Last updated January 2018 | Words and photos by Vietnam Coracle
This post was last updated 6 years ago. Please check the comments section for possible updates, or read more on my Updates & Accuracy page.
INTRODUCTION| GUIDE | MAP | RELATED POSTS
Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural sights. Located in the northeastern province of Cao Bang, the falls are 30 metres high and 300 metres across, making Ban Gioc the widest (but not the highest) waterfall in the country. The falls occur on the Quay Son River, a beautiful jade-blue body of water flowing from China through a pastoral landscape of rice fields and bamboo groves surrounded by limestone pinnacles. Despite improved road access and public transportation connections, and the popularity of several recent viral drone videos showcasing the majesty of the falls, Ban Gioc is still a relatively off-the-beaten-path sight. Mass tourism has yet to arrive and, outside of weekends and public holidays, there’s rarely more than a trickle of foreign and domestic visitors.
Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural sights, yet it remains rarely visited
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GUIDE: BAN GIOC WATERFALL
In this guide, I’ve written a description of the waterfall and surrounding area, including places to see and things to do, followed by information about accommodation, food and drink, and transportation, and my annotated map of the region. The waterfall can be visited at any time of year, but, in my opinion, the best time is from September to October, when the summer rains that feed the falls are less frequent and the harvest is in full swing. Ban Gioc waterfall can be combined with a visit to the nearby Nguom Ngao caves (which are included in the guide below) and as part of my Northeast Loop. For more interesting destinations in the region, take a look at the Related Posts.
Click an item below to read more about it:
MAP:
Ban Gioc Waterfall & surrounds, Cao Bang Province
View in a LARGER MAP
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The Waterfall & Caves:
At Ban Gioc, the Quay Son River forms the border between Vietnam and China. Consequently, the falls are half in Vietnam and half in China. Both countries have bamboo rafts that punt visitors around the base of the falls for better views of the cascade: you can literally shake hands with Chinese tourists on the other rafts. Ban Gioc waterfall is roughly 360km from Hanoi, reached via a good national highway to Cao Bang City, and then several recently upgraded provincial roads, leading through fantastic countryside to the falls (see Transportation). It’s now easier than ever to visit Ban Gioc, but still very few people, especially foreign travellers, make it here. A perfect destination if you’re on a motorbike road trip following the Northeast Loop, or an independent traveller looking to get off-the-beaten-track, this waterfall is a favourite destination of mine and is bound to be a major draw-crowd in the future.
Borderlands: Ban Gioc waterfall is half in Vietnam, half in China
Before reaching Ban Gioc falls, the Quay Son River ambles through a sumptuous valley, studded with limestone karsts. I warm to this gentle landscape, and it’s been one of my favourite corners of the country ever since I first visited the area in 2009. On a trip in 2014, I was lucky enough to camp on the river bank here during the night of a lunar eclipse.
Before reaching the falls, the Quay Son River ambles through a sumptuous valley
There’s an impressive limestone cave system, called Nguom Ngao caves (entrance: 40,000vnd [$2]), just a few kilometres on the right before reaching Ban Gioc waterfall. A kilometre-long walkway leads through the caves, which are beautifully lit and very impressive. Tread carefully because the pathway can be very slick, thanks to the dripping of calcium carbonate, which forms the stalactites that you see all around you.
Nguom Ngao caves, just a couple of kilomotres before Ban Gioc falls, are very atmospheric & well-lit
Farming techniques can’t have changed much here in centuries: save for some mechanized rice threshers, most of the work is done by hand. One piece of ‘technology’ you’ll see along the banks of the river is the bamboo water wheel. This attractive, medieval-looking device scoops up water from the river, carries it up to the level of the fields, and drops it into earth gutters, which channel the water into the fields to irrigate the crops. It’s a hypnotic, peaceful and timeless sight. However, it would appear that they are slowly dying out: on my last visit, only a few of them were operating, and a couple were in a state of neglect.
A hypnotic sight: bamboo water wheels line the Quay Son River as it flows towards Ban Gioc falls
The serenity of this valley is suddenly and dramatically broken when the Quay Son River reaches a 300 metre-wide limestone ledge, and drops sharply down several terraces, creating Ban Gioc waterfall. Some brave (or foolhardy) fishermen stand in precarious positions, casting their lines into the cascade.
Precarious: a fisherman casts his line atop Ban Gioc falls
Because the falls are located right on the Chinese border, foreign travellers used to require a special permit to visit the area. But today, you can just turn up and buy a ticket (45,000vnđ [$2]) at the kiosk without any documents at all, before walking down a gravel path to the waterfall. (Very occasionally, the ticket kiosk may ask to see your passport.) The path threads through rice fields, over wooden bridges above gurgling creeks, and onto an exposed grassy bank at the bottom of the falls. The wide, white cascade is fringed with foliage and framed by sharp, tooth-like limestone mountains, which are partly obscured by drifting clouds of vapour from all the spray generated by the waterfall. A good viewing point is from the newly constructed hilltop temple and pagoda on the south side of the road, opposite the falls.
A panorama of Ban Gioc falls, seen from the ticket entrance at the road on the Vietnamese side
Apart from a new hotel, the only tourist infrastructure at the falls themselves are a few unattractive wood and concrete shacks covered by blue tarpaulins and corrugated iron roofs, selling snacks and trinkets. Happily, Ban Gioc has yet to be subjected to the ‘Disneyfication’ (think concrete elephants, papier-mâché unicorns, and tacky theme park rides) that spoil so many of Vietnam’s natural attractions. Litter, too, is still not a real problem, although on my last visit I did see some of the vendors dumping their trash in the streams. There are lots of beautiful spots around the base of the falls on which to sit and take in the spectacle. Find a place on a pebbly beach or grassy bank, perch on a boulder in a stream or lay in the curving trunk of a tropical tree, and gaze in awe at one of Vietnam’s most romantic sights. Providing you don’t visit on a weekend or public holiday, you may have it almost all to yourself.
