In 2003, the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation was bestowed upon Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Not only does it have hundreds of cave systems, but it also contains the oldest karst mountains in all of Asia. Also included in this intricate network of underground caves is the enormous Hang Son Doong cave, the largest in the world in terms of volume. To explore it, you will need to spend a significant amount of money; nevertheless, there are a great many more in the vicinity that will keep you spelunking with joy. For your convenience, we will walk you through the top 10 things to do in Phong Nha.

Visit Son Doong Cave

Surprisingly, Son Doong Cave's excavation, the world's largest cave, did not begin until 2009. This cave is considered to be the granddaddy of all caves. The Son Doong cave is an experience that should be on the list of things to do in Phong Nha. If you have a strong interest in spelunking, you should include it on your schedule for Vietnam.

Son Doong isn't the only impressive cave in the park; more than 150 others in Vietnam are just waiting to be discovered, such as Phong Nha Cave, Dark Cave, Paradise Cave, Hang Tien Cave, Hang En Cave….  Depending on the visitor's interests and level of physical condition, they can select from various cave tours.

The sheer magnitude of Son Doong outstrips nearly all of its surroundings! This cave justifiably boasts the title of most significant in the world, thanks to its remarkable length of about 9 kilometers and its astounding capacity of approximately 38.5 million cubic meters.

When contrasted with other nearby famous caves, Son Doong's immense size becomes even more apparent. Compared to Son Doong, Hang En Cave—the third biggest cave in the world—is a complete dwarf. Son Doong outshines Hang En in every way and is about five times bigger.

Book a Son Doong Tour if you intend to visit Son Doong. Before, during, and after the excursion, guests can receive complete assistance with transportation and lodging. 

>>> Read more: EXPLORING 9 AMAZING CAVES OF PHONG NHA VIETNAM

Go trekking in Phong Nha

This national park is a fantastic destination for those who are interested in hiking because it is located within an untouched tropical forest and the biodiversity that it contains is exceptional. It provides an excellent opportunity to investigate one of the most diversified ecosystems in Vietnam. The Phong Nha Botanical Garden Trail and the Ma Da Valley Trail are notable trails waiting to be explored. These routes promise a variety of terrains and natural beauty that have not been altered.

Enjoy the beauty of Mooc Spring.

One of the things to do in Phong Nha is to pay a visit to Mooc Spring, which is a lovely haven that is surrounded by limestone cliffs and rich vegetation. This place is perfect for having leisurely picnics with friends and family because of its pleasant atmosphere, which provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

The area offers a variety of activities, including swimming, swinging, kayaking, and relaxing by the streamside, all of which are accompanied by delectable regional dishes. Immersing oneself in the soothing waters while surrounded by the symphony of streams and the music of birds is a quiet escape for people looking for tranquility. 

Try Kayaking and Ziplining at Chay River

An adventure tourism activity known as a zipline game was developed by Quang Binh in 2014. This game has attracted the tourists. When the tour arrived, Quang Binh became interested in its uniqueness, originality, and excitement.

Kayaking is not just a sport suitable for the adventurous traveler but also a very relaxing activity ideal for children and teenagers. If you want to experience the feel of a jade treasure beneath your feet, you can go kayaking with your friends and enjoy the tranquility of the river beneath your feet.

One more thrilling choice that can be found on this list of the best things to do in Phong Nha is participating in water activities. An excursion to the Chay River in the Dark Cave can be paired with any water-based activities. The first thing you do is ride the longest zipline in Vietnam to the cave's entrance. Ultimately, you will accomplish your goal of getting clean by swimming out of the cave, where kayaks are waiting for you to paddle you back to the beginning.

Take a mud bath in Dark Cave.

Dark Cave's famed mud-bathing activity - one of the best things to do in Phong Nha Ke Bang - adds a new dimension to the adventure. Aside from ziplining to the cave entrance, the lighted inside features a muck-filled path leading to a natural mud bath. Dive into the clear, diluted mud produced by limestone mountain erosion for a one-of-a-kind and invigorating experience.

Take a boat ride down the Son River.

It doesn't matter what time of year it is; the Son River is breathtaking, especially before the monsoon rains muddy everything. You can take a private boat journey to Phong Nha Cave for approximately 20$ or simply tell the driver that you want to take in the scenery first. During the trip, you will go through breathtaking landscapes, such as mountains, jungles, settlements inhabited by ethnic minorities, and agricultural areas. There is a good chance that a water buffalo will wash itself and cool in the river right next to you. Take a book or a camera with you, and make the most of your time on the water!

Take a cycling trip to the Bong Lai Valley.

The valley of Bong Lai is a natural paradise characterized by peaceful towns and farmland. This location is a perfect stop for a beautiful rural tour because it features many attractions, including the Pub with Cold Beer, The Duck Stop, Moi Moi Restaurant, Pepperhouse Homestay, and Bong Lai Swing Nature Farm. All of these attractions contribute to the overall quality of this location.

If you want to experience the allure of this area entirely, cycling is the finest method. With its peaceful surroundings, the Bong Lai Valley is home to several of the most important things to do in Phong Nha, Vietnam, and should take advantage of the opportunity to experience them.

Visit Hava Valley 

Located within Phong Nha, the Hava Valley is a place that captivates visitors with its tranquil rural charm, crystal clear waterways, and clean air. This serene retreat provides more than just attractive vistas, as it is characterized by tall mountains and verdant forests that are ornamented by the passing of the Chay River. Those looking for an exciting experience can participate in various activities here, such as river bathing, boating, and beautiful explorations. The Hava Valley offers a revitalizing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life by seamlessly combining relaxation and excitement.

Go camping in Tu Lan cave

Camping is yet another exciting pastime that may be enjoyed in Phong Nha. The most stunning campground can be found inside the Hang En cave, situated at one of the openings and right next to a little pond. You will find one of the most breathtaking camping spots in the world in the main chamber of Hang En. 

Flying foxes will dart in and out of the hole above you as you have this unbelievable experience. If you can get up early enough, you can swim in the blue pools and float while watching the sun emerge from the jungle's depths.

Go to the botanical garden.

The botanical garden, which spans an area of forty hectares, is widely regarded as one of the things to do in Phong Nha. It provides a sanctuary for nature lovers seeking natural beauty that has been conserved exceptionally well. 500 plant species, including 133 of the rarest ones, and many animal species, ranging from mammals to reptiles, can be found within its boundaries. In this location, you will be able to take pleasure in the splendor of breathtaking sceneries, such as the Gio waterfall, which is thirty meters high, tranquil lakes, waters that are crystal clear, and an instructive showroom that displays the wealth of flora and fauna that the garden presents.

There is an abundance of amazing things to do in Phong Nha, ranging from the discovery of entrancing caves and the journey through verdant landscapes to the indulging in refreshing mud baths and the exciting treetop excursions. It is a must-visit destination that truly provides something for everyone because of its one-of-a-kind combination of natural beauty, exciting activities, and cultural encounters. Phong Nha guarantees that everyone will have an experience that they will never forget.

>>> See more: HOW TO TRAVEL FROM HANOI TO PHONG NHA KE BANG NATIONAL PARK