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Don't Visit Cao Bang, Vietnam Without Knowing These 7 Things!
Did you know there's a place in Vietnam’s northern mountains that’s often overlooked, but absolutely worth visiting for its culture, ethnic group, and revolutionary history? Far from the crowds of Hanoi, the tourists in Sapa, or the streams of motorbikes on the Ha Giang Loop. Well, that is Cao Bang, a genuinely refreshing place to escape to.
As Vietnam’s second UNESCO World Geopark since 2018, Cao Bang highlights stunning landscapes and a strong sense of local identity. Aside from the scenery, you'll be drawn to its unique cuisine, daily life in ethnic minority villages (Tay, Dzao, Nung, Lo Lo, H'mong, San Chi, etc.), and the fact that it's still “less touristy”, which makes it both a peaceful getaway and a rewarding stop for adventure travelers.
Key Takeaways
- Location: Is a province located in the northern mountainous region, 300km from Hanoi.
- Best Time to Visit: Aug to Sep for waterfalls and golden rice fields, Nov to Dec for wildflowers, and for snow and local festivals.
- Must-See: Ban Gioc Waterfall, Phong Nam Valley, Traditional Village, Nguom Ngao Cave, and Khuoi Ky Stone Village.
- Activities: Trek, explore craft villages, local experience, and stay in local homestays.
- Perfect Itinerary: 3 days, 2 nights.
- Travel Tip: Bring cash, because ATMs are rare, and many places don’t accept cards.
- Note: English is limited, so download Google Translate or learn a few basic phrases.
1. Where Is Cao Bang Located in Vietnam?
Cao Bang, a gem in Northeast Vietnam, is just around 300 kilometers from Hanoi (about a 5-hour drive), inviting both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The landscape consists of rugged mountains, green hills, and attractive caves. Despite its remote geographical position, access is easier than in other remote areas of the north, offering a significant advantage to travellers.
It's worth spending the first night in its capital, Cao Bang Town, a lovely, small, clean settlement with an abundance of accommodation and restaurants, before setting out to discover the highlights of Cao Bang.
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>>> Worth Knowing: The name 'Cao Bang' means 'flat land between high mountains' or 'high plateau' and is pronounced /kaʊ bəŋ/.
2. When to Visit Cao Bang?
Cao Bang, Vietnam has two seasons: the rainy season (April to September) and the dry season (November to March).
So, the best time to visit Cao Bang is from September to October, when the golden rice is ready for harvest, and expect a flow of waterfalls, which are fuller and stronger (this is your best bet). For the rest of the year, crops like corn and sweet potatoes are grown.
For trekking and snow lovers, November to December is the perfect time to visit. Phia Oac National Park, nearly 2,000 meters high, offers incredible mountain views and the chance of snow.
>>> Traveler reviews: "We visited Cao Bang in May. What impressed us the most was the Ban Gioc waterfall. The guide told us that if you plan to visit during the dry season, from November to April, it is recommended to go between 11:00 and 13:00, when the water flows with more force." - Mrs. Margarita on the trip to Vietnam with Kampa Tour
>>> Map of the must-sees in Cao Bang Province
Please click on the '[ ]' at the top right for better visibility of the Cao Bang map!
3. Top Things To Do In Cao Bang
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Ban Gioc Waterfall
About a 1.5-hour drive from Cao Bang to Ban Gioc Waterfalls, this scenic natural wonder stands as one of Southeast Asia's greatest and the largest waterfall in Vietnam, perched on the border between China and Vietnam (Ban Gioc and Detain Falls - 德天瀑布). It is also known as the fourth largest border waterfall in the world. With a colossal drop of over 60 meters and a width of 300 meters, it cascades down in layers of rock, creating a mist that dazzles. When you take a boat near the falls, it is even more breathtaking than you can imagine.
Near the falls lies Truc Lam Buddhist Temple, a peaceful spot to recharge and connect with nature. Climbing to the top of the temple offers a panoramic view of the plains, with the soothing sound of Ban Gioc Falls in the distance, while lush green mountains surround you. Located on the Quay Son River, Ban Gioc Waterfalls is truly one of the natural wonders not to be missed during your visit to Northern Vietnam.
Not far away, the Nguom Ngao Cave, which was created over 400 million years ago, offers visitors more than 2 km of a phenomenal experience that feels like stepping into a magical territory filled with wondrous stalactites and stalagmites.
>>> Quick information about Ban Gioc falls:
- 4.5/5 stars based on 9,552 ratings on Google reviews
- Entrance Fee: 45,000 VND ($2) per person
- Raft: 100,000 VND ($4) per 15 minutes
- Horse ride: 20,000 VND per 5 minutes (nearly $1).
