Exploring the Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

A Day of Caves and Cuisine

Day two in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park was nothing short of spectacular. Olivia and I dove headfirst into the region's famed cave systems and indulged in some truly authentic Vietnamese cuisine. It’s amazing how much natural beauty and delicious food can be packed into a single day!

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant. It was a charming spot, and I fueled up with a steaming bowl of pho – the perfect start to a day of exploration. Olivia opted for a lighter banh mi, and with our appetites satisfied, we set off to explore the caves.


Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst the stunning landscapes of Phong Nha at Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant.

First on our list was the renowned Phong Nha Cave. The boat ride along the Son River to reach the cave entrance was incredibly scenic. The limestone karsts rising majestically from the water created a surreal landscape. I couldn't resist snapping photos at every turn, trying to capture the breathtaking views. The weather in Phong Nha this time of year is a bit of a mixed bag, with occasional rain, but today we were lucky to have mostly clear skies.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Phong Nha Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring stunning limestone formations and rich biodiversity in Vietnam.

As we entered Phong Nha Cave, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the place. The cave extends deep into the mountain, and the boat took us along an underground river, revealing stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The lighting inside highlighted the unique formations, creating an ethereal atmosphere. It was truly an awe-inspiring experience to witness nature's artistry at its finest.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After Phong Nha Cave, we ventured to Tien Son Cave, also known as the Heavenly Son Cave. To reach it, we had to climb a fair number of steps, which got the heart pumping, but the views from the top were well worth the effort. Unlike Phong Nha Cave, which is primarily a water cave, Tien Son is a dry cave, allowing us to explore it on foot. The interior was equally impressive, filled with intricate rock formations and crystal-clear ponds. I was particularly fascinated by the echoing sounds created when tapping on certain stalactites – it felt like playing a natural percussion instrument.


Discover the stunning formations and natural beauty of Tien Son Cave in Vietnam's Quang Binh Province, a must-visit for every adventure seeker.

By lunchtime, we were both ravenous, so we headed to Bamboo Chopsticks, a local restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and vegan options. The restaurant had a cozy, eco-friendly vibe, using bamboo and other natural materials in its decor. We shared a variety of dishes, including fresh spring rolls, flavorful stir-fried noodles, and a fragrant vegetable curry. It was a delightful culinary experience, and I appreciated their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and minimizing plastic waste. Olivia, being a librarian, was particularly impressed with their selection of books available for customers to read while dining.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bamboo Chopsticks in Phong Nha – where every meal tells a story.

In the afternoon, we did a bit of shopping at Phong Nha Collection. I was hoping to find a unique souvenir to bring back home, and Olivia was on the lookout for some local handicrafts. The shop had a wide array of items, from clothing and accessories to artwork and home décor. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-painted silk scarf for my daughter, while Olivia found a lovely ceramic tea set.


Explore Phong Nha Collection for a unique blend of local fashion and cultural essence amidst stunning natural beauty.

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to a seafood dinner at Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Nhật Phong 3. Although I learned that there is a restaurant with the same name in Nha Trang, this one was a fantastic find in Phong Nha. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We feasted on fresh grilled fish, succulent shrimp, and flavorful squid, all while enjoying stunning views of the river. It was the perfect way to end a day of adventure.


Experience the freshest seafood in Nha Trang at Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Nhật Phong 3 - where tradition meets taste!

Tomorrow, we are scheduled to visit Hang Son Doong, and I couldn't be more excited. I am looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this incredible part of the world. I'm a little nervous about the trek, but I know it will be worth it. I've packed my hiking boots and camera and am ready for whatever adventures await.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am struck by the incredible natural beauty and warm hospitality of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. It's a place that truly captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore this remarkable region with my amazing wife, Olivia. I am keen to share our adventures with you all. Stay tuned for more updates from our journey!

I am also reminded that I need to find sunscreen! I knew I had forgotten something from my essentials list. I might try to find a travel guidebook too, just in case my portable charger runs out of battery!