Taking in the views: there are plenty of spots to idle the day away, and it’s rarely busy at Ban Gioc falls
Bamboo rafts (50,000vnđ [$2] per person) punt visitors closer to the cascade for better views. The ‘ride’ lasts about 10 minutes and you’ll definitely get wet. In some areas, signs in Vietnamese read ‘No Swimming!’ But it’s difficult to resist taking a plunge in one of the blue pools of water, especially around the smaller falls to the left of the central waterfall. There’s usually no one there to stop you bathing, and I’ve never encountered any resistance (although I’m sure this will change as the falls become more popular). But, of course, you should be very careful: stick to the placid rock pools and stay well away from the main cascade.
Getting wet: bamboo rafts punt visitors around the base of Ban Gioc falls
Across a wooden bridge to a beach beneath the falls, there’s a treacherous path leading up through jungle to the first and second tiers of the waterfall. Not for the faint-hearted – or for those without proper footwear – this track climbs steeply among vines and roots to several gorgeous pools of blue running water. Tread carefully because the rocks are slippery and soon you’ll reach the edge of a ledge, from where the water drops straight down into a giant limestone bowl below. Again, there are some half-hearted attempts to block access to this path, and if you choose to climb it, you do so at your own risk.
Take the treacherous path up the side of the waterfall & be rewarded with fabulous views
It’s possible to wander further and higher up the side of the falls for even more spectacular views of the deluge from above. It’s an awesome sight – in the true sense of the word – but be extremely careful, and don’t even think about attempting it if it’s been raining. There are no handrails so if you slip there’s nothing to hold onto except exposed roots. You can find the start of the path at the bottom of the falls behind a milestone marking the Vietnamese border, located over a rickety wooden bridge.
Climb even higher up the treacherous path (at your own risk) for a bird’s-eye view of the entire waterfall
Considering the waterfall’s proximity to China, and the frosty history (both ancient and recent) between the two countries, the atmosphere at Ban Gioc is very relaxed. Official presence on either side of the falls is minimal and, as seen in the photo below, Vietnamese floating vendors often approach Chinese rafts to sell their wares to Chinese tourists.
A Vietnamese vendor approaches a raft of Chinese tourists to sell her wares
It’s easy to forget that this province was one of several points along the Vietnamese border where, in February 1979, Chinese forces entered Vietnam under the orders of Deng Xiaoping. There were many reasons for the invasion, but ultimately it was an extension of tensions between the Soviet Union and China (Vietnam having signed a treaty with the USSR in 1978). Thousands of Vietnamese and Chinese were killed and, when the Chinese army departed (or retreated, depending on whose version of events you believe), they laid waste to the land they had briefly occupied. Along the road that follows the border just beyond the falls, there are memorial shrines dedicated to local Vietnamese who died during the 1979 war. Border disputes continued into the 1980s, and included the historic Nam Quan Gate, an ancient gateway between the two countries, which ultimately ended up on the Chinese side. The photo below shows a border marker on the Vietnamese side of the Quay Son River: just 20 metres away, across the river, is China. At some points along this road, the distance between the two countries is as little as five metres.
A border marker on the Vietnamese side of the Quay Son River: China is on the opposite bank
Accommodation:
On the Chinese side of the river there’s a hotel on the hill, but until recently the Vietnamese side hadn’t seen any significant development. However, a new mid-range resort, called Saigon-Ban Gioc (tel: 091 542 4228), has now opened on the road directly opposite the entrance to the falls. It’s quite a big, sprawling complex but not high enough to be an eyesore. Rooms are good, comfortable and OK value for the price ($40-$50). Breakfast (which isn’t very good) is included in the price, and the restaurant/bar serves lots of Vietnamese dishes and some alcohol too. If you get a room on the higher terraces you can just about see the falls from your balcony, hemmed in by forested limestone mountains. Staying here is a good idea if you want to see the falls at dusk or dawn, which is when they look their best and there’s absolutely nobody around.
As well as the Saigon-Ban Gioc Resort, there are a handful of local guest houses (nhà nghỉ in Vietnamese) on either side of the road, between the Nguom Ngao Caves and the waterfall. Ha Vuong Hotel (tel: 096 281 1311), Phuong Troi Hotel (tel: 0167 4341 831), and Kieu Thanh Nguyet Guest House (tel: 096 966 1992) are all just west of the falls on Road DT206. They all offer simple but clean rooms for around 200,000vnd ($10).
Recently opened, the Saigon-Ban Gioc Resort is the first major hotel development at the waterfall
There are also one or two local nhà nghỉ in Trung Khanh, the nearest town to Ban Gioc falls, 25km to the west: try Minh Duc Guest House (tel: 0206 3826 588). This is a good option for intrepid travellers, because Trung Khanh is a dusty, rustic border town with a wild west edge. There are several crumbling pastel-coloured shophouses and an interesting daily market with various imported goods from China. You’re pretty much guaranteed to be the only foreign traveller in town.
Quang Uyen, a town at the junction of roads QL3 and DT206 halfway between Cao Bang and Ban Gioc falls, also has some decent places to stay. Duy Huong Hotel (tel: 0206 6266 888), Tuan Hien Guest House (tel: 0206 3821 666), and Tuyet Niem Hotel (tel: 0206 6285 285) are all fine for a night on the road.
