Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the hidden gems of Cao Bang, where breathtaking waterfalls, ancient villages, and rugged mountain passes await. From the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall to the mystical Nui Thung Mountain and the historic Pac Bo Cave, every turn reveals a new wonder. Experience ethnic culture, trek through highlands, and cruise on the serene Ba Be Lake—a true adventure into the heart of northern Vietnam!

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Cao Bang City – Phja Thap Village – Dia Tren Village – Ban Gioc Waterfall

8:00 AM – Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hostel in Cao Bang City, fueling up for an incredible journey ahead.

8:30 AM – Your guide will pick you up, and the adventure begins! The winding roads will take you through Ma Phuc Pass, a breathtaking gateway to the untouched beauty of northern Vietnam. From there, we’ll visit Phja Thap Village, home to the Nung ethnic group, where you can witness traditional incense-making.

Continuing the ride, we’ll stop by Dia Tren Village and Phuc Sen Village, both renowned for their ancient blacksmithing craft. Then, brace yourself for the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Vietnam, cascading right on the border with China.

We’ll also explore the mysterious Nguom Ngao Cave, filled with stunning limestone formations, and take in the peaceful beauty of the Quay Son River, famous for its emerald waters.

4:30 – 5:00 PM – Arrive at your cozy homestay near Ban Gioc Waterfall. Take a dip in the refreshing river and relax before dinner.

Spend the night at the homestay, enjoying a delicious local meal and soaking in the serene atmosphere of this stunning region.

Day 2: Ban Gioc Waterfall – Ngoc Con Village – Phong Nam Village – Nui Thung Mountain (Angel Eye) – Lê Nin River (Pac Bo Cave)

8:00 AM – Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at the homestay, soaking in the peaceful countryside vibes before setting off on another day of adventure.

8:30 AM – Hop on your bike and hit the road! Our first stop is Ngoc Con Village, a hidden gem nestled in the valleys, where time seems to slow down. The traditional stilt houses and endless rice fields create a picture-perfect landscape.

From there, we ride through Phong Nam Village, known for its breathtaking karst formations and tranquil river scenery. Then, we’ll make our way to Nui Thung Mountain (Angel Eye Mountain), a natural wonder with a massive circular hole in the middle—one of the most surreal landscapes in Vietnam.

After soaking in the views, we continue to Lê Nin River and Pac Bo Cave, a site rich in history and beauty. This is where Vietnam’s revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, once lived and worked. The turquoise waters of the river, set against dramatic limestone cliffs, make for an unforgettable sight.

4:30 – 5:00 PM – Arrive at your homestay in Pac Bo Village. Take a well-deserved rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before dinner.

End the day with a warm meal, great company, and the quiet charm of village life.

Day 3: Pac Bo Cave – Lê Nin River – Na Tenh Pass – Xuan Truong Valley – Khau Coc Cha Pass – Bao Lac

8:00 AM – Wake up to the fresh mountain air and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the homestay or hotel, fueling up for another day of incredible landscapes and winding roads.

8:30 AM – Time to hit the road! We start with a final look at Pac Bo Cave and Lê Nin River, taking in the crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings before making our way towards the scenic Na Tenh Pass. The winding roads offer breathtaking views of the rugged mountains and lush valleys below.

Next, we ride through the Xuan Truong Valley, where you’ll be surrounded by endless greenery and the peaceful charm of remote villages. Then, get ready for an adrenaline rush as we conquer Khau Coc Cha Pass, known for its dramatic switchbacks and jaw-dropping views. This is one of the most thrilling parts of the journey—perfect for capturing stunning photos!

4:30 – 5:00 PM – Arrive in Bao Lac, a small but lively town home to many ethnic minority communities. Check into your homestay and relax after a full day on the road.

End the day with a warm dinner, sharing stories and experiences with fellow travelers before settling in for the night. Tomorrow, another adventure awaits!

Day 4: Trekking the High Mountains of Bao Lac – A Journey Through Ethnic Villages

8:00 AM – Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the homestay, fueling up for an exciting trekking adventure ahead.

8:30 AM – Lace up your hiking boots and set off on a 15 km trek through the breathtaking highlands of Bao Lac. The trail winds through lush forests, terraced fields, and rugged mountain paths, leading us deep into the heart of ethnic minority villages.

Along the way, you’ll get a rare glimpse into the daily lives of the Tay, Nung, H’mong, and Lo Lo people—each with their own unique culture, traditions, and architectural styles. The warmth and hospitality of the locals make this trek even more special, as you witness firsthand their simple yet rich way of life.

Lunch will be served in one of the villages, giving you a chance to rest, enjoy authentic local dishes, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the highlands.

4:30 – 5:00 PM – Arrive at Khuoi Khon Village, home to the Lo Lo ethnic group. Settle into your cozy homestay, where you’ll experience traditional village life in its purest form.

In the evening, enjoy a homemade dinner prepared by your hosts, perhaps even with some local rice wine to celebrate a day well spent. As the night falls, relax under the starlit sky, listening to stories about the Lo Lo people’s rich heritage before resting up for the final day of your journey.

Day 4: From Bao Lac to the Tranquil Waters of Ba Be Lake

8:00 AM – Wake up to the fresh mountain air and enjoy a homemade breakfast at the homestay, soaking in the peaceful surroundings before we hit the road.

8:30 AM – Set off on our journey, leaving Bao Lac behind as we travel towards Khuoi Khon Village, home to the Lo Lo ethnic group. Take in the breathtaking landscapes along the way, with rolling hills, winding passes, and small villages dotting the route. We’ll pass through Nguyen Binh, a scenic countryside area, before reaching our final destination—Ba Be National Park.

2:00 PM – Time to unwind as we hop on a boat tour around Ba Be Lake, Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lake. Glide across the emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and lush rainforests. You’ll feel completely immersed in nature, with the chance to spot rare birds, local fishermen, and perhaps even a troop of langurs swinging through the trees.

5:00 PM – Arrive at our charming homestay by the lake, where you can relax and take in the serene beauty of Ba Be.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner with your hosts, featuring fresh local ingredients and traditional dishes. After a long day of travel and exploration, fall asleep to the calming sounds of nature, bringing your incredible Cao Bang Loop adventure one step closer to its end.

Day 5: From Bao Lac to the Tranquil Waters of Ba Be Lake

8:00 AM – Wake up to the fresh mountain air and enjoy a homemade breakfast at the homestay, soaking in the peaceful surroundings before we hit the road.

8:30 AM – Set off on our journey, leaving Bao Lac behind as we travel towards Khuoi Khon Village, home to the Lo Lo ethnic group. Take in the breathtaking landscapes along the way, with rolling hills, winding passes, and small villages dotting the route. We’ll pass through Nguyen Binh, a scenic countryside area, before reaching our final destination—Ba Be National Park.

2:00 PM – Time to unwind as we hop on a boat tour around Ba Be Lake, Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lake. Glide across the emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and lush rainforests. You’ll feel completely immersed in nature, with the chance to spot rare birds, local fishermen, and perhaps even a troop of langurs swinging through the trees.

5:00 PM – Arrive at our charming homestay by the lake, where you can relax and take in the serene beauty of Ba Be.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner with your hosts, featuring fresh local ingredients and traditional dishes. After a long day of travel and exploration, fall asleep to the calming sounds of nature, bringing your incredible Cao Bang Loop adventure one step closer to its end.