Cao Bang trekking is the best way to discover Cao Bang province as well as the northeast region of Vietnam. The place has been voted as one of top 5 trekking place in South East Asia. We at Hiking Vietnam provide not only a wide selection of off the beaten path trekking trips in this region, but also much practical information about Cao Bang trekking, Cao Bang Vietnam trekking, Cao Bang trek, Cao Bang hiking.
Cao Bang is a northern mountainous province, sharing a 311-km-long borderline with China. The province can only be reached by the road. It is one of the first places Vietnamese people inhabited, possibly for its natural abundance in farming land. Nowadays, people visit this watery wonderland to hike through the mountains and paddle through the springs, rivers, and the infamous Ban Gioc Waterfall.
Cao Bang Vietnam map
How to get to Cao Bang?
There are no rail connections, making buses the most convenient way to get to Cao Bang Vietnam. A bus from Lang Son on the China-Vietnam border take 4-5 hours. There are also buses from the neighboring provinces in northern Vietnam. You can rent a car with driver from Hanoi to Cao Bang, about 5 hours on road.
You can drive from Meo Vac to Cao Bang, and do a stop-over at Bao Lac town (about 70km from Meo Vac, the road is nice. It’s a nice small town by the river, a bit dusty, but has its charm. It has a few nice hotels by the river near the market with a nice view. If coming from Ha Giang, you can break the journey in Bao Lam, then take the local bus to Cao Bang.
What to explore in Cao Bang?
Thang Hen Lake
Surrounded by mountains, this serene lake is at its best in the rainy season. During the dry season the lake shrinks and is not as impressive, but there are a few rafts that you can take. Walking in the nearby mountains brings you past local herders and farmers.
Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc is about 85km from Cao Bang, about 3 hours away. This breathtaking waterfall, the largest in Vietnam, straddles the China-Vietnam border. The water is particularly thunderous in the wet season but is still beautiful during the dry. You can take a raft out into the river to the base of the falls and greet Chinese tourists doing the same from the other side.
Nguom Ngao Cave
This immense cave holds a series of majestic, jaw-dropping caverns, filled with delicate, intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites. In the low season, you may even have the cave to yourself, an experience probably not to be had elsewhere.
Pac Bo Cave
Pac Bo is a small village in Cao Bang province, northern Vietnam, 3 km from the Chinese border. “Pac Bo” means “source mouth” according to the local language. Near this village is a cave, Hang Coc Bo (today often called Hang Pac Bo) in which Ho Chi Minh lived for seven weeks, during February and March 1941, after returning from 30 years of exile. Consequently, it is now a tourist site.
Cao Bang hill tribe villages
Many minority tribes live in the area surrounding Cao Bang, and their village markets make fascinating places to visit. Markets take place according to the lunar calendar, and the early morning is the best time to go.
When to go trekking in Cao Bang?
The best time for hiking in Cao Bang is the winter starting from October until April of the following year. During this period, the temperature is cool with little rain.
Due to the magnificent outdoor scenery with forests, mountains and natural destinations, you should better hike Cao Bang in the spring season, from February to May to avoid heavy rains and wet atmosphere.
If you want to witness the beautiful snow that may happen in Trung Khanh or Tra Linh Mount areas, you are supposed to come to Cao Bang from November to January.
In case you can only come in summer (June – September) we highly recommend you taking a car trips with easy, short day hikes.
Cao Bang hiking trails
The two most popular hiking trails are available in Quang Hoa and Ta Lung. That Khe and Bao Lac also offer some hiking trails. You will need about 4 – 7 days to do any trail above.
Cao Bang trekking tours
We arrange in Cao Bang a wide selection of mountain hiking, jungle treks, and trekking homestay tours offering you the chance to see beautiful karst formations, mountain sceneries, terraced paddy fields, and to experience the rich ethnic culture of the Tay and Nung people. You will be impressed by the wild beauty of the nature and the beautiful landscape of Cao Bang.
All our Cao Bang trekking tours are multi-day hikes, long treks, provided along with homestay experience. All the trekking tours are private, guided packages. The tour starts from Hanoi with English or French speaking guide, vehicle transfer, homestay, local porter and travel permit.
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FAQ
Cao Bang offers some incredible trekking routes, but one of the most popular is the trek to Ban Gioc Waterfall and the surrounding karst landscapes. You can also explore the scenic trails in Phia Oac-Phia Den Nature Reserve or hike to the remote villages of the Tay and Nung ethnic minorities.
The best time for trekking in Cao Bang is during the dry season, which typically runs from October to April. The weather is cooler, and the trails are less muddy, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
Yes, there are many tour operators in Cao Bang that offer guided trekking tours. These tours often include experienced guides who can lead you through the beautiful landscapes and provide cultural insights. It’s a great way to explore the region safely and learn from local experts.
When packing for a trek in Cao Bang, remember to bring comfortable hiking boots, lightweight and breathable clothing, a rain jacket, a good backpack, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle. Don’t forget to carry some local currency for purchases in remote areas.
Yes, many homestays are available in the villages of Cao Bang. Staying with local communities not only provides a unique cultural experience but also supports the livelihoods of the people in the region. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local way of life while trekking.