The ultimate Quang Binh travel guide: Exquisite adventures and hidden gems

Best tourist destinations in Quang Binh

Multi-day tourist destinations

Son Doong Cave (6 days)

Son Doong Cave is the largest cave in the world. Located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, its impressive size makes Quang Binh an attractive destination. The Son Doong Expedition Tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore this cave.

Son Doong Cave is 9 km long with a volume of 38.5 million cubic meters, and cave domes 200 meters high and 150 meters wide. The cave is so vast that it could fit a 40-story skyscraper inside. It contains a private jungle, an ecosystem, an underground river, two giant sinkholes, and even its own climate. Entering Son Doong Cave feels like stepping into an ancient underground world.

The Son Doong Expedition Tour lasts 6 days and 5 nights, including 4 days and 3 nights of deep jungle exploration. You’ll explore the entire length of Son Doong Cave, visit Hang En Cave, and Ban Doong Village, home to the Bru Van Kieu ethnic community. You’ll also camp at three campsites within the cave.

The Son Doong Expedition Tour requires excellent fitness and prior experience in trekking. Oxalis is the only operator authorized to organize tours to Son Doong Cave.

Sinkhole 1 (also known as Doline 1) in Son Doong Cave - the largest cave in the world

Hang Ba Cave (4 days)

Hang Ba Cave is renowned for its stunning underground river and multiple exits, one of which leads to the picturesque Circle Lake. This lake offers an unparalleled stargazing experience free from artificial light. When the night sky is clear, you can marvel at the stars, moon, and even the Milky Way.

The Hang Ba Deep Jungle Expedition Tour offers the opportunity to explore not only Hang Ba Cave but also several other remarkable caves. These include Dai Cao Cave, Maze Cave, Vinh Dai Cave, Light Cave, and Circle Cave. Each cave boasts distinct features and attractions. The Maze Cave, for example, has a unique dome-shaped entrance where sunlight shines through at a beautiful angle. This allows explorers to capture some of the most breathtaking moments while exploring within the cave.

Beyond caving, the Hang Ba Deep Jungle Expedition Tour also emphasizes conservation. Oxalis has set up camera traps throughout the jungle, capturing images of local wildlife. You may see mountain goats, deer, wild boars, gibbons, langurs, and wildcats. This allows explorers to gain insight into the area’s rich biodiversity.

The Hang Ba Deep Jungle Expedition Tour requires good physical fitness. Participants must train in trekking to prepare for this demanding yet rewarding adventure.

Tu Lan Cave System (from 3 days)

The Tu Lan Cave System has over 20 caves. It stretches from Tan Hoa Commune in Minh Hoa District to Cao Quang Commune in Tuyen Hoa District. Known for its majestic beauty, Tu Lan was featured in the 2017 Hollywood blockbuster “Kong: Skull Island.”

For those planning an extended trip to Tu Lan, Quang Binh, Oxalis Adventure offers 3 attractive tours. The first option is the Tu Lan Cave Encounter Tour (3 days, 2 nights). The second option, which lasts a day longer, is the Wild Tu Lan Cave Explorer Tour (4 days, 3 nights). The last option is the Tu Lan Cave Expedition Tour (6 days, 5 nights).

These tours to Tu Lan offer a unique experience, including swimming in an underground river. You can also try abseiling on these tours to explore deeper cave parts. Abseiling is one of the most unique experiences that you can only have in Tu Lan. Imagine descending down a vertical cliff inside a cave and feeling the adrenaline rush surging. All is done while you see the whole vast area below from a vantage position.

You can swim in crystal-clear waters amidst pristine nature in Tu Lan

Also, you can camp at some of the most scenic spots in Tu Lan. Here, you can see and swim in crystal-clear streams and waterfalls amidst pristine mountains and jungles. Due to the long duration and difficult terrain, participants must be in good shape.

