Dont Visit Cao Bang, Vietnam Without Knowing These 6 Basics

Don't Visit Cao Bang, Vietnam Without Knowing These 6 Basics

One of the best places to visit in Vietnam is Cao Bang, a fascinating tourist destination with important remnants from the revolutionary era in this S-shaped country. As Vietnam’s second UNESCO World Heritage site, Cao Bang, with its green hills, towering mountains, serene lakes, and stunning waterfalls, resembles an impressionist painting. 

Furthermore, tourists are drawn to this city not only for its beautiful landscapes but also for its rich culture and traditional cuisine. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, exploring centuries-old caves, or trekking through breathtaking mountain passes, Cao Bằng is a well-kept secret in Northern Vietnam, offering some of the most pristine, unspoiled landscapes in Southeast Asia.

Here are some top reasons why you should visit Cao Bằng. This article will help you discover what to see and offers a list of 6 essential things you need to know to make the most of your visit to this remarkable region.

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Written by Oliver PHUNG (Local expert)Updated on 08-10-2024
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Key Takeaways

  • Location: Cao Bang is located in the northeast of Vietnam, next to China.
  • Best Time to Visit: August to September for waterfalls, November to December for wildflowers, and winter for snow at Phia Oac Mountain.
  • Must-See Attractions: Ban Gioc Waterfall, Phong Nam Valley, Nguom Ngao Cave, and Khuoi Ky Stone Village.
  • Activities: Hiking, trekking, visiting traditional craft villages, and staying in local homestays.
  • Cuisine: Cao Bang dumplings, Ant egg cake, Ap Chao cake, Trung Khanh chestnut
  • Travel Options: Sleeper buses, private cars or motorbikes from Hanoi are good means of transport.
  • Note: Bring extra cash, as very few businesses, including homestays, accept cards. Outside Cao Bang city, ATMs are scarce.

1. Where Exactly Is Cao Bang Located?

Cao Bang is a hidden jewel of North-East Vietnam, just 250 kilometers from Hanoi (around a 5-hour drive), inviting both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The landscape consists of rugged mountains, green hills, and attractive caves. Cao Bang city, the region's core location, lies along the Bang Giang River, about thirty kilometers (nineteen miles) from Guangxi Province in China. 

From northern Vietnam, Cao Bang is located near the border with Guangxi Province (China)
From northern Vietnam, Cao Bang is located near the border with Guangxi Province (China)

In addition, travelers will also discover remarkable flora and fauna, pristine waterfalls, and streams that seamlessly blend into the landscape. It’s no surprise that much of Cao Bang has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark, celebrating the region's incredible richness and diversity.

2. When Are The Best Times To Visit?

Cao Bang Province offers unique natural beauty that's well worth a visit. The climate features two distinct seasons: the rainy season from April to September, and the dry season from October to March. Each season brings its own charm to Cao Bang, as seasoned travelers will tell you.

The best months to visit Cao Bang, the region's natural wonders are August and September, when the weather is cool and dry. During this time, the waterfalls are particularly impressive, offering a breathtaking spectacle.

The panorama of Cao Bang with the emblematic Ban Gioc waterfall

In November and December, the Cao Bang Mountains are adorned with wildflowers, including cornflowers and marigolds, creating a picturesque landscape.

What's even more captivating is the thick clouds of fog that drift in, adding a magical touch unique to the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam. Early spring brings forests of blooming peach and apricot trees, offering an exceptional display of colors.

In winter, from December to January, snow falls on the peak of Phia Oac Mountain in Cao Bang - Image Source: Vietnam express

For those craving adventure, winter in Cao Bang is the perfect time for snow hunting. Phia Oac National Park, often called the second "roof" of Cao Bang due to its nearly 2,000-meter altitude, features stunning natural landscapes, a refreshing climate, and steadily dipping temperatures, creating the ideal conditions for snow to blanket the area.

Worth Knowing: During the rainy season, rivers and waterfalls, such as Bản Giốc, are at their fullest, creating stunning photo opportunities. However, be prepared for slippery conditions on trekking paths. Winter visitors can expect snow at Phia Oac Mountain, offering a rare opportunity for snow treks in Vietnam.

