Phong Nha - Discovering Vietnam

Travelling to Phong Nha

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Phong Nha, a pretty good destination in Vietnam (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Phong Nha and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Phong Nha, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Vietnam, here's everything to know about Phong Nha for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Phong Nha

Phong Nha is a rural district located in the Quang Binh province of Vietnam. It is home to the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park features a large network of over 300 caves and grottos, including the world's largest cave, Son Doong. The district is surrounded by beautiful limestone mountains, rivers, and forests, making it a popular destination for adventure activities such as hiking, camping, kayaking, and exploring the caves. The local culture is predominantly Vietnamese with some ethnic minority communities, and the cuisine is known for its fresh seafood and regional specialties.

What to visit in Phong Nha

Sure, here are some top tourist attractions in Phong Nha, Vietnam, along with brief descriptions: 1. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: This UNESCO-listed park is home to some of the world's most stunning limestone formations, including the largest cave on earth. Visitors can explore the caves, take a boat ride through the park's river, and marvel at the park's rich biodiversity.
2. Phong Nha Cave: This cave is a natural wonder, with an impressive network of underground rivers and caverns. Take a boat ride to view the cave formations or try out an adventurous cave trek with an expert guide.
3. Hang Tien Cave: This cave is known for its unique beauty, with crystal-clear pools and otherworldly stalactites and stalagmites. Explore the cave's interior with experienced guides who will take you through its many winding passages.
4. Dark Cave: This underground river cave offers both exhilarating adventure activities and natural geology all in one trip. Visitors can zip line, kayak, swim in mud pits, and explore the otherworldly cave formations.
5. Paradise Cave: This cave is known for its incredible stalactites and stalagmites that form complex patterns throughout its chambers, as well as its impressive scale and beauty. Visitors can explore the cave on a guided tour or hike up to its entrance for stunning views of the surrounding jungle.
6. Botanic Garden and Orchid Conservation Center: This peaceful park is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, featuring native flora and fauna in a lush natural environment.
7. Nuoc Mooc Eco Trail: This trail offers a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of Phong Nha, with crystal-clear streams perfect for swimming, photo-worthy waterfalls and small caves.
No trip to Phong Nha is complete without experiencing their authentic and scrumptious local cuisine, which is a fusion of Vietnamese, Lao and Thai influences. I hope this helps you plan your trip to Phong Nha!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Vietnam, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Phong Nha.

When to go on holiday to Phong Nha

The best time to visit Phong Nha is from February to August. During these months, the weather is generally dry, and the temperatures are warm but not too hot. However, if you prefer cooler weather, December and January can be a good time to go, but do note that these months might bring some rain and foggy conditions. It's important to keep in mind that Phong Nha is a tropical destination, so there is always a chance of rain, even during the dry season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Phong Nha

There are several ways to get to Phong Nha in Vietnam: 1. By Plane: The nearest international airport is in Dong Hoi, which is about 50 kilometers away from Phong Nha. From the airport, you can take a taxi or hire a private car to reach your destination. 2. By Train: You can take a train to Dong Hoi railway station and then take a taxi or rent a car to reach Phong Nha. 3. By Bus: There are regular buses from Hanoi, Hue, and Danang to Phong Nha. You can book your tickets online or at the bus stations. 4. Private Transfers: You can also arrange a private transfer from Hanoi, Hue, or Danang to Phong Nha. This is a more comfortable and convenient option, especially if you are traveling with a group or with a lot of luggage.
Once you arrive in Phong Nha, you can explore the stunning national park, visit the caves, and enjoy all the natural beauty of the region.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Phong Nha, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Phong Nha

