Exploring the Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Day 4: Caves and Calm in Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Another day, another adventure in this incredible corner of Vietnam! Olivia and I set out with a sense of excitement, ready to uncover more of Phong Nha-Ke Bang's hidden gems. Today was a blend of thrilling exploration and tranquil relaxation, a perfect mix that left us both feeling invigorated and at peace.

Our day began, as most do, with a hearty breakfast at ARTIST'S ZONE. I opted for a traditional *pho*, while Olivia enjoyed a plate of spring rolls. Fuelled up, we headed out for our first major stop: En Cave.


Discover the enchanting En Cave in Quang Binh Province, Vietnam, where nature's beauty meets adventure in a breathtaking underground world.
The trek to En Cave was nothing short of spectacular. The weather was warm and breezy, perfect for hiking through the jungle. The trail wound its way through lush greenery, with towering trees creating a natural canopy overhead. As we walked, our guide shared fascinating insights into the local flora and fauna, pointing out various plants and insects that call this park home. I made sure to take plenty of photos, trying to capture the vibrant colours and textures of the jungle. Olivia, ever the nature enthusiast, was in her element, eagerly soaking in all the information.

The hike itself wasn't overly strenuous, though there were a few muddy patches and rocky sections that required careful footing. We crossed several streams, our boots getting pleasantly soaked in the cool water. I couldn't help but think back to our hikes in the Okanagan Valley, but this was a completely different world, teeming with unique life and landscapes. It’s amazing to think that just a few days ago, we were still in Kelowna, bracing for the Canadian winter. Now, here we were, surrounded by tropical beauty.

Finally, we reached the entrance to En Cave, and what a sight it was! The sheer scale of the cave is hard to describe – it’s massive, with a gaping mouth that seems to swallow the jungle whole. Stepping inside, we were immediately struck by the cool, damp air and the echoing silence. Our guide provided us with headlamps, and we ventured deeper into the darkness.

The interior of En Cave is a wonderland of geological formations. Towering stalactites hang from the ceiling like frozen waterfalls, while stalagmites rise from the ground, creating a surreal landscape. We spent hours exploring the various chambers, marveling at the intricate details and the sheer size of everything. At one point, we reached a large opening where sunlight streamed in, illuminating the cave in a golden glow. It was a truly magical moment, one that I know we’ll both remember for years to come.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not on the beaten path, but in the hidden depths of the earth.

After our exploration of En Cave, we were both ready for a change of pace. We made our way to HaVa Valley - Thung Lũng Ngọc Bich, a spot recommended by several locals.


Experience the enchanting beauty of HaVa Valley – Thung Lũng Ngọc Bích, a serene escape in Quảng Bình, Vietnam, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
HaVa Valley turned out to be exactly what we needed. It's a serene and picturesque valley nestled along the Chay River, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation. The atmosphere was incredibly relaxing, with the gentle sound of the river and the chirping of birds creating a soothing backdrop. The emerald-green waters looked so inviting.

We spent the afternoon swimming in the cool, clear water, letting the gentle current wash away our fatigue. Olivia, never one to shy away from adventure, tried her hand at kayaking, while I opted for a leisurely SUP session. We paddled along the river, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the peace and quiet. I even captured some amazing photos of Olivia navigating the waters with a big smile on her face. I am glad I remembered to bring my camera!

After our water activities, we lounged by the riverbank, soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquility of the valley. We chatted about our experiences so far, reminiscing about the incredible caves we’d seen and the delicious food we’d eaten. It’s moments like these, sharing simple pleasures with Olivia, that make these trips so special. I am really glad she enjoys the outdoors as much as I do. I think back to our days back in Truro and how much we enjoyed exploring the countryside together.

For lunch, we stopped at The Villas Restaurant. Situated along the Son River, the views were magnificent. I opted for the Victory Burger, which came highly recommended, and Olivia chose the prawn and squid salad. Both were delicious, and the setting couldn't have been more perfect.


Discover exquisite Vietnamese cuisine amidst the natural beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park at The Villas Restaurant.
Before heading back to our accommodation, we made a quick stop at Harry's Coconuts, a local shop known for its refreshing coconut drinks. Sipping on the sweet, cool juice was the perfect way to end our afternoon of relaxation.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam at Harry's Coconuts, a must-visit fruit and vegetable store in Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park.
As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Phong Nha, feeling refreshed and content. For dinner, we decided to try Paradise Cave Restaurant. While the restaurant itself wasn't as impressive as the name suggests, the food was tasty and satisfying. Plus, it was a great way to reflect on our day’s adventures.


Experience the flavors of Quang Binh at Paradise Cave Restaurant, where local cuisine meets stunning natural beauty.
Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Hang Va Cave and Elephant Cave. I've heard that Hang Va is particularly stunning, with unique formations and crystal-clear pools. And of course, we'll need to find some good spots for breakfast, lunch and dinner – Lotus Restaurant, Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant and NHÀ HÀNG SK BEER are on the cards. I am also hoping to do some gift shopping at H-Mart.

It's amazing how much this area has to offer, from the thrilling cave explorations to the peaceful moments spent in nature. I am so glad Olivia and I decided to come and explore it together. I am looking forward to tomorrow's adventures!