Ban Gioc Waterfall & Ba Be Lake in 3 Days

Overview

This Ban Gioc Waterfall tour combines Northern Vietnam’s most dramatic landscapes with rich cultural encounters over three immersive days. You’ll journey from Hanoi to the tranquil waters of Ba Be Lake, explore ethnic villages, and stand at the edge of Vietnam’s border next to the thundering Ban Gioc Falls. With comfortable homestays, scenic boat rides, and visits to historic wartime sites, this well-organized adventure offers a mix of nature, culture, and off-the-beaten-path experiences without the hassle of planning it all yourself.

Highlights

  • Take a peaceful boat trip on Ba Be Lake, surrounded by jungle-covered limestone cliffs
  • Kayak at sunset and stay overnight in authentic ethnic homestays
  • Visit the spectacular Ban Gioc Waterfall on the Vietnam–China border
  • Explore Nguom Ngao Cave and hidden countryside paths with a local guide
  • Enjoy a worry-free journey with all meals, transport, and entrance fees included
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BOOKING SUMMARY

Ban Gioc Waterfall & Ba Be Lake in 3 Days

Starting Date: Apr 18, 2025

Package:

TRAVELLERS

Total: $0

Questions or Special Requests?
Not sure about something, or want to customize this tour? We’re happy to help—just reach out!

Vietnamese Travel Agency

Book directly with a local Vietnamese travel agency

Secure payment

Safe payment via well-known payment gatewaysy

Local Support

Local team in Vietnam for questions and on-site assistance

Highly rated

Boek direct bij een lokaal Vietnamees reisbureau zonder tussenpersoon

Itinerary

Your guide will meet you at your hotel in Hanoi around 7:30 AM for the journey to Ba Be National Park. The drive takes about four hours and offers a gradual escape from the busy city into Vietnam’s northern countryside.

Once you reach Ba Be, you'll be welcomed by your local Tay host and shown to a traditional but comfortable homestay. Settle into your room and enjoy a home-cooked lunch before starting your lake adventure.

Lunch

Spend the afternoon cruising through the peaceful waters of Ba Be Lake. You’ll pass jungle-covered limestone cliffs and visit highlights like Widow Island, Cam Village, and An Ma Temple. It’s a relaxing way to soak in the nature and hear local stories from your guide.

After the boat ride, stretch your legs with a short 3–5 km walk to a forest observation point near the ranger station. Then hop in a kayak for a calm paddle around the lake just as the sun begins to set — a peaceful end to the day.

Back at your Tay family’s home, enjoy a local dinner and spend the evening relaxing. The night is quiet and calm — you’re deep in the countryside now.

Dinner

After breakfast, you’ll head deeper into the remote Cao Bang region, toward Quang Uyen — home to the Nung ethnic minority. The drive is scenic, with plenty of time to see village life along the way.

Breakfast

Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your journey to the caves and waterfalls.

Lunch

Walk through the dramatic chambers of Nguom Ngao Cave, a huge natural tunnel filled with strange and beautiful limestone formations. The cool interior and towering ceilings make this a refreshing and impressive stop.

This is the star of the day — Ban Gioc Waterfall, a roaring cascade stretching across the Vietnam–China border. You’ll have time to explore the area, take photos, or hop on a bamboo raft that floats right up to the misty base of the falls.

After a full day, settle in for dinner and a quiet evening at a Nung family homestay in Quang Uyen.

Dinner

After breakfast, begin the drive back toward Hanoi, stopping first at some lesser-known but important historical spots. Visit the Mother’s Temple and the Dong Khe battlefield — a major site during the First Indochina War.

Breakfast

Pause in Lang Son for lunch before your final scenic leg of the return journey.

Lunch

Your last sightseeing stop is Chi Lang Pass — a 20-km-long natural fortress that played a key role in repelling Chinese invasions. Walk around Quy Mon Quan gate and soak up the layered history of this narrow mountain valley.

From Chi Lang, it’s about a 2-hour drive back to the capital. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Hanoi, wrapping up your 3-day Ban Gioc Waterfall tour and Ba Be Lake experience.

  • AC transportation
  • 02 nights at local homestays
  • Meals; 02 breakfast, 03 lunches and 02 dinners
  • Entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
  • Professional English-speaking tour guide
  • 01 bottle of water (500ml) is served every day during the time traveling by car
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for guide and driver (optional)
  • Extra beverages at meals
  • This tour covers a scenic loop of roughly 700–750 km from Hanoi through Ba Be, Ban Gioc, Lang Son, and back. Most travel is by private vehicle, with short walks and light hikes along the way.
  • This tour is easy to moderate. It includes short hikes (~3 km) and some walking on uneven surfaces in caves and villages. If you have concerns about the difficulty, let us know, we can adjust the pace or route as needed.
  • You can enjoy this tour year-round, but the best time is from September to April when the weather is cooler and Ba Be Lake is often misty and peaceful. Ban Gioc Waterfall is at its fullest during and after the rainy season (June–October).
  • Comfortable walking shoes, light layers, and weather-appropriate clothing are best. Bring a jacket during the cooler months and a raincoat if traveling during the rainy season.
  • Your safety is a priority. Life jackets are provided for boat and kayak activities. The tour is led by experienced guides familiar with local terrain and conditions.
  • Most homestays offer basic wifi, but it may be limited or slow in rural areas. A Vietnamese SIM card is recommended if you need reliable internet during the trip.
  • Vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-specific meals can be arranged. Just let us know in advance so we can prepare accordingly.
  • Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, a hat, and a small daypack for short hikes. A power bank is useful if you rely on your phone for photos or navigation.
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FAQ

Can I store my large luggage somewhere during the tour?

Yes, if you're returning to the same hotel in Hanoi after the tour, most accommodations are happy to store your luggage. Otherwise, we recommend traveling with a medium-sized bag or backpack.

Can I join the tour as a solo traveler?

Yes, solo travelers are welcome. You can join an existing group or request a private tour (additional charges may apply).

Is it possible to swim at Ban Gioc Waterfall or Ba Be Lake?

Swimming is generally not allowed at Ban Gioc Waterfall due to strong currents and border restrictions. At Ba Be Lake, it’s possible in some calm, designated areas but always check with your guide first for safety.

How long is the drive each day?

Expect to spend around 4–5 hours in the car on Day 1 and Day 3, and around 3 hours on Day 2. The drives are broken up with stops at viewpoints, villages, and attractions to keep the journey comfortable.

How remote are the places we visit?

Some areas, like Ba Be Lake and Quang Uyen, are remote and less touristy. While basic services are available, it’s best to bring essential items (like medicine or snacks) with you just in case.

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  1. user
    An Epic Himalayan Adventure!
    By Sarah Johnson
    from United States
    August 3, 2023
    I just returned from the Everest Base Camp trek, and WOW! It was absolutely breathtaking. The stunning Himalayan vistas, warm Sherpa hospitality, and the sense of accomplishment made it an unforgettable journey. Highly recommended!
    Date of Experience: August 03, 2023

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