Solo Adventure to Phong Nha-Ke Bang: A Journey Through Vietnam's Natural Wonders

A Day of Subterranean Wonders

Today was the day I had been eagerly anticipating since I first sketched out this solo adventure: exploring a part of the magnificent Hang Sơn Đoòng, the world's largest cave. It's hard to describe the sheer excitement and slight trepidation I felt as I prepared for a day that promised to be unlike any other. The idea of venturing into the depths of the earth, into a realm of unique ecosystems and geological marvels, was both humbling and exhilarating.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hang Sơn Đoòng Cave, the world's largest cave, nestled in Vietnam's stunning Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park.
The day began with a hearty breakfast at The Rice House. I opted for a traditional Vietnamese breakfast, a steaming bowl of Pho, which provided the perfect fuel for the day's adventure. The restaurant was already bustling with fellow travelers, each with their own stories and destinations. It's moments like these, sharing a meal with strangers united by a love for exploration, that make solo travel so rewarding. After breakfast, I made a quick stop at Đặc sản, cafe Hương Rừng, a local shop, to grab some last-minute supplies – mainly extra batteries for my camera and a couple of bottles of water. I also couldn't resist picking up a few local snacks, some dried fruits and nuts, to keep my energy levels up during the day.


Explore unique gifts and local delicacies at Đặc sản, Cafe Hương Rừng in Bố Trạch District, Quang Binh Province.
Finally, it was time. I met my tour group, a small but diverse gathering of adventurers from all corners of the globe. Our guide, a knowledgeable and enthusiastic local, gave us a thorough briefing on the day's itinerary and safety precautions. The weather in Phong Nha in December is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 22°C, but the humidity can be quite high. I made sure to dress appropriately, with lightweight clothing and sturdy hiking boots, remembering my forgotten mosquito repellent from my packing list.

As we began our trek towards the entrance of Son Doong, the landscape transformed into a lush, verdant jungle. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and tropical foliage. The trail was challenging, with steep inclines and rocky terrain, but the anticipation of what lay ahead kept us motivated. I couldn't help but reflect on my life back in Silkeborg, Denmark, restoring antique furniture. The contrast between the quiet, meticulous work of my workshop and the raw, untamed beauty of the Vietnamese jungle couldn't be more striking. Yet, both hold a certain allure, a sense of connection to history and craftsmanship, whether it's the history of a carefully restored chair or the history of a cave formed over millions of years.

The earth has music for those who listen.

Entering Son Doong was like stepping into another world. The scale of the cave is simply staggering. Vast chambers stretched out before us, illuminated by shafts of sunlight piercing through collapsed sections of the ceiling. These skylights, as our guide called them, created surreal landscapes within the cave, with towering stalagmites and stalactites reaching towards each other like ancient guardians. The air inside the cave was cool and humid, a welcome respite from the heat of the jungle.

We spent hours exploring the inner reaches of Son Doong, marveling at its unique ecosystem. We crossed underground rivers, navigated through lush, subterranean forests, and gazed in awe at the towering rock formations. Our guide shared fascinating insights into the cave's geology, its formation over millions of years, and the diverse flora and fauna that call it home. I was particularly struck by the sheer silence of the cave, broken only by the sound of our footsteps and the occasional drip of water. It was a silence that spoke volumes, a silence that allowed me to connect with the earth in a way I never thought possible.

Lunch was a delightful affair at PHONG NHA FAMILY RESTAURANT (NHÀ HÀNG GIA ĐÌNH VIỆT NAM). The restaurant exuded a warm, inviting atmosphere, and the staff greeted us with genuine smiles. I opted for the stir-fried noodles with tofu and vegetables, a flavorful and satisfying dish that perfectly captured the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such incredible culinary delights in such a unique setting.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Phong Nha Family Restaurant in Quang Binh Province – a culinary gem amidst stunning natural beauty.
After lunch, we continued our exploration of Son Doong, venturing deeper into its hidden recesses. We discovered hidden grottoes, shimmering pools of water, and ancient rock formations that seemed to defy gravity. At one point, we came across a colony of bats, their leathery wings fluttering in the darkness. It was a reminder of the delicate balance of nature, the intricate web of life that thrives even in the most remote and seemingly inhospitable environments.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back towards the entrance of the cave, our hearts full of awe and wonder. The experience had been both physically challenging and spiritually enriching, a journey into the depths of the earth that had left me with a profound sense of connection to the natural world. As we emerged from the cave, blinking in the fading sunlight, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment, a sense of having conquered something truly extraordinary.

For dinner, I decided to treat myself to a seafood feast at Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Nhật Phong 3. The restaurant, located in Nha Trang, was a bit of a drive from Phong Nha, but the promise of fresh seafood was too tempting to resist. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the day's catch. I ordered a platter of grilled seafood, a mouthwatering assortment of prawns, squid, and fish, all cooked to perfection. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's adventures, the incredible journey into the heart of Son Doong Cave. It was a day I would never forget, a day that had reaffirmed my love for exploration and my appreciation for the natural wonders of our planet.


Experience the freshest seafood in Nha Trang at Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Nhật Phong 3 - where tradition meets taste!
As I sit here now, writing this blog post in my cozy guesthouse, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today has been an extraordinary journey into the heart of Vietnam's natural wonders. The sheer scale and beauty of Son Doong Cave are beyond words, and the experience of exploring its depths has left an indelible mark on my soul. It's a reminder that there are still hidden corners of the world waiting to be discovered, places where nature reigns supreme and where the spirit of adventure can truly thrive.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Hang Va Cave and En Cave. Another day, another adventure in this incredible corner of the world. I am considering a visit to the King Kong Bar Phong Nha in the evening. For now, I'm content to rest and recharge, savoring the memories of today's incredible journey. I am also thinking about Astrid and Lasse and planning a trip back here with them.

I am also very happy that I did not forget my camera and travel journal.

I must remember to book accommodation for the rest of my stay.