Hang Tien Cave (from 3 days)

Hang Tien Cave is the largest dry cave in the Tu Lan Cave System. It offers a breathtaking and challenging trekking experience. The ecosystem at its entrance is unique. Sunlight and humidity allow moss and fungi to grow and cover the stalactites. Hang Tien Cave also features a remarkable ceiling pattern resembling a giant tornado. It also has some of the most towering stalactites in Tu Lan.

The Hang Tien Exploration Tour (4 days, 3 nights) includes 3 days of trekking, 2 nights of camping, and 1 night of rest at Tu Lan Lodge after the tour. The tour is challenging, with 28 km of trekking. This is perfect for those who enjoy pushing their limits.

During the Hang Tien Exploration Tour, you’ll also camp at 2 of the most scenic spots in the pristine mountains and jungles of Tu Lan. Amidst the vast green space, you can enjoy wonderful moments of relaxation that can’t be found elsewhere.

For one day shorter in duration, the Hang Tien Cave Endeavor (3 days, 2 nights) is another spectacular adventure to the depths of Hang Tien Cave. This tour allows you to experience the best of Hang Tien Cave while requiring less physical exertion. The total trekking distance is only 12 km instead of 28 km in the longer tour.

Overnight tourist destinations

Hang Va Cave

Hang Va Cave is next to Son Doong Cave and is separated only by the Great Wall of Vietnam. This cave stands out as a captivating palace beneath the earth.

The charm of Hang Va Cave is defined by an underground river and enchanting draperies with water cascading from the cave ceiling. Also, there are thousands of rare cone formations inside Hang Va Cave. These distinctive rock formations differ from typical stalagmites. Their formation remains a mystery to leading cave experts.

The Hang Va Expedition Tour takes you deep into Hang Va Cave and the intriguing Nuoc Nut Cave. Entering through a small cave entrance, you’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing Nuoc Nut Cave. The tour continues through a narrow connection between Nuoc Nut and Hang Va, leading you to swim in the refreshing waters of Hang Va’s stream passage. You’ll then climb out of the cave to get to a campsite deep in the jungle.

The adventure intensifies as you explore the upstream section of Hang Va. Equipped with safety harnesses, you’ll climb into the Tower Cone Passage. Following a designated footpath, you’ll marvel at the beauty of these unique cone-shaped rock formations.

Hang En Cave

Hang En Cave in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is one of the largest caves in the world. It’s named after the thousands of swallows that nest in its dome. Here, you’ll be enchanted by the beautiful campsite next to a lake and the immense size of the cave. The cave is also filled with stalactites and fossils formed over millions of years.

Hang En Cave was featured in National Geographic. It was also a filming location for the Hollywood movie “Pan: The Neverland” (2015). Moreover, it was also the live broadcast site for ABC News’ Good Morning America.

The Hang En Cave Adventure (2 days, 1 night) is a must-try experience. From December to March, sunlight shines through the cave entrance. It illuminates the entire campsite and the nearby lake, creating a magical sight every explorer would love to see.

To reach Hang En Cave, you must trek through the jungle, cross rivers and streams, and visit Ban Doong Village. This is a hidden village of the Bru Van Kieu ethnic group. Therefore, the journey requires good physical preparation.

Hang Tien-Tu Lan

You already know how spectacular Hang Tien Cave and the Tu Lan Cave System are. But what if you could explore both of them in just 2 days?

The Hang Tien-Tu Lan Discovery Tour offers the perfect blend of the Tu Lan Experience and Hang Tien Cave Day Trek. This is tailored for thrill-seekers who crave adventure without needing to spend an extended period.

In 2 days and 1 night, the Hang Tien-Tu Lan Discovery Tour packs in a diverse range of activities. This ensures you get the most out of your adventure. You’ll trek in the mountains, navigate through the jungle, and swim in natural pools with emerald-green water. Along the way, you’ll also explore Rat Cave, Hung Ton Cave, and To Mo Valley. Each offers a unique encounter with nature, breathtaking views, and thrilling activities.

