CAO BANG, VIETNAM
Nestled in the rugged mountains of northern Vietnam, Cao Bằng province is a haven for those seeking breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a sense of tranquility. Endowed with nature’s finest artistry, Cao Bằng unveils a tapestry of captivating scenery, from towering peaks to serene lakes, and from cascading waterfalls to enigmatic caves.
NATURAL SIGHTS OF BA BE LAKE & BAN GIOC WATERFALL
Day 1: Hanoi – Ba Be
From 6:00 am – 11:00 am
Depart Hanoi in the early morning for a 5-hour scenic-200km drive through the Red River Delta toward the mountainous area of Ba Be National Park. Lunch is en-route at the best available eatery.
From 14:00 pm – 15:00 pm
Upon arrival, take a rest and remainder of the afternoon is free at leisure, or discover Hua Ma cave, a hidden gem of impressive stalactite and mysterious legends.
Day 2: Ba Be – Cao Bang
From 7:00 am – 9:30 am
Enjoy a morning boat trip along Ba Be Lake, surrounded by rugged limestone mountains. This important Eco-system is well known for over 330 species of butterflies. Explore the lake with lush forest clinging to the surrounding mountains.
From 9:30 am – 11:30 am
Reach the end of the lake and trek to Dau Dang Waterfall before having lunch in the village. Then drive onward to Cao Bang city for the night.
Day 3: Cao Bang – Lang Son
From 8:00 am – 9:30 am
Embark on a trip to the Ban Gioc Waterfall along the Chinese border. This picturesque, cascading waterfall is 53 meters high and has an impressive span of 300 meters. The unique landscape includes limestone karst formations soaring from the verdant rice paddies of Tay, H’Mong, and Dzao ethnic minority groups.
From 9:30 am – 11:00 am
Explore the expansive Nguom Ngao Cavern to discover its brilliant stalactites. Have lunch at a local restaurant and keep going to Lang Son.
From 13:00 pm – 14:30 pm
The famous Highway 4 winds through a steep mountain pass with spectacular vistas! Lang Son, the capital of this mountainous area,is an important crossing and trading route with China. The area is home to Dzao, Man, Tho, and Nung ethnic minority groups.
From 14:30 pm – 16:00 pm
Lang Son has two markets, the Old Market and the Dong Kinh Market, where shoppers can find everything from electronics and gadgets to textiles and housewares. Upon arrival at the hotel in Lang Son, have dinner at a local restaurant. In far northern Vietnam, bordering China, Lang Son is a province of mountainous beauty and historical vestige.
Day 4: Lang Son – Ha Noi
From 8:00 am – 9:30 am
In the morning, take a glance at the national historical relic – the Mac Dynasty Citadel ruins dating back to the mid-17th century. Today, the remnants of the base include two 300-meter-long walls and a citadel front that measures around one meter, built with large stone blocks in the middle of the canyon.
From 9:30 am – 11:30 am
Discover either Tam Thanh Cave contains a pond and offers great views of the surrounding farmlands; or Nhi Thanh Cave, formed by the river that flows through it, which has poems carved into the entrance by the man who discovered the cave in the 18th century. After lunch, take a 2.5-hour drive back to Hanoi.
NOTES:
* OPERATES: 4 days/ 3 nights
* INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Mineral water on car, English speaking guide, Tours & Activities as mentioned, Interaction with host, Boat trip, Meal at local restaurant
* EXCLUSIONS: Accommodation, Drinks at mentioned Meals, Tips and Gratuities.