Blog Vietnam Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Cao Bang

Cao Bang, located in Vietnam's far north, is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including the spectacular Ban Gioc Waterfall, limestone mountains, lush forests, and serene rivers. Known for its tranquility and unspoiled landscapes, Cao Bang offers travelers a glimpse of untouched natural wonders. While Cao Bang is beautiful year-round, each season offers unique sights and experiences. Here’s a guide to help you decide the best time to visit.

1. Spring (March to May)

• Weather: Spring in Cao Bang is mild and pleasant, with temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F). Rainfall is low, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
• Highlights:
• Blossoming Flowers: The landscapes come alive with blooming flowers, including peach blossoms and plum blossoms, adding pops of color to the valleys and mountains.
• Ban Gioc Waterfall: Spring is a great time to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall, as the water flows steadily, and the lush green surroundings make it a picturesque sight.
• Hiking and Trekking: Spring’s mild temperatures are ideal for exploring the region’s mountains and caves, such as the famous Nguom Ngao Cave.

2. Summer (June to August)

• Weather: Summer in Cao Bang is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F) and regular rainfall, especially in July and August.
• Highlights:
• Full, Powerful Waterfall: The summer rains bring Ban Gioc Waterfall to its most powerful and majestic state, with strong flows creating a dramatic sight.
• Lush Green Landscapes: The rainfall turns Cao Bang’s landscape into a vibrant green paradise, ideal for scenic photography and exploring the countryside.
• Fewer Tourists: Despite the beauty, summer is considered the low season for tourists, so it’s a quieter time to experience Cao Bang’s attractions.

3. Autumn (September to November)

• Weather: Autumn is one of the best times to visit Cao Bang, with temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F), lower humidity, and clear skies. Rainfall decreases, making the weather perfect for exploration.
• Highlights:
• Ban Gioc Waterfall at Its Finest: In autumn, the waterfall is at a stable flow with turquoise water, and the surrounding fields turn golden as the rice ripens for harvest.
• Rice Harvest Season: The rice terraces around Ban Gioc and other areas turn golden, creating a stunning contrast with the green forests and mountains, making it one of the most photogenic times to visit.
• Clear and Comfortable Conditions: Autumn’s dry and cool weather is ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, biking, and river cruises.

4. Winter (December to February)

• Weather: Winter in Cao Bang is cool, with temperatures around 10-20°C (50-68°F). Some areas, especially at higher altitudes, may experience colder temperatures and occasional frost.
• Highlights:
• Serene and Peaceful Atmosphere: Winter brings a calm, misty atmosphere to Cao Bang, making it perfect for travelers who enjoy a peaceful experience.
• Clear Water in Ban Gioc Waterfall: The waterfall’s flow is more moderate, but the water often turns a clearer blue-green, adding to the scenic appeal.
• Local Festivals and Tet Celebrations: If you visit in January or early February, you might witness Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) celebrations, where ethnic communities in the area showcase traditional customs, dances, and foods.
  

Best hotels & hostels in Cao Bang

Cao Bang, located in northern Vietnam, is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including the Ban Gioc Waterfall, karst mountains, and caves. While it’s a bit more remote than other popular destinations, there are great hotels, hostels, and homestays offering comfort and local charm. Here are some of the best places to stay in Cao Bang.

Mid-Range Hotels

• Saigon - Ban Gioc Resort
• The only resort close to the Ban Gioc Waterfall, offering scenic views and modern amenities in a tranquil setting.
• Features: Comfortable rooms, restaurant with Vietnamese cuisine, garden, views of the waterfall and mountains.
• Jeanne Hotel Cao Bang
• Located in Cao Bang city, this hotel provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities and easy access to the city’s attractions.
• Features: Spacious rooms, on-site restaurant, 24-hour reception, city and mountain views.

Budget-Friendly Hostels and Homestays

• Primrose Homestay Cao Bang
• A popular homestay in Cao Bang city, known for its cozy, welcoming atmosphere and attentive hosts.
• Features: Comfortable rooms, free breakfast, shared kitchen, friendly hosts who can help arrange tours.
• Tran Xuan Homestay
• Located in the countryside near Cao Bang city, this homestay offers a peaceful retreat with views of mountains and rice paddies.
• Features: Family-style meals, private and dorm rooms, bicycle rentals, guided village tours.
• Cao Bang Eco Homestay
• A tranquil homestay with rustic charm, offering a glimpse into rural life in Cao Bang.
• Features: Wooden stilt houses, local meals, outdoor seating, nature tours and trekking.

