Exploring the Abandoned Valley: Caves, Jungle, and Camping in Central Vietnam
If you’re craving an adventure that combines spectacular caves, trekking through lush forests, and camping with panoramic views, the 2-day Abandoned Valley tour offers an experience like no other. Priced at around $321.43 per person, this trip is well-loved by travelers, with a perfect 5.0-star rating based on 27 reviews. It’s recommended by 96% of those who’ve taken it, and most book about a month in advance—so planning ahead is a good idea.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to walk 18 km of jungle and rocky terrain—a true test of stamina for outdoor enthusiasts. Second, the exploration of iconic caves like the Dark Cave, E Cave, and Golden Cave, each offering a unique perspective on Vietnam’s underground wonders. You’ll also get to camp overnight in front of Cave E, with fantastic panoramic views, and enjoy swimming and water sports inside the caves.
A few considerations: this tour involves moderate physical activity and some steep walking, so it suits those with decent fitness levels. Also, the itinerary is quite packed, so if you’re expecting a leisurely pace, you’ll want to come prepared for some energetic days.
This adventure is perfect for outdoor lovers, caving enthusiasts, and those eager to experience Vietnam’s scenic wilderness in a unique, active way. If you enjoy breathtaking natural sights coupled with a bit of physical challenge, this tour will suit you well.
Key Points
- Stunning caves and underground rivers: Explore Dark Cave, E Cave, and Golden Cave, each offering unique sights like stalactites, turquoise waters, and impressive formations.
- Active trekking through lush terrain: An 18 km walk through dense forests and rocky landscapes provides ample opportunity for nature photography and exercise.
- Camping with panoramic views: Spend a night in front of Cave E, enjoying campfire activities and starry skies.
- Water-based fun: Inside E Cave, you can swim, paddle SUP, snorkel, and relax on floats or check-in with colorful ducks.
- Nutritious meals included: Four hot, energy-packed meals—featuring grilled meats and seasonal fruits—keep you fueled for the adventure.
- All necessary gear provided: Caving helmets, lights, life jackets, camping gear, and even a basic trekking sandal if you don’t have your own.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting Point: Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Your adventure kicks off early in the morning at 8:00 AM with a pickup in Phong Nha, an essential hub for Vietnam’s cave exploration. The tour begins with an introduction to the cave complex and the sprawling 2000-hectare Abandoned Valley. This overview sets the tone for what’s to come, giving you a sense of the terrain, safety, and logistics.
Trekking into the Forest
By 9:30 AM, we set off on a 4.5 km trek through dense forest and rugged mountains. The trail winds through bamboo groves and rocky paths, a route that’s physically demanding but visually rewarding. As we walked, we appreciated the natural scenery of jungles and mountains—a perfect escape from city life.
This part of the journey is about connecting with nature, and the group size is kept intimate (maximum 15 travelers), which enhances safety and camaraderie. A review from Becca_B mentions: “The experience was awesome. My daughter and I loved all 3 caves, but especially Cave E. Our guide, Vins, was super personable and lovely.” That personal touch can make a big difference in how immersive and enjoyable the experience feels.
Lunch and Rest
Around 1:30 PM, the group concludes the morning trek with a well-deserved lunch. The included meals are described as nutritious and hot, perfect for replenishing energy—think grilled pork and beef, plus seasonal fruits and snacks. After lunch, the journey continues with a shorter trek to E Cave, arriving by mid-afternoon.
Exploring E Cave
From 2:30 PM onwards, you’ll explore E Cave, famed for its turquoise waters and beautiful stalactite formations. You can swim in the cave’s interior, which spans about 1 to 1.5 km, or try out water sports like SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), snorkeling, and even just floating on a lazy float. The experience is both exhilarating and relaxing, as you float in crystal-clear water surrounded by natural sculptures.
Reviews highlight the value here—Becca_B notes, “Our guide Vins was super personable. I highly recommend the workout you will get.” The combination of physical activity and stunning scenery makes this part of the tour memorable.
Evening Campfire and Stargazing
After a lively afternoon, the tour offers a BBQ dinner with grilled meats and cold drinks. Following dinner, the group gathers around a campfire, sharing stories and gazing at stars (weather permitting). It’s a peaceful contrast to the day’s excitement—an opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow travelers.
