Solo Exploration of Phong Nha-Ke Bang's Natural Wonders

Diving Deep and Soaring High

Today was a day of incredible contrasts, from the depths of a mysterious cave to the expansive views of a stunning valley. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park continues to amaze me with its diverse landscapes and hidden wonders. It’s moments like these that remind me why I traded my Berlin balcony garden for a life of travel and exploration, trading my trusty gardening gloves for hiking boots.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at PHONG NHA FAMILY RESTAURANT (NHÀ HÀNG GIA ĐÌNH VIỆT NAM). I fueled up with a delicious bowl of *pho* and strong Vietnamese coffee, knowing I'd need the energy for the adventures ahead. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere made it a perfect start to the day. It's these simple, authentic experiences that I truly cherish when traveling solo. I love to discover little places like this, where you can feel the heart of the local community. It reminded me a bit of the small cafes back in Svendborg, where everyone knows each other, and the coffee is always brewing.

Into the Depths of Hang Va Cave

The main event of the day was exploring Hang Va Cave. This cave is known for its unique calcite formations and underground river. The tour, which I booked through Oxalis Adventure, was an incredible experience. The hike to the cave itself was challenging, involving trekking through the jungle and navigating rocky terrain. I was glad I'd packed my hiking boots; they definitely came in handy! The landscape was so lush and dense, it felt like stepping into another world. I was also glad I had remembered to bring bug spray, as the mosquitos were out in full force.

Once inside Hang Va, I was immediately struck by the otherworldly beauty. Towering stalagmites rose from the cave floor, and crystal-clear water filled the underground pools. The calcite formations were unlike anything I'd ever seen, with their steep sides and unique shapes. I felt like I was exploring another planet. We swam through parts of the cave, the water surprisingly cold but refreshing. It was a bit challenging maneuvering through the narrow passages, but the stunning views made it all worthwhile.

The earth has music for those who listen.

Our guide shared stories of the cave's discovery and the ongoing efforts to preserve its delicate ecosystem. It was fascinating to learn about the geological processes that shaped this natural wonder over millions of years. This cave was first discovered in 1992 by Ho Khanh, and later surveyed in 2012 by British and Vietnamese experts. It's amazing to think about how many hidden treasures like this are still waiting to be discovered.

After resurfacing from Hang Va, I was ready for lunch. The tour provided a delicious meal at the campsite, which was very welcome after all the physical activity. I enjoyed chatting with the other travelers and sharing stories of our adventures. It's always interesting to meet people from different backgrounds and hear about their travel experiences. I found out that Hang Va is located near the exit of Son Doong Cave, which is considered the largest cave in the world. Apparently, the two caves are hydrologically connected, which is pretty amazing.


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

Valley Views and Zipline Thrills at HaVa Valley - Thung Lũng Ngọc Bích

In the afternoon, I decided to visit HaVa Valley - Thung Lũng Ngọc Bích. This valley is known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities. After the darkness of the cave, it was wonderful to be surrounded by so much light and greenery. The valley is located near the Chay River, and the views were simply breathtaking.

One of the main attractions at HaVa Valley is the 600-meter zipline, the longest water-landing zipline in Vietnam. Of course, I had to try it! Soaring through the air with the wind in my hair was an exhilarating experience. The initial feeling was a bit nerve-wracking, but the excitement quickly took over as I flew over the blue water. The valley looked so beautiful from above, with its emerald-green waters and towering cliffs. I felt like a bird soaring through the sky.

Besides the zipline, HaVa Valley also offers other activities such as kayaking and swimming. I took a leisurely kayak trip down the Chay River, enjoying the peaceful scenery and the warm sunshine. The water was so clear and inviting, I couldn't resist taking a dip. It was the perfect way to cool off after a day of exploring.

I also learned that the valley has a small pool for children, making it a safe place for families to visit. It's great to see that there are options for travelers of all ages. I spent some time relaxing by the river, soaking in the beauty of the surroundings. It was a perfect moment of tranquility, a chance to disconnect from the world and connect with nature.


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.

Evening Delights in Phong Nha

For dinner, I treated myself to a meal at The Villas Restaurant. The ambiance was lovely, and the food was delicious. I enjoyed a flavorful Vietnamese dish, savoring the fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. It was a perfect way to end a day of adventure. Afterwards, I stopped by Lá Store - Cho thuê đồ Boho/Vintage Phong Nha - Quảng Bình for a bit of souvenir shopping. It was a cute little shop with a boho/vintage vibe. I picked up a few small items to remind me of my time in Phong Nha.

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out Dubai Pub Phong Nha. It had a vibrant atmosphere and seemed like a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. I enjoyed a refreshing drink and listened to some music, soaking in the energy of the place. It was a fun way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.

Tomorrow, I am planning to visit Hang Sơn Đoòng, the largest cave in the world. I’m incredibly excited about this adventure, although I know it will be physically demanding. Before that, I plan to have breakfast at Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant. I am also planning to visit Harry's Coconuts shop and Pub with cold beer. I'll be sure to share all the details in my next blog post!

Reflecting on today, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. From the depths of Hang Va Cave to the heights of HaVa Valley, every moment was a feast for the senses. I'm constantly reminded of how much there is to see and explore in this world, and I'm excited to continue my journey.

And, as I settle in for the night, I am already dreaming of the next adventure, and the next story to tell.