Note: You should go to Ban Gioc waterfall between 11 AM and 2 PM, this is the time when the waterfall has the most water! - Oliver Phung, local guide.
>>> Read More: Why Ban Gioc Falls Should Be on Your Bucket List?
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Nguom Ngao Cave
As one of Vietnam's most magnificent natural wonders, Nguom Ngao Cave is second only to the famed caves of Phong Nha Ke Bang. This cave's origins trace back over 300 million years, and it has been known since 1921. While stretching for a little over 2 kilometers, only 1 kilometer is open to the public. One thing is, in exciting news, a new tour named 'Nguom Ngao Cave – Part of Ban Thuon' has been extended nearly 3 kilometers deeper into the cave, which includes trekking and boating.
You 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, and admire stalactites formed from water droplets over millions of years. The new route promises even more unforgettable and thrilling experiences for avid explorers and adventurers alike.
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>>> Quick information about Nguom Ngao cave:
- 4.6/5 stars based on 468 ratings on Google reviews
- The price of the shortcut route is 45,000 VND ( about 1.91 USD).
- The long route costs around 200,000 VND (or 8.51 USD).
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Phong Nam - Ngoc Con Valley
One of the secret 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 fields, and quaint villages of the Tay ethnic group in Cao Bang.
So, this is the best place for trekking or cycling, perfect for enjoying the atmosphere and exploring the villages.
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.
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>>> Worth Knowing: Cao Bang province is one of the seven best places in Vietnam to trek through breathtaking rice fields. Curious about the other six? Discover them all here: 7 Amazing Places to Catch Stunning Rice Fields in Vietnam!
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Traditional craft villages
Cao Bang province is primarily an agricultural region where traditional craft villages play a key role in the cultural heritage of the Tày and Nùng minorities. Located just a 40-minute drive from Cao Bang city, Quang Uyen district is home to five unique villages, each with its own specialty:
- Phia Thap: Famous for incense sticks
- Lan Duoi: Specializes in bamboo weaving
- Lung Ri: Known for terracotta yin-yang tiles
- Phuc Sen: Renowned for blacksmithing
- Dia Tren: Famous for traditional paper
These villages, set in remote areas, are dedicated to preserving their traditional crafts with passion and enthusiasm, aiming to spread their rich cultural heritage to the world.
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Hike Through Cao Bang's Spectacular Landscapes
When hiking in Cao Bang, one cannot forget the Khau Coc Cha mountain pass, starting from Bao Lac. Although not precisely one of the 'Four Great Passes' such as Ma Pi Leng, O Quy Ho, Khau Pha, or Pha Din. But, Khau Coc Cha still holds undeniable attractions for those with a sense of adventure.
What's so special about it? Well, it has 15 steep steps and 14 curves, each unique in itself. From the ascent of the pass, the road winds for some distance through the climb, then slips into the forest for a trekking experience to admire the pass from above, which takes 30 minutes to conquer!
Besides, it gives passage to villages of different ethnic minorities, such as the H'mong, Tày, Nùng, Dzao, Sán Chay, and Lo Lo people.
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Stay with Ethnic Minorities in Cao Bang
Apart from Khau Coc Cha pass, staying at a homestay in Bao Lac is a great way to experience the region differently and get a closer look at local life and culture.
The local inhabitants, from over six ethnic groups, such as the H'mong, Tày, Nùng, Dzao, Sán Chay, and Lo Lo (Ethnicity Vietnam), are known for their warm hospitality and sincere welcome. During your stay, you'll have the chance to share special moments, from preparing traditional meals to participating in local agricultural activities and learning about their way of life.
This experience also provides the opportunity to discover authentic cultural and architectural elements unique to the ethnic communities of Cao Bang. A walk through traditional Tay and Nung villages, still largely untouched by modernity, will reveal houses adorned with "Yin Yang" tiles, the trinh tuong house of the H'mong, and more!
Besides, you can also visit the special, lively Bao Lac Market, where these colorful communities congregate every five days according to the lunar calendar.
>>> Related article
- Immerse in Culture: Staying with Local Host
- 7 days, 7 ethnic markets in Northern Vietnam you can’t miss
- The Hmong Ethnicity in Vietnam
4. What to Do in Cao Bang Beyond the Ordinary?
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Khuoi Ky Stone Village
Just a short distance from Ban Gioc Waterfall, Khuoi Ky stone village is a lesser-known spot worth visiting in Cao Bang, Vietnam. Home to 14 Tay ethnic households, this ancient village is believed to be over a thousand years old. Its unique stilted stone houses have stood the test of time, preserving both structure and charm.
