Nestled in the remote northeastern province of Cao Bang, Vietnam, Ban Gioc Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its thunderous cascades and stunning surroundings. As one of the largest waterfalls in the world, it has become a sought-after destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Let’s explore with Ha Giang Motorbike Tours the Ban Gioc Waterfall Tours.
Where is Ban Gioc Waterfall located?
Located on the Vietnam-China border, Ban Gioc Waterfall, situated in Dam Thuy commune, Trung Khanh district, Cao Bang province, is hailed as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam. This site attracts tourists with its majestic, pristine, and unique natural beauty.
Ban Gioc Waterfall is the largest natural waterfall in Southeast Asia and the fourth largest in the world among waterfalls located on a border. The waterfall comprises the main falls (Lower Falls) on the northern side of the Vietnam border and the secondary falls (Upper Falls) to the south in China.
With a total width of up to 208 meters, a height of over 60 meters, and the longest slope of 30 meters, Ban Gioc Waterfall is divided into multiple limestone tiers, stretching across hundreds of meters, creating an extremely impressive scene. The water cascades down, creating white foam that blends with the emerald green of the Quay Son River, painting a stunning natural picture.
Around the waterfall area, there is a diverse and rich ecosystem with many rare plant and animal species. Thanks to its special values in terms of landscape, geology, and culture, Ban Gioc Waterfall was recognized as a national special relic in 1989 and is part of the UNESCO Non Nuoc Cao Bang Global Geopark.
Things to do Ban Gioc Waterfall can not only admire the majestic beauty of nature but also participate in various exciting tourism activities such as kayaking on the Quay Son River, exploring caves, mountain climbing, learning about the unique culture of local ethnic minorities, and enjoying Cao Bang’s specialty dishes.
The right time to travel to Ban Gioc Waterfall
You can visit Bản Giốc Waterfall all year round, but it is most beautiful during two seasons: spring and autumn. Spring (March-May) has cool and pleasant weather, not too hot or too cold, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Autumn (September-November) offers visitors a colorful landscape as the trees begin to change their leaves. Under the clear blue sky, the waterfall cascades down in a spray of white foam, blending with the golden and red hues of the foliage, creating a stunning natural picture.
In addition, summer (June to August) may be hot and rainy, but it is also a lively tourist season at Bản Giốc Waterfall. Visitors can participate in exciting activities such as kayaking on the Quây Sơn River, swimming in the waterfall, and mountain climbing. To know exactly the best time to travel to Cao Bang, you can learn more here.
How to move from Hanoi to Ban Gioc Waterfall
Bản Giốc Waterfall, the blue gem of Cao Bằng, is located in Đàm Thủy Commune, Trùng Khánh District, about 335km from Hanoi. To get here, travelers can take a bus or ride a motorcycle from Hanoi or neighboring provinces.
There are many reputable bus companies operating the Hanoi – Cao Bằng route with ticket prices ranging from 150,000 to 200,000 VND per trip. The travel time is approximately 7-8 hours. Travelers can easily book tickets online on websites such as Vexere, Vietbamticket,…
For adventure lovers, conquering Bản Giốc Waterfall by motorcycle promises an exciting and unforgettable experience. Starting from Hanoi, follow National Highway 1A to Bac Giang – Lang Son Expressway. Continue along National Highway 4A to Dong Khe town, turn left onto Provincial Road 208 to Hoa Thuan town. Finally, turn left onto National Highway 3 and go about 21.3km, then turn right to reach Đàm Thủy and conquer the majestic Bản Giốc Waterfall.
See more: Motorbike routes from Hanoi to Cao Bang
Interesting activities at Ban Gioc Waterfall – Cao Bang
When you visit Ban Gioc Waterfall, you’ll not only be captivated by the breathtaking natural scenery but also by the myriad of enjoyable activities, such as:
- Exploring the waterfall: Experience the rustic wooden boat or trek along the Quay Son River bank to admire the cascading white waterfall amidst the pristine and majestic natural scenery.
- Caving adventure: Feel the excitement exploring mysterious limestone caves like Ngườm Lài Cave, Pu Luong Cave, Thung Cave, where sparkling stalactites and stalagmites abound in various shapes and sizes.
- Conquering trekking routes: Challenge yourself with winding trekking paths that lead visitors to unique viewpoints to fully appreciate the beauty of the Northeast mountainous forest.
- Fishing: Immerse yourself in nature, cast your line to catch salmon, and chubby carp right in the poetic Quay Son River.
