 5:30 PM
• Arrival time in Phong Nha: Varies (Kindly confirm with bus company)
• Tel: 0912173173

NOTE:

  • Hanh Luyen leave Phong Nha at 7:30 PM and you can get tickets at your hotel or the booking office in Phong Nha. They reach Hue at around 12:00 AM, Da Nang at around 02:00 AM and Hoi An at around 03:30 AM.

PRIVATE TRANSFER

We are happy to offer you a private transfer between Da Nang or Hoi An and Phong Nha. To and from Da Nang costs VND 3,700,000/1 private car/each way; and to/from Hoi An costs VND 4,400,000/1 private car/each way. Please indicate the number of passengers when booking a private transfer with us.

If you have any questions regarding transfers or need help on deciding your best means of transportation before, or after, an Oxalis Adventure Tour, please do not hesitate to contact an Oxalis Travel Specialist.

Nha Trang to/from Phong Nha

There are several transport options available to travel to Phong Nha from Nha Trang, including flights, trains and sleeper buses.

(Please be aware that all suggested bus, train and airline companies, and their agencies, operate entirely independently of Oxalis Adventure. All schedules and services are subject to change at the discretion of the transportation providers, and we accept no responsibility for the services they provide.)

AIR TRAVEL

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Nha Trang and Phong Nha. Sun PhuQuoc Airways is currently the only airline operating direct flights between Nha Trang and Dong Hoi. Starting from 16 August 2026, the route is operated 3 times a week. Flights depart from Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) and arrive at Dong Hoi Airport (VDH) in approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Sun PhuQuoc Airways operates direct flights on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays with the following schedule:

  • Nha Trang (CXR) - Dong Hoi (VDH): 14:05 - 15:30
  • Dong Hoi (VDH) - Nha Trang (CXR): 12:05 - 13:25

Official booking website: https://sunphuquocairways.com/

Flight schedules may change depending on the season or airline operations, so it is advisable to check the latest timetable before booking your trip. If you fly via Dong Hoi Airport, you'll also need transportation between the airport and Phong Nha. We offer a private transfer service for VND 650,000 per one-way trip in a 7-seater vehicle.

TRAIN TRAVEL

Traveling by train is a comfortable and scenic way to get between Nha Trang and Phong Nha. We recommend booking a soft-sleeper cabin, which accommodates four passengers and offers a much more comfortable journey than a hard-sleeper cabin with 6 berths.

All North - South trains stop at Dong Hoi Railway Station, approximately 45 km from Phong Nha. From there, you'll need to continue by private transfer or local bus.

The following trains operate daily between Nha Trang and Dong Hoi:

Train No

Departs

Arrives

SE4 02:47 AM 05:06 PM
SE2 03:51 AM 06:56 PM
SE12 05:01 AM 10:17 PM
SE8 02:03 PM 05:22 AM (next day)
SE6 04:13 PM 08:13 AM (next day)
SE10 09:58 PM 03:18 PM (next day)

NOTE:

  • We recommend choosing overnight services that allow you to sleep on the train and arrive in Dong Hoi the following morning.
  • If you're joining an Oxalis Adventure tour, we recommend arriving in Phong Nha at least one day before your tour begins. If you choose to arrive on the morning of your tour, please allow enough time for the transfer from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha and arrange your private transfer with Oxalis Adventure in advance.
  • Train schedules are subject to change. Please check the latest timetable on the official Vietnam Railways website: http://dsvn.vn (English/Vietnamese) to book your train tickets in advance.

BUS TRAVEL

Traveling by sleeper bus is one of the most budget-friendly ways to get between Nha Trang and Phong Nha. Most long-distance buses stop in Dong Hoi, where you'll need to continue by private transfer or local transport to Phong Nha, approximately 45 km away.

The journey from Nha Trang to Dong Hoi takes around 12 - 16 hours, depending on the operator and departure time.

HM Happycar
• Departure: Co.opmart Nha Trang
• Departure time: 9:00 PM, 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM
• Arrival time: 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM (next day)
• Arrival point: Dong Hoi Post Office

HK BUSLINES
• Departure: HK BUSLINES Office, Nha Trang
• Departure time: 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM
• Arrival time: 12:15 PM or 1:15 PM (next day)
• Arrival point: Dong Hoi Railway Station

NOTE:

  • Bus schedules and operators vary throughout the year, so it's best to check the latest departure times and book your tickets in advance through reputable bus companies or your accommodation.
  • Once you arrive in Dong Hoi, you'll need transportation to Phong Nha, around 45 km away. We are happy to provide a private transfer between Dong Hoi and Phong Nha for VND 650,000 each way in a 7-seater vehicle.

Around Phong Nha

Transportation in Phong Nha is quite easy. You can choose to rent a car, or motorbike, or use the free bicycles at your homestay/hotel. Don't hesitate to contact the front desk for more information!

From the center of Phong Nha to your hotel/homestay: You should contact the front desk of your hotel/homestay in advance. They will advise you on the best way to get around, which could be renting a car, motorbike, or calling a taxi depending on your needs and distance.

Oxalis Home is about 3-4 kilometers from the center of Phong Nha. You can contact Oxalis Home to book a shuttle from the airport or a transfer on demand.

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