Phong Nha & Paradise Cave Tour from Dong Hoi: National Park Day

Summary

Guided Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave Adventure

You’ll get to explore two of Vietnam’s most famous caves—Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave—in one day, with a local guide who knows all the hidden details. From cool cave air to historic river passages, this tour gives you a real taste of adventure and local history without any hassle.

What’s the experience like?

It’s early, and the air in Dong Hoi still feels cool when our guide pulls up outside the hotel. We pile into the van, sleepy but excited—there’s something about heading out before the city wakes up that makes you feel like you’re in on a secret. The drive to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is quiet at first, just the hum of the road and the odd rooster crowing somewhere in the distance. Our guide, Minh, chats about local life and points out the limestone peaks poking through the morning mist.

First stop: Paradise Cave. The entrance is tucked away behind a short forest walk—watch your step, the path can be slippery if it rained overnight (which it often does here). Inside, the air shifts—cooler, almost damp, with a faint earthy smell that clings to your clothes. The cave itself is massive; I remember craning my neck just to take it all in. Minh shines his flashlight on clusters of white stalactites that look like glass pillars, and there’s this hush as everyone tries to snap photos without missing the real thing. You’ll want to linger here, trust me.

After lunch (simple but tasty—rice, veggies, and some grilled pork), we head for Phong Nha Cave. This one’s different: you board a small boat and glide along an underground river, the water so clear you can see your reflection if you lean over. The cave walls are marked by history—our guide tells stories about how this place was once part of the Ho Chi Minh Trail during the war. It’s strange to think of boats like ours carrying supplies through these same tunnels decades ago. The only sounds are water lapping against the hull and distant echoes bouncing off rock.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dong Hoi Pickup and Cave Visits

• Pickup at hotel in Dong Hoi or Phong Nha
• Visit Paradise Cave
• Explore Phong Nha Cave

Top questions

Is lunch included in the tour?

Yes, a local lunch is provided—let us know if you have dietary needs or prefer vegetarian options.

What should I wear for visiting the caves?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket—the caves can be cool and sometimes damp inside.

Are hotel pickups available in both Dong Hoi and Phong Nha?

Yes, we pick up from hotels or homestays in both Dong Hoi (7:50-8:15 am) and Phong Nha (9:00-9:15 am).

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, but there are some steps and uneven paths inside the caves.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entry fees for Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave, bottled water, lunch, a friendly local guide, plus taxes and environmental charges. Just bring your sense of adventure!