>>> Get more details about Vietnam Travel Tips

3. How To Get There?

If you've departed from northern Vietnam and are eyeing a trip to Cao Bang, you've got a couple of ways to get there: you can either hop on a sleeper bus or roll in a private car. However, if you have elders or little ones tagging along, opting for the private car route is a smart choice as it's comfier and safer for them. Additionally, for the thrill-seekers out there, buzzing through on a motorbike might be more your speed.

A sleeper bus from Hanoi to Cao Bang

However, if you're looking to save money without sacrificing comfort, our tip is catching a sleeper bus from Hanoi to Cao Bang could be your ticket. Furthermore, if you're arriving from the south or cruising from the central region, flying into Hanoi is your best bet.

From there, you can hitch a ride to Cao Bang using the same travel options mentioned earlier. And if you plan to spend some time chilling in Hanoi before making your way to Cao Bang, booking an airport pickup ahead of time is a savvy move. It saves you the headache of hunting down a taxi or fiddling with public transit.

4. Things To Do In Cao Bang

  • Ban Gioc Waterfall

The Picturesque beauty of Ban Gioc Falls

Ban Gioc Falls stands tall as one of Southeast Asia's greatest natural wonders, and largest waterfall in Vietnam perched right on the border between China and Vietnam (Detian and Ban Gioc). China lays claim to the upper part, while Vietnam boasts the lower part. With a colossal waterfall over 60 meters high, and measuring 300 meters wide tumbling down in cascading layers of rock, the Quay Son River charges through, painting a picture of green mountains and tranquility.

Fun fact: it's the world's 4th largest waterfall on a national border, trailing behind big names like Iguazu, Victoria, and Niagara Falls.
It's the world's 4th largest waterfall on a national border, trailing behind big names like Iguazu, Victoria, and Niagara Fall
Marvel at the majestic Ban Gioc Falls in Cao Bang (our dear travelers)

For the ultimate Ban Gioc experience, plan your visit between September and October. That's when the water dances with abundance, putting on a show with its frothy white waves.

Near the falls lies Truc Lam Buddhist Temple, a perfect spot to recharge and commune with nature. Imagine gazing out over the plains, the distant murmur of Ban Gioc Falls serenading you, while lush green mountains cradle you.

Truc Lam Pagoda
Truc Lam Pagoda

>>> Ban Gioc Waterfall Tourism Festival 2024 (02/09/2024 Updated): The Trung Khanh Festival will occur on October 13-14, 2024, which will be very interesting to international travelers. Taking place near the extraordinary Ban Gioc Waterfall, the festival focuses on promoting local customs and traditions such as a food fair, drama of wandering boy and yangge lion dance , intercultural relation with Guangxi in China, and adventurous sports, like mountain biking and kayaking in Quay Son river.

The fair is a welcomed break for a lot of visitors and encourages them to join more active stay in Vietnam – with its amazing nature and the true warmth of the peoples’ hearts of this part of the world. For the latest information on this cultural event, stay updated with Kampá Tour!

Vào lễ hội Thác Bản Giốc 2024, Cao Bằng đã xác nhận được kỷ lục  Hội Kỷ lục gia Việt Nam đọc Quyết định màn xác lập kỷ lục số lượng người hát Then đàn Tính lớn nhất Việt Nam.
At the Thác Bản Giốc Festival 2023, the Vietnam Record Association announced the decision to set the record for the largest number of people playing the Then and Tính instruments in Vietnam.
  • Phong Nam Valley

One of the secret favorite attractions in Cao Bang is Phong Nam Valley. This serene location, nestled in the Trung Khanh district and just a 45-minute drive from Ban Gioc Waterfall, features majestic limestone formations surrounded by rivers, rice terraces, and quaint villages. Reminiscent of Ninh Binh Province but without the crowds, Phong Nam Valley remains largely undiscovered by tourists, enhancing its allure.

Shot by Cao Ky Nhan, 40, from Ho Chi Minh City, the photo "Ripe Rice Valley" won a gold prize at the 2022 Epson International Pano Awards. He is the only Vietnamese to achieve this honor.

Considered one of Vietnam’s most stunning locales for rice terraces, the valley offers a perfect escape to appreciate nature’s beauty. Enveloped by rivers, mountains, and traditional houses, it’s a place to let go of daily stresses and find peace.