Painted shopfront on the dusty streets of Trung Khanh, a possible overnight option, 25km from Ban Gioc
However, the vast majority of visitors to Ban Gioc stay at one of the dozens of accommodation options in Cao Bang City, 90km west of the falls. Cao Bang, the provincial capital, is a bustling, likable city on the banks of the Bang Giang River. Vuon Cam and Kim Dong (QL4A) streets are lined with places to stay. For mid-range rooms with river views try the Bang Giang Hotel (tel: 0206 3851; $20-$30), which has a fading Soviet grandeur that appeals to me. There are lots of budget beds to choose from: Hotel 89 has simple, clean, bright rooms or there’s a string of cheap mini-hotels down the southern end of Kim Dong Street (QL4A).
Cao Bang City, 90km west of Ban Gioc waterfall, is where most travellers stay: there are lots of hotels
Food & Drink:
Although there are plenty of good places to eat in Cao Bang City, food at and around Ban Gioc waterfall is not so readily available. At meal times you’ll find basic local rice and noodle eateries (quán cơm phở in Vietnamese) in most small towns in the area, like Trung Khanh (especially around the market) and Quang Uyen. There are also a few informal rice joints along the roadside between Ban Gioc falls and Nguom Ngao caves. (For more about quán cơm read this.) The new Saigon-Ban Goic Resort has a restaurant serving dozens of Vietnamese dishes. Prices are fairly reasonable and food is decent quality.
There are informal noodle soup & rice stalls, like this one, near Ban Gioc falls & the surrounding villages
In Cao Bang, there’s a lot of food and drink available, especially on Vuon Cam Street. Thu Ngan eatery is an excellent casual dining spot: do as the locals do and walk up to the counter, point at what dishes you want with your rice and sit down to a metallic tray of good food. There are dozens of dishes to choose from and it’s dirt cheap. Or, if you’re craving Western food, Cao Bang has an couple of (unexpected) pizza joints: check out Pizza Chi. For breakfast there are lots of soup kitchens on Vuon Cam Street, including bánh cuốn (steamed rice flour rolls), a dish that’s very popular in northern Vietnam. Domino Cafe is a good place for coffee, and you can stock up on picnic supplies (such as bánh mì baguettes) at and around the Cho Xanh market.
Cao Bang City has plenty of eating options, including local noodle soups for breakfast
Transportation:
Ban Gioc waterfall is 90km east of Cao Bang (see map). The easiest and most enjoyable way to reach Ban Gioc is by motorbike. If you don’t already have one, motorbikes are available for rent from some hotels and guest houses in Cao Bang for around 200,000vnd ($10) per day. Alternatively, many accommodations in Cao Bang can arrange a day trip to the falls by hired car with a driver. Another option is to take public transportation: small local buses run from Cao Bang to Ban Gioc and back again several times each day. Ask the staff at your accommodation for more information.
Local buses, like this one, run between Cao Bang City & Ban Gioc waterfall several times daily
Getting to Cao Bang from Hanoi is pretty straightforward: Either take a bus (including comfortable, two-level sleeper buses) from Hanoi’s My Dinh Bus Station (8 hours) or, if you have your own wheels, take Highway QL3 (which is in excellent condition for most of the way and passes great scenery) from Hanoi to Cao Bang (280km). From Cao Bang to the falls stay on Highway QL3 east via the scenic Ma Phuc Pass to Quang Uyen, then turn left (due north) on Road DT206, which veers east at the town of Trung Khanh before reaching Ban Gioc waterfall. Bear in mind that, if you plan to continue riding beyond Ban Gioc waterfall and along the Chinese border on roads DT206 and DT207, these roads are in pretty bad condition and should be avoided for the time being, unless you are an experienced rider and have a bike that is suitable for off-roading. (Note: the falls are also part of my Northeast Loop.)
Riding to Ban Gioc is very scenic, especially the Ma Phuc Pass (pictured) between Cao Bang the falls
Disclosure: I never receive payment for anything I write: my content is always free & independent. I’ve written this guide because I want to: I like this waterfall & I want my readers to know about it. For more details, see my Disclosure & Disclaimer statements here
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Great blog Tom –
Noted the mosquito netting in the lodging picture and wondering if mosquitos and/or malaria are an issue in that region of Vietnam. A small team of us have distributed wheelchairs in virtually every region from south of Saigon to north of Hanoi and never had a mosquito problem.
Thanks,
Troy
Hi Troy,
In general, every region of Vietnam has mosquitoes in the mornings and late afternoons, but it varies depending of time of year. In that respect, Cao Bang (where Ban Gioc waterfall is located) is not different from the other regions you’ve already visited. It’s a good idea to bring repellent spray and sleep under mosquito nets if you are worried about getting bitten.
Best,
Tom
Tom –
Really appreciate your prompt reply and suggestions. Keep up the good work!
Thanks,
Troy
Hi,
Hope you are well.
Just got a question, hoping you can help.
How far and how difficult is it from the entrance (car access) to the view points of the waterfall? I have an 11 year old boy and 80 year old parent. Do you think they’ll make the walk?
Ta
Nat.
Hi Nat,
It depends which viewing points you are going to – there are many. But to walk from the car park to the viewing platforms near the bottom of the waterfall isn’t very far and it should be fine for your parents and child. My parents (late 70s) also did it.
