Astrid Freja

2025-08-21

Having called Vietnam home for eight enriching years, I've gathered countless authentic stories that I'm now eager to share with you. As a VietAdvisor contributor, my passion lies in the freedom of discovery, allowing me to deeply immerse myself in Vietnam's rich, diverse cultures from north to south. Let my experiences help you forge a deeper connection with this extraordinary country.

Okay, so you’re heading to Phong Nha for the caves. Good choice. It’s wild out there, in the best possible way. After a day of crawling through mud and getting sweaty underground, trust me, you’ll want a decent bed.

I’ve been living in Vietnam for a while now, and I’ve been to Phong Nha a few times, stayed in some spots, checked out others. This isn’t some fancy travel guide.

This is just my take, based on actual experience, about where to crash when your main goal is getting dirty in a cave. No fluff.

Quick Picks for the Impatient:

Look, if you just want the list and to click, here’s my rundown of Phong Nha hotels I’m going to talk about. You can jump straight to them:

Thinking of exploring beyond typical tourist spots to find the best places in southern Vietnam? Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park offers breathtaking natural wonders and thrilling cave expeditions. After a day of adventure, a comfortable hotel is a must. Dive into our expat’s honest take on 6 fantastic Phong Nha hotels, complete with real-world advice on amenities, location, and how to book your perfect cave tour. Your ultimate Phong Nha stay awaits!
Victory Road Villas: Offers a peaceful, tranquil escape with a nice swimming pool and on-site restaurant, perfect for those wanting to relax slightly outside the main town.
Nguyen Shack Retreat Resort: An eco-friendly, rustic villa near the river, known for its communal vibe and authentic local experiences like cooking classes, ideal for social and eco-conscious travelers.
Areca Bungalow: A simple, comfortable, and budget-friendly option located centrally in Phong Nha town, making it super convenient for walking to restaurants and tour operators.
Oxalis Home: The official base for major Oxalis cave expeditions (like Son Doong and Tu Lan), offering practical, adventure-focused accommodation directly linked to serious caving tours.
Chay Lap Farmstay & Ecolodge: A more upscale, resort-like option with multiple pools, a spa, and various activities, located a bit further out but closer to Paradise and Dark Cave, great for families or those seeking luxury.
Phong Nha Farmstay: An iconic, highly social hub set amidst rice paddies, featuring a large pool, lively bar, and a comprehensive tour desk, perfect for meeting other travelers and arranging any cave adventure.
Getting Around Phong Nha: Learn about the best ways to navigate the area, including scooter rental (around 120,000-150,000 VND/day), bicycles, taxis, and hotel shuttles.
Must-Do Cave Tours: Discover the essential cave experiences, from the accessible Paradise Cave (250,000 VND entrance) and adventurous Dark Cave (450,000 VND entrance, including zipline/mud bath), to the classic Phong Nha Cave (150,000 VND entrance + shared boat fee 550,000 VND), and more intense multi-day expeditions like Tu Lan.
Local Food & Drink: Get recommendations on what to try, including Vietnamese coffee, Banh Mi (20,000-30,000 VND), Bun Cha, fresh river seafood, and where to find cheap local beer during happy hour.
Travel Tips: My final advice for an optimal Phong Nha trip, emphasizing giving yourself at least 3 full days to explore and the benefits of mixing structured tours with independent discovery.

Short Videos

What I Look For in a Phong Nha Hotel

Honestly, figuring out where to stay in Phong Nha can be a bit of a scroll-fest. Are the reviews real? Is it actually convenient?

My personal experience is it really depends on what kind of trip you’re on. Are you just here for the caves and then out? Do you want a pool? Are you on a tight budget? All valid.

The main strip in Phong Nha town is pretty small. Most things are walkable or a quick scooter ride to the national park entrance.

You’ll find places selling tours, a few restaurants, and small shops. Some of the best Phong Nha hotels are actually just outside this main bit, which means more peace, but you’ll need transport.

