Trek to Hang En Cave via Ban Doong Village

Trek the Ho Chi Minh Trail to Hang En Cave: A Jungle Adventure in Phong Nha

Your adventure begins with a morning shuttle pick-up from your hotel, whisking you through the dense jungles of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to Kilometer 35, where a legendary section of the Ho Chi Minh Trail awaits. Before you lace up your boots, your experienced guide will give a safety briefing and orientation, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the 15-kilometer hike ahead.

From here, the trail begins with a descent into a lush, jungle-covered valley. The terrain is rugged but scenic, with ancient trees, trickling streams, and the sounds of exotic birds echoing all around. The trek leads you deeper into the wilderness, far from modern distractions, and into the heart of Vietnam’s pristine natural environment.

About halfway into the trek, you’ll reach Ban Doong, a remote village inhabited by the Bru Van Kieu ethnic minority. Few tourists ever make it to this hidden enclave, making the experience deeply authentic and culturally enriching. You’ll share a simple but delicious lunch here, while learning about the tribe’s traditional lifestyle, spiritual beliefs, and how they have lived in harmony with the jungle for generations. This visit is a rare opportunity to connect with one of Vietnam’s forgotten mountain tribes.

After lunch, you’ll continue the journey toward one of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural wonders: Hang En Cave (also known as Swallow Cave). As one of the world’s largest caves, Hang En features a massive, cathedral-like entrance framed by limestone cliffs and dense jungle foliage. The final leg of the hike involves stream crossings and rocky paths before you arrive at the awe-inspiring entrance.

Upon reaching the cave, your group will settle into a well-prepared campground inside the cavern. Tents are set up on sandy beaches surrounded by towering cave walls that stretch hundreds of feet overhead. After some rest, your guide will lead a tour deeper into the cave system, including a visit to the dramatic Hang En exit chamber, a favorite photography spot due to its epic scale and lighting.

As night falls, the group gathers for a traditional Vietnamese BBQ dinner cooked on-site. Meals are hearty and communal, and nothing tastes better after a full day of trekking. Whether you’re enjoying grilled pork skewers, fresh vegetables, or tofu dishes, you’ll appreciate the energy boost and warm hospitality.

You’ll fall asleep in your tent to the echo of dripping water and the distant flutter of swallows, deep inside one of the most majestic caves on Earth. This is not just a trek—it’s an immersion into untouched wilderness, living culture, and underground wonder.

The total hiking distance is approximately 15 kilometers, and although the trail is not technical, a moderate level of fitness is required. All meals, water, and equipment (including tents and sleeping mats) are provided as part of the guided experience.