Best,
Tom
Hi Tom,
If I’m purely just visiting the waterfalls how many hours would you recommend there? I’m busing from Cao bang. Thanks
Hi Mesh,
2-3 hours is probably about right if you just want to walk around the waterfall, maybe take a raft out, and walk up to a couple of view points.
Best,
Tom
Hi Tom
Hope your fine
How is the waterfall ? Is it really worth to visit now
Hi Swathi,
Yes, it’s worth a visit: it’s one of the most impressive natural sights in Vietnam.
Best,
Tom
I am solo traveller staying in haiphong,would love to travel this Friday night and come back Sunday night,how much would you charge .If possible can I get zalo contact
Hi Swathi,
Sorry, I’m not a tour guide or a tour operator: I don’t run tours; I write guides so that travellers can follow them independently.
Best,
Tom
Thank you so much
Hi Tom, we just returned from 2 rainy weeks in central Vietnam and looking forward to our return at the end of March where we will get a xfer directly to Ba Be lake where we will spend 3 days before getting a bus to Cao Bang. We will rent a bike there, head to Pak Bo for one night , then make our way slowly to Ban Gioc for 2 or 3 nights before returning to Hanoi for our flight home. We live in Philippines and had to cancel this trip at beginning of covid, we have a serow 250 and ofyen take 4 day trips round our island, some offroad. We actually have 3 days unaccounted for so i am wondering if you have any ideas. We dont really want to ride more than 80 kms a day as we like to take our time . What you think of Trang Khanh, Quang Uyen, Phia Thap, Tra Linh or Thang Hen Lake. Any of these worth an overnight stay or can you suggest something else
Thanks,David
Hi David,
Yes, I would say that Phia Thap and Thang Hen lake are both fine for an overnight stop – there are a fair few decent homestays and glamping sites around both places. Thang Hen is also next to Núi Mắt Thần – a limestone karst with a big hole in it. In general, the scenery in that northeastern corner of Vietnam is gorgeous, so slow travel there should be very rewarding. If you have decent bikes, you can also do some good exploring on smaller back-roads.
Best,
Tom
Hi Tom,
I love to travel. So, love to read travel related blogs. I am planning to visit Vietnam for 4-5 days. Is it possible to cover most attractive places. If so, what will be my itinerary?
Please advise me.
Best
Chandra Shekhar Das
Hi Chandra,
4-5 days isn’t enough to visit most attractions in Vietnam. With 4-5 days you can visit one city and one destination. For example, Hanoi and Halong Bay, or Saigon and Phu Quoc Island.
To get more of an idea of the variety of destinations in Vietnam, I suggest browsing my Destinations Category Archives and Map.
I hope this helps,
Tom
Hi Tom,
I am a very frequent reader of your blog. I get many great ideas from you when I travel in Vietnam:) I am planning a one week Ha Giang loop in the beginning of October. I wonder if it’s feasible to include Ban Gioc? I would have 7days in Ha Giang.
Thanks for the advice.
Best
Nora
Hi Nora,
It is possible to include Ban Gioc, but it is a significant detour from Ha Giang: a day there and a day back. The roads are very mountainous so journeys take a long time, even if the distances aren’t that great. So if you have 7 days, I would plan on 4-5 days on the Ha Giang Loop and then 2-3 days to/from Ban Gioc.
I hope this helps,
Tom
Hello Tom love your blog, I am going to be to Cao Bang this September or October. Would love to hear your experience of which month that is good without raining but still full of water of Ban Gioc waterfall? Is it worth to ride a motobike from Hanoi to Cao Bang, or just taking bus? (I took bus from Hanoi to HaGiang as there were not much thing to see on the way) — if riding a motobike which spots should I stop for every night as I take the trip easy planning 10 days for Cao Bang trip. Thank you.
Hi Loan,
September-October is usually a good time to see the falls – there should be lots of water but the weather is often good at that time of year too.
You can take a bus from Hanoi to Cao Bang then rent a bike there and ride to the falls – it’s a beautiful drive. For more about that route and other ones around there see this guide.
I hope this helps,
Tom
Thanks Tom.
Hello Tom, again thank you for your great info of the loop, I am going to do your 3 loops: Ba Be Lake Loop, Ban Gioc waterfall Loop, China border crawl Loop, could you get 3G/4G all the way? How are about the gas and flat tire? Thank you.
Hi Loan,
I don’t know for certain, but you’ll likely have 3G most of the way – try to use a Viettel sim as they tend to get the best coverage in mountainous and remote regions.
As for gas, it’s generally available in all towns on the routes, but don’t let your tank get too low before you refill, just to be sure.
In Vietnam, you’re never far from someone who can fix a flat tyre for you, or at least knows someone who can. People are generally very willing to help out a traveller in need.
Good luck,
Tom
Hi Tom, thanks for sharing your wonderful informative experience here. I read that the China side (Detian waterfalls) are more beautiful. Is it possible to walk from the Vietnam side to the China side to see as well?
Hi James,
That’s a common line that people throw around for some reason: ‘The Chinese side is more beautiful’. I don’t know how it started but it’s not the case. You can get a raft to punt you out in the river so you can view the waterfall from both sides at water level. Chinese tourists can cross to the Vietnamese side, but not vice versa. No doubt in China they say ‘The Vietnamese side is better’.
Tom
Hello Tom, we’re planning our trip to Vietnam and have run into a little issue. We plan to go from Hanoi to Cao Bang to see the waterfalls, and we have found a bus that take us there but on the websites we can’t find any bus that can take us back from Cao Bang to Hanoi. Do you know if it is possible to just go to a bus station and get some tickets?
Thanks a lot,
Greetings from Spain!
