Things to do in Phong Nha

Phong Nha is the base for Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (UNESCO World Heritage, 2003), the cave country of central Vietnam. A day here means the accessible caves: Phong Nha Cave, entered by boat up the Son River, and Paradise Cave, reached by a walk and a long wooden boardwalk.

Expect roughly 10-30 EUR per person for entry fees, boats and local transport, more with a guide or a tour. Son Doong, the largest known cave passage in the world, is not a day trip: it is a multi-day expedition on a limited permit, priced at several thousand EUR, and it should be planned months ahead.

Dong Hoi airport is the closest, with roads and the Reunification Express railway also serving the area. Late-year rains and floods can close caves, so check conditions before you book.