Cao Bang
3 days / 2 nights
AH-CB01
6/10
$295 USD
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WHY THIS TOUR?

This comprehensive itinerary is the definitive choice for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the raw, majestic beauty of Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark. Over three unforgettable days, this journey seamlessly weaves together active trekking, wilderness camping, and rich cultural encounters. Your adventure begins in the spectacular Na Ma Valley, where you will camp under the stars near the iconic Eye of God Mountain. From there, you will trek along the tranquil banks of the Quay Son River to reach the ancient, historic Khuoi Ki Stone Village. The odyssey culminates with a visit to the magnificent Ban Gioc Waterfall and an exploration into the surreal subterranean chambers of Nguom Ngao Cave. Balancing thrilling outdoor pursuits with authentic local heritage, this expedition offers an unmatched, deeply rewarding escape into the heart of northern Vietnam.

Highlights

  • Wilderness Camping by the Eye of God Mountain: Marvel at the spectacular karst topography of Na Ma Valley.
  • Scenic River Trekking: Follow the tranquil and emerald waters of the Quay Son River trail.
  • Cultural Encounters at Khuoi Ki: Step back in time inside a centuries-old Tay ethnic stone village.
  • Iconic Ban Gioc Waterfall: Stand in awe before one of Southeast Asia’s most majestic natural wonders.
  • Caving Adventure in Nguom Ngao: Hike through the impressive, surreal stalactite chambers hidden deep underground.

 

SUMMARY

  • Start / Finish Point: Hanoi

  • Duration: 3 days / 2 nights

  • Destination: Cao Bang

  • Group Size : 2 - 20 pax

  • Best Season: Year-round

  • Difficulty level: 6/10

  • Activities: Hiking / Trekking, Caving

ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi - Cao Bang - Eye of God Mountain

07:30 Meet your tour guide and driver at your hotel in Hanoi. Brief introduction and trip overview before loading your luggage. Depart Hanoi and head north toward the majestic landscapes of Cao Bang, passing through scenic countryside and rolling hills.

09:30 Stop at a comfortable rest station along the route to enjoy breakfast, grab a coffee, and stretch your legs before continuing the scenic drive.

12:30 Arrive in Cao Bang City. Savor an authentic, freshly prepared local lunch to refuel after the journey.

13:30 Board your vehicle and head toward the stunning Thang Hen Lake. Take some time to snap photos of the emerald waters, arrange your daypack, and prepare your gear. From here, we lace up our boots and begin a rewarding 6 km trek through the dense forest toward the breathtaking Na Ma Valley, home to the iconic Eye of God Mountain.

17:30 Arrive at our exclusive wilderness campsite nestled right in front of the majestic Eye of God Mountain. Settle in, set up your tents, take a refreshing shower, and unwind as the sun sets over the valley.

19:30 Enjoy dinner and chat around the campfire. If the weather is clear, you can stargaze in the quiet mountain atmosphere before spending the night in your tent.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 6hrs/ Treking 1 hr/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 2: Camping Site - Quay Son - Khuoi Ki Village - Ban Gioc Waterfall

07:00 Wake up to the fresh morning air of Na Ma Valley. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the campsite before packing your belongings, checking out of the tents, and preparing for the day's journey.

08:00 Board the vehicle and depart for the Trung Khanh district, winding through the spectacular limestone landscapes and rolling hills of the border region.

10:00 Arrive at the trailhead. After picking up your water and picnic supplies, begin a magnificent 10 km trek along the banks of the emerald Quay Son River. This scenic trail weaves through peaceful, hidden ethnic villages. Note: Depending on the seasonal water levels, we may enjoy a refreshing wade across shallow river points along the route.

12:30 Find a shaded, picturesque spot right by the river or inside a tranquil village clearing to sit down and enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

16:00 Reach the ancient Khuoi Ki Stone Village, famous for its unique, centuries-old Tay ethnic stone houses. Check into your traditional local homestay, drop off your gear, and cool down with a refreshing drink. Shortly after, a quick vehicle transfer brings you to the magnificent Ban Gioc Waterfall. Spend the late afternoon exploring, capturing incredible photos, and standing in awe before one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic natural wonders.

18:00 Transfer back to Khuoi Ki Stone Village. Take a warm shower, unwind, and rest your legs after an active day of exploration.

19:00 Savor a delicious, home-cooked dinner featuring authentic local specialties prepared by your hosts. The rest of the evening is yours to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or enjoy the serene, timeless atmosphere of the stone village at your own leisure.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 1hr/ Treking 3hrs/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 3 - Khuoi Ki Village - Nguom Ngao Cave - Cao Bang - Hanoi

07:30 Enjoy your final breakfast in the peaceful stone village of Khuoi Ki. Pack your belongings, check out of the homestay, and load your luggage onto the vehicle to continue the journey.

08:30 Take a short, scenic drive through the morning mist to the entrance of the spectacular Nguom Ngao Cave.

