Cao Bang, Ban Gioc And Ba Be Lake

📍 From Hanoi to Cao Bang: 280 km; around 5,5 - 6 hours.

Depart from Hanoi around 08:00 for a 1.5 hr drive to Thai Nguyen City. Along the way, stop at the Museum of Cultures of Vietnam's Ethnic Groups (closed on Mondays and from 11h30 to 13h30). The museum was originally founded to study and share the culture and history of ethnic groups based in the northern area during the Indochina War. Nowadays the museum gathers an interesting selection of exhibits representing the culture of major hill tribes living in Vietnam. After the visit, enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.

In the afternoon continue driving on towards Cao Bang city, the capital city of the mountainous province of Cao Bang which is home to various ethnic minority groups including the Tay, Nung, Dao, and Hmong. 

Arrive in Cao Bang in the late afternoon; if time allows, enjoy a stroll around town. 

Overnight in Cao Bang.
 

Inclusions:

📍 From Cao Bang to Ban Gioc or vice versa: 80m - 2 hours driving time.

Start the day around 08:00 at a busy market in Cao Bang for a simple but tasty breakfast. Take this opportunity to sample some famous local dishes such as ‘Pho Bo’ or ‘Banh Cuon’ before driving north towards the Chinese border. 

On the way, stop in a picturesque hamlet of a Nung ethnic group specializing in homemade incense sticks. Walk through the village to experience daily life and to interact with the locals. Continue to the scenic blacksmith village of Phuc Sen, famous in Vietnam for its knives in wrought iron made by a Nung community. 

Upon arrival to the Sino-Vietnamese border, discover Ban Gioc waterfall, on the Quay Son River, considered as one of the biggest waterfalls of Vietnam. Here the river acts as a natural border between the 2 countries.  Enjoy a late lunch in a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, continue to Nguom Ngao cave, one of the most interesting and impressive limestone grottos of the Northern provinces. Upon entering the grotto, walk for around 1 km to admire the spectacular natural formations.
In the late afternoon, return to Cao Bang town. 

Overnight in Cao Bang.

Note: Authorisation and passport are required to visit Ban Gioc waterfalls. During the dry season, the level of the water can be minimized.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 From Cao Bang to Ba Be: 135 km; around 3,5 hours. around 5,5 hours.

Depart at 08:00 for transfer to Ba Be. Upon arrival in Ba Be National Park, board a boat and head down the Nang River, winding through wild and rugged landscapes. Marvel at the impressive limestone cliffs and lush rainforests that flank the riverbanks. Disembark at Puong Grotto and explore its enchanting chambers, adorned with awe-inspiring stalagmites and stalactites. Then relax and admire the landscape or take a dip in the fresh waters of the largest natural lake in Vietnam.

Notes: During some months (June – September) the itinerary might be changed based on the day, weather & road condition

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 From Ba Be to Hanoi: 210 km; 4,5 hours.

Following breakfast, commence with a visit to Hua Ma Cave, a dry cave renowned for its myriad stalactites in mesmerizing shapes and sizes. Marvel at the intricate formations that adorn the cavern walls, sculpted by erosion over millions of years.
Return to the village for a local lunch served in a simple homestay. Savor the authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine while experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the local people.
In the afternoon, begin the journey back to Hanoi, stopping along the way at either Cho Da Market. 
Note: Cho Da Market is a vibrant local market that takes place every 5th, 10th, 15th, 20th, 25th, and 30th day of the lunar calendar. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and browse the stalls selling a variety of goods, including fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Arrive back in Hanoi in the afternoon.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast