Article updated : january 2025
The
Ban Gioc waterfall, located in
Cao Bang province in north-east Vietnam, is often hailed as one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the Land of the Dragon. It's a veritable tableau vivant, where nature expresses itself with breathtaking force and beauty.
Not convinced? Here's why this waterfall should be high on your list of places to visit on your trip to Vietnam.
Spectacular Ban Gioc Waterfalls - Photo Mr Linh's Adventures
A grandiose natural spectacle
At 300 metres wide and 53 metres high, Ban Gioc is one of the largest natural waterfalls in Southeast Asia. With the deafening sound of water crashing over rocks, its picturesque setting, bordered by karst cliffs and rice terraces, provides the perfect backdrop for photographers and nature lovers.
Cultural immersion
The Ban Gioc region is home to the Tay ethnic group. By visiting the surrounding villages, you can discover their traditional way of life, sample their authentic cuisine, spend the night in a house on stilts or even take part in their festivities. And don't forget to sample the region's culinary specialties! You'll be seduced by the authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine: Banh cuon (steamed rice roll), roast duck with seven flavors, not forgetting the intriguing ant-egg cake, your taste buds won't be disappointed...
Enjoy the rural life in Cao Bang Province - Photo Mr Linh's Adventures
Something for everyone
Also known by its Chinese name of Detian Falls, Ban Gioc is not only a sight for sore eyes; it also offers a variety of activities for the adventurous. You can kayak or boat up close to the waterfall, swim in the natural pools, or hike in the surrounding area. Photography enthusiasts will find an ideal playground for immortalizing landscapes that are both powerful and serene.
An easy-to-organize getaway
Although located in a relatively remote area, Ban Gioc is accessible by road from Hanoi, Vietnam's capital. The journey by car or motorcycle through the rural landscapes of northern Vietnam is an adventure in itself, offering breathtaking views and stops in picturesque towns and villages.
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Exploring the Nguom Ngao Cave - Photo Mr Linh's Adventures
A fascinating geological history
The surrounding caves, such as Nguom Ngao (or Tiger Cave), bear witness to millions of years of geological history. Fantastically shaped stalactites and stalagmites add an extra dimension to your visit.
Responsible tourism
By visiting Ban Gioc, you are supporting ecotourism initiatives aimed at preserving the natural beauty and local culture. Many tourists choose to travel responsibly, helping to maintain the balance between tourism and environmental conservation.
Good to know
The best time to visit Ban Gioc is from May to September, when the waterfall is at its peak thanks to the monsoon rains that swell the Quay Son River. However, each season offers its own beauty, with varied landscapes and different conditions for exploration.
Good news! Mass tourism hasn't arrived yet. If you avoid weekends and public holidays, you can have it almost to yourself, as very few people go there.
And finally, for the sake of completeness, while foreign visitors used to need a special permit to visit the falls, given their proximity to the Chinese border, today it's enough to buy a simple ticket, then take a gravel path to the falls. Only on rare occasions will you be asked to show your passport.
Savor the culinary specialties of Cao Bang Provincer - Photo Mr Linh's Adventures
A must-see destination in North Vietnam
The Ban Gioc waterfall is not just a natural attraction; it's a microcosm of the best that Vietnam has to offer in terms of beauty, culture, adventure and ecological diversity.
For those planning a trip to Vietnam, adding Ban Gioc to your itinerary promises not only unforgettable moments but also an enriching experience that will resonate long after you return home.