The rural province of Cao Bang is the crown jewel of Northern Vietnam. It is full of stunning natural ecosystems like the Gioc Waterfalls and Nguom Ngao Cave system that continue to attract thousands of visitors throughout the year. Majority of Cao Bang is a protected as UNESCO World Heritage Site land and is best visited during the summer months when the visibility is high and climate is relatively cooler. As most of Cao Bang is still rural, there are some rustic things to do here and it serves as a welcome change for visitors who can even have an opportunity to interact with the tribal communities that inhabit this land. 

One of the best things to do in Cao Bang is to explore the fabled Bang Gioc Waterfalls. Located nearly 85 km outside the city, this natural wonder offers visitor’s incredible views and photo opportunities. Equally popular with young couples and families alike, this incredible network of small waterfalls originate from the Quay Son River. The surrounding area consists of lush forestland.

A short walk away from the legendary Bang Gioc, this pagoda is a stunning site that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside as the fabled waterfall itself. With a three-gate entrance, this ancient structure is considered to be the first of its kind in Northern Vietnam. This is a great place to explore, especially for historians and architecture lovers.

A truly unique natural wonder, these caves are said to be hundreds of millions of years old and span a whopping 2200 meters in length. The caverns house incredible rocks, grottoes and stalactites. This is one activity that is not to be missed as these limestone structures are hard to come by. The cave is best visited in the summer months.

A great way to learn about the cultural origins of Cao Bang is by interacting with some of the nine ethnic tribes that still exist in this rural province. Through specially guided tours visitors can discover the crafts, cuisines and traditions of these tribes. A slight offbeat activity, this is recommended for adventurous and curious visitors.

This lake system consists of 36 smaller lakes that create this unique ecosystem. It continues to serve as a lifeline for fishermen and farmers in the Cao Bang region. Visitors tend to enjoy observing the daily activity of the rural folk in the area, which makes for wonderful photo opportunities.

Another tourist favourite activity is to explore the historic complex where Ho Chi Minh took shelter as he plotted his revolution hundreds of years ago. The compound is a stunning architectural work that also offers panoramic views of the Vietnamese countryside. The location continues to serve as a pivotal pilgrimage destination for the locals.

Visitors are recommended to go out and explore the unique city of Cao Bang. Primarily a rural province, the city has also come into its own developing a variety of contemporary restaurants, museums and hotels. Additionally, there is a diverse food culture here, where visitors can sample delicacies like spring rolls, skewered meat and noodle soup.