Tu Lan Cave Expedition Tour
A 5 day 4 night tour journey exploring the Tu Lan Cave System with spectacular caves and underground rivers where the movie Kong: Skull Island was filmed. With 3 nights jungle camping and 1 night at Tu Lan Lodge.
The Tu Lan Cave Expedition - TL4 is one of the “must do” caving tours in Vietnam for many visitors nowadays. This hiking adventure run by Oxalis Adventure Tours, this expedition is ranked as adventure Level 5: “Demanding”, and is just below the Son Doong Expedition and Hang Ba Deep Jungle Expedition which are currently ranked at level 6: “Hard”, the highest level in the Oxalis Adventure’ caving tour scale relating to physical fitness and ability.
The Tu Lan Cave system was discovered by a local named Dinh Hong Nham in 2009. During his fishing trips, he discovered three caves - Tu Lan, To Mo large and To Mo small in the area. The cave system was then explored and surveyed by Mr. Howard Limbert with the British - Vietnamese Cave Expedition team, and now includes more than 25 large and small caves. The Tu Lan Caves were featured in National Geographic Magazine in 2011 together with Hang Son Doong. A photo of Hang Ken taken by photographer Carsten Peter won the National Geographic photo award in the same year.
Tu Lan Expedition is one of the longest Oxalis Adventures tours, enabling you to explore all seven of the most beautiful dry and river caves of the Tu Lan Cave System. This tour includes a series of fascinating experiences such as trekking through the forest, wading in streams, swimming in the caves, climbing steep hills, walking through beautiful valleys, exploring the largest dry cave in the system - Hang Tien, and camping for 3 nights by the riverside and amidst the majestic natural scenery.
- Explore 8 majestic caves in Tu Lan Cave System: Venture deep into the magnificent Tu Lan system, famous for its unique stalactites and serving as a key filming location for the blockbuster movie, Kong: Skull Island. This epic journey includes exploring 8 iconic caves, such as Tu Lan Cave, Secret Cave, Hung Ton Cave, Ken Cave, Kim Cave, Ho Tien cave, Hang Tien 1, and Hang Tien 2 Cave.
- Becoming a real caver: You'll be trained in essential caving and jungle skills by expert guides. Master multi-terrain trekking, navigate dark underground rivers (swimming), and learn safe rope techniques (climbing ladders/cave walls) on a real expedition.
- Thrilling underground river swims: Embrace the exhilarating challenge of swimming through the cool, dark subterranean rivers that connect the caves. All swims are conducted with professional guidance and safety gear for an exciting yet secure experience.
- Jungle trekking and stream crossings: Test your endurance by hiking across vast, emerald-green grasslands, crossing numerous streams, and traversing the untamed, pristine jungle terrain in the core area of Tu Lan Cave System.
- Immersive wilderness camping: Unwind and enjoy a tranquil night camping amidst stunning natural beauty, typically set up beside a flowing stream or within a peaceful valley. Savor delicious meals prepared by a professional chef, offering a true taste of the wilderness.
- Professional and safe services: Benefit from a large, dedicated support team including expert guides, safety assistants, and local porters. All adventurous activities adhere to the highest international safety standards, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.
- Discover local culture and community life: Experience unique local culture by dining in a local family's home in Tan Hoa village. Learn about their sustainable farming model on a refreshing morning bicycle tour on the final day of your journey.
- Pioneering a sustainable and shared economy model: By choosing the Tu Lan Expedition tour, you directly support Oxalis's shared economy model. Your trip promotes local development through the employment of local labor, procurement of local food, and utilization of homestay dining services, ensuring the community benefits alongside the company.
- A journey that transforms lives: Beyond the natural splendor, your presence contributes to a powerful story of community resilience and growth. Sustainable tourism has played a key role in transforming Tan Hoa, driving the poverty rate down from 85.7% in 2010 to just 2% in 2024. This expedition supports vital initiatives, including the construction of floating houses and septic toilets to improve local living standards. Furthermore, Oxalis is committed to future generations, sponsoring free open swimming and safety training to over 300 children in Tan Hoa and along the Rao Nan River every year.
Tu Lan Expedition highlights include:
Itinerary
Please note that the TL4 itinerary is weather-dependent and trails can be slippery. As one of Vietnam’s toughest treks, this expedition requires significant endurance to navigate steep hills and earn the views. Cave swimming is a key feature (life jackets mandatory), though rafts are available for non-swimmers. This is a true adventure designed for those passionate about hiking.
