Where is Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc Waterfall is located in Cao Bang Province in Northeastern Vietnam, right on the border with China. The Waterfall is 313 kilometers from Hanoi.
The waterfall stretches 300 meters wide and cascades from a height of 53 meters. It tumbles over layers of limestone formations, creating a series of cascading falls of varying sizes. The height difference between these falls can reach up to 34 meters. Finally, the water flows gently into a serene river below.
Here are some interesting facts about Ban Gioc Waterfall:
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Ban Gioc waterfall shares border with both Vietnam and China. In China, the fall is called Detian waterfall.
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In Vietnam side, the waterfall has two sections: The main three-tiered waterfall and the nearby section with 3 streams.
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The main waterfall straddles the border. Meanwhile, the smaller waterfall lies entirely within Vietnam's border.
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The small stream part is almost invisible during the dry season.
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Ban Gioc Waterfall is the fourth-largest waterfall in the world that spans an international border.
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It is also the largest natural waterfall in Southeast Asia.
How to Get to
Currently, you have the option to travel by motorbike or take a long-distance bus to reach Cao Bang City.
How to get to Ban Gioc Waterfall from Hanoi
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Travel time |
Travel cost |
Note |
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Long bus |
6 - 8 hours |
12 - 16 USD/ticket |
Fast, convenient, and time-saving. You may consider booking a minivan for a more private and comfortable experience. Here are some contacts for arranging your ride:
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Motorbike |
8 - 10 hours |
Renting cost 4 - 8 USD/day |
Ideal for those who want to experience the route at their own pace and enjoy the freedom of movement. Here are some contacts for renting a motorbike in Hanoi:
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Next, Ban Gioc Waterfall is about 90 kilometers from Cao Bang City and approximately 20 kilometers from the center of Trung Khanh Town. Depending on where you will stay, you can either hire a car or motorbike taxi to take you there or choose to rent a motorbike and make the journey to the falls on your own.
Best Time to See
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The best time to travel and see Ban Gioc Waterfall is during the rainy season from June to August. At this time, the water volume is high, and the flow is strong, creating a majestic and vigorous landscape with lush greenery.
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September to December also offers great experiences, as the flow remains steady, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the rice harvest in September and October, the golden autumn leaves in November, and the buckwheat flowers in November - December.
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For the strongest flow, visit between 11 a.m and 2 p.m, when the waterfall is at its most powerful. Because this is the time when the hydroelectric dam releases water.
The proper time to see Ban Gioc Waterfall at its best
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During the dry season from January to May, the flow of the waterfall slows down.
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On sunny days, the water is clearer, while rainy days may bring a muddy appearance.
Things to Do
The entry fee to Ban Gioc Waterfall is 45,000 VND pp (about 1.80 USD). During your visit, you can indulge in some of these activities:
Activities at Ban Gioc Waterfall
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Walking around to admire the main waterfall and the secondary falls nearby.
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Take a boat ride to view the waterfall up close, with a service fee of 2 USD pp.
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Capturing memorable photos with the waterfall. You can rent some costumes for around 4 to 8 USD per outfit.
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While swimming isn’t allowed, wading in the water is permitted.
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Sampling local snacks available nearby, such as grilled skewers and refreshing drinks.
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Exploring nearby attractions like Nguom Ngao Cave (3.8 km away), the Ancient Stone Village of Khuoi Ky (3.1 km away), and Phat Tich Truc Lam Pagoda (700 meters away).
Suggestions for 2 Days 1 Night Trip
In case you are uncertain about how to plan your travel itinerary, here are some suggested 2-day, 1-night itineraries for visiting Ban Gioc Waterfall:
Option 1: Nguom Ngao Cave - Stone Village - Ban Gioc Waterfall
This itinerary features destinations that are quite close to each other. You will have the chance to explore some of the most iconic natural and cultural highlights of Cao Bang.
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Day 1 |
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Day 2 |
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Watch Ban Gioc waterfall during the rice season
Option 2: Pac Bo Historical Site - Nguom Ngao Cave - Ban Gioc Waterfall
For those intrigued by Vietnam's storied history of resistance against the French, you can choose to start your journey with a visit to Pac Bo on the first day, followed by Ban Gioc Waterfall on the next. The two sites are separated by a distance of around 100 kilometers, necessitating a travel time of 1.5 to 2 hours. Beyond its profound historical importance, Pac Bo is also a stunningly serene natural setting.
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Day 1 |
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Day 2 |
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Visit and see the majestic nature of Ban Gioc
Some additional tips for visiting Cao Bang and Ban Gioc Waterfall:
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The budget for a 2-day trip to Cao Bang often ranges from 1,500,000 to 2,500,000 VND pp (59.70 to 99.50 USD), covering all travel, sightseeing, and accommodation expenses.
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You should pack some warm clothing, as temperatures in the highlands can be quite chilly at night. Additionally, bring cash, comfortable walking shoes, and insect repellent.
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You may consider staying in Cao Bang City for convenient access to urban amenities and services. There are options ranging from budget homestays starting at 12 USD per night to 4- and 5-star hotels.
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If you prefer a retreat closer to nature and attractions, you might choose a homestay in the forest.
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Ensure you pack all necessary items before traveling, as shopping for new items in Cao Bang might be time-consuming due to long distances.
To get the full picture, visit our article on travel guide to Vietnam!
Ban Gioc Waterfall is a wonderful natural attraction worth visiting, with nearby points of interest and activities to explore. For a more tailored and specific Vietnam plan, feel free to contact our team for prompt support.