For me, location matters, but not necessarily “in the dead center.” I like being close enough to pop into town for dinner, but far enough to escape the noise.

Good AC is non-negotiable, especially after a humid day in a cave. And a comfortable bed. That’s about it. Anything extra is a bonus.

Victory Road Villas

My first time, I stayed at Victory Road Villas. It’s not in the middle of town, which I actually appreciated after a long bus ride from Hue.

It’s maybe a 5-10 minute scooter ride from the town center, heading west, just off the main road. They have a good number of bungalows, all pretty spread out, so you don’t feel like you’re on top of other guests.

It’s just… peaceful there. Bungalows are scattered in green gardens, with lots of trees and plants. Rooms are clean, big, and the AC works well – absolute must-have in Vietnam after a hot day.

Each room usually has a little patio or balcony too, which is nice for morning coffee. The pool was a big plus. Not huge, but clean and perfect for cooling off after a tour.

They have a restaurant too. I ate there a few times, food was consistent, standard Vietnamese Dishes like pho and com ga, and some Western stuff like pasta. Prices were fair, not inflated.

Staff were helpful. They sorted my transfer from Dong Hoi, which was smooth, and rented a scooter for me right from the front desk for around 150,000 VND per day.

They also had decent info about cave tours, explaining the differences between the main ones, but they don’t run them. If you’re like me and want a quiet spot to recharge after being covered in mud from a cave, and you don’t mind being a little bit out, this is a good choice among Phong Nha hotels. It’s good for couples or families who prefer a calm environment.

Location: Slightly west of Phong Nha town center, about 5-10 minutes by scooter.
Amenities: Good-sized swimming pool, on-site restaurant (breakfast, lunch, dinner), garden areas, scooter rental, laundry service.
Vibe: Relaxed, peaceful, spacious.
Price Range: Mid-range. Expect to pay around $50-$80 USD per night, depending on the season and room type.
Good for: Couples, families, quiet types who appreciate a serene setting.

Check availability here

Nguyen Shack Retreat Resort

I checked out Nguyen Shack Retreat Resort on a later trip, mainly because I’d heard good things about its unique approach. This place has a real personality. It’s built with a strong emphasis on eco-friendliness and local, natural materials.

Lots of bamboo, thatched roofs, and open-air common areas. It feels kind of rustic but still comfortable. It’s located close to the river, a bit south of the main town, offering some nice views and a feeling of being connected to nature. You can hear the sounds of the river and the jungle, which is cool.

Rooms are basic but clean, and yes, they have mosquito nets, which you’ll need. Don’t expect fancy bathrooms, but they’re functional. What’s cool about this place is how communal it is.

They have a large, open common area with hammocks and seating where people just hang out, chat about their day’s adventures, and swap tips. Sometimes they even do group dinners where everyone eats together.

If you’re solo or just want to meet other travelers, this could be good. They also offer things like cooking classes, where you learn to make simple Vietnamese dishes, or even bicycle tours to local villages, which gives you a nice taste of local life beyond just the caves.

The food is often organic and from local farms, with a focus on fresh ingredients. They have a set menu for dinner usually, and it’s tasty, authentic Vietnamese food. They can help you with cave tours, give you info, and arrange transport, but they don’t operate the tours themselves.

It’s less about fancy stuff and more about a real, chill, and slightly bohemian experience. A different option among the Phong Nha hotels.

Location: South of Phong Nha town, near the river, about 5 minutes by scooter.
Amenities: Shared common area with hammocks, on-site restaurant (often communal dinners), bicycle rental, cooking classes, eco-friendly design.
Vibe: Rustic, communal, eco-conscious, laid-back.
Price Range: Budget to mid-range. Rooms typically run from $15-$35 USD.
Good for: Solo travelers, backpackers, eco-conscious people, those looking for a social and authentic experience.

Check availability here

Areca Bungalow

For something straightforward and easy, right in the center of things, Areca Bungalow works. It’s one of those Phong Nha hotels that just delivers.