Download the itineraryTan Hoa – Secret Cave – Tu Lan Campsite
Your expedition begins between 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM with a pickup in Phong Nha (please finish breakfast beforehand). You will travel 70km to the Oxalis Tan Hoa office for a comprehensive safety briefing, gear distribution, and itinerary run-through.
The trek starts across the flat farmlands of Tan Hoa, crossing the river to reach the foot of the mountains. A short climb leads to the entrance of Secret Cave, a compact but geologically stunning cave discovered recently by local porters. Here, you will navigate carefully past rare cave pearls and unique formations. The group will have lunch after exploring Hang Bi Mat (Secret Cave).
In the afternoon, the route winds through forests and hills into the Tu Lan Valley. The highlight is a swim through Hang Ken, renowned as one of the system's most beautiful river caves. The day concludes at the campsite, where you can settle into your tent, swim in the natural river, and enjoy a multi-course dinner prepared by local chefs. The evening is yours to relax with the team or stargaze in the pitch-dark valley sky.
Tu Lan – Hang Kim – Hung Ton – La Ken Campsite
The second day takes you on an exciting journey through 3 iconic caves of the Tu Lan Cave System: Tu Lan Cave, Kim Cave, and Hung Ton Cave. After breakfast, the group crosses the river to reach Tu Lan Cave, the namesake of the entire system. Here, you will swim along the cool underground river through vast chambers before climbing up to the dry passage to admire ancient stalactites formed over millions of years. Giant formations hanging nearly 30 metres above the cave floor, together with massive rock columns, make Tu Lan Cave look like a magnificent natural fortress. A standout feature of Tu Lan is its unique rimstone pools, stacked neatly like terraced rice fields carved by nature.
Leaving Tu Lan Cave, the journey continues through lush forest, crossing crystal-clear streams and passing small waterfalls along the way. Next, the journey leads to Kim Cave for a 500m swimming experience inside intermittently. Inside, soft sand stretches between rough sections of sharp rocks, requiring care and agility in every step. Visitors explore about 300m of the dry cave and admire natural light streaming through the sinkhole above the entrance.
The cave exit leads into the breathtaking To Mo Valley, a secluded paradise with waterfalls and a turquoise lake. Here, you can swim and relax while the team prepares a picnic lunch.
In the afternoon, the adventure continues at Hung Ton Cave. Entering beside a waterfall, you will swim about 100m before climbing a 15m ladder to exit the cave. The journey continues with the ascent of the “Lom Com” hill, crossing the vast La Ken Valley to reach the campsite at the far end, nestled beneath the trees beside a cool, clear stream. After a rewarding day of exploration, relax by the crystal-clear lake before settling into your tent and enjoying a freshly prepared dinner cooked by the local porter team.
Hung Dung – Hung Nhai – Ho Tien Cave – Hang Tien Campsite
Today’s trek focuses on crossing dense forests, wading through streams, and climbing over hills. The route covers approximately 8 km with an elevation gain of 350 m, taking you from La Ken Valley, over May slope, and through dense jungle to the expansive Hung Nhai Valley. Along the way, you’ll stop to rest and have lunch beside Hang Doi Waterfall before continuing through steep climbs, dense forests, and refreshing stream crossings.
In the afternoon, the group will explore Hang Ho Tien Cave, a cave more than 2 million years old, featuring a fascinating variety of stalactite formations. At the end of the day, the destination is the Hang Tien Campsite, widely regarded as the most stunning campsite on the entire tour. Located on the banks of the Rao Nan River, the campsite features crystal-clear waters, often described by explorers as a “natural infinity pool.” Here, you can swim or enjoy stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the calm waters.
Hang Tien 1 – Hang Tien 2 – Tu Lan Lodge
The final day begins with Hang Tien 1, the largest dry cave in the Tu Lan system. Here, you will witness spectacular swirling rock patterns carved by centuries of water flow. The exploration concludes with a climb up a 10m ladder (secured by safety rope) to exit the cave through its rear entrance.
A trek through ancient primary jungle leads to Hang Tien 2. You’ll feel this cave before you see it; a powerful breeze rushes from the small entrance, acting as a natural air conditioner. Inside, the cave features distinctive limestone formations along its walls and ceiling, as well as rimstone pools that resemble terraced rice fields deep underground.
After exploring, the group will hike out via a rocky mountain path (200m elevation gain), stopping for a lunch at the campsite. Upon reaching the road, cold drinks await, followed by a medal ceremony to celebrate conquering this expedition. You will then transfer back to the Oxalis Tan Hoa office to shower and check in at Tu Lan Lodge. The adventure concludes with a bicycle ride to a local house for a traditional dinner at 17:30.