Unique Stays and Eco-Lodges

• Pac Bo Homestay
• Situated near the historic Pac Bo Cave, this homestay is perfect for travelers interested in history and nature.
• Features: Simple rooms, cultural insights, proximity to Pac Bo Cave, locally sourced meals.
• Mr. Kim’s Homestay
• A friendly, rustic homestay that provides both dormitory and private rooms, with beautiful views and traditional decor.
• Features: Cultural experiences, homemade food, bike rentals, close to various trekking routes.

How to get there

Cao Bang, located in the far north of Vietnam, is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including the famous Ban Gioc Waterfall. Here’s a guide on how to get there from Hanoi:

1. By Bus

Traveling by bus is a common, budget-friendly way to reach Cao Bang from Hanoi.

• Duration: Approximately 8-9 hours.
• Departure Points: Buses depart from My Dinh, Gia Lam, or Yen Nghia Bus Stations in Hanoi, with both daytime and overnight options.
• Types of Buses: You can choose from standard sleeper buses or more comfortable limousine buses.

2. By Private Car or Taxi

Hiring a private car or taxi is a comfortable and flexible option, ideal for families or small groups.

• Duration: About 6-7 hours.
• Benefits: This option allows you to make stops along the way for sightseeing or breaks, such as at Thac Gio Waterfall or Khuoi Ky Old Stone Village.

3. By Motorbike

For experienced riders, taking a motorbike to Cao Bang is a scenic and adventurous journey through Vietnam's northern landscapes.

• Duration: Approximately 8-10 hours depending on the route and stops.
• Routes: The most popular route is Highway 3, which takes you through Thai Nguyen and Bac Kan provinces. You can also take alternative routes to include additional scenic stops along the way.
• Requirements: Ensure you’re experienced in riding a motorbike on mountain roads and have a valid license, as the roads can be winding and challenging.

4. By Tour Package

Many Hanoi-based tour companies offer multi-day guided tours to Cao Bang, often including stops at other northern highlights like Bản Giốc Waterfall and Pac Bo Cave.

• Duration: Typically 2-4 days, depending on the itinerary.
• Inclusions: Tour packages usually include transportation, accommodation, meals, and planned activities, making this an easy, comprehensive option.

How to get around

Cao Bang, a mountainous province in northern Vietnam, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the famous Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nguom Ngao Cave, and peaceful riverside villages. Getting around Cao Bang is a bit challenging due to the remote terrain, but it’s worth it for the scenic beauty and cultural immersion. Here’s a guide to exploring Cao Bang:

1. Motorbike Rental

• Best For: Independent travelers and those comfortable with mountainous roads.
• Description: Renting a motorbike is one of the best ways to explore Cao Bang’s attractions, including Ban Gioc Waterfall and Nguom Ngao Cave. The province has a network of winding roads through valleys, mountains, and ethnic minority villages, making the journey itself part of the adventure. You can rent motorbikes in Cao Bang City.
• Popular Routes:
• Cao Bang City ➔ Ban Gioc Waterfall: A scenic 85 km ride with views of the Quay Son River, karst peaks, and rice terraces.
• Cao Bang City ➔ Pac Bo Cave: A 50 km ride to this historic cave where Ho Chi Minh lived after returning from China.
• Tips:
• Be cautious, as roads are winding and can be steep. Beginners may find the route to Ban Gioc challenging.
• Make sure to check your bike’s condition before setting off, especially if traveling longer distances.

2. Guided Motorbike or Jeep Tours

• Best For: Those who want the flexibility of a motorbike ride without the stress of navigating.
• Description: Guided motorbike tours are a popular option in Cao Bang, where local guides lead you to remote spots, hidden caves, and traditional villages. Jeep tours are also available for those who prefer to sit back and enjoy the ride.
• Advantages:
• Guides are familiar with the roads and can safely navigate mountain paths.
• Local guides can provide insights about the culture and history, adding depth to your experience.
• Tips:
• Private or small-group tours offer a more personalized experience.
• Ask for recommendations on reputable guides who speak English if you’d like more in-depth information about the sites.