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Locals have long honored the "stone god" as part of their traditional beliefs. So, I bet a stop in Khuoi Ky lets you connect with local life, join simple village activities, and enjoy the peaceful setting of forested hills and limestone peaks.
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Ba Quang Burning Grass Hill
Just a one-hour drive from Khuoi Ky, 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.
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.
>>> Good To Know: 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. Read More: Top 6 Best Places for Trekking in Vietnam
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Mount Mat Than or God's Eye Mountain
Just 24 km from the center of Cao Bang, Mount Mat Than, also called the 'God's Eye Moutain', is a must-visit for explorers. Nestled within the Thang Hen Lake complex, this unique site boasts 36 interconnected lakes. Mount Mat Than enchants visitors as part of the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, which offers two distinct seasonal charms.
>>> Good To Know: According to legend, the lake was named "Thang Hen" (meaning "bee's tail" in Tay language) based on the tragic love story of a boy and a girl in the area.
In the wet season, cascading waterfalls replenish Nam Cha Lake, transforming it into a gleaming mirror reflecting the surrounding peaks, azure waters, and serene rafts, like a tranquil painting framed by towering mountains. In the dry season, receding waters reveal rolling hills, winding streams, and lush greenery, creating a gentle, poetic atmosphere perfect for camping, trekking, or cycling.
>>> Facts: The reason for this name is that in this grassland area, there is only one mountain, and that mountain has a hole. In the summer, you can see the sun through the hole in the mountain, like a god eye. This is how the name was born!
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Visit Important Historical Sites in Pac Bo
Bestowing historical significance on Cao Bang since the Franco-Vietnamese War, this site is an important revolutionary landmark, with Pac Bo located 52 km from the city center. This is where Ho Chi Minh Road began, also known as 'km 0'.
As you explore, you can take a short hike to milestone 108, a powerful historical symbol. It marks the spot where Ho Chi Minh first returned to his homeland after a 30-year absence, marking the start of his revolutionary journey in Vietnam. From here, you’ll also enjoy a view of the autonomous region of the Zhuang people in China.
Some of the stuff you can discover here includes the Ho Chi Minh Memorial, Coc Po Cave, Lenin Stream, Karl Marx Mountain, the Ho Chi Minh Stone Worktable, and more. These are all items of national importance in Vietnam's fight to free itself from foreign domination.
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Nightlife in Cao Bang city
So, you enjoyed the beautiful mountains, rivers, and rich culture of the ethnic people in Cao Bang, and are still looking for excitement? The city's nightlife is the perfect choice. Within a radius of only 5 kilometers, you can find all the night-time restaurants, local specialties, recreational facilities for all ages, and night markets that are vibrant and packed with both tourists and locals.
For the liveliest visit, choose any Friday to Sunday evening (from 6 pm to 11 pm) when the walking street hosts a grand collision of culture, cuisine, music, and mingling. Unlike other tourist areas where prices could be 'hiked,' here, everything is fairly priced for both tourists and locals. A trip worth taking!
5. How To Get There?
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How to Get to Cao Bang from Hanoi?
Taking a bus is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly options to get to Cao Bang from Hanoi. There are many bus stations that offer the Hanoi to Cao Bang route, such as My Dinh, Giap Bat, Gia Lam, or the Old Quarter area. The buses run from these bus stations, with prices starting from 200,000 - 400,000 VND ($7 - $15). Khanh Hoan, 42, Duc Ngoc, Vinh Dung, and Thanh Ly are some of the bus companies you can choose from.
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How to Get to Cao Bang from Sapa/Ha Giang
Taking a sleeper bus from Sapa to Cao Bang is the best option in this case. With the two provinces 531 km apart, the total journey, including stops, will take approximately 13 hours. Some of the bus companies that can be mentioned are Son Phuong, Tuan Minh, and Duyet Thuy, with the price range starting from 300,000 VND ($11).
For the Ha Giang to Cao Bang route, tickets are available at Ha Giang bus station, with popular operators like Ngoc Cuong and 42, with prices starting from 250,000 VND ($7.5).
>>> My advice: You can check the schedule and bus routes on the 12go.Asia website.
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How to Get Around Cao Bang?
Getting around Cao Bang city is easy, especially compared to the winding roads of Ha Giang or Sapa. If you have an International Driving Permit (IDP), renting a motorbike is a great way to explore. Daily rates range from $6.40 to $14.90, depending on the bike type, from basic scooters to 155cc dirt bikes.