Hi Jan,
Yes, you should definitely be able to get a bus from Cao Bang back to Hanoi – there are lots of buses every day. As long as you’re not travelling on a public holiday you should be able to buy/book your bus ticket in Cao Bang, either through your accommodation or at the bus station there (if you can’t do it online, of course).
I hope this helps,
Tom
Hi
Has anyone done the DT206 along the border and then DT207 from Ban Gioc falls back to Cao Bang?
Hi Giles,
I’ve written about that route here. Unfortunately, all reports are that the route along the border is in awful condition due to articulated trucks tearing up the road, trading with China. Expect mud and potholes. However, there’s always the chance that the road has been upgraded recently. I would suggest asking in at QT Motorbikes in Cao Bang, which they have recently opened.
If you do decide to take the border route, please report back in the comments sections on this page.
Thanks,
Tom
Thanks Tom, will do. I will see if I can find out from anyone who has done the route recently as well
Just to let everyone know that as of 19/01/18, they’ve stationed a guard at the bottom of the path up to the higher falls. Just a guy with a whistle, but still.
If you get here early/ late then maybe you’ll be able to go up unhindered, but who knows.
Thanks for that, Tom.
Hi, thank you so much. I have booked a flight to Vietnam to see BAN GIOC. I was relieved to read that their is a bus going to BAN GIOC, as I do not drive a motorbike. I am a solo traveler and I have visited some places on my own..the challenge for Vietnam is the ease of transport as compared to Hong Kong and Taiwan ..So I can now breath knowing that I would not need to use a motorbike going to this falls , even if it is recommended.
Hi Florian,
Thanks. I hope you enjoy your visit. Yes, there’s a local bus to Ban Gioc from Cao Bang. You should be able to find out the times from your hotel in Cao Bang.
Good luck,
Tom
Hi Tom. Thanks for this post. Can you please answer me some questions. Is this part of the famous Ha Giang Loop? Can a clumsy guy do it alone riding a bike for the first time? In which city I start and how much a low budget person expect to spend over 3 days? Thanks
Hi Ticiano,
No, it’s not part of the Ha Giang Loop – the Ha Giang Loop is this guide.
You start from Cao Bang, as explained in the guide above.
For general daily expenses read this.
Tom
Thank you so much for this detailed post! I’m currently in Hanoi and plan to visit the falls this week. I got some info from a friend who’d done it a week ago but your post fleshed out any and all remaining questions/concerns. Thanks a mil!
Hi Anna,
Thank you. I hope your trip to the fall goes well 🙂
Tom
Hi Tom. I love your blog. Such beautiful pictures and great information. I am in the process of booking a tour of Vietnam for this coming mid December. I just added a 3 day tour for the falls and Ba Be lake etc. Its now pushing the limits of my budget. I just wanted to know of your thoughts of if it is a good time to see the falls. Is the water going to be flowing enough for it to be worth it? I think the experience will be amazing regardless but my budget is tight with this and I’m not sure if I should save for a future vacation or so it now. Thanks.
Hi Misty,
Yes, there should still be plenty of water at the falls during December – I think it’s supposed to be one of the highest months for rainfall.
Tom
Hi Tom,
Planning a trip to Vietnam this November with my wife and 6 year old son, do you know if there is a car rental from Cao Bang City? Rates? I am pretty good in riding motorcycles but I don’t wanna do it with my wife and kid and would prefer riding a car if possible. Next question, do you know if Drones are allowed in the waterfalls?
Thanks much,
Conrad
Hi Conrad,
It’s highly unlikely that drones are ‘allowed’, because it’s a border region. However, I have seen plenty of drone videos of Ban Gioc. Personally, I wouldn’t risk it.
Most hotels in Cao Bang should be able to arrange a car a driver for you. The cost is usually around $90 a day all inclusive.
Tom
Hi
i’m wanting to ride here in August. Do you know if it’s possible to rent of road bike in Cao Bang? If not do you know if it’s possible to rent a bike in Hanoi and put it on a bus up to Cao Bang? I’m wanting to do the full North East loop and don’t fancy the extra drive from Hanoi to Cao Bang. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks
David
Hi David,
Yes, you should be able to rent motorbikes in Cao Bang. Try asking at the budget hotels in the city.
I hope this helps,
Tom
I rode up from Cao Bang yesterday, tons of outlets to rent from in Cao Bang. Route referenced above was in great condition (9/10). Read the section from the NE loop post and take your sweet time riding up, literally feels like riding through a dream.
Stop for lunch at Quan 2000 in Trùng Khánh, if you’re nice the owner will give you a back massage after your meal which hit the spot after 4 straight days of riding.
Safe travels.
Hi Danny,
Thanks for the information. Good to hear you enjoyed the ride – I agree, it’s a wonderful part of the country.
Tom
Hey!
There’s a new and very nice homestay near Ban Gioc, it’s located in a small village on the way to the Nguom Ngao Cave. It’s called Khuõi Ky Homestay. I paid 100 for the night plus 75 for dinner and breakfast. They even put on their traditional clothes and performed some songs for us!
Hi Luisa,
Thanks so much for the update – sounds like an interesting accommodation option.
Tom
Hi Tom,
Thanks for another excellent post. I would love to visit Ban Gioc by motorbike but unfurtunately don’t have enough time to do the whole northeast loop. Do you think it would be reasonable to get the bus to Cao Bang from Hanoi, stay in Cao Bang 1 night, drive to Ban Gioc the next day and spend the night there and then drive back to Cao Bang the next day in time to get the overnight bus back to Hanoi at 18:30. I know you can do it by day trip in a van but a day seems a bit short considering photo stops on the bike and spending time at the falls. Thanks,
Sophie
Hi Sophie,
Yes, you can do that – just make sure you leave at a decent time in the morning on the days that you are riding.