Day Two: Adventure Continues with Water Sports and Golden Cave
Dawn in Nature
Early risers will enjoy a sunrise viewing and mountain sounds—a serene start to the day. Breakfast follows, featuring local dishes, setting you up for more exploring.
Inside E Cave: Water Sports and Filming
The highlight of the morning is the exploration of E Cave’s interior. You’ll paddle about 1.2 to 1.5 km inside the cave, an experience that feels almost surreal amid the moss-covered stalactites and clear waters. Each guest will be filmed for a brief clip, adding a fun personal souvenir. Water sports like snorkeling and beach volleyball are also available, making this a lively and diverse activity.
Visiting Golden Cave
After a midday rest, the journey continues with a trip to the Golden Cave, a 1 km section of a sprawling 24,000 km stalactite system. Here, you’ll see golden stalactites and terraced formations, which are worth the walk through the dense forest afterward. The whole experience combines natural wonder with some physical activity, both of which are highly praised by previous travelers.
Return and Reflection
By late afternoon, the group returns to the starting point, completing the trip with a sense of accomplishment. The journey back to Phong Nha is smooth, and you’ll likely be filled with stunning visuals and memories of a truly active and authentic experience.
Practical Aspects and Value
Transportation and Logistics
The tour includes air-conditioned transport from Phong Nha, which makes the long days more comfortable. The schedule is tight but well-paced, with clear meeting points and a maximum group size of 15. This small group size ensures personalized attention and safety—important when navigating caves and rugged terrain.
Cost and Inclusions
At roughly $321.43 per person, the tour offers a lot of value. It includes all necessary gear like helmets, lights, and camping equipment, as well as four nutritious meals and snacks. The price also covers all permits, taxes, insurance, and support from guides and porters.
What’s Not Included?
You’ll want to budget for personal expenses or optional items, but the core experience is covered, making it straightforward to plan.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
Visitors consistently praise the stunning vistas and cave formations—some describe the views as “surreal,” with moss-covered stalactite systems and dazzling turquoise waters that are rare even in Vietnam’s famous cave system. Becca_B’s review emphasizes the personalized guide experience, highlighting how the guide made the trip more engaging and enjoyable.
The physical activity level is also a hit among travelers—many mention the “awesome workout” and the sense of achievement after trekking and exploring the caves. The camping experience allows for a peaceful night under the stars, a true highlight for those wanting to disconnect and enjoy nature’s quiet beauty.
The Sum Up
This 2-day adventure in Central Vietnam offers an authentic taste of the region’s natural beauty and underground marvels. It’s ideal for active travelers, outdoor lovers, and cave enthusiasts eager for a hands-on experience that combines trekking, swimming, camping, and exploring. The tour’s inclusion of multiple caves with distinct features ensures variety, while the stunning scenery and well-organized logistics provide excellent value.
While it demands a good level of physical fitness, the payoff is worth it for those wanting to see Vietnam’s wilderness from a different angle—immersed in nature, challenged physically, and rewarded with unforgettable sights.
If you’re seeking a balanced, spirited adventure that’s not just sightseeing but a full engagement with Vietnam’s landscape, this tour is a perfect choice. Just remember to bring your energy, a sense of curiosity, and a love for exploring underground worlds and mountain vistas.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels?
Yes, the tour involves trekking about 18 km and some steep paths, so a moderate fitness level is recommended. Travelers should be prepared for physical activity but not necessarily expert climbers or hikers.
What kind of water activities are included inside E Cave?
You can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding (SUP), snorkeling, and relaxing floats. These activities help make the cave exploration more fun and engaging.
Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, four hot, nutritious meals are provided, including a BBQ dinner with grilled pork and beef, plus seasonal fruits and snacks. Breakfast is also included.
Does the tour provide all necessary gear?
Absolutely. You’ll receive caving helmets, lights, gloves, life jackets, camping gear, and even a basic trekking sandal if needed. Dry bags for phones and cameras are also available.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, allowing full refunds if needed.
What is the maximum group size?
The experience is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal and safe environment.
This 2-day adventure stands out as a lively, authentic way to experience Vietnam’s underground caves and lush wilderness—perfect for energetic explorers craving a mix of physical challenge and natural beauty.