Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day adventure through Cao Bang, home to Vietnam’s most stunning natural wonders. Explore traditional craft villages, witness the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, and visit the historic Pac Bo Cave along the serene Le Nin River. Immerse yourself in the culture of the Nùng ethnic villages and discover breathtaking landscapes at every turn.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Cao Bang City – Phia Thap Village – Phuc Sen Village – Ban Gioc Waterfall

• 8:00 AM: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at your hostel in Cao Bang City, fueling up for an exciting journey ahead.
• 8:30 AM: Our guide will pick you up, and we’ll hit the road for an adventure through some of northern Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Our first stop is Ma Phuc Pass, a stunning mountain pass with winding roads and panoramic views—get your camera ready! From there, we’ll visit Phia Thap Village, home to the Nung ethnic group, famous for their traditional incense-making craft. You’ll get to see how they create fragrant incense sticks by hand, a tradition passed down for generations.

Next, we’ll ride to Phuc Sen Village, known for its centuries-old blacksmithing craftsmanship. Watch the skilled artisans forge knives and farming tools using traditional techniques, and learn how this village has become famous for its high-quality handmade blades.

We’ll also make a quick stop at Dia Tren, a village specializing in traditional paper-making, where you can see the fascinating process of creating handmade paper used in local rituals.

By midday, we’ll reach the highlight of the day—Ban Gioc Waterfall, the largest and most spectacular waterfall in Vietnam! Located on the border with China, Ban Gioc cascades down limestone cliffs into an emerald-green river, creating an absolutely breathtaking scene. Take your time soaking in the view, snapping photos, or even hopping on a bamboo raft for a closer look.

Just a short drive from the waterfall, we’ll explore Nguom Ngao Cave, an incredible underground wonder filled with towering stalactites and eerie rock formations. The cave stretches for several kilometers, and walking through its winding passageways feels like stepping into another world.

• Evening: We’ll check in at a cozy homestay near Ban Gioc Waterfall, where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful countryside.
• Dinner & Breakfast: A home-cooked meal at the homestay, offering a taste of authentic local cuisine, before resting up for another exciting day ahead!

Day 2: Ban Gioc Waterfall – Phong Nam Village – Angel Eye Mountain – Pac Bo Cave

• 8:00 AM: Wake up to the fresh mountain air and enjoy a hearty homemade breakfast at the homestay, preparing for another day of incredible sights.
• 8:30 AM: We’ll set off on our journey, heading deeper into the breathtaking landscapes of Cao Bang.

Our first stop is Phong Nam Village, a hidden gem tucked away in the valleys near Ban Gioc. This peaceful village is surrounded by rolling green hills, rice paddies, and traditional stilt houses of the Tay ethnic people. It’s the perfect place to witness rural life in northern Vietnam, where farmers tend to their fields with water buffalo and locals greet you with warm smiles.

Next, we’ll visit Angel Eye Mountain, a unique limestone formation with a massive circular hole through its center—like a giant eye gazing over the valley. Standing beneath it feels surreal, as if you’ve stepped into a scene from a fantasy movie. The lush surroundings, crystal-clear lakes, and towering karst peaks make this a picture-perfect stop.

From here, we’ll continue to one of the most historic and meaningful places in Vietnam—Pac Bo Cave and the Le Nin River. This is where President Ho Chi Minh lived and worked after returning to Vietnam in 1941, planning the country’s independence movement. Walking through the serene, turquoise waters of the Le Nin River and exploring the cave where he stayed, you’ll get a real sense of the history that shaped modern Vietnam.

• Evening: We’ll settle in at a homestay in Pac Bo Village, surrounded by peaceful countryside and mountains.
• Dinner & Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional meal prepared by our hosts, a perfect way to end the day before resting up for the final leg of our journey

Day 3: Pac Bo Cave – Can Yen – Nam Ngua Waterfall – Thong Nong – Cao Bang City

• 8:00 AM: Start your morning with a traditional breakfast at the homestay, surrounded by the peaceful countryside. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and take in the last moments of this serene retreat before we hit the road again.
• 8:30 AM: We’ll begin our final day of exploration, venturing deeper into Cao Bang’s hidden gems.

Our first stop is Can Yen, a picturesque village where time seems to slow down. This quiet rural area is perfect for a leisurely ride, offering stunning views of rice fields, rolling hills, and traditional stilt houses. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals and see how they live in harmony with nature.

Next, we’ll head to Nam Ngua Waterfall, a breathtaking hidden cascade located in a Nung ethnic village. The waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, is an ideal spot to relax and soak in the untouched beauty of northern Vietnam. Here, you’ll also have the chance to meet the friendly Nung people, known for their warm hospitality and deep-rooted traditions.

From there, we’ll continue our journey through Thong Nong, a remote yet stunning part of Cao Bang with towering limestone karsts and winding mountain roads. Every turn reveals a new breathtaking view, making this stretch one of the most scenic parts of the trip.

By late afternoon, we’ll arrive back in Cao Bang City, where you’ll have time to rest and reflect on your adventure.

• 8:00 PM: The sleeper bus will pick you up from Cao Bang Loop Hostel for the overnight journey back to Hanoi. Get comfortable and let the memories of the past three days sink in as you make your way back to the capital.

Ending your journey in Cao Bang will leave you with unforgettable experiences—from majestic waterfalls and hidden villages to rich cultural encounters and historic landmarks. This adventure isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about truly connecting with the beauty and spirit of northern Vietnam. Safe travels, and until next time!