Blue Diamond Camp

Blue Diamond Camp is an attractive campsite in Quang Binh. Located in the heart of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, 15 minutes from Phong Nha town, it offers many activities. From day trips to overnight camping, team-building events, and more, there’s something for everyone at Blue Diamond Camp. The capacity is for up to 400 people.

Blue Diamond Camp has a total area of 5 hectares. Rolling mountains wind around the campsite alongside the emerald river. Trees provide shade along the riverbanks, and green grass stretches across the area. These things create a picturesque and relaxing environment for visitors at Blue Diamond Camp.

With the motto “Connecting with Nature,” Blue Diamond Camp aims to bring people closer to nature. Here, visitors can enjoy amenities like kayaking, hammocks, and boats. As an ecotourism model, Blue Diamond Camp is Vietnam’s first campsite to use solar energy for all its electric equipment and activities.

Single-day tourist destinations

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Exploring Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park offers an adventure into the “cave kingdom.” Here, you’ll go through primeval jungles, majestic caves, and magical underground rivers.

The highlight is Nuoc Nut Cave, featuring large domes, colorful stalactites, and clear lakes. The trip concludes with kayaking on the Chay River. Key historical sites include Tra Ang Bridge, a war-scarred structure now witnessing the mighty Son Doong waters. Another attraction is Eight Ladies Cave, a poignant chamber echoing tales of sacrifice.

The Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park Tour combines nature’s beauty with profound historical narratives. If you’re a nature lover and a history enthusiast, this tour is for you.

Tu Lan Cave System

If you have limited time but still want to go nature trekking, the 1-day Tu Lan Experience Tour is perfect. It lets you explore the stunning Tu Lan Cave System.

The Tu Lan Experience Tour includes a 9-km hike through the jungle, wading through streams, climbing slopes, and swimming in streams. During the trip, you will explore 2 caves: Rat Cave and Hung Ton Cave. These caves feature beautiful stalactites and a unique heart-shaped cave dome.

Lunch will be a barbecue prepared by Oxalis’ chefs, served by a scenic stream. The Tu Lan Experience Tour promises a day full of adventure and unforgettable experiences.

Lim Forest - “Home of Kong” by ATV

Riding ATV quad bikes to Lim Forest is a new adventure tour in Tan Hoa Commune, Minh Hoa District. This program lets you explore the “Home of Kong” on a 4-wheel bike.

Visitors will drive off-road motorbikes through Lim Forest, slopes, forest trails, and streams. Before starting, you’ll get instructions on how to use the ATV quad bike to ensure you can drive it safely all by yourself.

The tour lasts 2 hours and includes safety instructions, a trial run, a route briefing, and a self-driving experience. You’ll tackle various challenging terrains, including a palm forest, Lim Forest, and Sim flower forest. The tour ends at the “Home of Kong,” a tunnel where you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Kong: Skull Island movie.

Other popular caves

Phong Nha Cave

Located in a limestone mountain, Phong Nha Cave was once known as Vietnam’s “First Cave Wonder.” This wet cave features impressive stalactites and a long, beautiful jade-green underground river. Inside the cave, a lighting system enhances its magical and enchanting atmosphere. This makes Phong Nha Cave a popular destination for domestic and international tourists.

One of the best ways to visit Phong Nha Cave is by boat. You head to the Phong Nha Tourism Center on the main road to buy tickets and rent a boat. Tickets are available from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM at 150,000 VND per person. During the tour, you’ll ride a boat into the cave. Here, you can walk around and admire the stunning stalactites. After exploring the cave, the boat will bring you back to the Phong Nha Tourism Center.

The area around Phong Nha Cave offers beverages, food, and souvenirs to cater to every visitors’ needs.

Paradise Cave

Paradise Cave is also a famous tourist destination in Phong Nha, Quang Binh. This cave attracts a large number of domestic and foreign tourists. It possesses enormous size, magnificent beauty, and countless magnificent stalactite artifacts. Visiting Paradise Cave allows visitors to admire its beauty and explore Phong Nha’s mountains and jungles.

