North Vietnam Off the Beaten Track : What's New at Ban Gioc Falls?

Introduction

Ban Gioc Falls are a breathtaking natural spectacle. Rising to a height of 30 metres and stretching over a width of almost 300 metres, it is the fourth largest transboundary waterfall in the world, after Iguazu, Victoria and Niagara. It attracts travellers in search of spectacular scenery. The Vietnamese name “Ban Gioc”, meaning “stone chessboard”, refers to the rock formation at the foot of the falls, while its Chinese name, “Detian”, evokes the majesty and power of this waterfall.

Location of the falls

The falls are about 400 km from Hanoi, on the border with China. They consist of two sections: the main one, in Vietnam, and a smaller one, in China. The Quay Son River, which rises in the karst mountains of northeastern Vietnam, feeds the falls. A gravel path winds through grassy banks and wooden bridges, allowing visitors to get close to the tumultuous waters.

Hidden treasures

To the left of the main cascade, another waterfall, although smaller, is just as impressive. Adventurers can take a trail up the falls from a wooden bridge. This route through the jungle leads to the first and second layers of the waterfall, offering breathtaking views. According to legend, a pair of lovers, Ban and Gioc, jumped off the falls to escape a forced marriage, their souls transforming into the two trees that stand on either side of the falls.

How to get there

By bus

There are direct buses from Hanoi to Cao Bang, with a journey time of around 6 hours. From Cao Bang, cabs or minibuses take around 2 hours to reach the falls.

By motorcycle

For the more adventurous, the winding road from Hanoi to Cao Bang offers magnificent scenery, with a journey time of around 8 hours.

Organized tours

Many travel agencies offer multi-day tours that include visits to the falls and other natural sites in the region. See Mr Linh's Adventures below.
 

Best time to visit

The ideal time to discover Ban Gioc Falls is between September and December, marking the end of the rainy season, and between March and May, when weather conditions are milder and river flow optimal.

Activities in Ban Gioc

Admire the falls

The main waterfall offers a dazzling spectacle, with observation platforms to enjoy various perspectives.

Take a boat ride

Board a small boat to get closer to the falls and enjoy the refreshing spray.

Explore the Nguom Ngao cave

This cave, known as the “Tiger Cave”, is 2,144 meters long and offers three main chambers. It is renowned for its magnificent stalactites and stalagmites.

Discover the surrounding villages

Explore Tay and Nung ethnic villages to discover their culture and traditions. Visit local embroidery and handicraft workshops.

Mountain hiking

Enjoy the karst landscapes and panoramic views of the waterfalls on numerous trails.

Restaurants and accommodation

Near the falls, a variety of local restaurants offer a range of dishes, including grilled chicken and regional specialties. It is advisable to order in advance, as meals are often transported from Trung Khanh. Accommodation options vary, from hotels to homestays.

Practical information

Admission: 45,000 VND
Opening hours: 7.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

New at Ban Gioc Falls

The Ban Gioc (Vietnam)-Detian (China) waterfalls area was officially opened to the public after a year of testing, marking the first cross-border tourist destination between Vietnam and China.

Improving infrastructure

Efforts were made to improve access to the falls with new roads and facilities, including trails and observation platforms.

Light show

For those visiting the falls, a light show takes place in the evening, illuminating the cascade in a symphony of colors. This show lasts around 1h30 and is an experience not to be missed, especially if you stay until 7pm.

New accommodation options

New hotels and guesthouses have opened, offering choices to suit a variety of budgets.

Promoting sustainable tourism

Local initiatives aim to encourage responsible tourism, including the development of environmentally-friendly trails.

Recommended tours from Hanoi

The best tour depends on your interests and budget. Bus tours are economical, while motorcycle tours offer a more adventurous experience. Private tours, while more expensive, offer flexibility and comfort.

3-day vs. 2-day tours

A 3-day tour allows for in-depth exploration, while a 2-day tour is more intense but can be more economical.
Here are a few things to consider when making your choice

• Your interests: what you want to see and do during your trip.
• Your budget: how much are you prepared to spend?
• Your time: how much time do you have to travel?

Ideally, take the time to visit Ba Be National Park, the green jewel of the region: discover Vietnam's largest freshwater lake by boat, dive into fascinating caves and take a break in a Jungle Resort, sharing the life of the Tay people.

Mr. Linh's advice

We've designed this tour to balance travel time, sightseeing and breaks; feel free to take a look here:

See you in 2025!

Ban Gioc Falls is an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure and authenticity. With its impressive landscapes and rich culture, this region offers an unforgettable experience.