Phong Nha
Phong Nha is a haven for adventure seekers. Its location in central Vietnam requires more time and effort to reach, probably why fewer travellers make their way to this town. That means you can enjoy a mostly unspoiled bit of paradise when you visit Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its enormous cave system — which includes the world’s largest cave (Hang Son Doong) and the longest dry cave in Asia (Paradise Cave). Outdoor lovers will also enjoy the lush hiking trails, karst mountains, and amazing wildlife in Phong Nha.
Written by Ela
Senior Travel Writer
Last updated
Discover Phong Nha
Phong Nha is a destination that is not included in every travel itinerary. This is because it requires more travel time than most destinations in Vietnam. Maybe that is also the reason why you can still experience an almost untouched landscape here.
The main reason to visit Phong Nha is, of course, its enormous cave system. It consists of hundreds of caves, which include the world’s largest cave (Hang Son Doong) and the longest dry cave in Asia (Paradise Cave).
The centre of Phong Nha itself is not much more than a street with guesthouses and hotels. Do you want a more unique experience or are you a big nature fan? Have a look at accommodations further away from the centre like Phong Nha Lake House Resort.
Which caves to visit?
Phong Nha Cave is the closest to the centre. You can reach this cave on foot from the main street. That’s also why it is a great cave to visit when you arrive in the afternoon or still have a morning to spend in Phong Nha.
Most other caves are about half an hour's drive from the centre. You can visit them by joining a tour or renting a motorbike.
When you rent a motorbike, you can visit several caves and the botanic garden in one day by making a 65 km loop through Phong Nha National Park. If you want to go on an adventurous caving experience, have a look at Hong Tai Cave, also referred to as the dark cave.
Did you get enthusiastic reading about Hang Son Doong Cave? I am afraid I have to disappoint you. There is only one organisation permitted to operate a limited number of tours in the world’s largest cave. You have to book this tour at least one year in advance.
However, there are great alternatives for big cave fans who want to have an extraordinary experience. These include a jungle trek, river crossings and sleeping at the entrance of the world’s third-largest cave (Hang En).
Visit the Oxalis website for more information about these tours.
How to get to Phong Nha
Our favourite places to stay in Phong Nha
Here are our favourite places to stay in Phong Nha for every budget.
Thao Nguyen Homestay
Thanks to the great hospitality of the family, Thao Nguyen Homestay will feel like your home. After a day of trekking, you can take a dive in the pool or sit back and relax with a Netflix movie.
The homestay is located right in front of the bus stop in the centre of Phong Nha. The rooms are bright and spacious, with some of them offering spectacular views of the mountains.
- Mountain views
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Bright and spacious rooms
- Delicious free breakfast
Private rooms start from $16 per night.
Phong Nha Dawn House
You'll probably find it slightly hard to believe that rooms also start at $16 at Phong Nha Dawn House. This place has an almost perfect rating for a reason.
Tu Tu and her family make you feel right at home in their beautiful homestay where you can enjoy a refreshing swimming pool, delicious restaurant and comfortable rooms.
- Great value for money
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Delicious restaurant
- Free breakfast
Private rooms start from $16 per night.
Karst Villas Phong Nha
Floating in an infinity pool overlooking endless rice fields, can you think of anything better? How about if on top of that, there are mountains in the background and you're staying with a beautiful Vietnamese family?
Karst Villas offer all of that plus modern room and unique bathrooms. A very memorable stay!
- Infinity pool
- Incredible views
- Amazing family
- Delicious free breakfast
Private rooms start from $38 per night.
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