Phong Nam Valley is a must-see attraction for your itinerary to Cao Bang
Phong Nam Valley is a must-see attraction for your itinerary to Cao Bang

Visitors can also discover the local villages to gain insight into the lives of the residents. Predominantly inhabited by the Tay ethnic group, these communities maintain a slow-paced life centered around farming and forestry, preserving their unique cultural heritage.

There are two things to do in the valley:

  • Take a leisurely walk along the paths leading to the end of the valley to see the waterfall. The distance is around 3-4 kilometers from the valley's starting point.
  • Hike up to the viewpoint, which takes about an hour. The trail can be difficult to find and navigate, so it’s recommended to have a guide who can help locate the trailhead and lead the way.
  • The ancestral stone village of Khuoi Ky

Less than 3 kilometers from Ban Gioc Waterfall lies the ancient stone village of Khuoi Ky, a cultural gem in Cao Bang. Home to 14 households of the Tay ethnic group, this village dates back to the Mac dynasty (1594 - 1677) when a citadel was erected for protection.

Steeped in history since the 16th century, Khuoi Ky stone village stands as a captivating testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Tay people
After centuries, this village is still well preserved
After centuries, this village is still well preserved

Picture stilt houses crafted from stone, resembling sturdy fortresses that have stood the test of time, preserving their allure. The tradition of honoring the stone spirit is deeply rooted in the locals' ancestral customs, adding a sacred ambiance to the village.

While in Khuoi Ky, one can experience the age-old practice of stone masonry brought from their ancestors or try their hands on the local agricultural works. So, a stop in Khuoi Ky promises to enrich your trip by allowing you to participate in a multitude of activities alongside the locals. A life lulled by mountains and forests will soothe your soul.

  • Traditional craft villages

Cao Bang is, above all else, a farming province where traditional craft villages continue to play an important role in the lives of the Tay and Nung minorities.

The cultural and trade villages in Quang Uyen District are most famous. There are five villages developed in a particular way that displays their creative skills by which they have been living for ages. 

Visitors can visit Phia Thap incense village, where they will learn how locals create fragrant incense sticks by hand from locally grown herbs and wood. These incense sticks make a meaningful souvenir to take home.

Additionally, can experience the historic village of tiles, the forging village, the village of the meticulous art of papermaking, and the vividly spinning, weaving, and indigo dyeing one: the villages will make real what is timeless tradition and brilliant craftsmanship of Cao Bang.

Phia Thap incense village
Phia Thap incense village
 
Lung Ri Roof tile making village
Lung Ri Roof tile making village
 
Lung Ri
Lung Ri

Strolling through the village you'll encounter buffaloes grazing farmers tending to their fields and majestic mountains on the horizon offering a tranquil and genuine atmosphere. Most importantly, this place hasn't been exploited much by tourism, so it's a truly off-the-beaten-path place.

Our travellers to the village of Phia Thap
Our travellers to the village of Pia Thap
  • Nguom Ngao cave

The mysterious Nguom Ngao cave stands as one of Vietnam's most magnificent natural wonders, second only to the famed caves of Phong Nha Ke Bang. Dating back to its discovery in 1921, this cave's origins trace back over 300 million years! While stretching for a little over 2 kilometers, only 1 kilometer is open to the public.

Nguom Ngao cave

However, in exciting news, a new tour named "Nguom Ngao Cave - part of Ban Thuon" is set to open, extending nearly 3 kilometers deeper into the cave. Visitors will have the chance to delve further into the cave by boat, encountering cliffs to climb, rafts to navigate, and streams to wade through in the darkness. These additions promise even more unforgettable and thrilling experiences for avid explorers and adventurers alike

Visitors coming here will experience rafting in the cave and sightseeing

Nguom Ngao boasts three entrances and is divided into various sections, such as the 'Four Celestial Columns' boasting impressive pillars, and the 'Jewels' area, renowned for its sparkling stalactites and stalagmites. Stepping into Nguom Ngao Cave, prepare to be enchanted by the breathtaking rock formations and vivid colors that adorn the interior of this natural marvel.

>>>> Embark on a North Vietnam Tours: A Journey Through Southeast Vietnam! 🌏🇻🇳

  • Mount Mat Than, the Eye of the Mountain Genius

Just 24 km from Cao Bang town, Mount Mat Than, affectionately known as the 'Eye of the Mountain Genius,' is a captivating destination for explorers. This remarkable site is part of a complex of 36 interconnected lakes known as Thang Hen Lake.