Clean rooms, friendly staff, and the location is great. It’s right on the main street (DT20), so you can walk to most restaurants, cafes, and tour operators in less than 5 minutes. This is super handy, especially if you plan on doing a lot of wandering around town in the evenings.

The bungalows are simple but well looked after. Each has its own private bathroom, air conditioning, and a comfortable bed. They’re not huge, but perfectly adequate for a short stay.

There’s a small garden area with a few tables and chairs, and a communal space where you can relax. I found the staff really helpful with sorting out transport – like a taxi to the bus station – and giving honest advice on tours. They’re not trying to push anything on you, which I liked.

They do offer breakfast (usually included in the room rate), typically a choice of eggs, bread, or Vietnamese noodles/rice. It’s nothing fancy, but enough to get you going before a cave trip.

If you just need a comfortable, no-drama base that keeps you close to everything, Areca Bungalow is a solid choice. It’s a popular pick for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize location over extra amenities.

Location: Central Phong Nha town, right on the main street, walking distance to most amenities.
Amenities: Small garden area, simple breakfast service, tour information and booking assistance, laundry service.
Vibe: Simple, convenient, friendly, no-frills.
Price Range: Budget. Expect around $20-$30 USD per night.
Good for: Budget travelers, people who want to be central and prefer walking.

Check availability here

Oxalis Home

If your entire trip revolves around serious caving, especially if you’re doing one of the big Oxalis tours like Son Doong or Tu Lan, then staying at Oxalis Home just makes sense. It’s basically their own dedicated accommodation for tour participants, located right next to their main office.

I didn’t actually stay here myself, but I walked through the common areas, saw the briefing rooms, and talked to a bunch of people who were staying there before and after their tours.

It’s designed for efficiency and comfort for cave-goers. The rooms are clean, well-equipped with good beds and functional bathrooms. What makes it one of the more specialized Phong Nha hotels is how it’s integrated with the tours.

They have specific gear rooms for storing equipment, large briefing areas for tour instructions, and even a small shop where you can pick up last-minute caving essentials or souvenirs.

The atmosphere is all about adventure. You’re surrounded by other people just as excited about caves as you are, sharing stories from their expeditions or anticipation for what’s to come.

They have a decent restaurant on-site that serves hearty meals, catering to the needs of hungry adventurers. Often, for multi-day Oxalis tours, your pre- and post-tour nights here might even be included in the tour package.

It’s located a bit outside the main town, perhaps a 5-minute drive, offering a bit more space and tranquility before or after a huge, intense cave expedition.

Location: Slightly outside Phong Nha town, adjacent to the main Oxalis Adventure office.
Amenities: On-site restaurant, dedicated gear storage rooms, briefing areas, tour assistance directly linked to Oxalis expeditions.
Vibe: Adventure-focused, practical, community for serious cave explorers.
Price Range: Mid-range. Often included as part of Oxalis tour packages, or around $30-$40 USD if booked separately.
Good for: Serious cave explorers, participants of Oxalis Adventure tours, people who want direct access to tour resources.

Check availability here

Chay Lap Farmstay & Ecolodge

For anyone wanting a bit more comfort, maybe even a touch of luxury, Chay Lap Farmstay & Ecolodge is probably the best of the Phong Nha hotels in that category.

It’s located a bit further from Phong Nha town itself, about a 20-minute drive, but it’s closer to popular spots like Paradise Cave and Dark Cave, which makes it a good base if those are high on your list.

They offer scheduled shuttle services to and from Phong Nha town, so getting around isn’t a problem, though you’re a bit more isolated.

This place is sprawling. It has multiple swimming pools (including one right by the river), a large and airy restaurant, a spa offering massages, and even a small farm area.

The rooms are beautifully designed, often in a traditional Vietnamese style but with modern comforts. Think comfortable king-sized beds, great bathrooms with hot showers, and often a nice view of the surrounding countryside or the river.

I went there for lunch once and was really impressed with the quality of the food and the general feel of the place. It felt very relaxing.

