Dong Hoi is a city with a surprising variety of cave exploration tours and nature adventures that make it a prime destination for travelers eager to see Vietnam’s underground wonders. Its proximity to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park means you’re never far from some of the world’s most impressive caves and natural landscapes. We particularly love tours that combine cave discovery with local culture, like the all-inclusive Phong Nha & Paradise Cave tour, which offers the chance to visit two distinct caves with a local lunch. The variety on offer ensures there’s something for all—whether you’re after a relaxed day among stalactites or a full-throttle adventure with ziplining and mud baths.
Dong Hoi’s proximity to the park and its well-organized tours make exploring its underground landscapes easy and rewarding. The tours we highlight range from full-day excursions to small-group adventures and adventure-packed trips that include activities like kayaking, ziplining, and mud baths. Each offers a different way to experience the area’s natural beauty, so you can pick based on your schedule, interests, and fitness level.
1. Phong Nha & Paradise Cave – 1 Day All Inclusive
This highly-rated tour offers a comprehensive day exploring two of the most iconic caves in the region. Starting with a flexible pickup from Dong Hoi or Phong Nha, you’ll visit Paradise Cave, the longest dry cave in Asia, featuring breathtaking stalactites, stalagmites, and vast chambers. The tour includes a scenic golf cart ride through the jungle to reach the cave entrance, making the walk inside more comfortable. Afterward, you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, which can be tailored to dietary needs.
What makes this tour stand out is its all-inclusive approach—everything from entrance fees to lunch is covered, saving you time and money. The small-group setting ensures personal attention and a chance to ask questions. Reviewers love how well-organized and relaxing the experience is, with comments like “This exceeded our expectations” and “A must-do when visiting Vietnam.” Best suited for travelers wanting a full-day, hassle-free experience of two major caves.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers who want a smooth, rundown of Phong Nha’s caves, with the convenience of included meals and a small-group atmosphere.
2. Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave: Guided Boat Tour & Exploration
This tour is a breathtaking journey into Phong Nha’s underground world, emphasizing boat rides and guided exploration. Starting early with hotel pick-up, you’ll first visit Paradise Cave, where you’ll ride an electric vehicle through the jungle to the cave entrance, then walk into a spectacular space filled with stalactites. The guide shares insights on the geological features and history of the cave, making it an educational as well as aesthetic experience.
Next, you’ll hop onto a traditional dragon boat to explore Phong Nha Cave, famous for its underground river. This combination of land and water adventures offers a diverse perspective on the park’s natural beauty. Reviewers highlight the excellent guides and smooth logistics, making it a top choice for travelers wanting an in-depth, scenic adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in geology and scenery, with a mix of walking and boat rides that showcase the park’s diverse underground landscapes.
3. Paradise Cave – Phong Nha Cave 1 day tour in National Park
This tour takes you into Paradise Cave, awarding you a full day of exploration with a focus on comfort and immersive experience. Starting with pickup from Dong Hoi, you’ll travel by golf cart into the vast chambers of Asia’s longest dry cave. Inside, you’ll see stalactites, stalagmites, and impressive rock formations that look like sculptures. Afterward, the tour moves to Phong Nha Cave, where a boat ride allows you to see the underground river system.
The itinerary is designed for travelers who want a relaxed pace but still get to experience the highlights. Visitors praise the easy organization and the chance to explore both caves in one day. The inclusion of lunch and transportation makes this tour great value for money.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet relaxing cave tour with a focus on natural beauty and comfort.
4. Daily Tour to Paradise and Dark Cave
For the active traveler, this tour offers a full-day adventure that pairs the stunning Paradise Cave with the thrill of Dark Cave. Starting early, you’ll visit Paradise Cave with a golf cart ride, then move on to Dark Cave, where adventure activities like ziplining, kayaking, swimming, and mud baths await. This tour is perfect if you want more than just sightseeing—you’re after action and excitement.
The highlight is the zipline over the river and the opportunity to swim and mud bath inside the caves. Many reviewers mention how the adventure activities add a memorable element, with one saying, “Nick (our guide) was very enthusiastic and friendly.” The inclusion of lunch and hotel pickup makes it a convenient, all-in-one experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want a mix of breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping activities.
5. Tour to the Caves – Paradise & Dark caves from Dong Hoi city
This full-day guided tour is designed for those wanting a hassle-free exploration of the UNESCO-listed caves. It covers both Paradise and Dark Cave, including a zipline, mud bath, and scenic boat ride. The tour departs from Dong Hoi, with pickup and drop-off included, and features all entrance fees covered, so no surprises.
What sets this trip apart is its coverage of multiple activities in one day, with a balanced mix of sightseeing and adventure. Reviewers highlight the well-organized logistics and the delicious local lunch. It’s perfect if you prefer a structured tour that includes a variety of experiences.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive, all-in-one day of exploring the caves and trying outdoor activities.
6. Phong Nha Paradise Caves Daily Tour
This small-group tour offers a peaceful exploration of Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave. Starting in Dong Hoi, you’re whisked into the caves with hotel pickup and all entrance fees included. Paradise Cave’s spectacular stalactites resemble a landscape painting, and the inside offers a serene atmosphere with soft LED lighting highlighting formations like flower-shaped stalagmites.
The trip lasts about 9 hours, making it a manageable day for those who prefer less intense activities while still enjoying the natural wonders. Reviewers applaud the seamless organization and the opportunity to walk and explore at your own pace.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who value a relaxed, guided experience with plenty of time to appreciate the caves’ natural beauty.