Yet, Magic Eye Mountain has a special environmental feature with two distinct seasons. In the wet season, cascading waterfalls replenish the lakes, transforming Nam Cha Lake (the seasonal name for the lake at Mat Than Mountain) into a gleaming mirror that reflects the surrounding peaks. This scene resembles a tranquil painting, complete with azure waters and serene rafts, all framed by towering mountains.

During the rainy season, the Eye of the Mountain Genius is engulfed by a tranquil lake, sculpting the terrain into a picturesque valley

During the dry season, the receding waters reveal a varied landscape of rolling hills and winding streams set against lush greenery, evoking a gentle, poetic atmosphere. This season is ideal for activities like camping, picnicking, trekking, and cycling, offering a unique way to engage with the natural beauty of Nam Cha Lake.

In the dry season, Mount Mat Than undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis, presenting itself as a majestic steppe, its vast expanse stretching into the horizon
In the dry season, Mount Mat Than undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis, presenting itself as a majestic steppe, its vast expanse stretching into the horizon

Year-round, whether in spring, summer, fall, or winter, the mystical 'Eye of the Mountain God' captivates visitors. Part of the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, this area not only offers stunning landscapes but also a wealth of historical and archaeological sites, making it a treasure trove for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts.

Camp overnight at Magic Eye Mountain
Camp overnight at Magic Eye Mountain

Good to know: Hikers should bring sturdy shoes, as the trail can be muddy, especially after the rainy season. For campers, the area around Thang Hen Lake offers picturesque spots to set up camp, but make sure to bring your supplies as there are no facilities nearby.

  • Hike or trek Through Cao Bang's spectacular landscapes

Experience the enchanting landscapes of the region by going on a hike or trek. Traverse the rolling hills, meandering valleys, verdant rice fields, and stunning limestone formations that create a mesmerizing panorama. Although the trails are rocky, they reward you with breathtaking views of distant towering peaks.

In Cao Bang province is the Khau Coc Cha Mountain Pass, beginning from Bao Lac; another pass that cannot afford to be missed. Although it doesn't belong to the classification of the "Four Great Passes," Khau Coc Cha has 15 steep inclines and 14 tight turns that absolutely captivate visitors. To fully appreciate it, ride up its serpentine road and hike up the forested hill to get a bird's eye view of the pass.

The Khau Coc Tra Pass winds its way like a serpent, snaking around the hills and mountains with its zigzag path

Bao Lac also acts as a gateway to the villages of diverse ethnic minorities, including the H'mong, Tày, Nùng, Dzao, Sanchay, and Lo Lo. Be sure to visit the vibrant Bao Lac market, which brings these communities together every five days according to the lunar calendar. This market offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich mosaic of cultures and traditions thriving in this captivating area.

The minority market is akin to a vibrant festival for ethnic traders, where women and men don their traditional costumes representing each unique ethnic group - Image source: Collected

>>> Find out the Top 10 Best Vietnam Trekking & Hiking Tours 2024

  • Stay with a local

Staying in a local homestay in Cao Bang isn't just about accommodation; it's an invitation to dive deep into the heart of the region. Upon arrival, you'll discover a tapestry of cultures woven together by the H'mong, Nùng, Dzao, Sanchay, Lo Lo, and Tay ethnic people (Ethnicity Vietnam), all renowned for their genuine hospitality.

Living among locals opens doors to unique experiences. You can try your hand at cooking traditional dishes, participate in local farming activities, or simply engage in conversations with your hosts about their way of life. It's these shared moments that make your stay truly memorable.

The typical houses of Cao Bang topped with Yin Yang tiles
  • Ba Quang burning grass hill

Just a one-hour drive from Ban Gioc Waterfall, Ba Quang Grass Hill is a haven for both amateur and professional photographers, offering a blend of wild, idyllic beauty and vast stretches of yellow grass.

This destination is the best choice for travelers who love trekking. Also known as Ba Quang Burnt Grass Hill, it showcases lush green grass stretching across the undulating hillsides from May to October each year.

A perfect place for healing
A perfect place for healing

From October to February of the following year, the grass hill enters the burning grass season, creating a scene full of poetic and impressive yellow and orange colors.

Ba Chay grass hill is vast
This location attracts many photographers

To fully appreciate Ba Quang Hill during the burning grass season, consider renting a tent and setting up camp. Imagine sitting in your tent, sipping hot cocoa while enjoying the panoramic view of the hill. The view from the top is a million-dollar vista that many photographers seek.