Phong Nha in Vietnam is famous for its delicious and unique cuisine. Here are some typical foods that you must try when you visit Phong Nha: 1. Bun Bo Hue - This is a spicy beef noodle soup that originated in Hue province. It has a distinctive taste and aroma thanks to the combination of lemongrass, chili, and shrimp paste.
2. Banh Khoai - This is a savory pancake that contains shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. It is often eaten with sweet and sour fish sauce.
3. Com Hen - This dish is made of rice served with baby clams, herbs, and peanuts. It is a popular street food in central Vietnam.
4. Banh Beo - This is a small steamed rice cake topped with minced shrimp and scallions. It is often served with fish sauce.
5. Nem Lui - This is a type of grilled pork sausage that is wrapped around a stick and served with vermicelli noodles and peanut sauce.
6. Bun Cha - This is a Hanoi-style dish that consists of grilled pork served with rice noodles, herbs, and a dipping sauce.
7. Banh Canh - This is a thick noodle soup that can include various toppings such as pork, shrimp, or crab. It is typically served with chopped scallions and chili flakes.
8. Che - This is a Vietnamese dessert that comes in many different flavors. It can be made with beans, fruits, or jelly and is served topped with coconut cream.
You can find general info about typical foods in Vietnam here.

Is Phong Nha an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of traveling in Phong Nha, Vietnam can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. Overall, the destination is still considered affordable for most visitors.
Accommodation costs will largely depend on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget guesthouses can cost as little as $5-10 USD per night, while more upscale hotels or resorts can cost upwards of $100 USD or more per night.
Transportation costs will also depend on your mode of transport. Renting a motorbike can cost around $5-10 USD per day, while hiring a private driver for a day tour can cost around $50-70 USD. Local buses are also available and are a cheaper option.
Food and drink prices in Phong Nha are generally quite affordable. Local meals at street vendors or small restaurants can cost as little as $1-2 USD, while more upscale restaurants will still only cost around $10-15 USD per meal.
Overall, Phong Nha is not an overly expensive destination, and most travelers should be able to find affordable options to fit their budget.

Where to find accomodation in Phong Nha

It is best to find accommodation near or in Phong Nha village, which is located within the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Another option is to stay in Dong Hoi, the nearest major city, which is about an hour's drive away from Phong Nha. Staying in either of these areas provides easy access to the national park and its many attractions, including the famous Phong Nha cave.
You can check hotel prices at Phong Nha here:
Booking.com

Is Phong Nha a safe destination for tourists?

Phong Nha is generally a safe place for tourists. However, it's always good to take basic precautions to avoid any unpleasant situations. Some tips to stay safe in Phong Nha include: 1. Avoid carrying too much cash with you. Use credit or debit cards instead.
2. Keep your belongings with you at all times. Don't leave them unattended in public places.
3. Don't trust strangers easily. Be cautious when someone you don't know approaches you with any offers.
4. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
5. Take care of your health and safety during adventurous activities such as trekking or caving.
Overall, with a little common sense, Phong Nha can be a very safe and enjoyable destination to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Vietnam here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Phong Nha.

What type of travelers will enjoy Phong Nha the most?

Phong Nha is an ideal destination for anyone who loves nature and outdoor activities, such as hiking, caving, kayaking, and camping. Additionally, it caters to a variety of travel styles and preferences, making it a suitable destination for different types of travelers. Couples will enjoy the peaceful and romantic scenery of the national park, with its breathtaking landscapes, stunning caves, and lush flora and fauna. For adventurous young people, Phong Nha offers plenty of adrenaline-fueled activities to satisfy their thirst for excitement, such as zip-lining, rock climbing, and exploring the dark abyss of underground caves. Families with kids can also have a great time in Phong Nha, as there are many kid-friendly activities such as trekking in the jungle, cycling, and bathing in crystal-clear streams. The park has something for everyone, whether you are looking for an adventurous or relaxing experience.

How to get around Phong Nha

In Phong Nha, visitors can use various modes of transportation including bicycles, motorbikes, taxis or hire a local transport service. Bicycles are ideal for exploring local attractions within the town while motorbikes are best suited for exploring the surrounding areas. Travelers can easily hire bicycles or motorbikes from rental agencies in the town, or they can also take a taxi or hire a private driver for longer distances.

What to see around Phong Nha

There are several amazing places to visit on a day trip from Phong Nha, Vietnam. Some of them are: 1. Paradise Cave 2. Dark Cave 3. Mooc Stream 4. Phong Nha Botanical Garden 5. Nuoc Mooc Eco-Trail 6. Hang Tien Cave 7. Tra Ang Cave 8. Chay Lap Waterfall 9. Thien Duong (Paradise) Cave 10. Pub with cold beer - you can enjoy a cold beer and scenic view of the surrounding limestone mountains.
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