09:15 Upon arrival at the cave entrance, receive your safety briefing, gear up with protective equipment, and collect your drinking water. Embark on a captivating 2-hour walking journey deep into Nguom Ngao Cave. Follow your guide through majestic underground chambers filled with surreal, multi-colored stalactite and stalagmite formations. 

11:30 Emerge at the back entrance of the cave system. Gather the group for a memorable final team photo before boarding the vehicle and heading toward Quang Uyen district.

12:30 Arrive in the bustling mountain town of Quang Uyen. Sit down at a local restaurant to enjoy a hearty, authentic lunch to recharge for the journey back south.

13:30 Depart Quang Uyen and begin the drive back to the capital. The vehicle will make 1 or 2 comfortable rest stops along the route to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or buy local snacks.

20:30 Arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi, marking the official end of your unforgettable Cao Bang Trekking Odyssey.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 6 hrs/ Caving 2 hrs/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

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Inclusion:

  • Round trip vehicle: Hanoi - Cao Bang - Hanoi
  • English speaking guide 
  • All meals indicated in the daily itinerary.
  • 01 night camping
  • 01 night at village homestays 
  • Drinking water & snack everyday
  • Trekking poles
  • All entrance fees and permit
  • Domestic travel insurance

Exclusion:

  • Additional food and beverages not stated in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Tips
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

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Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Trekking pole
  • First-aid kit 

What to bring: 

  • 20L trekking backpack 
  • Trekking shoes or boots
  • A pair of sandals to use at night.
  • Clothing by season:
  • + Summer: Lightweight, breathable long-sleeved clothing, sun hat/cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, and trekking gloves. 
  • + Winter: Warm layers (thermal base layers, fleece jacket, down jacket), a beanie/warm hat, and insulated gloves.
  • Raincoat or poncho.
  • Electronics: Mobile phone, camera, power bank, ...
  • Personal medications
  • Reusable water bottle
  • ID or Passport

Also recommended:

  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Pocket knife or multi-tool
TOUR EQUIPMENT
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Trekking Notes

  • Distance: The trekking route on day 2 is approximately 10km.
  • Terrain: Our trekking route will not be challenging in terms of elevation, although we will need to climb some small hills. Most of the time, we will walk along trails connecting one village to another. Some sections will pass through forested areas, but they are not too dense. The trail is not difficult, but proper trekking shoes or trail running shoes are recommended. Sandals can also be used for trekking.
  • Suitability: This route is ideal for most fitness levels, including beginners. Families arewelcome, children from 10 years old are eligible to participate.

2. Nguom Ngao Cave Walking Tour Notes

  • Terrain & Trail Conditions: The interior of Nguom Ngao Cave features a well-maintained, concrete walking path equipped with a handrail system for your safety. While the trail avoids vertical climbing or technical scrambling, the path can be consistently wet, slick, and uneven due to natural cave dripping and high humidity.
  • Suitability: This 2-hour underground walk is classified as Easy to Moderate. It requires basic physical fitness and steady balance but no specialized caving experience. There are occasional short staircases and low-ceiling clearance sections where you will need to duck slightly. It is highly accessible for active travelers of almost all ages.

3. Camping and Homestay

  • Camping: Guests will be accommodated in private, high-quality tents at an exclusive campsite operated in partnership with Ecocamp. To guarantee a restful night's sleep in nature, each tent is fully outfitted with comfortable mattresses, clean pillows, and cozy blankets. The campsite is thoughtfully equipped with restrooms, hot showers, and modern functional facilities, seamlessly blending raw outdoor adventure with essential comfort.
  • Homestay: In Khuoi Ki, the overnight stay is hosted inside traditional, centuries-old Tay ethnic stone houses. Depending on your booking timeline and group size, accommodations will be arranged either in a spacious, beautifully maintained communal house (traditional single-floor raised platform layout) or in dedicated private rooms tailored for groups of 2, 3, 4, or more. The heritage homestay is fully equipped with clean western-style restrooms and reliable hot showers to help you unwind after a rewarding day on the trail.

4. Food & Water

  • Meals: All meals showcase authentic, hearty local cuisine designed to replenish your energy after active outdoor sessions. Breakfasts are served hot at the homestay accompanied by tea or coffee. Depending on the day's itinerary, lunches are either enjoyed fresh at the homestay or packed as a scenic picnic lunch along the trekking route. Dinners feature a diverse spread of regional dishes prepared by our local hosts.
  • Water & Energy: Clean, safe drinking water and energy-boosting snacks (such as fresh fruits or local treats) are supplied daily during the tour. 
  • Hot Beverages: Complimentary hot tea or coffee is generally available during breakfasts at the campsite & homestay.

5. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable Reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). Refill stations will be provided throughout the trip.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

6. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical Fitness: Please maintain a regular walking routine of approximately 5–7 km per day in the weeks leading up to the tour to ensure you are adequately prepared for the trek.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.