Visitors can camp overnight here
Visitors can camp overnight here

Fact: Golden grasses reaches its optimum beauty from the months of October to February hence this site is a favorite of many professional photographers. For enhanced experience, one may carry a drone to take an aerial view of the vast scenery.

>>> Explore Top 6 Best Places for Trekking in Vietnam

  • Visit important historical sites in Cao Bang

Cao Bang's historical significance dates back to the Franco-Vietnamese War. A key site is Pac Bo, a revolutionary landmark 52 km from downtown Cao Bang. This site marks the start of the Ho Chi Minh Road, symbolized by its "km 0" designation.

Pac Bo, Cao Bang, where the revered revolutionary leader Nguyen Ai Quoc, later known as Ho Chi Minh, resided and spearheaded the liberation movement after three decades of dedication. In Pac Bo, Ho Chi Minh orchestrated political and military training for revolutionary cadres from Cao Bang province. It was a hub for ideological discourse, with Ho Chi Minh conducting courses, translating seminal works like the History of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union into Vietnamese, and authoring revolutionary literature.

In 1941, leader Ho Chi Minh spent a significant portion of his time in the upstream area of Lenin Stream

The site includes the Ho Chi Minh Memorial, Coc Po Cave, Lung Lan Cave, Nguom Vai Cave, Lenin Stream, and the Ho Chi Minh Stone Worktable, all significant to Vietnam's struggle for independence.

5. What Are The Culinary Specialties Of Cao Bang?

In Cao Bang, Vietnamese dumplings, known as bánh cuốn, take on a special twist that sets them apart. Here, they're served with a sauce made from simmered pork broth, giving it a subtle sweetness. The thin pancakes, infused with the essence of rice grown in Cao Bang's fields, perfectly complement the flavorful sauce. Topped with minced meat, eggs, ham, chives, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of soaked and salted bamboo, it's a true culinary delight.

Cao Bang's ravioli

In addition, don't miss out on Ap Chao cake during your winter visit to Cao Bang loop! Resembling a donut, this treat surprises with its glutinous rice crust filled with savory duck meat. Served alongside a sweet and sour sauce, green papaya salad, and fresh herbs, it's a delightful twist on a classic.

Cao Bang crispy rice cake

For a truly unique culinary adventure, try the ant egg cake between April and May. Made with the tasty eggs of black forest ants, meticulously cleaned and cooked with dried onions, ground pork, roasted peanuts, and basil leaves, it's a flavor sensation. Note, however, that this dish may cause allergies for those sensitive to bugs or peanuts, so proceed with caution.

Ant larva cake

Finally, in July and August, indulge in Xôi Trám, a dish exclusive to Cao Bang. Soft and fluffy sticky rice infused with the slightly sweet flavor of local trám fruit creates a tantalizing combination that will leave you craving more.

6. A Visit To Cao Bang Can Be Combined With Which Itineraries In Northern Vietnam?

A trip to Cao Bang fits seamlessly into any northern Vietnam adventure, tailored to your interests and time frame. Nestled near the famed Ha Giang Loop, known for its scenic mountain routes, Cao Bang promises stunning landscapes and rich cultural immersion.

Just a three-hour drive away lies Ba Be Lake, a haven of natural wonders. Pairing a visit to Cao Bang with a trip to Ba Be allows you to discover waterfalls, lakes, caves, and experience the traditional lifestyle of local ethnic groups.

You can combine Ha Giang, Cao Bang and Ba Be in one trip
You can combine Ha Giang, Cao Bang and Ba Be in one trip

>>> Get your best Northern Vietnam Itineraries

In essence, Cao Bang serves as the perfect hub for exploring northern Vietnam. With various itineraries to choose from, you can craft a journey that suits your schedule and passions, ensuring a fulfilling travel experience.

The Bottom Line

Cao Bang shines as a top destination for nature enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Its awe-inspiring landscapes, deep-rooted history, and lively traditions make it an enticing choice for adventurers looking to veer off the beaten path. We believe this travel guide has offered valuable insights into the wonders of Cao Bang, sparking inspiration for your next Vietnamese escapade. Visit our website today to explore detailed tours of this historical northern province in Vietnam!