Thien Duong Cave is open to visitors every day from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The ticket price is 250,000 VND for adults and 125,000 VND for children. After purchasing the ticket, you can walk or rent an electric car from the ticket counter to the stairs leading up to the cave entrance. Electric car ticket prices are from 60,000 VND.

Ecotourism destinations

Ozo Treetop Park

Ozo Treetop Park is located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Phong Nha town, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province. It’s 12 km from Phong Nha along the 20 Quyet Thang Road. Ozo Treetop Park is the first treetop park with unique and diverse games.

Ozo Treetop Park is situated in a dense jungle on a limestone mountain. Visitors can feel the freshness of the mountains, jungles, and streams. They can also take part in bird watching, swim in a stream, and admire the green flora and fauna around them while walking on the 999-m wooden path. There is also a series of adventurous games, such as zip-lining, kayaking, and the Infinity Swing.

Mooc Stream

About 10 km northwest of Phong Nha, nestled in a valley surrounded by limestone mountains, Mooc Spring is like a beautiful picture. Here, a bamboo walkway leads you deep into the jungle. You’ll then see a serene emerald stream dotted with large rocks, creating a beautiful scene.

At Mooc Spring, you can enjoy various activities. From swimming in the stream, swinging on ropes to kayaking, all can give you a thrilling experience. You can also have lunch here. Try delicious dishes like shrimp, stream fish, and the special grilled chicken. Exploring the nature of the Mooc Spring area will provide unforgettable experiences.

Chay River-Dark Cave

Chay River-Dark Cave offers an exhilarating adventure with numerous activities. Thrill-seekers can enjoy zip-lining and plunging into the water below. Inside the Dark Cave, you’ll find a natural mud hole where you can unwind by soaking in a unique mud bath. This pure mud is rich in minerals, providing various health benefits.

Chay River-Dark Cave combines the excitement of exploring a crystal-clear stream with many activities and a mysterious cave with a whole natural spa inside. This is, therefore, a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and rejuvenation.

Popular beaches

When visiting Quang Binh, don’t miss the chance to swim at its beautiful beaches. Quang Binh beaches are renowned for their soft white sand and tranquil blue waters. All maintain a pristine, untouched beauty.

Some of the most stunning beaches to visit include Nhat Le, Bao Ninh, Da Nhay, Vung Chua, Hai Ninh, Ngu Thuy, and Quang Phu. Each offers a unique and captivating seaside experience, making your trip to Quang Binh even more memorable.

Spiritual tourist attractions

Quang Binh is home to famous spiritual tourist attractions that have a rich history. Some spiritual tourism destinations you shouldn’t miss out when traveling to Quang Binh are:

• General Vo Nguyen Giap’s Grave and Memorial House
• Eight Ladies Cave
• Hoang Phuc Pagoda
• Mother Suot Monument
• Than Dinh Mountain-Non Pagoda
• Truong Son Martyrs Memorial Temple at Long Dai Ferry
• Princess Lieu Hanh Temple

Nightlife in Quang Binh

During the day, you explore the majestic natural landscapes and beautiful caves of Quang Binh. At night, the excitement continues with a variety of engaging activities. Here are some fun nightlife activities in Quang Binh to cap off a wonderful day:

• Explore Dong Hoi City by electric vehicle
• Stroll along Dong Hoi walking street or the seaside park and savor local cuisine
• Check out cafes with impressive views, including rooftop cafes with city views
• Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of bars and pubs like Kyoto Lounge Quang Binh, 73 Station Bar, and Andy Lounge
• Shop at local shopping centers and supermarkets
• Indulge in delicious local specialties

Best time to travel to Quang Binh

Quang Binh experiences four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The rainy season occurs in autumn (from September to November), while the other seasons are great times to visit. Here’s what to expect during each season:

Spring

Spring in Quang Binh starts in late March and ends in May. The weather is warm during this time, making it perfect for trekking and cave exploration.

