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Discover one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural wonders with Vietnam Discovery Travel. Ban Gioc Waterfall, located on the border with China, offers majestic views, serene boat rides, and rich local culture. Plan your visit with expert tips and hidden gems revealed!
Location: Dam Thuy Commune, Trung Khanh District, Cao Bang Province
Entrance fee: 45,000 VND per person
I. Highlights of Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc is known as one of the largest transnational waterfalls in the world in general and particularly one of the most famous waterfalls in Vietnam. In recent years, tourists from all over the world have flocked here to admire its unique and natural beauty.
Located in Dam Thuy Commune (Cao Bang City), 335km from Hanoi, Ban Gioc Waterfall shares a border with Guangxi Province, China, to the west (belonging to Vietnam) and is contested by China to the east. Therefore, the Ban Gioc area boasts a rich cultural diversity of indigenous ethnic minorities.
Both countries are committed to reaping significant benefits from this location in terms of tourism and economic profit. What makes the Ban Gioc landscape enchanting is the extraordinary flow of water cascading down what looks like giant natural stone steps. This allure is undoubtedly the main factor attracting tourists from all over the world.
II. What to Do and Where to Go at Ban Gioc Waterfall?
The Ban Gioc area not only receives praise for its waterfalls but also attracts many other stunning landscapes. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit these beautiful places:
1. Nguom Ngao Cave
Carved deep into a mountain, this 2,144-meter-long cave is one of the most captivating caves in Vietnam and was discovered in 1921. In the traditional language of the Tay people, “Nguom Ngao” means “tiger” or “cave of stone valley.” The stalactites hanging from the cave ceiling will leave a lasting impression as they have been formed by countless water droplets over millions of years.
2. Thang Hen Lake
The Thang Hen Lake area consists of 36 natural lakes nestled in a sloping valley, all coming together, surrounded by lush forests and rocky fields. In the Tay language, the name Thang Hen is derived from “bee’s abdomen” due to the lake’s curved shape. In the morning, you’ll be awestruck by the scenery covered in mist rising from the pristine lake.
3. Ma Phuc Pass
Ma Phuc Pass, located between Tra Linh District and Hoa An District, is known for its outstanding beauty. To cross it, locals have to navigate a narrow, winding road that only skilled drivers can handle. The pass offers breathtaking views of the highlands and the majestic mountainous landscape.
4. Pac Bo Historical Site
Pac Bo Cave, where Uncle Ho (Ho Chi Minh) once resided and contemplated the future of a revolution, is recognized as a national-level historical site. Apart from the cave, the Pac Bo area also features Lenin Stream, Uncle Ho’s Memorial House, Lang Lang Cave, and more. This is the most authentic evidence of Uncle Ho’s simple lifestyle, his significant contributions to the revolution, and his plans for a better welfare state.
III. What to Eat When Visiting Ban Gioc Waterfall?
Here are four highly recommended local dishes when you have the chance to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall and the surrounding area:
1. Grilled Tram Huong Fish
The name of this fish comes from its habit of eating leaves and the bark of lophira trees. Before grilling, they are thoroughly cleaned with water to remove dust and then stuffed with spices like shallots, chili, and lemongrass before being wrapped in banana leaves. You can taste the flavor of lophira wood when you try the fish.
2. Ant Egg Cake
One of the most unique dishes in the Cao Bang mountainous region, this cake is only available from April to May when black ants in the garden are reproducing rapidly. Covered by mochi and leaves, the main ingredient is young ant eggs. In case you’re concerned about pollution, the eggs are stir-fried with onions, peanuts, and a bit of pork before being stuffed into the cake.
3. Cao Bang Pancakes (Banh Xeo Cao Bang)
Unlike regular pancakes, Cao Bang pancakes are known for their special sauce made from bone broth. Typically, the bones are simmered for hours before adding minced meat and spices to create the dish.
4. Roasted Suckling Pig
Local residents should know that suckling pigs weighing between 4-6kg will serve you best. After preparation, the pig is stuffed with specialized medicinal leaves, skewered, coated with honey and spices, and then roasted over a fire. Most people prefer it to be cooked just right because the pig’s skin looks attractive, is crispy, and has an irresistible aroma.
IV. How to Get to Ban Gioc Waterfall?
1. By Bus/Coach
If you are not in Hanoi, please take a flight to the capital city, Hanoi, to continue your journey.
Usually, it takes 7 hours from Hanoi to Cao Bang City, so here’s the itinerary:
Start from National Highway 1A -> Bac Giang-Lang Son Expressway -> National Highway 4A -> Dong Khe Town -> Road 208 -> National Highway 3 -> Road 206 -> Arrive at Dam Thuy Commune -> Ban Gioc Waterfall.
2. By Personal Car/Motorcycle
When traveling by personal vehicle, some people like to take different routes to explore more tourist destinations along the way. Some potential plans include:
From Hanoi, take National Highway 3 to Bac Kan Province, where you can visit Ba Be Lake and Ba Be National Park. Here, you’ll find many rare ecological species, not to mention impressive landscapes and geology.
Instead of National Highway 3, take National Highway 4 to Lang Son Province, where you can visit Mau Son Mountain and have a unique experience.
Then, you can return to the route leading to Dong Khe Town and proceed to Cao Bang City from there.
V. Additional Tips for Visiting Ban Gioc Waterfall
When exploring the breathtaking Ban Gioc Waterfall with Vietnam Discovery Tours, keep these essential tips in mind:
Carry all personal documents, including ID or passport, as you may need them for security checks or deposits along the journey.
Drive cautiously, especially on the remote and winding mountain roads leading to the waterfall. If you’re unsure, contact our team via WhatsApp (+84) 799 702 888) to arrange a reliable driver.
Bring mosquito repellent and essential medicines for common travel issues such as colds, cramps, or stomach discomfort.
Pack food and drinks, as there are limited stores or restaurants in the Ban Gioc area.
Respect the customs of local ethnic groups. Avoid entering homes or touching personal belongings without permission. To fully understand the culture and avoid misunderstandings, we recommend hiring a local guide—available when booking with Vietnam Discovery Tours.
