I’ve been in Vietnam since 2016 and exploring the caves in Phong Nha has always
fascinated Adrie and I, but this trip to Hang Tiên took things to a whole new level. It was a three-day, two-night trek filled with river crossings, jungle trails, and, of course, massive caves. I had heard so much about these caves before going, but nothing could prepare me for the sheer size and beauty of what I was about to experience.
Entering the Cave
Standing at the entrance of Hang Tiên, I felt like I had stepped into a scene from The Lord of the Rings. The cave was enormous, and the rock formations looked unreal. The towering limestone walls stretched high above us, creating a dramatic and breathtaking scene. Our guide explained how the cave was formed over millions of years by water eroding the limestone. He pointed out the marks on the walls, showing how high the water level reached during the rainy season. It was incredible to think about the sheer power of nature that had carved out these giant chambers over time.
As we ventured deeper inside, the light from the entrance faded, and we relied on our headlamps. The air was cool, and the silence made everything feel even more mysterious. The guide’s voice echoed as he described the different formations around us. The stalactites and stalagmites were shaped like sculptures, some resembling animals, others appearing almost alien. It was one thing to see pictures of caves, but actually being inside one, surrounded by towering rock walls, was an entirely different experience.
There were moments when I just stood still, taking in the vastness of the space around me. It felt humbling to be in a place that had existed long before humans ever set foot here. The guide showed us fossils embedded in the rock, remnants of ancient sea creatures that once lived when this entire area was underwater. It was a powerful reminder of how much the earth has changed over millions of years.
Facing the Challenges
The trek was tough. One of the most daunting parts was the steep 45-degree climb we had to do to get out of the cave. Looking up at the incline, I knew it was going to be a challenge. Adrie and I talked about how tough it would be, but we also knew we had no choice but to push through. Step by step, we climbed, using whatever footholds we could find. My legs burned, and my breathing became heavier as I pushed myself forward. By the time we reached the top, I was exhausted—but also thrilled that we had made it. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming.
Another challenge was the cold. We got wet early in the trek, and with temperatures around 18-19°C, it was hard to dry off. Wearing drainable shoes meant my feet were soaked almost immediately, and they stayed that way for the entire journey. The dampness seeped into my clothes, making it difficult to stay warm. I had mentally prepared for the physical strain of the trek, but I hadn’t fully anticipated how much the cold would affect me. Despite the discomfort, the adventure made it all worth it.
The river crossings were another intense part of the journey. Some of the crossings were shallow, but others required us to wade through waist-deep water. At one point, we had to form a human chain to keep our balance against the current. It was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. There’s something about physically pushing yourself in nature that makes the experience feel even more rewarding.
A Well-Deserved Break
After hours of hiking and exploring, we finally reached our campsite by the river. It was a stunning spot, nestled between mountains, with the sound of flowing water all around us. The air was fresh, and there was a peaceful stillness to the place. We were greeted with hot tea and coffee, which felt like a small luxury after such a long day.
Even though the water was freezing, I couldn’t resist going for a swim. The current was strong, and at one point, I saw someone struggling to move against it. That was my sign to keep my swim short! But after the cold water, we had a sauna waiting for us, which was the perfect way to warm up. Sitting in the sauna, feeling the heat seep into my chilled bones, was one of the best moments of the trip. It was a stark contrast from the cold river, and it made me appreciate the simple comforts even more.
We spent the evening drying off our clothes by the fire and sharing stories with the other trekkers. It was a great chance to connect with people from all over the world, each of us brought together by our love for adventure. The sky was clear, and without any light pollution, the stars were incredible. Looking up at the night sky, surrounded by nature, I felt completely at peace.
The Best Part: The Experience
One of the things that made this trip so special was how remote and untouched it felt. Even though I live in Vietnam, I kept forgetting that I was in my backyard. The landscapes, the caves, and the adventure all felt like something from another world. The whole experience reminded me of why I love exploring and pushing myself out of my comfort zone.
We ended the day with a feast of local food—barbecued chicken, beef stew, bok choy, and a delicious peanut sauce. The porters and chefs prepared everything fresh, and it was some of the best food I’ve had on a trip like this. Sitting there, eating a hot meal by the river, I felt grateful for the entire experience.
Looking back, the trek was challenging, cold, and exhausting, but it was also one of the most incredible adventures I’ve ever been on. If you’re thinking about exploring the caves in Phong Nha, do it. You won’t regret it. The adventure, the beauty, and the sense of accomplishment are worth every tough moment.
Tips:
For anyone planning to go, I’d recommend bringing extra warm clothes, making sure your shoes are drainable and comfortable for wet conditions, and mentally preparing for the physical challenge.
But most importantly, go with an open mind and a spirit of adventure—you never know what incredible experiences await you in the depths of Phong Nha’s caves.
Conclusion
Exploring the Hang Tien caves in Phong Nha was more than just an adventure—it was an experience that connected me with nature, challenged me physically, and introduced me to the incredible hospitality of the local community.
The journey didn’t end here, follow me for the next adventure in Phong Nha!