In the spring, Quang Binh hosts several vibrant festivals. Dong Hoi Culture and Tourism Week features the exciting Boat Race Festival and the Son River Carp Festival, taking place from April 30 to May 1. Also, the Minh Hoa Full Moon Festival is celebrated in March according to the lunar calendar.

Summer

Summer in Quang Binh lasts from June to August, the hottest months of the year. Most days are sunny, and temperatures can reach 36-37°C.

Summer is perfect for enjoying Quang Binh’s beaches, streams, and natural pools in Hang Tien, Hang Va, Hang En, and Tu Lan.

Inside the caves, the temperature remains a cool 22 to 25°C, about 8 to 12°C cooler than outside. This makes summer cave tours in Quang Binh enjoyable, as visitors can escape the heat and swim in refreshing underground waters.

Autumn

Autumn in Quang Binh lasts from mid-September to mid-November and is characterized by heavy rains and storms. These often cause flooding in Phong Nha, Tan Hoa, and Le Thuy. Many cave attractions and ecotourism sites may close for safety during this period.

Several tours to dry caves in the Tu Lan and Hang Tien areas are still available at Oxalis Adventure during this time.

Autumn is also when the “Le Thuy Boat Race Festival” takes place on National Day, September 2. This is a major event for the people of Le Thuy and Quang Binh province. If you travel to Quang Binh in autumn, don’t miss this unique experience.

Winter

Winter in Quang Binh lasts from December to February. During this time, the weather features both warm, sunny days and cold, rainy days. Temperatures range from 18 to 20°C. Sometimes, there are brief, cold waves that aren’t very severe.

If you join cave exploration tours with Oxalis in winter, you’ll explore the caves where the temperature is stable. For overnight tours, you’ll have the chance to experience the steam sauna. A sleeping bag to keep warm is also provided.

December to February is also the best time to see sunlight shining through the domes of Hang En Cave or the sinkholes of Hang Son Doong. The prolonged sunlight inside the caves allows visitors ample time to enjoy this magical scene.

How to travel to Quang Binh

Known as the hub of Central Vietnam, Quang Binh has a well-developed transportation network. Travelers have various options for traveling to Quang Binh. These include flying, taking the train, sleeper buses, or private cars.

Airplane

Dong Hoi Airport in Quang Binh offers flights primarily from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. International or domestic tourists from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City should choose air travel for convenience.

Train

Dong Hoi Train Station sits on the North-South railway, also known as the Thong Nhat Railway. This provides easy access by train with many departure times.

Bus

Traveling to Quang Binh by sleeper bus is popular among young people and travelers from nearby provinces like Hue and Da Nang. These buses offer quality service and are cost-effective for exploring Quang Binh.

Oxalis provides a comprehensive guide on how to get to Quang Binh. For more information, click here.

Transportation in Quang Binh

Motorbike

Many tourists prefer this option when traveling to Quang Binh. It allows you to explore many tourist destinations freely. In Dong Hoi City, you can rent motorbikes in plenty of places. You can also rent one from your accommodation.

Car/taxi

Traveling by car is a popular choice for many families, especially those with young children or elderly members. It’s safe, comfortable, and avoids fatigue. You can rent a private car for your group or opt for a taxi.

Here are some recommended taxi companies in Quang Binh:

Taxi in Dong Hoi

• Mai Linh Taxi: 0232 385 8585
• Sun Taxi: 0232 353 5353
• Tien Sa Taxi: 0232 379 7979
• Dong Hoi Taxi: 0232 3841 841 / 0232 3838 383

Taxi in Bo Trach

• Hai Binh Taxi: 0232 367 6767
• Hoang Sa Taxi: 0232 3 675 675 / 0322 75 75 75

Taxi in Ba Don-Quang Trach

• Mai Linh Taxi: 0232 369 6969 / 0232 351 5151
• Quang Trach Taxi: 0232 3511 511

Electric tourist car

You can rent an electric car service when traveling within Dong Hoi City. This option allows the whole family and large groups to move around and enjoy the city.