>>> Discover more attractive destinations in Vietnam: 

>>> See more about things to do in Vietnam by month:

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1/5.In which geographical region of Vietnam can one find the rice terraces?
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Comments (14)
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CS
Catherine Sinclair28 Sep 2024
Thanks for the detailed article. But, Any news on getting to Cao Bang after Yagi typhoon? Is it safe to go see Ban Gioc Falls?
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KT
Kampá Tour28 Sep 2024

Hi Catherine!

The weather is now back to normal, the remnants of the storm are now being repaired and cleaned up by the authorities. If you go next month, everything will really be back to normal and it will be worth a visit.

(0)Reply
M
Mason17 Aug 2024
Hi, I'm looking to plan a combined Ha Giang and Cao Bang tour for my family of x5 adults in Sep 2024. Thinking about 4D3N private easy rider for Ha Giang loop, however would love to add Cao Bang too. Do you have any recommendations for good tours for the above? Should I try to book it myself online while still in the USA, or would I get a better deal booking when I get to Hanoi? Reading online, seems to be a challenge to organise Ha Giang to Cao Bang transport, seems like Cao Bang tours usually start from Hanoi instead? Thanks in advance for any tips!
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KT
Kampá Tour20 Aug 2024

Kampá Tour is pleased to present our "Vietnam's Northern Charms in 2 Weeks" itinerary. This tour allows you to immerse yourself in the unique culinary delights, breathtaking landscapes, and rich culture of Vietnam's northern mountainous region. Should the duration of this itinerary not suit your preferences, we would be delighted to customize a tour tailored to your specific needs.

Thank you for considering Kampá Tour for your travel plans.

(0)Reply
R
Robert10 Aug 2024
Hello, I plan to visit Cao Bang at the end of the year. I would like to know how to stay with a host family and if the host families offer local meals and activities? Thank you for your advice.
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KT
Kampá Tour10 Aug 2024

Hello Mr. Andy,

If you want to stay with a homestay in Cao Bang, you can ask a travel agency to help you organize your stay. Homestays often offer meals, and you can also participate in local activities to learn about their lifestyle and culture, such as cooking with your host. For more detailed information on this subject, I invite you to consult The experience "among the locals"

I advise you to book your homestay in advance to ensure you have a place available and so that the family can better welcome you. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions or need more information.

Kind regards

Kampá Tour

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E
Eddie18 Jul 2024
Hello! I am interested in the experience of staying with a local in the Northern Province. Is their lifestyle or quality of life different from that in the big cities? I want to try this experience but am concerned about lacking the necessities of life. Could you provide in-depth information regarding this experience, including meals and other details? Thank you very much for your answers.
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KT
Kampá Tour19 Jul 2024

Thank you for your comment. In general, homestays often take the form of a single room within a traditional house on stilts owned by the host family. Mosquito nets, mattresses, and clean sheets are available on site. The bathroom, equipped with hot water and bath towels, as well as the shared toilet, are usually located outside the house.

Meals are included during your stay with them. You have the opportunity to prepare meals with the host family, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in their daily life. To find out more on this subject, we invite you to read the detailed article "Cultural Immersion Through Homestays in Vietnam with Local Hosts".

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J
Jennifer27 Jun 2024
We are planning to visit Vietnam in the next month and planning the itenerary these days. We have added the Cao Bang area and the Ban Gioc waterfall to the itenerary, but not sure about doing Ha Giang. I have some questions regarding the visit. We are planning to do 2 days in Cao Bang area so is it worth visiting Ha Giang ? (we would have to drop something like Phong Nha from our itenerary to squeeze that in) Is there bus services from Cao Bung to Ha Giang and back ? The other places in our itenerary are Hanoi, Ning Binh, Cat Ba, Lan Ha Bay, Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An and Danang. Is there any adjustments we can make ? Would love your suggestions.
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KT
Kampá Tour27 Jun 2024

Thank you for reaching out to us with your questions regarding your upcoming trip to Vietnam. We’re thrilled to assist you in planning a memorable journey. Here are some insights and suggestions based on your itinerary and queries:

  • 1. Is it worth visiting Ha Giang if we spend 2 days in Cao Bang?

It is worth visiting Ha Giang, but count at least 3 full days for it. It is equally worth visiting Phong Nha and You shouldn't drop one for the other if you've never visited either before.

