1. Cao Bang Vietnam, breathtaking beauty

Cao Bang province is located in the northeast of Vietnam. Nestled in a mountainous plateau, Cao Bang is renowned for its stunning natural attractions, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The landscape is dominated by forests and mountains, offering breathtaking scenery at every turn. The UNESCO Executive Council passed a Resolution deciding that Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark is a Geopark UNESCO global. This prestigious status underscores the area’s unique geological heritage, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance, making Cao Bang an unmissable destination for those seeking to explore Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural treasures.

 

1.1 Cao Bang from Hanoi – How to get to Cao Bang 

Cao Bang province is about 300 km from Hanoi city, it will take visitors about 5-6 hours to travel to this location from Hanoi. Besides, with the mountainous location, the road is long and difficult due to having to go through the pass, so to get to Cao Bang Vietnam , tourists are encouraged to travel by sleeper bus, in the evening to have more time. More sightseeing time the next day. 

Because the Hanoi – Cao Bang route is also quite popular, there are currently many sleeper bus companies serving this trip. Prices can range from 300,000 VND to 500,000 VND/bed/person (about from 12 USD to 20 USD) . 

Tourists should pay attention to choosing sleeper bus companies that are reasonable and suitable to your needs because there will also be other options such as taking a limousine, bus, or private car. For limos, the price will be higher, limousines are usually run during the day and not at night, the price ranges around 400,000 VND – 550,000 VND (about from 16 USD to 22 USD). 

 

1.2 Best time to visit Cao Bang Vietnam 

With a geographical location favored by nature, the climate in Cao Bang Vietnam is always cool all year round, the average temperature is about 26 to 35 degrees Celsius. However, visitors should note about the two main seasons in Cao Bang: dry and rainy season. The dry season usually lasts from January to August, the weather might be hotter, the temperature ranges from 20 degree celsius to 26 degree celsius. The rainy season in Cao Bang is quite short, from July to September, but due to the mountainous terrain, traffic may be hindered during this time, and landslides may also occur. However, after the rainy season, when the water recedes, waterfalls, rivers, streams or in some valleys in Cao Bang will have more water, creating beautiful scenery. 

 

 

Therefore, the best time to visit Cao Bang is around mid-September, when it is also autumn, the weather will be cooler and the scenery will be more beautiful, especially if you want to visit Ban Gioc waterfall, streams, …

 

2. Cao Bang things to do 

2.1 Ban Gioc waterfall 

The area of ​​Ban Gioc waterfall Cao Bang Vietnam and Nguom Ngao cave in Trung Khanh district is a beautiful landscape. The waterfall is located on the Quay Son river, hailed as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region and in the world. 

Another special feature of Ban Gioc Waterfall is that it is located right on the border between Vietnam and China, so both countries share the tourism development here. Visitors can see China from the other side of the waterfall if travelers climb up high to the top of the waterfall ( this action might be dangerous) .

 

 

It is important for visitors to note that the water level at the waterfall can vary at different times, so the best time to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall is after the rainy season, around October; at that time, the water will be abundant, and the waterfall will flow more beautifully. Visitors should only explore the paths permitted by the management, as this area is quite large, and some routes to higher viewpoints of the waterfall are not developed, meaning there will be no trails, and the paths can be very slippery. 

It takes about 2 hours to get from Cao Bang to Ban Gioc Waterfall, and visitors can conveniently travel by car or motorbike. Because this destination is also quite far from the city, if visitors choose to stay at a hotel, they might consider traveling and visiting other famous attractions around Ban Gioc Waterfall as well.

 

2.2 Khuoi Ky stone village

Another destination you can visit after exploring Ban Gioc Waterfall is Khuoi Ky Stone Village. This is an ancient stone village that is over a hundred years old. It is called a stone village because all the houses here are built from stone. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the local life of the Tay ethnic people through their daily activities. In particular, you can take a break by the small stream that surrounds the village, which is also a gathering place for the Tay people living there. 

 

The journey from Ban Gioc Waterfall to Khuoi Ky Stone Village takes about 30 minutes, and the quick travel time along with the tranquility of the area will surely make it a destination worth considering for those who want to learn more about the lives of the local people in Cao Bang.