I hope you enjoy it,
Tom
Great thanks!
Hey Tom,
Thanks for another great post. I saw that you went camping in this area :). I have all my camping gear with me and am wondering if you suggest any spots near the waterfalls? Would be great!
Hi Jeff,
Try to cross the river before reaching the waterfall, there’s some nice pasture land there where I camped. Remember to be as discreet as possible.
Hope you enjoy it,
Tom
Just been reading up and Looking to Leaver Tuyen Quang in a couple of days, to head to Hai Giang then across towards Meo Vac,then turning towards Cao bang, as ive done the northern loop,i wa sthink to stop off in Ba Be first and stay there so i dont back track what, are your thoughts going this way and also i see the weather report says a few days of rain ,do you think these reports to be very accurate or are they just hit and miss,love your Bloggs Rick
Hi Rick,
I think the weather’s generally pretty unpredictable in those mountainous regions. The problem is that heavy rains can cause landslides which can close roads for hours, or even days, and even once they’re cleared they can be very muddy and difficult to ride. Personally, I’d go for it anyway; just ride carefully.
Going southeast from Meo Vac to Ba Be you can follow QL34 then turn south on DT212 – that’s a scenic road.
I hope this helps,
Tom
Hi Tom,
I’m going to post this on my FB page, it’s so great and looks so beautiful. Thanks for this great blog and sharing.
Dany
https://www.facebook.com/danyelleekelly/
Hi Dany,
Thanks, I’m glad you like it. I hope you’ll get a chance to see the falls yourself sometime.
Tom
Im a photographer who really look forward to visit this water fall. I had this idea to visit this after seen a photograph(bird view) taken by national geographic. Sadly got to know that it was taken from china side. I really need to take the same photograph. Please tell me is there any option for me to go to china side and take the photo without china visa (its bit hard to get china visa for Srilamkan). Or is there any place to have a birds eye view from forward from Vietnam side. Please help me.
Image URL
https://www.google.com/search?q=ban+gioc+waterfall&client=ms-android-kt-kr&prmd=mivn&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiU0MrDnazNAhUBpI8KHatPAWkQ_AUICCgC&biw=360&bih=559&dpr=3#imgrc=MUcBUF9iutbUoM%3A
Hi Mili,
Some people say that you can get across to the Chinese side, but I really wouldn’t risk it without a visa, and also because this is not an official border crossing.
The falls are very beautiful from the Vietnamese side anyway and there are lots of different angles from which to photograph it: from the main entrance there is a good panorama of the entire falls; from the boats you can get a good view from below the falls; and from the path leading up above the falls (which I have described in this article) there are good aerial views down over the waterfall.
I hope this helps,
Tom
Xin chào, Tom!
Just letting you know that there is a nice ngà nghỉ (Nhà Nghỉ Kiều Thanh Nguyệt, ĐT: 0969 661 992, 0978 596 415) 3 km from Ban Gioc waterfalls which is run by a really nice woman for 200,000 VND a night. Rooms are clean and cosy and the gate is locked at night so motorbikes are safely parked inside. It is on the road towards Đông Ngươm Ngao.
Dich Van 2 Hotel was slightly more expensive and the rooms looked dilapidated and grubby for the price quoted.
Hope that helps other “phươt” and travellers making their way around the northeast who would like a quiet, little neighbourhood to stay at close to Ban Gioc. 🙂
Cheers,
Caroline
Hi Caroline,
Thanks for the update! That’s a great little bit off info for anyone travelling to Ban Gioc and wanting to stay the night.
Enjoy the rest of your road trip! 🙂
Tom
Thanks for the hotel recommendation, Caroline! We’re here now and it’s great. I think we’re paying 250,000 vnd for 2 people. The Saigon tourist resort is complete, but rooms are 1.2 million dong.
It took us 6 hours to get to the waterfall from Cao Bang going the longer way around Tom’s lollipop loop. Road conditions are poor for much of the drive. Sections have large piles of rock covering most of the road. Other sections are super muddy and torn up.
Hi Amanda,
Thanks for sharing your experience of the area. Great to hear the hotel is good. Shame about the condition of the roads, but I hope the beautiful scenery made it worthwhile.
Enjoy the rest of your trip,
Tom
Hi Tom.
I have plan going to Ban gioc waterfall on first week of May 2016. Its a good time to see the view
n how about the safety because we will traveling with my sister n nephew ( 3 women).
we are family from Indonesia. n can you tell me which way better travel from Hanoi or nanning .China
n where we can find travel agent going to the area
Thanks very much for informations in your blog
Hi Sally,
Yes, I think May is a good time to see the waterfall.
You should be very careful if you attempt to climb the path next to the waterfall which goes to the top of the falls, because it is very steep and can get very slippery.
From Hanoi you can take a bus to Cao Bang City. From Cao Bang you can either arrange a taxi to the waterfall or organize transport through your hotel. I don’t know about travel information from the Chinese side. If you want to arrange a tour to Ban Gioc Waterfall from Hanoi you can ask about it at the reception of your hotel in Hanoi.
I hope this helps,
Tom
Hi Tom,
I am currently considering to spend some time in the north coming May. My first plan was to do the Ha Giang Loop for 5 days, and then head to Ba Be lake for some relaxation time. Seeing the pictures I really would like to visit the falls as well now. Initially I thought spending 9 full days there (excluding ravelling to and from Hanoi), but might add 1 or 2 days. Would this be sufficient to explore the area, with some time to sit back, relaxing, reading a book and enjoying the atmosphere?
