Cao Bang: Discover A Magnificent And Historical Region

At the far north of Vietnam lies Cao Bang, a region off the beaten path and simply magnificent! Its beauty is due to the thousands of sugarloaf mountains that rise here and there, undoubtedly creating some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in northern Vietnam. But that's not all. During your journey, you'll likely take the enigmatic RC4 road, which marked a turning point in the Indochina War 50 years ago.

Let's take a moment to travel along the winding roads of Cao Bang, which trace the Sino-Vietnamese border for 300 km. Certainly one of the most beautiful borders in the world!

What to do in Cao Bang?

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Ban Gioc waterfall, the symbol of Cao Bang

Let's start with the must-see attraction in the region: Ban Gioc Waterfall. Marking the Sino-Vietnamese border in the most beautiful way, Ban Gioc is the largest and most beautiful waterfall in Vietnam. You can enjoy it on land, but also on a tourist boat that takes you right to its base. The site is popular on both sides! The Chinese side attracts just as many locals as the Vietnamese side. Along the way, don't hesitate to stop at the Truc Lam Pagoda, nestled on the side of a karst peak. The view from there is breathtaking!

Note that at 7 p.m., the waterfall is illuminated for an hour and a half, offering an artistic light show. It's the perfect stop to end your day.

Quay Son river

The Quay Son River originates in the Guangxi province in China and flows through Vietnam for 49 km near the Po Peo border, in the Trung Khanh district. The agricultural landscapes along its banks are exceptional. Moreover, where there is water, there is life! During your riverside walks, you will experience the daily life of the local ethnic minorities, who will most likely be busy cultivating the delicious Ong sticky rice.

Phja Piot, the moutain of the eye of God

In Cao Bang, it's impossible to miss a limestone peak. They are everywhere! But among them, one stands out for its unique appearance. Phja Piot, with a hole through it, opens onto a verdant valley, lined with similar peaks, crossed by Lake Thang Hen, and home to herds of horses... A magical landscape to discover by motorcycle or on foot!4

Ban Viet lake

On the road between Trung Khanh and Ban Gioc, we invite you to head toward the hamlet of Ban Viet, in the Phong Chau commune. There, you’ll find Ban Viet Lake, ideal for nature activities such as camping, picnicking, trekking, and kayaking.

Nguom Ngao cave

For all cave enthusiasts (and there are plenty in Vietnam), take the time to embark on an expedition to Nguom Ngao Cave - Tiger Cave. Between the lighting effects, acoustics, and stalagmites, this cave is a wonder! You can access it by taking a hike off the beaten path through the surrounding countryside.

Bao Lac Market

If you happen to be passing through Bao Lac, don't miss a visit to the local market, especially in the morning for breakfast or to buy local specialties. You will find tasty dishes at low prices, prepared by the locals themselves. This traditional market is held on the 5th, 10th, 15th, 20th, 25th, and 30th of each lunar month, offering an authentic experience of local life. It's a great opportunity to taste typical cuisine and observe the lively atmosphere of a true mountain market.

Picturesque Bamboo Forest in Cao Bang

Approximately 100 km from Cao Bang city center, the Lung Pan bamboo forest, located in the Bao Lac district, offers a striking natural spectacle. By taking National Highway 34, visitors can already enjoy the winding and wooded landscapes that line the route. The further you penetrate into the forest, the fresher and more invigorating the air becomes. On either side of the path, endless rows of green bamboo rise harmoniously, creating a peaceful and poetic natural setting. It's an ideal place to relax and reconnect with nature.

Pac Bo, the command post during the Indochina war

At the junction of the Trung and Mang rivers, Pac Bo – "the source" – holds significant historical importance, in addition to its aesthetic qualities. After 30 years abroad, former Vietnamese president Ho Chi Minh settled in the Coc Bo cave in 1941. It was here that he oversaw part of the military operations to gain Vietnam’s independence. He even renamed the nearby stream Lenin and the mountain Karl Marx. There’s no doubt about his political inspirations! This final destination offers a perfect transition into Cao Bang and its historical depths.

Cao Bang and the RC4, a journey through history

Passing through Cao Bang is also an opportunity to familiarize yourself with Vietnam's recent history, a history shared with French travelers. Indeed, you will likely travel along the enigmatic Colonial Route #4, which was taken 70 years ago by French troops. If you are particularly interested in this historical period, you can visit the main battlefields of the perilous and painful evacuation of Cao Bang by the French army.

Logistical information about Cao Bang

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How to get to Cao Bang ?

If you're leaving from Hanoi, you can take a bus from the My Dinh, Giap Bat, and Gia Lam bus stations. The fare is about 250,000 VND per person for a journey of approximately 7 hours. To better manage your time, we recommend incorporating Cao Bang into a broader tour of Northern Vietnam. Otherwise, traveling back and forth between Cao Bang and Hanoi, and then to another destination, could waste valuable time in the overall context of your trip.

Once you're in Cao Bang, you can rent motorcycles (200,000 VND per day, excluding fuel). Be aware that there are not many gas stations locally, and the mountain roads can be tricky.

When to visit Cao Bang ?

• From September to October, the beautiful Ban Gioc waterfall has clear water, and the terraced fields are adorned with golden hues.

• From June to August, the rainy season makes visits less pleasant, with less accessible roads. The Ban Gioc waterfalls are so powerful that some nearby areas become submerged.

• In November and December, you'll enjoy the season of wild sunflowers and buckwheat flowers, while in March, it's pear blossom season.

Cao Bang, a must-see

The Cao Bang region is particularly special to us because we organize historical tours in collaboration with the "Les Bambins de Ban Ca" association. There's something inexplicable about it. These roads take you along paths where Vietnam's nature is shown in its most beautiful light. Then, under the shade of its karst giants, you embrace a rural life that is tender, smiling, and welcoming. In short, prepare your heart, as emotions will be ever-present... and so will the winding roads!

If you have any questions, we know the region like the back of our hand: contact@vietnaminsolite.com .