Things to Do in Cao Bang: Discover Vietnam’s Northern Gem

Cao Bang is not just another stop on the map. It is a place where nature and culture blend in perfect harmony. With winding mountain passes, majestic limestone peaks, and tranquil ethnic villages, every turn reveals a deeper connection to Vietnam’s northern soul. Traveling with Indochina Adventure, you will discover authentic things to do in Cao Bang that many travelers miss, from hidden waterfalls and ancient caves to misty highlands where time seems to pause. Each adventure motorcycle riding becomes a story, and every landscape leaves a memory that lasts long after the road ends.

Natural Attractions in Cao Bang

Cao Bang’s untamed beauty unfolds through breathtaking natural landscapes, making it a paradise for motorbike tours in Vietnam. Therefore, exploring its natural attractions one of the top things to do in Cao Bang.

Ban Gioc Waterfall

About 100 kilometers from Cao Bang center lies Ban Gioc Waterfall, nestled at the border of China and Vietnam. This stunning waterfall resembles a silky ribbon amidst the lush mountains and forests of Cao Bang. Cascading into the emerald Quay Son River, its waters rush with frothy white foam, weaving through the grand green landscapes.

Exploring the rivers and mountains at Ban Gioc waterfall is a wonderful experience

The best time to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall is from September to October, when wild sunflowers adorn the surroundings. If you’re lucky, you might catch a mesmerizing rainbow formed by sunlight dancing on the misty cascade. Once ranked among the top four largest waterfalls in the world, Ban Gioc remains a highlight for anyone embarking on a motorbike tour Ban Gioc Waterfall, offering one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting natural sights.

Nguom Ngao Cave

Nguom Ngao Cave, found in Dam Thuy commune, Trung Khanh district, merely 5 kilometers from Ban Gioc Waterfall, is a captivating limestone cave within the mountains. Stretching over 2100 meters, it boasts a natural beauty untouched by human hands. Beyond its aesthetic charm, the cave’s temperature provides comfort and coolness in the summer and warmth in the winter.

The gentle sound of a nearby stream further enhances the serene ambiance. When exploring things to do in Cao Bang, take advantage of the chance to explore this remarkable cave and other attractions like Ban Gioc Waterfall and Thang Hen Lake for an unforgettable adventure amidst nature’s wonders.

Breathtaking landscape in Nguom Ngao Cave

Pac Bo Cave

Located 52 kilometers north of Cao Bang City, Pac Bo Special National Monument in Truong Ha commune is historically significant. Lenin Stream, flowing clear as silk at the foot of the majestic Karl Marx Mountain, originates from the Pac Bo watershed, known locally as Giang or Trung Stream.

Tourists visiting Pac Bo are captivated by Coc Bo Cave, where President Ho’s wooden desk and a stone table where he worked are preserved. The 80m2 cave has a narrow entrance, bearing the inscription “February 8, 1941” carved by President Ho himself to mark his arrival.

Pac Bo means watershed in the Tay Nung language

Cultural Experiences in Cao Bang

Below are some authentic cultural experiences that rank among the best things to do in Cao Bang, offering unforgettable highlights for travelers joining Northern Vietnam motorcycle tours.

Ethnic Minority Village

Cao Bằng Province is home to nine diverse ethnic groups and has preserved their unique traditions for generations in its valleys. Among these are the Tày, Nùng, Dao, and H’mong communities, renowned for their distinct crafts and lifestyles. Motorbike lovers can immerse themselves in ethnic culture by touring a minority craft village with a local guide or opting for an ethnic homestay.

Unique art of embroidery and printing patterns with beeswax of the Dao Tien people

Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda

Located in Dam Thuy commune, Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda is the first in the country’s border region. Nestled with its back against Phia Nhum mountain and its front facing the vast plain, the temple’s architecture presents a unique and striking beauty akin to an impressive picture for visitors.

Beautiful scenery of Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda

Just 500 meters from Ban Gioc Waterfall, Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda is a meaningful stop for pilgrims and travelers seeking peace and tranquility. The temple’s serene atmosphere offers visitors a sense of calm and contentment. For motorbike enthusiasts exploring Cao Bang, visiting this pagoda provides both spiritual nourishment and cultural insight — one of the most valuable Cao Bang travel tips for a truly fulfilling journey.

Cao Bang Museum

The Pac Bo Historical Complex serves as a memorial and museum marking the inception of Ho Chi Minh’s revolutionary journey. Visitors can explore the cave where he took refuge and the river where he found inspiration for his poetry. This respectful homage to Ho Chi Minh’s life and achievements holds significance as a pilgrimage destination for the Vietnamese.

Pác Bó Museum was established at the location where Hồ Chí Minh initiated his revolution

Outdoor Adventures in Cao Bang

Let’s delve into these exciting things to do in Cao Bang, where adrenaline-fueled outdoor pursuits and natural playgrounds await every traveler on a motorcycle tour Northeast Vietnam.

Trekking in Phia Oac-Phia Den National Park

Phia Oac – Phia Den National Park stands out as a UNESCO Global Geopark due to its unique geological formations, rich mineral deposits, and diverse ecosystem teeming with rare flora and fauna. Blessed with a refreshing climate year-round, the park boasts lush greenery, towering mountains, and drifting clouds, painting a picturesque landscape reminiscent of a fairyland.