I want to do it by bike. Initially I though I would it riding pillion (as I did in Vietnam a few times already). But now I would be tempted to ride on my own. I have no licence, and rode a motorbike a few times (done the Thakhke Loop and Bolaven Plateau lop in Laos) and would take a few lessons back home (or even doing a licence beforehand). Do you think it is safe to do so?
Also, how is the weather in My? Dry? I know I will miss the harvest time of the rice fields, but cannot travel any other time this year.
Sorry for all the questions.
BTW – I love your website. It really is inspiring.
Stefan
Hi Stefan,
9 days is plenty of time to explore the area, but obviously the more time you have the better it will be.
I think it’s a good idea to ride by yourself on a bike – it sounds like you have enough experience. Just take it easy because the roads in that area are very mountainous.
The weather in May should be pretty good – warm and dry with some rain. There should already be a lot of colours in the fields by that time of year.
I hope this helps,
Tom
Thanks Tom,
the more I read the more I really want to visit and spend as much time there as possible.
I assume you travelled alone on your bike. So when you went for a little walk, what did you do with your bag? I think you cannot just leave it on the bike, right?
Also, one logistical issue is if I rent a bike in Ha Gaing I need to return it there. I would actually prefer to stop at Ba Be lake, and not returning to Ha Giang. Do you think the woner would send someone to pick you up for a fee? or is that just not possible ,and I would need either ride pillion or bite the bullet and ride back to Ha Giang?
Sorry for all the questions, just trying to get a plan formed in my head.
Thanks again,
Stefan
Hi Stefan,
Yes, that’s right, if you rent a bike from Ha Giang then you would probably have to return it to Ha Giang yourself. You can still ride the Ha Giang Extreme North Loop and on to Ba Be and then loop back to Ha Giang on the lower route (Road 34) which is more direct.
Yes, when you stop for a walk or a swim etc then you’ll need to take your stuff with you – although you only really need to take your valuable things with you which you’ll probably be carrying in a small backpack on the front of your bike, so it’s not really that inconvenient. You’ll work out a system after a couple of days on the bike – everyone has their own way.
Tom
Hey Tom
Do you know if it is possible to visit the chinese part of the falls as well? And from which side do you get the best overview, like the one on this picture
http://halong-sapatourbooking.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/ban-gioc.jpg
Thanks for the good info!
Hi Marco,
That image is taken from the Chinese side. You can view the waterfall from the Chinese side, but you will have to enter China at one of the border gates in Vietnam – the nearest is Dong Dang near Lang Son to the south of Ban Gioc Falls. Note that Chinese visas must be arranged in advance.
Tom
I absolutely loved that waterfall and in general the countryside around Cao Bang in general – absolutely amazing limestone scenery!
But I still think that the Nguo Ngao cave you mentioned above represented the climax for me personally – I even liked it better than the overcrowded Phong Nha caves. Absolutely mindblowing!
The only negative aspect of my daytrip back then was the to ride back to Cao Bang City – in complete darkness and without working lights on my Honda Win. 😀 You have to be really careful with water buffaloes and other dark obstacles in the night…
Hi Muri,
Yes, I like the caves too. Combining them with the falls is a great day trip.
Tom
Hi Tom,
at what point can I find bamboo water wheel?
Thanks for posting this blog.
Zdenek
Hi Zdenek,
There are several bamboo water wheels along the Quay Son River between Trung Khanh and Ban Gioc Waterfall. I’ve written about the route in more detail in my guide to the Northeast Loop here.
I hope you find them.
Tom
Hey Tom!
congratulations on a most excellent blog. I sincerely appreciate your efforts to educate those of us that would otherwise never find some of these gems you have posted. My trip to Ban Gioc waterfall would happen around mid-November. Is there still good flow in the waterfall in mid November? Are the colors still high in the area and would this trip be your top recommendation for N.E. Vietnam for that time of year? Lastly, is there anywhere near the falls at a homestay perhaps to rent a motor bike for touring the area? If not, what would be the last place on the way to the falls to rent a motorbike? Thanks for your guidance Tom.
Marc
Hi Marc,
I would think November is probably still OK for weather and water flow at Ban Gioc Falls. However, if you’re travelling toward the end of November you should be prepared for some fairly chilly temperatures.
There’s still very little infrastructure around the falls, so finding a motorbike to rent in the immediate vicinity might be a bit difficult. Most people choose to rent their motorbike from Cao Bang, 80km to the west. It’s a beautiful ride from Cao Bang to the falls and back. If you leave early in the morning then you can do it in one day, if not then just stay the night somewhere, such as Quang Uyen. You can read more about Cao Bang and that area in my guide to the Northeast Loop.
I hope this helps,
Tom
Thanks a lot for your info about this area!
You’re welcome 🙂
Tom
Hi Tom,
My wife and I are in Vietnam for one month and Ban Gioc is on our list. We have had a hard time organizing out plans and are starting to wonder if it is worth it. We like going off the beaten path and I think the falls look stunning. We have the time but are wondering if it is worth it? What is the water flow like at the end of April? How would a 2-night trip work. Train to Cao Bang, stay there one night, the falls on day 2, and then stay one more night, return to Hanoi the next day. Does this sound reasonable. What type of lodging and or transportation should be arranged before hand. Thanks for the help!
