Exploring the Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang: A Vietnamese Adventure

Diving Deep into the Earth's Embrace

Today, Lena and I ventured into the depths of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a day filled with subterranean wonders and lush landscapes. It’s incredible how much this region has to offer, from challenging cave expeditions to serene valley views. It’s a journey that tests your limits and rewards you with sights that etch themselves into your memory.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant. I opted for a traditional Pho, while Lena enjoyed a vegan hot pot. Fuelled up, we set off towards our first destination: Hang Va Cave.


Explore the enchanting Hang Va Cave, a natural wonder in Quang Binh, Vietnam, filled with breathtaking formations and rich biodiversity.

The journey to Hang Va was an adventure in itself. The park is located about 4 km from Km 28 of the Ho Chi Minh Highway. The trek involved navigating through dense jungle, crossing streams, and clambering over rocky terrain. It was challenging, but the anticipation of what awaited us kept our spirits high. The weather was quite pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 24°C, making the hike bearable. I was glad I packed my lightweight rain jacket as there was occasional drizzle.

Hang Va is known for its unique tower cones, formations rarely found elsewhere. The cave is located deep within the national park and about 50m from the exit of the largest cave in the world - Hang Son Doong. To enter Hang Va, we had to join a guided caving expedition operated by Oxalis Adventure, the only company authorized to explore the cave. Our guide, a local expert, briefed us on the cave's geology and safety procedures. He explained that these tower cones are formed by calcium carbonate deposits over thousands of years.

Inside the cave, the sight was surreal. Towering cones emerged from the emerald-green waters, creating an otherworldly landscape. The tallest of these cones reached about two meters high. Lena, with her keen eye for aesthetics, was captivated by the intricate patterns and formations. I, on the other hand, was fascinated by the geological processes that shaped this underground marvel.

The earth has music for those who listen.

Navigating through Hang Va involved swimming through underground rivers and using ropes to traverse certain sections. The water was crystal clear but surprisingly cold. At one point, we had to wade through hip-deep water, which added an extra layer of excitement to the experience. The cave was also featured as the coolest new adventure in Asia by Forbes.

After spending a few hours exploring Hang Va, we emerged from the cave, our bodies tired but our minds invigorated. We took a moment to appreciate the lush greenery surrounding the area. The valley was serene, with the sounds of birds and insects filling the air. It was a stark contrast to the silent, mysterious world we had just left behind.

For lunch, we headed to Bamboo Chopsticks, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and vegan options. We tried the caramel tofu and spring rolls, which were absolutely divine. The staff were friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy. I had the Vietnamese Dalat wine, but found it a little different to more established wines.


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

In the afternoon, we made our way to HaVa Valley - Thung Lũng Ngọc Bich. This valley, not far from Son Chay River, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The valley is surrounded by limestone mountains and lush forests, creating a picturesque landscape.


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.

We decided to explore the valley on foot, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. The air was fresh, and the scenery was breathtaking. Lena was particularly drawn to the vibrant colors of the flora, while I was more interested in the geological formations of the surrounding mountains.

HaVa Valley offers a range of activities, including ziplining, kayaking, and swimming. We opted for a more relaxed approach, choosing to take a leisurely stroll along the river. We found a spot by the riverbank and sat down to enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to ARTIST'S ZONE for dinner. This Vietnamese eatery had an inviting ambiance and friendly staff. I enjoyed a delectable chicken salad, while Lena savored the vegan Bún chả with soy sauce broth. The restaurant is known for its affordable beer options, including some craft choices.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst artistic decor at ARTIST'S ZONE in Phong Nha – where culture meets flavor.

To cap off the evening, we visited Jungle Boss Pub and Restaurant for a drink. This place is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. We sat by the river, sipping our drinks and reflecting on the day's adventures. We met a few fellow travelers and shared stories of our experiences in Phong Nha. It was a perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Jungle Boss Pub and Restaurant in Quang Binh, Vietnam.

Tomorrow, we are scheduled to visit Hang Sơn Đoòng, one of the largest caves in the world. I am excited about the prospect of exploring this natural wonder, but also a bit apprehensive about the challenges it may present. But, as always, I am confident that with Lena by my side, we can overcome any obstacle. Before that, we plan to have breakfast at The Villas Restaurant. Perhaps Lena will want to do some vintage shopping at Lá Store.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is truly a special place, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to explore its hidden gems.

The park has also recently won a World Travel Awards 2025.

Good night from Vietnam.