A man kayaking solo through Phong Nha Cave

Stunning rock formations inside Phong Nha Cave

Kayaking on a underground river inside Phong Nha Cave - Part of Phong Nha National Park - Vietnam

Kayaking Tour in Phong Nha Cave

Overview

Dive deep into the underground world with this full-day kayaking tour in Phong Nha Cave, Vietnam’s most iconic river cave. Paddle 3 kilometers into complete darkness, hike through hidden chambers, and swim in a secret underground lake — all inside a UNESCO-listed cave system. This tour offers a rare chance to explore well beyond the standard tourist route, guided by experienced locals. If you're looking for adventure, nature, and something truly off the beaten track, this is it.

Highlights

Kayak 3 kilometers through the dark underground river of Phong Nha Cave
Hike 1.5 kilometers deep inside the cave to explore hidden chambers
Swim in a remote underground lake surrounded by rock formations
See ancient Cham inscriptions in rarely visited dry cave sections
Fully guided experience with all gear, transport, and lunch included

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Package details

BOOKING SUMMARY

Kayaking Tour in Phong Nha Cave

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

8:00 - 9:00 AM :

Pick-up in Phong Nha

Between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, you'll be picked up from your accommodation around Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park. After meeting your local guide, you'll head to the cave area where your gear is prepared and the adventure begins.

9:00 - 9:30 AM :

Safety briefing and gear check

Before entering the cave, your guide will go over the plan for the day and check all equipment — helmets, headlamps, kayaks, and safety gear. You'll practice kayaking briefly near the cave entrance to get comfortable with handling your kayak.

10:00 AM :

Kayak into the dark zone

Once ready, you’ll paddle straight into Phong Nha Cave — through the towering entrance and deep into complete darkness. You'll cover 3 kilometers by kayak along the underground river, surrounded by dramatic stalactites and ancient rock formations.

11:00 AM :

Hike deeper underground

After leaving the kayaks behind, the next section is on foot. You’ll hike about 1.5 kilometers through the cave’s interior, venturing far beyond the areas open to most tourists. Expect narrow paths, sandbanks, and towering chambers as your headlamp lights the way.

13:00 PM :

Swim in a secret lake

At the end of the hike, you’ll reach a hidden underground lake. With no natural light, it’s an unforgettable place to float and cool off. If you're feeling brave, take a dip into the dark water and enjoy the surreal silence.

13:30 PM :

Lunch inside the cave

After the swim, take a well-earned break and enjoy a picnic-style lunch prepared by your guide. The lunch spot is set within the cave, offering a unique setting surrounded by limestone walls and absolute quiet.

Lunch

14:00 PM :

Return by kayak and hike

Once rested, you'll hike back to the kayaks and paddle the same 3-kilometer route toward the cave entrance. It’s a different experience on the way back, with more time to notice cave details you might’ve missed earlier.

15:00 PM :

Explore dry chambers and carvings

Before exiting, you’ll explore some of the cave’s dry chambers — including a section where ancient Cham inscriptions are carved into the rock. It’s a glimpse into the human history hidden within this natural wonder.

15:30 PM :

Return to your hotel

By around 3:30 PM, the tour wraps up. You'll be taken back to your accommodation in Phong Nha, with a day full of adventure, nature, and rare cave exploration behind you.

Included / Excluded

Caving & safety gear: caving helmet, caving headlight, gloves, kayak and paddles( for kayaking option)
Water proof bag( for swimming inside the cave)
Water crossing sandals sizes 38 – 43
Meal and water: Fresh spring rolls with rice papers, bread, cookies, fruits, and water bottles
Professional English-speaking tour guide and guide safety assistant
First Aid Kit and Medical Rescue Equipment (application by guides and porters only)

Tips (optional)
Personal expenses

Tour information

Difficulty level

Moderate – you’ll need a basic level of fitness for kayaking and hiking over uneven terrain. If you have concerns, let us know — we can help assess if it’s a good fit or adjust where possible.
Best time

This tour is available year-round, but the best conditions are from March to August when river levels are stable and weather is warm for swimming.
Required experience

No prior kayaking or caving experience is needed. The guide will provide full instructions, and the tour is suitable for beginners.
What to wear

Wear lightweight, quick-dry clothing, sturdy water-resistant shoes or sandals with straps, and bring a change of clothes for after the swim. Avoid flip-flops.
Wifi and internet

There is no internet access during the cave tour. Most accommodations in Phong Nha offer wifi. For better coverage, consider using a local SIM card.
Luggage details

Bring only essentials for the tour. Larger bags can be left at your accommodation or the starting point.
Dietary options

Vegetarian and special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice. Please inform us when booking.
Availability

This tour is available daily with advance booking. Group sizes are limited to keep the experience personal — early reservations are recommended.
What to bring

Bring a water bottle, a towel, waterproof phone protection, and a change of clothes.

FAQ

What happens if it rains during the tour?

Light rain won’t affect the tour as you’ll be inside the cave. However, in case of heavy rain or flooding (common from September to November), the tour may be delayed, rescheduled, or canceled for safety. Contact us for real-time updates.

Is the underground lake safe for swimming?

Yes, it’s safe and supervised. The water is calm and clean, and life jackets are available. Swimming is optional, so feel free to skip it if you’re not comfortable.

Can children join this tour?

This tour is best suited for adults and older children (typically 12+), due to the physical activity and dark cave conditions. If you’re traveling with children, contact us to discuss suitability.

Are toilets available during the tour?

Basic toilet facilities are available at the starting point, but there are no restrooms once inside the cave. Be sure to use the facilities before the tour begins.

Will there be insects or bats inside the cave?

You may spot small cave insects or bats, but they avoid humans and pose no danger. The guide will make sure you feel safe and comfortable throughout.

What kind of shoes should I wear?

Closed-toe, water-resistant hiking sandals or shoes with good grip are best. Avoid flip-flops or shoes that get slippery when wet.

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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

Kayaking Tour in Phong Nha Cave

Overview