Attractions
Tu Lan Caves
Introduction to Tu Lan Caves
Tu Lan Caves is located in a pristine area of Quang Binh, Vietnam, not far from Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, and is one of the most magnificent cave systems in the world. With dozens of large and small caves, each with its own unique beauty, Tu Lan Caves is like an underground maze full of surprises. From giant stalactites formed over millions of years, murmuring underground rivers, to clear lakes reflecting sparkling lights, all create a beautiful natural picture.
Exploring the Tu Lan cave system is not only an adventure but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in pristine nature, learn about biodiversity and explore the mysteries of the underground. You can kayak on the underground river, climb to conquer the mountain peak or simply sit back, relax and admire the magical beauty of the cave.
With its wild beauty and great tourism potential, Tu Lan Cave is not only a precious natural asset of Vietnam but also an unmissable destination for those who love to explore and experience the wonders of nature.
Transportation
To get to Tu Lan caves, visitors have many means of transportation such as motorbike, bus or private car to choose from. However, Tu Lan cave system is a large cave system, only exploited by Oxalis travel company. On the morning of departure, the car will pick up visitors at the hotel in Phong Nha area, gather at Oxalis Tan Hoa office. Complete some procedures and start your journey.
Read more: How to get from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha
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What to expect in Tu Lan Caves
Step inside Tu Lan Caves and prepare to be awestruck by a world of wonder. This intricate network of caverns, hidden deep within the karst landscape of Quang Binh, offers a breathtaking spectacle of geological formations, subterranean rivers, and unique ecosystems.
The caves are a masterpiece of nature’s artistry, adorned with an astonishing array of stalactites and stalagmites. Stalactites, formed by dripping water, hang gracefully from the cave ceilings like icy chandeliers. Stalagmites, their mirror images, rise majestically from the cave floor, reaching towards the heavens. In some areas, these formations converge to create impressive columns, pillars, and curtains of stone, casting intricate shadows in the dim light.
One of the most captivating features of Tu Lan Caves is the presence of underground rivers. Crystal-clear water flows through narrow passages, creating a mesmerizing symphony of sounds as it cascades over rocks and through hidden channels. Kayaking through these subterranean waterways is an unforgettable experience, offering a unique perspective on the cave’s hidden depths.
Besides the magical beauty underground, the land surrounding Tu Lan cave also contains other wonders waiting for you to discover.
Hiking and trekking:
- Wild beauty: The winding trails winding through the primeval forests, crossing majestic limestone mountains will take you to beautiful natural landscapes. The trekking routes are diverse in difficulty, from gentle to challenging routes, will help you conquer yourself and explore your limits.
- Explore diverse ecosystems: During the journey of discovery, you will have the opportunity to admire the diversity of the tropical forest ecosystem, from ancient trees to wild animals.
Soak and explore rivers:
- Many natural freshwater lakes form in caves or valleys, creating a beautiful landscape. The clear, cool water is an ideal place for you to relax and enjoy the feeling of being immersed in nature.
- You can join adventure tours to explore the rivers by kayak or float. The feeling of drifting along the water in the cave is an extremely interesting experience.
- The spiritual lights will help you discover the magical stalactites hidden under the clear blue water.
Highlights of Tu Lan Caves tour
The Tu Lan Caves Discovery Tour itinerary will be adjusted to suit weather conditions. The trek can be muddy and slippery when it rains. The wild Tu Lan Discovery Tour is considered one of the most attractive tours of adventure tourism in Quang Binh.
Day 1: Phong Nha – Tan Hoa – Rat Cave – Tu Lan Campsite
07:30 – 08:00 The bus will pick you up at your hotel in Phong Nha and continue to Tan Hoa office. At the office, you will be given a safety briefing, including an itinerary, sign a liability waiver, pack your bags and receive your safety equipment.
The trip will start with a 2.5km flat hike. After crossing the Rao Nan River, you will take a break and have lunch inside Hang Chuot. After lunch, you will continue deeper into the cave to admire the beautiful stalactites. Climb up through Hang Chuot exit to continue the journey.
You will pass through La Ken Valley and reach the challenge of Nui Lom Com, which is quite steep and rocky. You will then trek down to Tu Lan Valley, with the sound of a roaring waterfall pouring down from the cave entrance. Here, you will camp overnight for the first night and swim in the blue lake next to the campsite. Check in to your tent and enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by a local chef.
Day 2: Ken Cave -Tu Lan Cave – Kim Cave – To Mo Valley
On the second day you will explore three beautiful caves of the Tu Lan Cave System: Ken Cave, Tu Lan Cave and Kim Cave. After breakfast, the group will explore and swim into Ken Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in the Tu Lan Cave System.
The group will return to camp for lunch. After lunch, the group will climb up from the river into a dry passage and into the valley. Crossing the valley, the group will reach the entrance of Kim Cave, where you will continue your journey by swimming in the dark and passing beautiful waterfalls to reach To Mo Valley. This beautiful valley is the second campsite of this Quang Binh adventure. Another delicious dinner will be served.
Day 3: Song Oxalis Cave – Hung Ton Cave
Starting the third day, visitors will admire Hang Song Oxalis – a cave with unique and rare coral limestone formations. Then, you will walk downhill back to the campsite and enjoy lunch before crossing To Mo Valley and entering Hung Ton Cave next to the waterfall.
The group will swim through the cave to reach the dry passage and climb the 15m high ladder with safety rope to reach the final cave exit. Walk through Hung Ton Valley and cross the ‘baby’ hill to Rao Nan River. From here, the group will return to Tan Hoa office by walking through farm fields.
At Oxalis Tan Hoa office, the group will check in to shower and relax and have lunch at a local’s house.
Day 4: Leaving Tan Hoa, Quang Binh
Tu Lan Caves is a masterpiece of nature, with a magical stalactite system, a river in a bottle and surrounding primeval forests. This is truly a paradise for those who love to explore and immerse themselves in nature. From swimming in the cool river, conquering dangerous trails to admiring beautiful stalactite paintings, Tu Lan Cave System brings visitors unforgettable experiences.