Vietnam boasts a plethora of diverse landscapes, ancient history and culture, and delectable local cuisine. In recent years, it has also become renowned as one of the world's foremost caving destinations. Vietnam is home to some of the world's most awe-inspiring caves, such as the limestone caves in Halong Bay and Ninh Binh waterways, as well as the Phong Nha-Khe Bang National Park, which houses Phong Nha Paradise Cave and Son Doong - the world's largest cave. Exploring these caves promises to be a fascinating and unforgettable experience on your next trip to Vietnam.

1. Son Doong Caves (Quang Binh province)

Son Doong is globally renowned as the world's largest and one of the longest caves, located at the center of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. The cave was discovered in 2009-2010 by the British Cave Research Association (BCRA) and measures up to 5km in length, 200m in height, and 150m in width. Due to its challenging terrain, only a handful of people have successfully trekked through Son Doong, with Oxalis Adventure being the sole licensed operator of Son Doong Cave Expedition programs. It is, therefore, a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts worldwide.

2. Tu Lan Caves (Quang Binh province)

The Tu Lan caves system, located just 70km from Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park in Tan Hoa, Quang Binh, comprises numerous dry and wet caves and is surrounded by lush green rice fields and cornfields. The system comprises over 10 caves, with Hang Ton being the first one discovered in 1992 and explored more thoroughly in 2012. These caves are replete with stunning limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, and are surrounded by breathtaking lakes, waterfalls, and verdant flora. However, exploring these caves entails unique experiences, including traversing remote and untouched jungle trails, sleeping under the stars in a hammock or camping bed, and swimming in the deep underground river that winds gracefully through the mountains to the heart of Tu Lan's caves. Swimming deeper into the river gradually fades the daylight behind the cave entrance, culminating in a memorable lifetime experience.

3. Phong Nha cave (Quang Binh province)

Phong Nha cave, located on Son river in Quang Binh province, is considered the world's longest majestic river cave. It measures almost 8 km in length and was first "discovered" in 1899, opened to tourists in 1997. To access the cave, visitors can only take a boat trip from the boat station at the Phong Nha Ke-Bang Tourism Center, and it takes approximately 30 minutes of cruising along the Son river. The cave entrance boasts a mesmerizing beauty that sets it apart from others, and the interior is replete with variously shaped stalactites and stalagmites, some resembling trees, flowers, and animals. The cave's pristine beauty, harmoniously blending primeval forests, the Son River, and the dry and water caves, makes for an idyllic setting.

4. Paradise cave (Quang Binh province)

Located in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, is a must-visit attraction for tourists. In Vietnamese, it called "dong Thien Duong". This cave is also known as "the palace in the ground" due to its enormous size, measuring more than 31.4km in length, 30-100m in width, and about 60-80m in height, making it the world's longest dry cave. The cave gate can only accommodate one person at a time, and upon entry, visitors will be greeted with a spacious area adorned with unique stalactites and Asia's longest wooden bridge, which is 1km long. The illuminated cave formations give the place a sparkling and mysterious atmosphere.

5. Hung Thoong Cave (Quang Binh province)

Hung Thoong cave system is the only one that features such beautiful cave formations, making it super beautiful compared to other cave systems in the area. Over 400 caves like this have been discovered in these mountains in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, generating local tourism and allowing locals to gainful work while also supplanting illegal activities such as poaching.

In summary, Hung Thoong, a hidden gem in Quang Binh, has been opened to visitors in January 2023, offering a chance for visitors to explore one of the most magnificent subterranean grottos in the world. Visitors will get a chance to appreciate the sublime and ornate beauty of the area while generating revenue and promoting sustainable tourism in the region. The discovery of Hung Thoong Cave offers another opportunity to learn about the local culture and engage with the community, creating ties of friendship and hospitality that will last long after the journey ends.

6. Tam Coc (Ninh Binh Province)

Situated in Ninh Binh Province, is often called the "Inland Halong Bay" or "Halong Bay rice fields." It is a picturesque natural wonder located approximately 100 kilometers south of Hanoi. Tam Coc is composed of three caves, Hang Ca (First cave), Hang Hai (Second cave), and Hang Ba (Third cave), that offer breathtaking scenery through a combination of water and stone. Visitors can explore the caves by taking a three-hour boat ride on the Ngo Dong River, meandering through the rice paddies and limestone tunnels to marvel at the stunning rock formations and enchanting stalactites that adorn the cave ceilings. Moreover, during the rice harvest season (just before or after Vietnamese Lunar New Year, depending on the weather), visitors can appreciate the golden fields, adding to the beauty of the surroundings.

7. Sung Sot cave (Halong bay)

The Sung Sot Cave, located in the heart of the Halong Bay World Heritage site on Bo Hon Island, is one of the most magnificent and largest caves in the area, attracting both local and international tourists. This cave covers an area of about 10,000m2, and its enormous size often surprises visitors. Deeper inside, visitors can witness spectacular formations of stalactites, such as an ancient banyan tree with lush foliage, dinosaurs, and Seabear. The highest point of the cave is the best spot to capture the breathtaking views of Ha Long Bay.

8. Luon Cave (Halong’s smallest cave)

Luon Cave, located just 1km from Sung Sot Cave and about 14km southeast of Tuan Chau Island, is one of the most famous wet caves in the Ha Long Bay area, and it is often called the "heaven of splendid nature and wonderful sceneries." This cave, which is only accessible by kayak or local sampan boat, has a natural entrance that measures approximately 60m in length and 3m in width. Visitors will be greeted with sheer limestone cliffs plunging into a cool, green lake, which is also home to playful monkeys.

9. Huong Tich cave

Huong Tich Cave, located 70km southwest of Hanoi in My Duc District, is the largest honoring place at the heart of Huong Son relic complex, often compared to a large dragon's jaw. Visitors can marvel at the unique formations of stalactites and precious statues, making it a popular destination during the festival of Pagoda.

If you love to discover the caves in Vietnam, now plan your trip – adventure awaits!

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