Things To Do
in Cao Bằng
Cao Bằng is a rugged, green province in northern Vietnam known for dramatic karst landscapes and winding river valleys. The city of Cao Bằng sits along the Red River and serves as a gateway to waterfalls, caves, and border country. Highlights include Ban Gioc–Detian Falls, Pac Po Cave, and Nguom Ngao Cave, all set against rolling hills and traditional hill-tribe communities.
Visitors come for outdoor adventures, historical sites, and a welcoming, low-key pace of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a journey to the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall, located just a few hours from Cao Bằng. As the sun rises, the mist from the waterfall creates a magical atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local eatery with a view of the waterfall before setting off for a closer look.
In the afternoon, explore the surrounding area by taking a boat ride along the river that borders China. Experience the breathtaking views of the lush landscapes and unique limestone formations that dot the scenery. Return to Ban Gioc for more photo opportunities; the golden hour adds a different charm to the falls.
As evening falls, head back to Cao Bằng town and indulge in a traditional Vietnamese dinner. Try local specialties like smoked meat and fresh spring rolls. Reflect on your day surrounded by the warmth of friendly locals and the sound of the town coming alive.
After breakfast, embark on a trip to Nguom Ngao Cave, renowned for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The morning light illuminating the entrance makes for a picturesque start to your adventure. Guided tours offer insights into the unique geological formations and local folklore.
Post exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature before visiting nearby ethnic minority villages. Engage with the locals to learn about their traditional lifestyles and crafts, witnessing the vibrant culture firsthand. Don't forget to capture the authentic scenes of daily life.
As the sun sets, return to Cao Bằng for a calming evening. Stroll through the night market, where you can sample various street foods and shop for handmade crafts. Wind down with a sweet dessert or a cold drink while enjoying live music performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive local restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚲Bicycle rental for a day | $5-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $20-50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3-6 km) | $3-5 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and waterfalls
- Accessible cultural experiences and friendly locals
- Reasonable costs and small-town pace
- Wide range of day trips from the city
- Limited nightlife and some remote areas require planning
- Language barriers in rural areas
- Roads can be challenging during the rainy season
- Fewer upscale dining and accommodation options than major cities
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is it?
- "Ở đâu có nhà vệ sinh?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Cao Bằng
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic, multi-tier waterfall on the Viet-China border; early morning light and misty water make for ethereal landscape photos.
A large limestone cave with striking stalagmites and stalactites; interior lighting highlights otherworldly rock formations.
Historic landscape where Ho Chi Minh lived; dramatic river views and forested ridges offer wide-angle and drone-worthy shots.
A scenic highland lake system with reflective waters and surrounding pine forests—great for golden-hour photography.
Quaint streets and riverside scenes with traditional architecture; nice for street photography and curation shots.
Food in Cao Bằng
Cao Bằng Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sesame-studded, fragrant rice cake dessert that is a signature sweet from Cao Bằng; best found in local markets and pastry shops in Cao Bằng city.
Must-Try!
A hearty, savory stew using local buffalo meat, often served with rice or bread in rural eateries; popular in Cao Bằng’s countryside restaurants.
Freshly caught fish from local streams, cleaned, seasoned with regional herbs, and grilled; commonly found at riverside stalls near Cao Bằng City.
Corn is a staple ingredient in the region, appearing in soups, polenta-like dishes, and snacks sold at markets and street stalls.
Various prepared sticky rice bites and small savory pastries that showcase local grains and flavors; frequently sold at markets and temples fairs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main urban market where locals buy produce, meat, spices, and prepared street foods; a great place to sample everyday Cao Bằng flavors.
Evening stalls along the river offer grilled skewers, snacks, and small bites; ideal for casual, inexpensive meals and people-watching.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with a polite phrase and a nod or handshake; dress modestly when visiting temples or sacred sites; ask before taking photos of people, especially in minority communities; avoid pointing feet at people or sacred objects.
Safety
Tipping in Cao Bằng
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not compulsory but appreciated for guide services, drivers, and quality hospitality; small tips go a long way in rural areas.
Cash is widely used in towns and markets; some larger restaurants or accommodations in Cao Bằng City may accept cards, but carry cash for rural stops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with fresh greenery; occasional showers; ideal for outdoor hikes and temple visits without the peak heat.
Warm to hot and humid with heavy rainfall in the monsoon; great for waterfalls but be prepared for rain and slippery trails.
Cooler, comfortable weather and clearer skies; excellent for photography and day treks with less rain.
Cool to cold with possible fog and crisp air; mornings can be chilly but landscapes are tranquil and photogenic.
Cao Bằng at Night
Hiking in Cao Bằng
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rim trails and viewpoints around the falls offer rewarding hikes with striking karst scenery.
Forest trails and ridge paths around Pac Po provide a connection to history and natural beauty.
Gentle to moderate lakeside hikes with scenic reflections and seasonal bird life.
Airports
How to reach Cao Bằng by plane.
Large international hub near Hanoi; from there, you can reach Cao Bằng by long overland transfer or domestic flights if available, followed by road travel. Regular road connections and buses run to Cao Bằng.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The province is home to diverse groups including Hmong, Dao, Tay, and Nung communities, contributing to rich cultural traditions and markets.
The urban core population is predominantly Kinh, with a mix of minority groups in surrounding rural districts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and spectator sport in towns and villages across the region.
Common in schools and community centers; easy to try with locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cao Bằng.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian, opt for vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, corn-based snacks, and noodle soups that can be prepared without meat; clearly communicate no fish sauce or meat stock when ordering at markets or smaller eateries.