They have a bunch of activities on site, which is great if you want to break up your caving with other leisure. You can go cycling around the property, kayaking on the Chay River (which connects to Dark Cave), or even try traditional cooking classes.

If you’re with family, or just want to properly relax in a more luxurious, resort-like setting after a cave trip, this is worth the money. It’s pricier than other options, but you get a lot more for it in terms of facilities and service.

Location: Approximately 20 minutes drive from Phong Nha town, closer to Paradise Cave and Dark Cave.
Amenities: Multiple swimming pools (including riverside pool), spa, large restaurant, various on-site activities (cycling, kayaking), shuttle service to Phong Nha town.
Vibe: Luxurious, serene, resort-like, tranquil.
Price Range: High-end. Rooms typically start from $60-$150 USD per night.
Good for: Families, couples, people who want to chill in comfort and prefer resort amenities.

Check availability here

Phong Nha Farmstay

Everyone knows Phong Nha Farmstay. It’s kind of famous around here and definitely one of the most talked-about Phong Nha hotels.

It’s about a 10-15 minute drive from Phong Nha town, out among rice paddies and open fields. They have regular shuttle buses into town (usually every hour or so), so getting there is easy, and you don’t feel stranded.

What makes the Farmstay so popular is how social it is. There’s a huge communal area, a fantastic swimming pool that’s often buzzing, and a well-stocked bar.

Every evening, they have a “happy hour” and a big communal dinner where you meet people from everywhere, swapping stories about caves they’ve seen or plan to see.

If you’re traveling solo and want to meet others, this is probably your best bet. I’ve heard countless tales of friendships made and travel plans changed over a beer here.

Rooms are comfy and clean, they have everything from dorms for backpackers to private bungalows for couples or small groups.

The food is excellent, with a good mix of Vietnamese dishes (their banh xeo is surprisingly good) and Western options.

They also have a very comprehensive tour desk that can book pretty much any cave tour or activity you want, from the popular Paradise Cave and Dark Cave trips to more adventurous expeditions.

For example, if you’re looking for an easy day trip, they can easily arrange the “Cave Exploration & Dark Cave Full-Day Tour“ (similar to GetYourGuide’s option), which is a great combination for beginners.

Or for something a bit more challenging, they can also point you towards the “Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave Day Tour“, if you prefer more walking and less mud.

They’re also pretty flexible if you have a late train or bus, often allowing late check-outs for a small fee. It’s popular for a reason.

Location: Rural setting, about 10-15 minutes from Phong Nha town (regular shuttle available).
Amenities: Large swimming pool, lively bar, excellent restaurant, comprehensive tour desk, communal areas, bicycle rental, happy hour.
Vibe: Social, friendly, laid-back, bustling.
Price Range: Mid-range to high-end. Rooms typically range from $50-$180 USD.
Good for: Solo travelers, backpackers, social people, basically everyone who enjoys a lively atmosphere.

Check availability here

What Caves to See

Once you’ve got your Phong Nha hotel sorted, next up is how to get around and, of course, the main event: the caves!

You’re here for the caves, right? There are tours for every fitness level and interest. You can usually book these at your Phong Nha hotel or with tour operators in town. A lot of these are also on GetYourGuide if you prefer to book online beforehand for peace of mind.

1. Paradise Cave & Dark Cave Combo

This is a classic for a reason. It gives you a good mix of seeing incredible formations and getting a bit adventurous.