- Kayaking: Glide gently through the clear waters, maneuvering amidst the serene and picturesque riverbanks, experiencing peace and tranquility.
- Local cultural exploration: Visit ethnic villages of Tay, Nung, Dao, and Lo Lo Chai, immerse yourself in their simple and rustic lifestyle, and discover the unique and distinctive cultural traits of the local people.
- Culinary delights: Indulge in local specialties deeply infused with the flavors of Cao Bang’s mountainous region, such as Cao Bang rolled cake, sour pho, catfish hotpot, and native pork dishes.
Interesting places to visit near Ban Gioc Waterfall
Besides visiting the Bản Giốc Waterfall, you can also explore and experience other famous destinations in Cao Bằng such as Truc Lâm Phật Tích, Bản Việt Lake, Thang Hen Lake, and Lê Nin Stream. Each place has its own unique beauty, attracting tourists both from within the country and abroad.
Truc Lam Phat Tich Pagoda
Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda is the first pagoda built at the Vietnam-China border, inaugurated on December 15, 2014, and covers an area of about 3 hectares. The pagoda leans against the Phia Nhan mountain, offering a panoramic view of the majestic Ban Gioc waterfall and the surrounding mountain ranges from above. Truc Lam Phat Tich Pagoda is not only a spiritual tourist destination but also an attractive travel spot. Visitors can engage in activities such as meditation, yoga, and chanting. The pagoda also has a vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious and nutritious meals to guests.
Ban Viet Lake
Ban Viet Lake is an artificial freshwater lake located in Duc Vu commune, Bac Quang district, Cao Bang province, Vietnam. The lake was constructed on the Neelum River, spanning 12 km in length and 3 km in width. It covers a water surface area of 107 km² and has a water storage capacity of 1.4 billion m³.
Ban Viet Lake is a famous tourist attraction known for its majestic and poetic natural scenery. The lake is surrounded by towering limestone mountains and lush green forests. Numerous small islands dot the lake, creating a picturesque landscape.
Ban Viet Lake is home to various species of fish and wildlife. Visitors can engage in activities such as fishing, kayaking, boating, and exploring the islands.
Ho Thang Hen
Thang Hen Lake, also known as Thang Hen Lake, is a man-made freshwater lake located in Thang Han Commune, Dong Van District, Ha Giang Province, Vietnam. The lake was constructed on the Nho Que River, stretching 8 km in length and 3 km in width. It has a surface area of 18 km² and a water storage capacity of 320 million m³. Thang Hen Lake is a famous tourist destination renowned for its magnificent and poetic natural scenery. The lake is surrounded by towering limestone mountains and lush green forests. There are many small islands on the lake, creating a picturesque landscape. This is also one of the most famous attractions, drawing numerous visitors to Cao Bang after Ban Gioc Waterfall.
Lenin Stream
Lê Nin Stream, also known as Lenin Stream, is a freshwater stream flowing through Ban Lo commune, Bao Lam district, Cao Bang province, Vietnam. The stream is approximately 10 km long and originates from the Phia Oac limestone mountain range.
Lê Nin Stream is a famous tourist attraction with majestic and poetic natural scenery. The stream is surrounded by towering limestone mountains and lush green forests. The crystal-clear, cool water flows over the rocks, creating a beautiful natural picture.
Additionally, visitors to this place will hear historical stories linked to the August Revolution and the great French resistance of Vietnam in the 20th century.
Note when traveling to Ban Gioc Waterfall – Cao Bang
To make your journey to discover Vietnam’s “most magnificent waterfall” complete, international travelers should keep the following useful tips in mind:
- Book plane, train, or bus tickets to Hanoi or Van Don Airport, then take a coach or train to Cao Bang.
Reserve a hotel room, homestay, or guesthouse that fits your needs and preferences. - Exchange your currency to Vietnamese Dong (VND) at the airport or banks nationwide for convenient spending. It’s advisable not to carry too much Vietnamese Dong; exchanging around 4-5 million VND for a 2-day 1-night trip is appropriate.
- Purchase a Vietnamese SIM card at the airport, travel agencies, or phone stores for easier internet access and communication.
Prepare appropriate clothing for the weather, comfortable footwear, hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent. - Learn some basic Vietnamese phrases to communicate more easily with locals. Join Cao Bang tours for the best guidance and support throughout your trip.
- Be mentally prepared for the steep and challenging roads when traveling to Ban Gioc Waterfall.
Here are the Ha Giang Loop Tour’s shares about the detailed itinerary at Ban Gioc Waterfall. We hope that this information will help you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
