Cao Bang is among the most scenic provinces of North West Vietnam. This is an important part of the road linking North-East and North-West motorcycle trails. The province boasts some of the country’s most stunning mountain landscapes. A Vietnam motorcycle tour to Cao Bang is surely a great riding experience.
The modern history of Cao Bang dates back from the 40s, when Ho Chi Minh returned to Vietnam. He chose Cao Bang to locate the head of the upcoming revolution and, then war. This was because: From Cao Bang, one can easily access Lang Son (129 km to the South East) and Bac Kan (119 km to the South West). There was also a road linking Cao Bang and Ha Giang. In addition, Cao Bang province had lots of forests. It had a very diversified terrain with high limestone cliffs and huge cavities, layers of mountains and pinnacles, raging rivers, verdant valleys. 10% of the land was for agriculture, with cascading rice fields. On your motorcycle tour to Cao Bang, you will get to see all of these landscapes.
Vietnam motorcycle tour to Ban Gioc Waterfall
The most picturesque waterfall in Vietnam, and the mightiest, located by the Vietnam-China border. The cascade is 30 meters high and 300 meters across, originates from where the Quay Son river falls down from the high cliffs. During the wet season, the water rages like thunders. On sunny days, rainbow appears as the water steam mixed with the sunlight. The area of the water fall is ideal for swimming and sightseeing. There is also a plot of land in front of the waterfall where the farmers cultivate rice.
Despite being one of Vietnam’s travel splendors, the distance of Ban Gioc from Hanoi discourages mass tourism from coming. At anytime, there’s only a few travelers seen, except for weekends or public holidays, when the number might be doubled.
Vietnam motorcycle tour to Nguom Ngao Cave
Located 4 km from Ban Gioc Waterfall, this misty cave is a truly spectacular work of nature. The cave stretches for over 2.5 km in its length, runs deep underground of a gigantic Karst formation. There’s a paved path inside the cave, which meanders above a wavy floor. The cave’s inside brings an eerie feeling as one goes deeper. The glistening stalactites and stalagmites show out all kind of shapes. Some parts of the walk might be slippery so do bring good walking shoes. Of course, we suggest a tripod if you want to capture the inside splendor. The cave should be combined with a visit to Ban Gioc Waterfall on your Vietnam motorcycle tour.
Vietnam motorcycle tour to Thang Hen lake & Nam Tra Waterfall
It’s one of the 36 highland lakes of Tra Linh district, and about 1.5 hour riding motorbike from Cao Bang. A ride to the lake is surely a must-do on your Vietnam motorcycle tour. The road leading here passes by Karst formations and verdant valleys dotted by peaceful minority houses. Upon reaching the lake, its crystal clear water reflects the sky, making the scenery stunning. High cliffs and forest surround the lake. The lake’s water is supplied by the rain and underground leaks. Also the size is not necessarily big, a stop by the lake after an off-road ride will surely make you appreciate the scenery more. From here, follow a dirt trail and you’ll get to Nam Tra Waterfall. Even though it’s not comparable with the mighty Ban Gioc, it surely deserve a visit on your Vietnam motorcycle tour.