7. Tour to the Caves ONE DAY tour to Phong Nha and Paradise caves
This well-rounded day trip combines visits to both Paradise and Phong Nha caves. Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll explore the spectacular interiors of Paradise Cave—the longest dry cave in Asia—and then take a traditional dragon boat ride into Phong Nha Cave, famous for its underground river.
Guests appreciate the efficient itinerary that maximizes sightseeing without feeling rushed, with reviews noting the knowledgeable guide Nick and the delicious lunch. It’s a good choice for those wanting a full immersion in the region’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a complete, day-long exploration of the key caves with seamless logistics.
8. From Dong Hoi: Paradise Cave, Phong Nha Cave Tour, and Lunch
This tour emphasizes caves and local cuisine, starting with a pickup from Dong Hoi. The journey includes visiting Paradise Cave, where you’ll marvel at stalactites and vast chambers, then proceed by boat into Phong Nha Cave for a river cruise that reveals rock formations and underground tunnels.
Reviewers mention the delicious Vietnamese lunch and the relaxing boat ride, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experience. The tour’s duration and inclusion of all transport and entrance fees add convenience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a comfortable, scenic, and culturally rich day.
9. Phong Nha: Zipline Dark Cave & Paradise Cave Exploration
This adventure-packed tour combines cave exploration with outdoor activities like ziplining, kayaking, swimming, and mud baths. Starting early, you’ll trek through the forest to Paradise Cave, then zipping across the river before diving into Dark Cave for adventure activities.
Reviewers praise the energetic guide Victor and the variety of activities, with one saying it’s “a perfect mix of excitement and scenery.” It’s tailored for active travelers who want a full day of fun.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want adventure alongside natural wonders and don’t mind a physical challenge.
10. Dong Hoi/Phong Nha: Paradise Cave – Phong Nha Cave Tour
This balanced tour offers guided visits to Paradise and Phong Nha caves, including boat rides, lunch, and hotel pickup. It’s designed for easy access and emphasizes learning about the caves’ roles during the Vietnam War.
Reviewers mention the well-organized itinerary and professional guides, making it a reliable option for those interested in natural and historical aspects of the caves. It lasts about 9 hours, balancing sightseeing with comfort.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an informative, hassle-free day that combines natural beauty with history.
11. Paradise Cave & Dark Cave 1 Day – Deluxe Small Group
This luxury small-group experience combines adventure activities with caving—ziplining, mud baths, kayaking, and even a mud fight in the caves. Starting early, you’ll enjoy a golf cart ride, guided exploration, and outdoor fun.
Reviewers love the personalized attention and the variety of activities. One wrote, “This was an action-packed, fun-filled day with an amazing guide,” highlighting the value of a small-group adventure.
Bottom Line: Great for thrill-seekers who want everything—the caves and outdoor activities—in one seamless, fun package.
12. Phong Nha Cave & Paradise Cave Day Tour Small Group to Fairy Land
This small-group tour focuses on immersive natural exploration, including scenic walks, boat trips, and learning about ecosystems like the eyeless fish in the caves. It’s ideal for travelers interested in ecology and geology.
Starting in Dong Hoi, you’ll visit Paradise Cave, then enjoy a scenic boat trip on the Son River, ending with informative commentary from guides. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and rich storytelling.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers who love learning about nature while exploring spectacular caves.
13. Paradise Phong Nha caves from Dong Hoi city
This efficient full-day tour is ideal for those with limited time. It features guided visits to Paradise and Phong Nha caves, with boat rides, lunch, and hotel pickups included. The focus on ease and smooth logistics makes it popular.
Reviewers remark on the beautiful caves and the knowledgeable guide Nick who enhances the experience with details about Vietnamese culture and geography.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a quick yet comprehensive cave experience with all logistics taken care of.
14. Zipline Dark cave & Paradise cave: Full-day Exploration
This action-packed tour combines scenic cave exploration with adventure activities like ziplining, kayaking, swimming, and mud baths. Starting early, you’ll experience the thrill of ziplining and swimming inside caves.
Reviewers highlight the exciting zipline experience and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. One described it as “a perfect day for thrill-seekers,” emphasizing the diversity of activities.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventure lovers who want an intense, fun-packed day in the park.
15. Cha Loi Cave 1 day like Tazan in the Jungle
For the truly intrepid, this jungle trek leads you to Cha Loi Cave, where you’ll explore untouched cave interiors with caving tools. There’s no paved path or ticket shop—just you, your guide, and raw nature.
Reviews mention the spectacular stalactites and the authentic exploration experience. It’s best suited for adventure-minded travelers comfortable with hiking and climbing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for explorers wanting an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Dong Hoi
When deciding between these options, consider your fitness level, interest in adventure versus scenery, and time constraints. If you want a relaxed, comprehensive day, the all-inclusive Phong Nha & Paradise Cave is hard to beat. For those craving adrenaline and outdoor fun, the Dark Cave & Paradise Cave adventure or the Zipline Dark Cave & Paradise Cave are excellent choices.
Budget-conscious travelers should look at tours that include lunch and transport, like the Paradise Cave & Phong Nha Cave Day Tour. If you prefer small-group or luxury experiences, options like the Deluxe Small Group Tour offer more personalized attention.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on popular tours. Keep your fitness level and interest in outdoor activities in mind—some tours involve hiking, swimming, or ziplining, which can be demanding.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want an easy-paced scenic tour or a full-day adrenaline rush, Dong Hoi has a tour for you. Cave lovers will find remarkable underground worlds, while adventure seekers can enjoy ziplining and mud baths. The good news is that with so many highly-rated options, you’re sure to find a memorable experience that fits your schedule and style.
Don’t wait too long to book—these tours fill quickly, especially during peak season. Pick what suits your interests and confidence level, and prepare to be amazed by the natural wonders right in Vietnam’s backyard.