Josiah
Hi Josiah,
Personally, I think the falls and the area in general are worth a trip. But it’s quite a distance for such a short trip. I would recommend spending an extra 2 nights and combining the falls with a trip to Ba Be Lake either on the way to or from the falls. I’ve written extensively about that whole area in this article about the Northeast.
I would imagine that the flow should be enough to render the falls an impressive sight. However, I would check with a reputable travel agent that’s based in the north of Vietnam for more info – try emailing Flamingo Travel and asking them about the flow in April.
Cao Bang is not connected by train. Buses (including night buses) leave Hanoi for Cao Bang daily. From Cao Bang it should be easy to arrange private transport to the falls through your hotel. Or you could rent a motorbike and drive there.
There’s plenty of accommodation in Cao Bang. You can do the falls as a day trip from Cao Bang if you leave early in the morning. Travel time from Cao Bang to the falls is about 2 hours but the scenery is marvellous so you might want to take it slow.
There are a handful of local nhà nghỉ (guesthouses) around the falls, including some in Khanh and Quang Uyen. Again there’s more about that in the Northeast article.
I hope you have a great trip.
Tom
I am looking to go to ba be lake, ban gioc waterfal, and the surrounding cao bang province for several days at the end of my time here in Vietnam. I may not have a lot of time (3-5 days). I was wondering what you think the minimal amount of time spent here should be, and how you think you should spend those days (how many days at each place)? Thanks!
Abby
Hi Abby,
Around 4 days is probably sufficient. Cao Bang City is a good base from which to visit the surrounding countryside. A day trip to Ban Gioc Waterfall is good. And a couple of days spent exploring Ba Be Lakes on foot, bike, boat – whatever takes your fancy. Staying in a homestay there is nice. So 2 days Ba Be Lakes, 1 day Cao Bang City, 1 day Ban Gioc Waterfall, plus a ‘lost day’ – 4-5 days should be fine.
Tom
Dear Tom, I’m currently planning my trip (which is in 6 days) according to places you describe and recommend. Your webside is the best I saw to help travellers get most of their trips away from the beaten paths. Thank very much!
I have and urgent question for you: Does it make sense to visit the waterfall in the end of December – beginning of January as the wet season is over and there is a risk that I would find the waterfall with little water and far not as picturesque as on your pictures?
Hi Svetlana,
Apologies for the late reply.
I think the water flow at Ban Gioc Waterfall in December will be significantly less than in my photos, which were taken in early October. However, there’s still plenty of rain around in that region during the winter months, so I think the falls would still look good enough to justify a visit. But, it’s worth remembering that the weather can be rather cold and grey at that time of year, and the harvest colours will be long gone. Perhaps it’s better to save Ban Gioc Waterfall for another trip during the warmer, brighter summer/autumn months.
Have a great trip,
Tom
Tom, thanks for posting this blog. I travelled to Ban Gioc fall in 1999 a long time ago but it is amazing to see the fall is still very much under develop (which is a good thing). I did also swim in the river and that was a great memory.
Thanks, Nguyen. Yes, I like that it has not been developed too much yet. I hope that it retains its magnificence, even after the resorts are built!
Tom
Another great in-depth travelogue – you obviously had more time than when I visited earlier in the year on a whistle-stop tour of Cao Bang and Ha Giang provinces.
The impression I got was that all the photogenic parts of the waterfall are actually in China; Vietnam having just some very unspectacular falls up which you climbed – perhaps I’m wrong?
The main thing that struck me was how run down the whole place was; having walked down the gravel path, the rest of the route was just a muddy track which led to two rickety bridges which, even by Vietnamese standards of ‘elf and safety, were dangerous. A few million Dong spent on maintenance would make all the difference! In sharp contrast was the millions of Dollars being spent on the tourist resort being carved out of the nearby hillside. Will all the tourists be obliged to use the same unsafe bridges?
Vietnam is surely a land full of contrasts but even more fascinating for that fact.
Hi Alan,
The falls seemed pretty photogenic to me – no matter what side of the border you view them from. If anything I would say that Vietnam has more of the waterfall than China because it has half of the main falls plus the other smaller falls, which while not on such a grand scale, are very pretty indeed.
As regards the condition of the site, I was relieved to see that litter had been kept to a minimum, despite groups of Vietnamese picnickers, which I’m sorry to say is usually a catalyst for trash. Personally, I like the rickety bridges and muddy paths, it makes the whole experience all the more rustic and ‘real’. One day the path to the falls will be paved, there will be steps up to the higher cascades, the resort will be finished, and with this ease of access this natural site will inevitably lose some of its magic. Of course it’s great that more people will be able to see it, and health and safety will be enforced, but I’m glad I got to see Ban Gioc waterfall before the infrastructure for mass tourism is put in place. The ‘run-down’ look holds a certain charm for me.
Tom
Thanks Tom for taking me to this part of Viet Nam where I only heard of. My mother was born in Cao Bang many moons ago before move to the South in 1954. We never have a chance to make a homage trip. I can only hope to make a trip there one day.
I enjoy your nice photos and history lesson.
Happy travel!!!
Thanks, Tuc.
Cao Bang Province is one of my favourite areas in Vietnam. I hope you get the chance to pay a visit to your mother’s birthplace some time soon.
Tom
Tom I sure am glad to have found this. Your pictures are so inspiring that it makes me want to return which I swore to never do. I lost many good friends at Vung Ro Bay. Why should I blame a country for a time that was not only confusing for them but for us also. You are a great photographer.
Thank you again for this site.
Jim Ellis
Major retired Army.
Thanks, Jim.
I hope you do decide to return to Vietnam one day and that your experience will be a happy one this time.
Tom