Make sure you have an IDP to avoid any issues with traffic police. However, if you don’t have an IDP and Grab may not be available in remote areas like Cao Bang, no worries! You can easily hire a motorbike taxi (xe om) by asking your hotel reception, and they’ll handle the arrangements.
Alternatively, reputable car taxi services like Vinh Dung, Mai Linh, and Xanh SM are easy to find.
>>> Note: Grab may not work well in remote areas like Cao Bang, so hiring a driver for a full day is more cost-effective than paying by distance; especially for longer trips like Cao Bang to Ban Gioc Waterfall, which typically costs between $51 and $68.
6. Where to Stay in Cao Bang?
Hotels and homestays are two of the most popular lodging types in Cao Bang, as in many areas of Vietnam, such as Mai Chau, Pu Luong, or Mu Cang Chai. If you are staying outside the city, it is reasonable to consider homestays. Some popular hotels in the heart of the city are Muong Thanh, Sunny, and Max Boutique.
In the Ban Gioc area, you can enjoy staying at Saigon Tourist or one of the unique homestays that will immerse you in the local culture, food, and lifestyle of the Tay and Nung peoples. The homestays we suggest are Lan's Homestay in the Khuoi Ky stone village area, Nasan Green Farm, and Green Door Homestay. If you are also looking to stay in places like Quang Hoa, Pac Bo, or God Eye Mountain, you can always easily book through Kampá Tour!
>>> Good to know: Homestays cost around 200,000 VND to 500,000 VND per night; hotels start from 500,000 VND per night.
Bonus: Suggested Itineraries
Most travelers spend at least 3 days and 2 nights in Cao Bang to visit the main highlights at a comfortable pace. However, if you plan to explore more remote spots or travel by motorbike, consider staying 4 to 5 days.
All these places, including Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nguom Ngao Cave, and Phong Nam Valley, can be visited within one day if you're okay with a quicker pace. You could even spend a night in Bao Lac. If you're wondering how many days you need in Cao Bang, below are the best itineraries to help you decide:
Cao Bang Itinerary for 3 days: #1
- Embark on Pooc Luom to sail on Lake Ba Be, considered one of the twenty most beautiful in the world.
- Visit Puong Cave and cruise along the Nang River to Dau Dang Waterfall.
- Arrival at Po Lu village, installation with a Tay family and walk through the village.
- Night in a house on stilts overlooking the lake.
Day 2: Ba Be - Cao Bang - Quang Uyen
- Bike tour through the national park, visiting Hua Ma Cave and traditional Tay and Nung villages.
- Transfer by road to Quang Uyen, visit the handicraft villages of the Tay and Nung minorities.
- Installation with a Tay family in the village of Incense.
- Dinner and night at his house on stilts.
Day 3: Quang Uyen - Trung Khanh - Ban Gioc - Cao Bang
- Depart for Trung Khanh and visit the Ban Gioc Falls, the fourth longest waterfall in the world.
- Transfer to Dam Thuy to visit the Nguom Ngao Caves.
- Return to Cao Bang.
Cao Bang Itinerary for 3 days: #2
- Arrival at the village of Khuoi Khon, inhabited by black Lolo, an ethnic group that still uses bronze drums in daily life.
- Setting up in Phuong's house on stilts and preparing dinner with your family.
- Depart for Ba Be National Park, known for its emerald lakes surrounded by mountains and green forests.
- Cruise along Ba Be Lake and the Nang River, enjoying breathtaking scenery and visiting Puong Cave and Dau Dang Waterfall.
- Visit Po Lu, a small village by the lake, and stay with the Tay family of Chi and Hoa. Learn about their daily life, including fishing and rice farming.
- Overnight at Chi and Hoa's house, overlooking the lake.
- Bike tour along the trails between the tropical forest and the rice paddies.
- Visit to Hua Ma Cave and the traditional villages of the Tay and Nung ethnic groups.
>>> Bonus tip: If you’ve made it to Cao Bang, it’s easy to tie in other gems like the Ha Giang Loop or Ba Be National Park. They’re not far, and the landscapes just keep getting more epic.
Check out the scenic route through Vietnam, with this itinerary through Cao Bang:
Is Cao Bang Worth Visiting?
A million yeses, and more besides: Cao Bang is now ready to be discovered. It is untouched, authentic, and beautiful, yet also very welcoming. With stunning landscapes, rich history, and living traditions, it’s an attractive option for adventurers looking to venture off the beaten path. This travel guide has shared much about Cao Bang, and we hope it sparks ideas for your next trip to Vietnam. Visit our website today to explore detailed tours of this historical northern province in Vietnam!
>>> Discover more attractive destinations in Vietnam:
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Quiz: Do you really know about Vietnam?
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