EXPLORING THE DEPTHS OF VIETNAM: INSIDE PHONG NHA CAVES
While Vietnam is already well-known to some digital nomads, there are still plenty of areas in the country that are less commonly visited by first-timers. As you continue on with your remote-work lifestyle, you might find that you’re drawn back to certain countries, and you finally have the time to explore outside of the main cities and usual attractions.
Travelers who make time to get off the beaten path are sure to be rewarded with some incredible sights and experiences, no matter where in the world they find themselves.
Enter Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This protected area in north-central Vietnam borders the Hin Namno Reserve in Laos. You’ll need to take a bus there from Dong Hoi, the closest city to the park that has an airport. You will be thrilled that you did, once you get a glimpse of the mountains, lush tropical forests, and underground rivers.
Let’s see why the caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang have proved to be an unforgettable experience for so many. If you’re traveling through Vietnam anytime soon, you won’t want to miss this!
Adventure Activities
If you’re a natural thrill-seeker, you’re going to love the options for adventure activities at the caves. There are so many great things to do if you like to get active. Round up some friends (or try to meet new ones once you arrive!) and check out the activity of your choice.
The main attraction is of course the caving expeditions. Be sure to research which adventure is best for you because some of them are quite intense: the Hang Son Doong is perhaps the most well-known cave because of its size, but to get there is expensive and takes several days. You may want to start with one that is less popular but a bit more manageable.
Besides, you’re going to want to spend some time on other activities in the park too! Jungle treks and water activities are also certainly going to be worth your energy.
If you’re doing a multi-day caving expedition, camping is already going to be a consideration of yours. Even if you aren’t exploring the caves, you should put camping on your to-do list. The campsites at the Phong Nha caves are absolutely beautiful, with a lot of the best spots right at the mouth of a cave near waterfalls or rivers. This is bound to be a unique experience, even for seasoned campers.
Anyone looking for an easier, more relaxed day has a lot of options, too; for example, a ‘Cave Walk’. Many caves are lit inside and can be visited easily from the road, with smooth paths so that you don’t have to climb, swim, or scramble. You could also try a boat tour or a drive around the park and countryside, where you’ll see wildlife, beautiful scenery, and local villages.
No matter your energy level, there are options here for enriching, fulfilling activities to try.
Supporting Sustainable Tourism
One of the best parts about visiting a national park is the fact that with just a few considerations, you can explore in a totally eco-friendly manner. Getting a ton of exercise, learning about local culture and landscapes, all while being kind to the environment? It’s the perfect getaway!
Before you head for the park, look into options for guided tours. These guides are going to have the best knowledge of the geological formations, history, and legends associated with each cave system. Once you’ve found a few options, see if each tour provides any information about a green initiative. Since the flora and fauna are so lush and diverse in Phong Nha-Ke Bang, many tours focus on seeing the wildlife in a responsible way.
Connecting With Locals
The Phong Nha township is home to various groups of people, and there is no better way to deepen your connection with Vietnam than to talk to them and hear their stories. Since the caves are a spot of religious and cultural significance, you will probably find that people from the area will have their own traditions and tales about the caves and the important roads and trails there.
You may make a new friend, and at the very least, you’ll learn more about Vietnam and the Phong Nha-Ke Bang caves directly from the source.
You may also see small villages within the park itself, like that of the Bru Van Kieu. Be respectful & learn what you can from anyone you may meet.
Learning About Geology
If you have any interest in geology, this is certainly the getaway for you. Even if geology isn’t normally your cup of tea, you may be interested to know that Phong Nha-Ke Bang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its karst landscape (a terrain characterized by its limestone foundation, which, through erosion, has formed distinctive features such as towers, fissures, sinkholes, and caves).
You can really enhance your experience here by learning about the geology of the area and looking into how the limestone took shape over millions of years. Imagine these immense caves being worn away over eons into the spectacle that they are today!
Reflection & Meditation
The caves have a serene and mystical air about them, and if you are inclined towards meditation, you may find these caves to be the perfect setting. Although Phong Nha-Ke Bang is a popular tourist spot, you should still be able to find a quiet area there to settle yourself and reflect. There is arguably no better place to connect with yourself than amid natural beauty - and that’s abundant in these ancient caves.
Final Word
Entering the caves of Phong Nha Ke-Bang is more than just a casual outing. It’s a chance to connect with nature, history, and local culture. For digital nomads who want a new adventure, this is an opportunity to get outside of your comfort zone like few others. You’ll be able to return to your work with a fresh perspective on the world after experiencing the extraordinary natural wonder of these mysterious caves.