Paradise Cave (Thien Duong Cave): This one is simply stunning. It’s a dry cave, well-lit with wooden walkways, so it’s super accessible for almost everyone. The formations and sheer size of it are truly mind-boggling. You walk down a series of steps to the entrance, then it’s mostly flat walking on boardwalks. It’s very impressive.
- Entrance: Around 250,000 VND (as of August 2025). Many tours combine it.
- Time: You’ll spend about 1-2 hours inside the cave itself.
Dark Cave (Hang Toi): This is where it gets fun and physical. You zipline across a river to get to the cave entrance, then swim into the darkness with headlamps, and finally, there’s a super thick, buoyant mud bath inside that’s incredibly unique. You can float around in it! It’s genuinely a blast. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy.
- Entrance: Around 450,000 VND (as of August 2025, includes zipline, mud bath, and swimming).
- Time: Allow 2-3 hours for the whole thing, including getting geared up.
- Tour Idea: If you want to book ahead and have everything handled, there’s a highly-rated “Phong Nha: Cave Exploration and Zipline Dark Cave Tour“ (on GetYourGuide, you can search for this). It generally includes hotel pickup (from most Phong Nha hotels), a guide, lunch, and all activities. Prices usually vary, but typically around $60-$80 USD. It’s an efficient way to see both popular spots in one day.

2. Phong Nha Cave

This is the main one, the one the town is named after. It’s a wet cave, meaning you go in by boat. It’s a different experience from Paradise Cave.

Experience: You jump on a “dragon boat” (traditional Vietnamese long boat) from the pier in Phong Nha town. The boat cruises along the Son River, which is quite scenic, for about 30 minutes, and then the boat takes you right into the cave entrance. Once inside, they turn off the motor and paddle you silently through the incredible stalactites and stalagmites. It’s pretty magical and a bit eerie in a good way. You also get to disembark and walk around a small section of the cave.
Price: Boat fee (shared) is about 550,000 VND per boat (holds up to 12 people) plus an individual entrance fee of 150,000 VND per person (as of August 2025). If you’re solo, you’ll need to join a group or pay for the whole boat.
Time: About 2-3 hours for the whole trip, including the boat ride there and back.
Tour Idea: You can find tours that combine this with Paradise Cave for a full day. Search for something like “Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave Day Tour from Phong Nha“. This is another well-regarded option if you want to see two iconic caves in one go.

Read my full guide here for experiences on Phong Nha Cave Tour

3. Tu Lan Cave System

If you’re looking for something more adventurous than the standard tours but not quite the commitment of Son Doong, the Tu Lan system is perfect. These are multi-day treks that involve jungle trekking, river crossings, swimming through caves (sometimes completely submerged!), and camping inside or outside the caves.

Operator: Oxalis Adventure runs these. They’re the only ones for these specific tours.
Experience: These tours are tough, physically, but super rewarding. You get deep into untouched caves, see incredible formations, and experience the jungle up close. They provide all the gear, food, and guides.
Price: Varies a lot based on how many days (1-day, 2-day, 3-day expeditions available). Expect anywhere from $100-$500+ USD. It’s a significant investment but worth it for the unique experience.
Who it’s for: Adventurous people, good fitness required. Not for casual tourists.

4. Son Doong Cave

The biggest cave in the world. This isn’t a tour, it’s an expedition. Only for the most dedicated (and well-funded) adventurers.

Operator: Only Oxalis Adventure.
Experience: A multi-day, highly challenging expedition (usually 4 days, 3 nights). You trek through jungle, climb down into massive sinkholes, explore a colossal cave, and camp inside. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip, but physically demanding and requires significant preparation.
Price: Starts around $3,000 USD. You need to book years in advance (slots fill up incredibly fast).
Who it’s for: Extreme adventurers with cash and a lot of training. Definitely not something you decide to do last minute from your Phong Nha hotel.

My Final Take on Phong Nha

Picking the right Phong Nha hotel makes a difference for your cave trip. Whether you want peace, to meet people, or just be close to everything, there are options. Just remember, Phong Nha is all about nature and adventure, don’t expect a big city vibe. It’s slow-paced, the landscapes are insane, and the caves are out of this world.

I always tell people, the best way to do Phong Nha is to mix your cave tours with just exploring on your own. Grab a scooter, find some quiet roads, see some local villages, or just cycle through the rice paddies.

Don’t rush it. Give yourself at least 3 full days to truly soak it all in. It’s a place that grows on you, and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve experienced something truly unique.