Phia Oac peak in winter is covered with white ice and snow

On clear days, visitors can admire the park’s majestic scenery from the summit of Phia Oac mountain. Known for its cool temperatures, abundant flowers, and captivating beauty, Phia Oac – Phia Den National Park is often hailed as the “sleeping fairy” of the Northeast mountains and forests, adding allure to the itinerary of motorbike enthusiasts exploring Cao Bang.

To make the most of your journey through this stunning landscape, check out our detailed guide on the best time to explore Cao Bang — ensuring you experience its natural beauty at its peak.

Rafting on the Quay Son River

Quay Son River is a stunning jade-blue waterway near the breathtaking Ban Gioc waterfall. The river offers a picturesque journey through lush rice terraces and limestone peaks. Motorbike lovers can experience its beauty firsthand with a serene boat trip by canoe or kayak. Visiting Quay Son River promises unforgettable views and adventures for motorbike enthusiasts exploring Cao Bang.

Majestic jade-blue waterway which is only found in Quay Son River

Motorbiking the Ma Phuc Pass

Ma Phuc Pass marks the border between Hoa An and Tra Linh districts. It is the most picturesque pass along National Highway 3, just 22 km from Cao Bang center. Motorbike enthusiasts will find Ma Phuc Pass an irresistible destination, perfect for those who crave the thrill of conquering challenges.

At the pass’s summit, a unique market springs to life every five days on the 3rd, 8th, 13th, 18th, 23rd, and 28th of each month. Here, Tay, Dao, and Nung people from remote villages gather, bringing goods from Trung Khanh and Quang Uyen to trade and mingle. Among the market’s highlights is its renowned beef, a favorite among visitors.

Adventuring Ma Phuc Pass is an unforgettable experience for motorbike enthusiasts

Read more: Exploring Ha Noi to Cao Bang Motorbike Routes: Your Ultimate Guide

Cao Bang Culinary Delights

Read on to learn about Cao Bang’s culinary landscape, where flavors narrate stories of history and tradition – one of the most enticing things to do in Cao Bang.

Local Cuisine

You’ll discover a bounty of highland delights when journeying to Cao Bang by motorbike. Indulge in Trung Khanh chestnuts, renowned for their size and flavor, and Dong Khe pears, prized for their sweetness. Treat yourself to Bao Lac plums, grilled pig, roasted duck, and unique specialties like snake, gecko, bee wines, and egg rolls.

In addition to beautiful scenery, Cao Bang also has many delicious dishes

Cao Bang is also famed for its medicinal herbs like bitter tea, vine tea, and aromatic honey brimming with the essence of wildflowers and rich nutrients. Don’t miss out on savoring the signature sour pho and fish hot pot by the river junction, enhancing your culinary journey through the highlands.

Food Markets

Cao Bang Cuisine Market is a bustling food market on the renowned Kim Dong walking street. It boasts 70 stalls, each offering a unique selection of mouth-watering local delicacies, souvenirs, and specialties. This vibrant marketplace is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an authentic taste of Cao Bang’s culinary culture. Here, you can sample many traditional dishes, from steaming hot pho to crispy spring rolls made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

After exploring the lively Cao Bang Cuisine Market, don’t miss our complete guide to the best restaurant in Cao Bang — where you’ll find top dining spots to experience the region’s authentic flavors at their finest.

The food market is located right in the center of Cao Bang city

Historical Sites of Cao Bang

Regarding ancient monuments and sites, motorbikers can step back in time by exploring these things to do in Cao Bang.

Pac Bo Historical Site

When discussing tourist things to do in Cao Bang, we can’t miss the Pac Bo relic site, where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked during the nation’s revolutionary days. It’s in Truong Ha commune, Ha Quang district, Cao Bang province, about 52 km from the city center. This place holds historical importance and boasts stunning natural scenery resembling a fairyland. Highlights include Coc Bo Cave, Lenin Stream, Milestone 108, and Gooc Mu Field. While every season offers charm, the dry months from May to September are lovely, with lush greenery and gentle streams at Pac Bo.

When in Cao Bang, exploring Pac Bo promises a fulfilling adventure

Lenin Stream

Lenin Stream is part of the Pac Bo Historical Relic Area. It is memorable for its blue water and lies peacefully in the heart of the wilderness. Anyone who has ever set foot on Lenin Stream will feel like they have entered another level of space, with peaceful beauty and a pure atmosphere completely separate from hubbling and bubbling city life.

It possesses a cool stream, and the vast forest carpets surrounding it, with a lush canopy of trees spreading shade, also impresses everyone. Therefore, Lenin Stream is the perfect stop for motorbikers who want to immerse themselves in nature and feel the peace and clarity rarely found anywhere else.

Lenin Stream provides a serene escape and a chance to appreciate the region’s natural beauty

Cao Bang beckons with its majestic and untouched beauty waiting to be explored. These top things to do in Cao Bang are must-visits for every tourist, guiding them through the wonders of this mysterious land. For motorbike enthusiasts, Cao Bang offers endless adventures to discover its hidden treasures. Embark on an unforgettable adventure and explore the stunning Cao Bang region with Indochina Adventure. Our Cao Bang Motorbike Tours are the perfect way to experience this beautiful area’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Don’t wait any longer, contact us today and let us help you plan the trip of a lifetime!

Embark on an unforgettable journey — book your Cao Bang motorbike tours with Indochina Adventure