Where to stay in Quang Binh

You’ll have many options for where to stay in Quang Binh to experience nature in the most authentic way. These include homestays, lodges, and resorts. The options below all have ideal locations and offer various activities.

Chay Lap Farmstay

Chay Lap Farmstay is nestled in the heart of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. It offers a variety of rooms, including the Farm Room, Garden Room, and Mountain Room. This wide range of options allows you to fully immerse in nature and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Visitors at Chay Lap Farmstay can engage in various activities. This includes cycling around the Chay Village, kayaking and other water sports, and cruising on the Chay River. You can also sign up for cave adventures with Oxalis Adventure.

Tu Lan Lodge

Tu Lan Lodge is a must-visit accommodation spot. Situated in the remote Yen Tho village in Tan Hoa, the lodge is surrounded by limestone mountains and vast grasslands. The lodge combines luxury and modernity with harmony in the natural environment. It serves as a stopover for travelers on Oxalis Adventure tours like the “Wild Tu Lan Cave Explorer Tour” or “Hang Tien Exploration Tour.” After the tour, you can stay the night at Tu Lan Lodge. Enjoy dinner with Tan Hoa locals before concluding your trip.

Son Doong Bungalow

Son Doong Bungalow is another highly recommended place to stay in Quang Binh. It’s located near the banks of the Son River, offering a fantastic view of Phong Nha. You can choose from various room types equipped with modern amenities. All have great views of the surrounding jungle and mountains. The place has a restaurant where you can order delicious meals and refreshments. Son Doong Bungalow also offers various fun activities. Some of the best options include cycling, wall climbing, and swimming.

Oxalis Home

Oxalis Home is a riverside hotel near Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. It offers guests a comfortable stay amidst beautiful surroundings at an affordable price. You can enjoy activities like kayaking on the Son River and cycling to explore Phong Nha. This ensures guests never get bored while staying here. The restaurant serves delicious dishes and fine wines. Staying at Oxalis Home is perfect for relaxing in a picturesque setting.

You can find other hotels on online booking platforms like Agoda and TripAdvisor.

What to eat in Quang Binh

Quang Binh’s cuisine is influenced by local culture and abundant fresh seafood. This makes Quang Binh a popular destination for food enthusiasts eager to try new dishes.

You can find a variety of seafood at restaurants, street food stalls, and seafood markets in Dong Hoi. Options include grilled squid, fish, shrimp, oyster porridge, and other seafood delights.

Besides seafood, Quang Binh offers other local delicacies. Some of the best dishes include grilled chicken with Cheo mixed salt, tapioca dumplings, and crispy pancakes. These delicious dishes provide a taste of local culture and traditions.

What to buy in Quang Binh

There are many specialties you can buy as gifts for relatives and friends at the end of your trip to Quang Binh:

Sweet potatoes: These are found at popular markets, supermarkets, and specialty food stores. Sweet potatoes are often dried as snacks, making them a great gift for those who enjoy sweet treats.

Tapioca dumplings: These are a popular gift among tourists. Quang Binh’s tapioca dumplings have a filling that combines shrimp, meat, wood ear mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. This combination offers an unforgettable flavor.

Dried seafood: Quang Binh not only offers fresh seafood but also dried seafood as snacks or cooking ingredients. Dried squid, shrimp, and dried fish are popular in local markets, food stalls, and supermarkets.

Handicrafts: Quang Binh is home to skilled artisans who create textiles, ceramics, and wood crafts. These make great gifts and can be found at local markets, craft villages, and craft fairs.

Local products: Bo Chinh ginseng and wild honey are other great gift options.

Visiting Quang Binh offers a chance to immerse yourself in unique natural beauty. With this Quang Binh travel guide from Oxalis Adventure, you’ll definitely enjoy unforgettable moments in this tourist paradise.

The Oxalis Experience.