3. Private Car with Driver

• Best For: Families, groups, and travelers who prefer a more comfortable experience.
• Description: Hiring a private car with a driver is a convenient and comfortable way to see Cao Bang’s remote attractions, especially for those not comfortable with motorbiking. This is also a great option for visiting places like Ban Gioc Waterfall and Nguom Ngao Cave, as you’ll have a local driver familiar with the mountain roads.
• Suggested Itinerary by Private Car:
• Ban Gioc Waterfall and Nguom Ngao Cave: A classic day trip from Cao Bang City.
• Pac Bo Cave and Lenin Stream: A historic site with serene surroundings, suitable for a half-day trip.
• Tips:
• Book through a reputable agency or your accommodation to ensure fair prices and reliability.
• Discuss your itinerary with the driver to make sure all your stops are included, as some remote areas may be less accessible.

4. Local Buses and Minibuses

• Best For: Budget-conscious travelers and short routes between popular spots.
• Description: Local buses and minibuses are available in Cao Bang, mainly connecting Cao Bang City to nearby districts and towns. Buses can take you from the city to areas like Ban Gioc, but they are often slower and less frequent, making them best for flexible schedules.
• Common Routes:
• Cao Bang City ➔ Ban Gioc Waterfall: Local buses make this trip, though it may take longer and have multiple stops.
• Cao Bang City ➔ Pac Bo Cave: A shorter bus route for those visiting the historical site.
• Tips:
• Local buses may not have strict schedules, so check times with your accommodation or locals.
• Expect fewer amenities on local buses and be prepared for long waits if traveling during off-peak hours.

5. Bicycle Rental

• Best For: Exploring villages and scenic spots near Cao Bang City.
• Description: Biking is an option for travelers who want to explore the countryside at a slower pace. It’s best for short rides, such as around Cao Bang City or along quieter village roads, as the mountain roads can be challenging.
• Suggested Routes:
• Local Villages near Cao Bang City: Enjoyable routes for shorter trips to nearby villages, with beautiful mountain views.
• Tips:
• Be prepared for some hilly terrain; mountain bikes are more suitable than regular bikes.
• Start your ride early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, especially in summer.

6. Walking / Hiking

• Best For: Exploring specific sites, such as caves, waterfalls, and nearby villages.
• Description: Some of Cao Bang’s sites, like Nguom Ngao Cave and Ban Gioc Waterfall, require walking short distances to fully explore. Additionally, Cao Bang has several trails that allow for scenic hikes through rural areas and forests, where you can see traditional houses, rice terraces, and unique rock formations.
• Popular Hiking Spots:
• Nguom Ngao Cave: Known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
• Pac Bo Cave and Lenin Stream: A historical and natural spot perfect for a short, scenic hike.
• Tips:
• Wear comfortable shoes, as trails can be rocky and uneven.
• Bring a flashlight for caves like Nguom Ngao, as some areas are dimly li

Top Experiences in Cao Bang

Cao Bang, a remote province in northern Vietnam near the Chinese border, is known for its stunning natural beauty, dramatic karst landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. From awe-inspiring waterfalls to ancient caves and ethnic minority villages, Cao Bang offers a variety of experiences for adventurous travelers. Here are the top experiences in Cao Bang:

1. Admiring the Majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall

• Overview: Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in Asia, located on the border between Vietnam and China.
• What to Expect: The waterfall is split by a border line and features multiple cascades that drop into emerald-green pools. Visitors can take bamboo raft rides to get close to the falls or hike around to enjoy different viewpoints.
• Best Time to Visit: September to October, after the rainy season, when the waterfall is at its most powerful and the surrounding scenery is lush and green.

2. Exploring Nguom Ngao Cave

• Overview: Just a few kilometers from Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nguom Ngao Cave is an impressive limestone cave with fascinating stalactites and stalagmites.
• What to Expect: The cave stretches over 2 kilometers, but only a portion is open to visitors. Inside, you’ll find intricate rock formations and natural sculptures, some resembling animals and mythical creatures.
• Unique Features: The cave has several chambers and underground rivers, making it a cool, tranquil spot to explore after visiting Ban Gioc.
• Local Insight: The cave's name, "Nguom Ngao," means "Tiger Cave" in the Tay language, as it was believed to be home to tigers in ancient times.