You could do bus from Hanoi to Ha Giang. Ha Giang by easy rider or car. From Meo Vac, head to Cao Bang, then lose the easy rider/car and get a bus back to Hanoi. But count at least 5/6/7 days to do it justice.

  • 2. Bus Services from Cao Bang to Ha Giang

There are bus services connecting Cao Bang to Ha Giang, but they may not be as frequent or direct as other routes in Vietnam. The journey typically involves local buses and can be time-consuming, with travel times ranging between 6 to 8 hours. We recommend checking the latest schedules upon arrival in Cao Bang and being prepared for potentially limited services.

  • 3. Adjustments to Your Itinerary

Your itinerary covers a wide range of Vietnam’s highlights. Here are some suggestions for adjustments:

Hanoi: Allocate 2-3 days to explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and cultural sites such as the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
Ninh Binh: 1-2 days are sufficient to explore Tam Coc, Trang An, and Mua Cave.
Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay: 2-3 days for a cruise and island exploration.
Phong Nha: If you decide to keep this, 2 days are good for visiting the Phong Nha and Paradise caves.
Hue: 1-2 days for exploring the Imperial City and tombs.
Hoi An and Danang: 2-3 days to enjoy the ancient town of Hoi An, and the beaches and Marble Mountains in Danang.

If you choose to visit Ha Giang, consider reducing time in either Hoi An or Hue, or possibly skipping Phong Nha. Each location offers unique experiences, so prioritize based on your interests. Or you can refer to the Vietnam tours we have provided, as well as customize your own for the best experience.

Safe travels and enjoy your journey!

Best regards,

(0)Reply
M
Michael18 Jun 2024
I hope this travel question can be answered here, as I understand Cao Bằng is also popular with Vietnamese tourist as well. Basically, I want to spend about 4 days there and I will not be able to drive a car nor a moped. So - my initial idea is to find a homestay/ hotel somewhere towards Ban Gioc and ask them to support with a driver.. I know it's not ideal, if I want to explore some spot (let's say a valley) alone etc... Do you think this makes sense? Is it possible to find Grabs there? Would homestays be able to organize some driver? Please let me know what you think, or how you'd do it.
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KT
Kampá Tour18 Jun 2024

Dear Michael, In Cao Bằng, services like Grab are not common. However, you can ask the receptionists at motels and hotels to hire a private driver for your trip. Here are some options near Ban Gioc Waterfall:

  • Lan Rừng Homestay
  • Khuổi Ky Eco Homestay
  • Nasan Greenfarm
  • Sai Gon - Ban Gioc Resort
  • Cao Bằng Eco Camping

We hope this helps!

Best regards,

(0)Reply
J
Joshua13 Jun 2024
Anyone here who's checked out, Hà Giang, Cao Bang, or any of the Northern mountainous spots around late December or early January? I'm curious about what the weather's like and how the visibility holds up. I'm cool with the cold, but I'm worried that thick fog might spoil the breathtaking views. And for those who've braved it on a motorbike, was it a pain being on the road for long stretches in chilly weather? Thanks!
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KT
Kampá Tour13 Jun 2024

As we approach late December and early January in Ha Giang, it is pertinent to note that the region experiences a considerable drop in temperatures, particularly during nighttime. Additionally, foggy conditions are not uncommon during this period, posing challenges to visibility, particularly in the mountainous terrain, which constitutes a significant attraction for visitors. Such atmospheric conditions can hinder travel, especially for those relying on motorbikes for transportation.

Riding a motorbike in cold weather presents its own set of considerations. The discomfort can be notable, especially for individuals who are not adequately attired for the prevailing conditions. Factors such as wind chill exacerbate the perceived cold, and prolonged exposure to low temperatures can prove physically taxing. Nevertheless, despite these challenges, many travelers still opt for motorbike exploration along the Ha Giang loop and in Cao Bang during this time of the year.

Adequate clothing and gear are paramount. Layering with thermal undergarments, insulated jackets, gloves, and a reliable helmet equipped with a visor can significantly mitigate discomfort and enhance safety.

Should you embark on this journey, I advise thorough preparation and caution. However, you may also choose to sign up for a tour if the weather conditions are excessively cloudy. Please refer to our trending Vietnam mountainous region tour, "Vietnam's Northern Charms in 2 Weeks Including Ha Giang Loop."

Best regards!

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