Visit local farms by bike - Transfer to Phong Nha/Dong Hoi - Tour ends
Your final morning in Tan Hoa begins with the peaceful sight of limestone mountains rising through the early mist. Wake up early to watch the sunrise from Tu Lan Lodge, or take a quiet walk through the village before enjoying breakfast (served from 6:30 AM).
At 08:30 AM, our guide will lead you on a bicycle tour through the heart of Tan Hoa. You will cycle along quiet paths lined with cornfields and peanut gardens, observing the daily rhythm of rural life. Stops include visits to local farms to learn about the sustainable VAC farming model. Along the way, you’ll taste local specialties like boiled corn, roasted peanuts, and ginger honey tea.
The tour concludes at 11:00 AM, allowing time to pack. Check-out is at 12:00 PM, followed by a 12:30 PM shuttle transfer to Phong Nha or Dong Hoi.
Travel Note: Please ensure your onward flight or train departs after 4:00 PM. If you wish to extend your stay or explore more of Phong Nha, please contact your Oxalis consultant or the front desk.
Suggested itinerary before and after the tour:
To ensure the best preparation before your journey or to relax after the expedition, Oxalis suggests staying at Chay Lap Farmstay if you wish to combine exploring Phong Nha with experiencing a peaceful countryside atmosphere, or Blue Diamond Retreat if you prefer to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy relaxing moments amidst the mountains and forests. Special discounted rates exclusively for Oxalis guests are 1,000,000 VND/room/night at Chay Lap Farmstay and 1,500,000 VND/room/night at Blue Diamond Retreat.
During your time in Phong Nha, the Phong Nha Caves Exploration Museum (open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, free admission) is a must-visit destination. Here, you can experience the Son Doong 5D VR technology for 500,000 VND per ticket. All proceeds from this activity are contributed to the Oxalis Foundation to support local community projects, making your journey even more meaningful.
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Difficulty Level and Physical Fitness Requirements
Difficulty Level: Hard/ Challenging
These are the most challenging expeditions within Oxalis's adventure portfolio.
Requirements: Participants must have completed at least one overnight trekking and camping tour in a forest or mountainous area within the last 12 months (involving a minimum daily distance of 8 km over complex, rocky terrain and an elevation gain/loss of 1,000 m). A solid level of physical fitness is required, demonstrated by the ability to climb five flights of stairs continuously or run 5 km on flat ground within 60 minutes without experiencing signs of overexertion such as dizziness, blurred vision, headaches, or nausea. Participants must not have any medical conditions listed by Oxalis as contraindications for mountaineering or caving activities.
Suitable for: Regular trekkers and mountaineering with excellent physical fitness.
Tours with the same Difficulty Level: Son Doong Cave Expedition 6D5N; Hang Ba Deep Jungle Expedition 3D2N; Tu Lan Cave Expedition 5D4N.
Terrains
The tour takes place in remote areas with complex terrains. Customers must be physically fit. Please carefully read the tour itinerary and honestly fill out the booking information yourself, especially your experience and health condition.
- Terrain with many steep hills
- Trekking 34km of mountainous terrain
- Elevation gain of 1400m
- 5km of cave exploration
- River and stream crossings
- Swimming in underground rivers (Total 1km intermittently) with a life vest provided by Oxalis
- Two 15m ladder climbs with a safety rope and harnesses, operated by the safety team.
For more information on the necessary physical activities for a successful trip, please refer to: https://oxalisadventure.com/getting-ready-oxalis-tour/.
Safety on the tour
This is always the top priority of Oxalis Adventure to ensure the safety of both visitors and Oxalis’ staff on any trip, including multi day adventures. We only use high-quality equipment meeting international standards, mainly imported from France, the UK, and Switzerland. The tour guides must undergo professional training and be tested for skills regularly. Only qualified guides may lead an Oxalis tour. Visitors can learn about the "safety management" and " safety equipment" that Oxalis uses here.
By signing the Release Form, visitors agree to follow all tour safety regulations and the instructions of the cave experts and guides throughout the expedition. To ensure the safety of the entire group, the safety experts and guides have the authority to require any guest to end the expedition if they fail to comply with the safety regulations explained during the briefing.
Items to bring on Tu Lan Cave Expedition tour
Tour TL4 is a multiple-day trek and considered to be the one of the toughest Vietnam jungle tours, with many different terrains and you need to have thorough preparation for the trip. Customers will be asked to prepare suitable clothing for safety and comfort. Clothing should be good for trekking in the jungle, river crossings, or exploring the cave as well as avoiding dangers and risks from sharp rocks, snakes, insects, or poison ivy.
