Son Doong Cave is the world’s largest natural cave located in the heart of the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam. It is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and active travelers who are looking for an unforgettable experience. In this article, we will discuss the details of Son Doong Cave Tour and if it is feasible to do in 1 Day, the alternatives, and the pricing of 3-day tour.
1. Can I do Son Doong Cave Tour in 1 Day?
Many visitors wonder if it’s possible to do the Son Doong Cave Tour in just one day. While it may seem like a good idea to fit the tour into a tight schedule, it is not feasible. The Son Doong Cave is the largest natural cave in the world, spanning over five kilometers in length and up to 200 meters in height. It is impossible to explore this cave in just one day without missing out on the highlights and the unique experiences it offers.
Instead of trying to squeeze everything into one day, we highly recommend considering the 3-day tour to Son Doong Cave. This will allow you to fully experience the cave and all its natural wonders without feeling rushed or missing out on any highlights.
During the 3-day tour, you will have ample time to explore the cave and its stunning formations, swim in the underground rivers, camp in the cave, and take in the incredible sights and sounds of this natural wonder. This tour is designed to give visitors the ultimate experience, providing ample time for rest and relaxation while exploring the cave.
If a 3-day tour isn’t feasible for your schedule, there are still other day trips and activities in the area that are worth considering. For example, you could visit the Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave, or Dark Cave, all of which offer unique experiences and natural beauty.
2. Son Doong Cave Tour 3 Days and Price?
2.1. Son Doong Cave Tour 3 Days
If you’re looking for an adventure of a lifetime, the Son Doong Cave Tour 3 Days is a must-do. This tour takes you deep into the heart of the world’s largest natural cave, Son Doong, and provides you with an experience that you’ll never forget. Here’s what you can expect from the tour:
A. Tour itinerary and highlights:
- Day 1: Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Phong Nha, followed by a drive to the park entrance. After a safety briefing and final preparations, you’ll start trekking through the jungle towards the entrance of the cave. The hike takes around 4-5 hours and covers 10km.
- Day 2: After a night spent camping inside the cave, you’ll explore different parts of Son Doong. This includes visiting the Garden of Edam and the Great Wall of Vietnam, two of the cave’s most impressive natural features.
- Day 3: The final day of the tour involves a trek back through the jungle to the park entrance. You’ll arrive back in Phong Nha in the afternoon, where you can relax and reflect on the amazing experience you’ve just had.
B. Activities in the cave:
The Son Doong Cave Tour 3 Days is not for the faint-hearted. The cave is challenging to explore, with steep climbs, slippery terrain, and unpredictable weather. However, the experience is worth it, as you’ll get to see some of the most incredible natural formations in the world. Some of the activities you’ll participate in include:
- Trekking through the cave and jungle
- Climbing steep walls and boulders
- Swimming in underground rivers
- Camping inside the cave
C. Requirements and restrictions:
- Minimum age for the tour is 18 years old
- Participants must have a good level of fitness and be able to hike for several hours each day
- Maximum group size is 10 people
- Visitors must obtain a permit to enter the cave, which is limited to a certain number per year
D. Recommended gear and clothing:
- Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
- Lightweight, breathable clothing that dries quickly
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Hat and sunglasses to protect from the sun
- Head torch with extra batteries
- Personal medication and toiletries
Insider tips:
- Book your tour in advance, as spots fill up quickly
- Be prepared for the physical demands of the tour by training beforehand
- Bring a waterproof camera to capture the stunning scenery inside the cave
- Listen to your guide’s instructions carefully and follow safety protocols at all times
- Leave no trace behind by taking all trash and belongings out of the cave with you
Overall, the Son Doong Cave Tour 3 Days is an adventure of a lifetime. By following the recommended gear and clothing, and insider tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.
3, Son Doong Cave Tours Price
If you’re interested in taking the Son Doong Cave Tour, it’s important to understand the cost and what’s included in the package. Currently it costs US$3,000 per person in a join-in tour.
3.1. Inclusions and exclusions:
The Son Doong Cave Tour is an all-inclusive package, which means that most of the expenses are covered in the price. This includes:
- Park entrance fees
- Camping equipment and gear
- Food and drinks (except alcohol)
- Professional guides and porters
- Transportation to and from the park entrance
However, there are a few things that are not included in the price, such as:
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (such as souvenirs or snacks)
- Alcohol or other beverages not provided by the tour
3.2. Additional costs and fees:
In addition to the tour package, there may be some additional costs and fees that you’ll need to consider, such as:
- Flights or transportation to and from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City
- Accommodation in Phong Nha before or after the tour
- Tips for guides and porters
- Fees for permits or visas (if applicable)
3.3. Booking and payment process:
To book the Son Doong Cave Tour, you’ll need to contact one of the tour companies that offer the package. You can find a list of authorized companies on the National Park website. Once you’ve selected a company, you’ll need to provide them with your personal details and pay a deposit to secure your spot on the tour. The remaining balance is usually due a few weeks before the tour begins. It’s important to read the company’s booking and cancellation policies carefully before making any payments.
Insider tips:
- Consider booking well in advance to secure your spot and avoid price increases
- Compare prices and inclusions/exclusions from different tour companies before making a decision
- Bring some extra cash for personal expenses or emergencies
- Don’t forget to factor in additional costs such as flights and accommodation when budgeting for the tour
Getting from Hanoi to Son Doong Cave
Getting from Hanoi to Son Doong Cave is relatively straightforward. The best way to get to the cave is by flying from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, which takes around 1 hour. From there, you can take a shuttle or private transfer to Phong Nha, where the Son Doong Cave tours depart from. The journey from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha takes around 1 hour by car. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, but these options take longer and may not be as convenient. It’s important to plan your transportation in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Son Doong Cave is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers breathtaking scenery and unique adventure activities. It’s important to choose the right tour package that fits your schedule and budget. We hope this blog post has provided you with all the necessary information to plan your trip to Son Doong Cave. Book your tour now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!