Hang Son Doong in Vietnam 2025

The world's largest cave located on the border with Laos takes several days to explore

Best time: February–August

This cave is so big that it could host a town with a few sky scrappers. It's 200 m high and 9 km long. You can see here the tallest stalagmites in the world, a cave river and even a forest. There are a couple of areas where the ceiling of the cave has collapsed, which allows sunlight to come through, just enough for the trees and other plants to grow. This natural wonder of Vietnam became available for public only since 2013. When you book your tour, make sure it's a legitimate operator that has a government permit. Also keep in mind that some parts of the cave may be flooded during the rainy season so the tours operate from February till August.

Practical info

What is the best time to go to Hang Son Doong and why?

The ideal time to visit Hang Son Doong is between February and August when the wet season has ended and the weather is suitable for exploration. During this time, visitors can book a tour and experience the cave with the best weather conditions. However, there may still be flooded areas during the rainy season that travelers should be mindful of.

Where is the location of Hang Son Doong?

Located in Vietnam's Quang Binh province near the Laos border, Hang Son Doong in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is the world's largest cave. First discovered by a local farmer in 1991, the cave opened to the public for tours in 2013 and has since become a popular destination for thrill-seeking tourists.

What is the duration of a tour inside Hang Son Doong?

Visitors to Hang Son Doong typically spend four to five days taking a multi-day tour to explore the cave. The journey includes trekking through the forests and camping inside the cave. You can visit the famous areas of the cave such as the Great Wall of Vietnam, the Hand of Dog stalagmite, and the Garden of Edam. While it may be challenging, the experience is rewarding.

What are the unique features of Hang Son Doong?

Hang Son Doong is a natural wonder that boasts many unique features like the world's tallest stalagmites, a river inside the cave, and a rare woodland with a variety of species. The cave even has its own ecosystem, with a distinct flora and fauna. Sunlight enters some areas of the ceiling, which has collapsed, creating an unforgettable and unparalleled experience for the visitors.

What steps can I take to ensure that I choose a legitimate tour operator?

A legitimate tour operator for Hang Son Doong is crucial to ensuring safety and maximizing your tour experience. It is vital to research and only choose reputable tour companies with a good online reputation. A few tour companies have permits to operate at Hang Son Doong, so verify that the operator is on the official website of the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park before booking. This will result in a safer and more enjoyable experience.