You need to prepare
Essential clothing
- Trekking clothes:
- 3-4 quick-dry, bright, long-sleeved shirts
- Arm cover if wearing short-sleeved T-shirts
- 2-3 pairs of long pants( quick-dry)
- 1 waterproof jacket (winter months December to March) - Campsite clothing sets:
- Warm clothes for winter from November to March
- Shorts and T-shirts for summer from April to September - 1 pair of good gripping trekking/approach closed shoes. Heavyweight trekking boots are not necessary
- 4 pairs of calf-length, thick socks
- 1 pair of sandals/slides for campsite
- Swimwear using at the Campsites
Personal items
- Mosquito repellent
- Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen
- Hand fan for summer (April to September)
- 1-2 medium towels
- Underwear
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, nature-friendly shampoo & soap, …)
- Power banks
- Personal medication
- Antifungal foot powder
- Passport
Oxalis provides
- Camping equipment: tent, mattresses, pillow, sleeping bags
- Caving and safety gears: helmet, headlight, gloves, dry box for electric device, mini size camera …
- 1 PVC backpack (25L) to carry helmet, dry box, water and things you need during the trek.
- Basic jungle boots (EU size 36–44); if using Oxalis shoes, bring thick, long socks and 2 insoles to ensure comfort.
- Water bottle (1L)
- Water filter
- Compost toilet, toilet paper, hand cleaner
- Semi-dry bag (15L) for campsite clothing sets and personal items
- First aid and medical rescue equipment
- Satellite phone
- Mini-size portable fan inside the tent (in summer)
- Secure storage at office
Optional items
- Camera & Tripod
- Ear plugs
- Bandana or headband
- Rehydration tablets
- Blister prevention tape
- Personal dry bag/box for electronic devices
Food and drinks in the tour
Although the expedition takes place deep in the primary forest and inside Son Doong Cave, you will be provided with three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Oxalis has a dedicated team of cooks who prepare fresh ingredients brought directly to the expedition route, ensuring you receive the nutrition you need throughout the long days of trekking.
For your health and safety, all drinking water served during the expedition is treated through a specialised water filtration system and thoroughly boiled at the campsites to meet strict safe drinking-water standards. Hot drinks such as tea and coffee are also available.
The menu offers a variety of options, including standard, vegetarian, and special-diet meals. If you have specific dietary requirements or food allergies, please note them on your booking form so the Oxalis team can make the necessary preparations in advance.
Camping, Showers and Hygiene During the Expedition
Our campsites are situated in the most spectacular locations within the Tu Lan area, each offering a distinct atmosphere and unique features. For your safety during inclement weather, all campsites are equipped with professional lightning protection systems.
Tu Lan Valley (First Campsite): This site features a sandy stretch along a shallow stream and a large natural pool. A highlight is the 5-meter waterfall cascading from the mouth of Hang Ken Cave. Guests wake up to the sound of birds singing in the forest and the sight of morning clouds clinging to the towering cliffs.
La Ken Valley (Second Campsite): Shaded by massive trees, this site sits beside the Rao Nan stream as it flows from La Ken valley. Below the camp lies a crystal-clear river perfect for swimming or SUP paddling. (Note: Water clarity may vary during heavy rains.)
Hang Tien (Third Campsite): Often considered the most beautiful site, Hang Tien is located on the banks of the Rao Nan River, where the underground river system emerges before flowing toward the sea. Adjacent to the site is a clear green lake, often called a "natural infinity pool." It is the perfect spot for stargazing at night and watching the sunrise through your tent door in the morning.
Tents: At each campsite, you will stay in tents specially designed by Oxalis. Each tent offers enough space for one or two people to sleep comfortably, and is set on a sturdy raised platform 30 cm above the ground, helping minimise moisture and insects. The tent walls are made of breathable mesh, with a fan provided inside to keep the space cool while allowing you to stay connected with the surrounding natural environment. Each tent is also equipped with a mattress, pillow, and sleeping bag, all thoroughly cleaned before every expedition to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep.
Toilets and water facilities: Each campsite is equipped with modern toilets and convenient shower facilities. All water used for washing and other daily needs is carefully treated through a filtration system to ensure safe use throughout the expedition.
Waste management and environmental protection: To help preserve the cave ecosystem, 100% of solid waste generated during the expedition is carried out of the cave. For wastewater and toilet waste, Oxalis uses portable septic tanks combined with an advanced filtration system to ensure that discharged water meets Vietnam’s strict environmental standards.