3. Visiting Pac Bo Historical Site

• Overview: Pac Bo Cave is a significant historical site where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked upon returning to Vietnam in 1941 after years of exile.
• What to Expect: The site includes Ho Chi Minh’s modest living quarters, Lenin Stream, and Karl Marx Mountain. The clear blue waters of the stream and the peaceful surroundings make it an interesting stop for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Highlights: Walk along the Lenin Stream, where Ho Chi Minh used to fish, and visit Coc Bo Cave, where he composed many works that contributed to the Vietnamese independence movement.
• Cultural Insight: Pac Bo offers a glimpse into the hardships of Ho Chi Minh’s life during the independence struggle and is a pilgrimage site for many Vietnamese.

4. Taking in the Views from Phia Thap Village

• Overview: Phia Thap is a traditional incense-making village belonging to the Nung ethnic minority.
• What to Expect: Here, you can witness the process of making incense sticks by hand, from drying bamboo to infusing the sticks with herbal scents. The villagers are happy to share their craft and stories, providing a warm, authentic experience.
• Cultural Insight: The Nung people have been making incense for generations, using natural ingredients from the nearby forests.
• Bonus: Phia Thap is located in a picturesque area surrounded by green hills and valleys, making it a peaceful stop on your Cao Bang itinerary.

5. Trekking Through Cao Bang Geopark

Overview: A UNESCO-recognized Global Geopark, Non Nuoc Cao Bang is known for its unique karst formations, waterfalls, caves, and biodiversity.

Experience: There are numerous trekking routes through the geopark, passing through rice terraces, limestone mountains, and villages of the Tay, Nung, and Dao ethnic groups.

Highlights: Trails often include visits to local villages where you can learn about traditional crafts and sample local foods. Phia Oac and Phia Den mountains are also part of the park and offer great views.

Best Time for Trekking: The ideal time to explore the geopark is from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry.

6. Exploring Thang Hen Lake System

• Overview: Thang Hen Lake is part of a system of 36 interconnected lakes surrounded by mountains and forests, located about 30 kilometers from Cao Bang city.
• What to Expect: The lake’s water level changes dramatically with the seasons, and the color of the water varies from emerald green to turquoise. It’s a great place for photography, hiking, and relaxing by the lakeshore.
• Unique Feature: In the rainy season, the lakes can join to form a single body of water, while in the dry season, they separate again into individual lakes, each with its unique charm.
• Local Insight: The area around Thang Hen is home to Tay ethnic villages, where visitors can enjoy local hospitality and learn about their customs and cuisine.

7. Sampling Cao Bang’s Traditional Cuisine

• Overview: Cao Bang offers a distinctive cuisine influenced by its mountainous setting and ethnic diversity.
• Must-Try Dishes:
• Banh Cuon Cao Bang: A unique version of steamed rice rolls served with a hot bone broth rather than the usual dipping sauce.
• Roasted Duck: Duck marinated with local herbs and honey, then slow-roasted for a tender, flavorful dish.
• Sour Noodle Soup (Pho Chua): A Cao Bang specialty, this noodle dish has a tangy broth, peanuts, and thinly sliced pork, often served cold.
• Where to Try: Local markets and eateries in Cao Bang city offer authentic options, and many village homestays serve traditional dishes made with local ingredients.

8. Hiking to the Top of Mat Than Mountain (God's Eye Mountain)

• Overview: Known locally as Mat Than, this limestone mountain has a natural hole near its peak that resembles an “eye,” giving it its name.
• What to Expect: Hiking to the mountain provides incredible views of the surrounding valleys and rice paddies, and the “eye” adds a mystical element to the landscape.
• Unique Feature: It’s a photographer’s paradise, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun casts dramatic shadows across the mountains.
• Tips: The trail can be challenging in some spots, so it’s best for moderate to experienced hikers.

9.Participating in Local Markets and Festivals

• Overview: Local markets in Cao Bang are bustling, colorful gatherings where ethnic communities buy, sell, and trade goods, socialize, and wear traditional attire.
• What to Expect: Popular market days vary by village, with stalls offering fresh produce, herbs, handmade textiles, and local handicrafts.
• Cultural Events: Cao Bang’s ethnic communities celebrate several unique festivals, including the Long Tong Festival (a Tay New Year celebration) and the Cap Sac Ceremony (a Dao coming-of-age ritual).
• Tip: Visit the markets early in the morning to see the full range of local products and watch the vibrant interactions among locals.

Cao Bang Tour