 

2.3 Nguom ngao cave

Ngau Cave, also known as Nguom Ngao Cave, is a cave located in Gun village, Dam thuy commune, Trung Khanh district, Cao Bang province, Vietnam. This cave is situated within a mountain, about 5 km from Bản Giốc waterfall. The cave is divided into three unique areas. The first area is called the Four Pillars of Heaven, featuring impressive stalactites connected by water droplets falling from above. The central area is highlighted by coral rock formations, dragon boat shapes, and terraced fields. The third area is known as the treasure zone, with quartz that shines in gold and silver hues. In addition to the beauty of the stalagmites, Ngườm Ngao Cave also has small streams with gently flowing water, creating a feeling of stepping into a magical fairyland.

 

Ngườm Ngao Cave is always a must-visit tourist destination for anyone coming to Cao Bang, especially for those who love mountain climbing and exploring caves, as it is an ideal place for visitors. Don’t worry if you are a beginner or have some health limitations; the cave is relatively young, about 300 years old, and easy to explore due to its small scale. However, it is advisable to visit with a guide or seek assistance from the management team at the site.

 

2.4 Thang Hen lake 

Thang Hen Lake is a freshwater lake located in Quoc Toan commune, Quang Hoa district, Cao Bang province, Vietnam. The name of the lake in Tay language means “bee’s tail,” because from above, the lake resembles the shape of a bee’s tail. The travel time from Cao Bang Vietnam to the lake is about 1 hour. At Thang Hen Lake, visitors can enjoy the natural scenery and admire the clear blue water. Some activities that visitors can participate in include camping, paddleboarding, and having BBQ parties. A few notes when visiting Thang Hen Lake: depending on the activity, there may be fees involved. If visitors wish to go paddleboarding, it is important to do so under the supervision of a safety monitor, as the lake has a depth of up to 50 meters.

 

 

2. 5 The Pac Bo historical site

The Pac Bo historical site has many historical relics related to President Hồ Chí Minh, such as Cốc Bó Cave, Mr. Lý Quốc Súng’s house – where he lived and worked during the early days after returning to the country; Milestone 108, Các Mác Mountain – LêNin Stream. Here, visitors can relax and feel comfortable with the tranquil, lush scenery of the mountains and forests. After visiting the sites within the historical area, tourists can also have a small picnic by the clear Lenin Stream. The Lenin Stream is famous for its naturally clear blue water. This area has a lot of limestone, and as the water flows over these rocks, it absorbs and reflects light in a special way, creating a crystal-clear turquoise color. Furthermore, the purity of the water source and its low pollution levels contribute to this beautiful color, rather than being due to the color of algae at the bottom, so visitors can swim in the permitted areas without worrying about slipping.

 

 

2.6 Angel Eye Mountain

Thung Mountain, more commonly known as Angel Eye Mountain, located in Tra Linh, Cao Bang, is one of the unique destinations with breathtaking natural beauty. True to its name, this mountain features a massive natural hole in its body, forming a special arch shape that makes it look like a “gateway to heaven.” Thung Mountain is not only a symbol of nature’s wonders but also attracts visitors with its pristine, lush landscapes, surrounded by limestone mountain ranges and valleys. Visitors are advised to avoid visiting during the rainy season or after rain to venture deeper towards the mountain, as the surrounding valleys can flood, making exploration difficult. There are also some services available, such as motorcycle rides or horseback riding around the valley.

 

 

Through Asia Viva Travel, you’ve gathered useful tips for your adventure in Cao Bang Vietnam. For nature lovers, this destination is a must-visit, with its breathtaking landscapes and untouched beauty. Whether you’re exploring its majestic mountains, serene lakes, or hidden caves, Cao Bang promises a journey filled with awe and wonder. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience in Vietnam’s natural paradise!

 

At Asia Viva Travel, we are committed to supporting society, especially in Vietnam’s remote regions. By traveling with us, you help support local tourism workers and contribute to building schools and providing free lunches for disadvantaged children in North Vietnam’s mountains. Join us to help build a better future for Vietnam’s children and vulnerable communities in the “Nuôi em” project .