Average temperatures range from 15–18°C in winter and 30–38°C in summer. To ensure a comfortable sleep, we provide warm sleeping bags during the winter and portable fans for your tent during the summer months. You can find out more details about "unique campsites on Tu Lan expedition tour" here.
Tour booking process
This is a tour that requires careful logistical preparation from both guests and Oxalis. Reading the tour information thoroughly will help you make an informed decision before booking. If you have any questions or are unsure about anything, please chat with an Oxalis adventure consultant using the chat icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen, or contact us via hotline at +84 919 900 357 for assistance. The booking process is as follows:
Step 1: Learn about the tour
Visit oxalisadventure.com to learn more about the itinerary, highlights, adventure level, tour price, and most importantly, the health and fitness requirements.
Step 2: Choose your departure date
Click “Book Now” on the tour page to view the available departure dates. Available dates will be shown on the calendar. Select your preferred date and enter the number of participants.
Step 3: Provide your information
Complete your contact details accurately, especially your email address and phone number. You must provide truthful information about:
- Your health condition and any medications you are currently taking;
- Allergies or special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian meals or food allergies;
- Trekking experience;
- Exercise frequency and level of physical activity.
Important: Oxalis reserves the right to cancel your booking without a refund if any information provided is found to be false or incomplete, particularly information related to your health and physical fitness.
Step 4: Complete your booking request
Select any additional services you may require, such as transfers or accommodation at Chay Lap Farmstay and Oxalis Home.
Read and agree to the booking terms and conditions, then click “Submit Booking Request.” The system will send a booking code to your email address.
Step 5: Consultation and information confirmation
Within 48 working hours, an Oxalis travel consultant will contact you by email or phone to:
- Provide detailed information about the expedition;
- Confirm your booking details;
- Assist with arranging any additional services you have requested.
Step 6: Payment
Once your information has been confirmed, Oxalis will send you an invoice and payment instructions.
You must complete the payment within 24 hours of receiving the payment instructions. After this period, your booking request may be automatically cancelled.
Step 7: Booking confirmation
Once Oxalis receives your payment, you will receive an official booking confirmation by email.
From this point, you can begin preparing your clothing, equipment, and fitness for the expedition.
Terms of tour cancellation
As the Tu Lan Expedition tour only allows 600 customers to join each year, the tour is booked very quickly. To confirm your booking, you will be required to pay the tour deposit after completing the booking process.
For this tour guests need a lot of time to exercise, prepare physically, and prepare the necessary items for the trip. Cancellation of the tour or change of departure date will greatly affect the logistics and operating costs of the tour. In order for Oxalis to make any changes or find a replacement if necessary, the tour cancellation terms are as follows: For Tu Lan Expedition tour, the tour cancellation can only be done 30 days before the tour departure date. Oxalis will charge 50% of the tour price if guests cancel 15 days before, and any cancellation less than 15 days before the tour will be charged at 100% of the tour price. See more details in “Terms of tour cancellation”.
Tour price and available dates for booking
- Season: Tours operate from mid-November to mid-September (closed in October).
- Group Size: Limited to 10 guests per tour for safety and conservation.
- Tour Types: Fixed departure dates for individuals; private tours available for special groups or film crews.
- Exclusive Offer: Enjoy a 10% discount for UOB cardholders and Xiều Oxalis (returning guests).
- Last-Minute Booking Notice: Online bookings close at 19:00 (7:00 PM) the day before departure. For bookings after 19:00, please contact our Adventure Team via chat box or Hotline at +84 919 900 357 (Call/WhatsApp) for immediate assistance and slot availability.
Useful Information Must read
FAQs
- I really like this Tu Lan tour, but will I have to swim throughout the entire journey? Can I wear a life jacket?
- What if I am a solo traveler, can I join a group?
- Why do I have to sign your Release Form?
- Which months of the year do you run this tour, and which are the best months to go?
- What can I do If I want to talk to/contact a consultant?
Tu Lan Expedition Tour
Duration: 5 days 4 nights
Difficulty level: Hard / Challenging
Age 16-70 years old
Group size: 10 customers (Join-in)
Operation: mid-Nov to mid-Sept
USD 679 • VND 18,000,000/pax
Book now
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Whether you prefer long treks, camping in a cave, sleeping under the stars in the jungle, swimming underground in river caves, explore the huge dry caves or just taking an exploratory day trip, Oxalis Adventure Tours can provide the right amount of adventure just for you.
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