Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Cao Bang requires extra planning due to its remote location. Expect long travel times from Hanoi and strict border regulations.
Ban Gioc Waterfall and Angel Eye Mountain
Dam Thuy & Cao Chuong Communes, Trung Khanh District, Cao Bang
GPS 22.8559, 106.7232
Open directionsGetting there
How to get to the waterfall and mountain.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus: Sleeper bus from Hanoi to Cao Bang city, then local mini-bus (#3 or #7) to the falls | 6-8 hours to Cao Bang, plus 2-2.5 hours to the falls | Local bus ~85,000 VND | A budget-friendly and authentic way to travel. The local bus terminates right at the waterfall. |
| Car: Private driver or motorbike rental from Hanoi via National Highway 3 | 7-8 hours from Hanoi | Allows flexibility to explore the Geopark, stop at Angel Eye Mountain, and navigate the winding mountain passes safely. | |
| Tour: Organized multi-day tours departing from Hanoi or Cao Bang City | 2-3 days | $100-$300+ | The most stress-free option; typically bundles transport, homestays, meals, Ban Gioc, and Angel Eye Mountain. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The optimal time to visit is September and October. The water flow is strong, and the surrounding rice terraces turn golden. The dry season (October to May) offers calm, clear waters. The rainy season (June to August) brings massive brown water flows and potential valley flooding.
What to bring
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Bring your physical passport.
You need it for border checkpoints and regional accommodation.
How the day runs
Suggested routes for exploring the geopark.
Cover the top three geopark sites in a single busy day using a rented motorbike or private car.
- Depart Cao Bang City
Drive 90 kilometers toward the Chinese border.
- Ban Gioc Waterfall
Spend an hour at the main cascade and take the bamboo raft.
- Nguom Ngao Cave
Explore the 2-kilometer limestone cave system nearby.
- Angel Eye Mountain
Stop on the way back to hike the valley and view the mountain hole.
A typical organized tour schedule departing from the capital.
- Travel to Cao Bang
Take the 7-8 hour drive from Hanoi via National Highway 3.
- Angel Eye Mountain
Visit the Thang Hen Lake area and hike around the 50-meter mountain hole.
- Ban Gioc Waterfall
Drive to the border to see the 300-meter wide cascade and ride the bamboo raft.
- Return to Hanoi
Travel back to the capital in the late afternoon.
Practical packing advice
Pack a rain jacket or poncho for the waterfall spray. You should also bring a dry bag to protect electronics on the bamboo raft. Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip, as the limestone paths get slippery. Apply mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
Mountain temperatures drop significantly in the evening, so bring warm layers. Cash is essential; ATMs are extremely rare outside Cao Bang City. Ensure you have enough VND for tickets, meals, and raft rides. Read our Packing Guide guide for a full list.
Easiest way to do it
From Hanoi: Ban Gioc Waterfall - Angel Mountain 2D/1N By Car
48 h 5.0 (125)
- Round Transfer from Hanoi to Cao Bang by Limousine Van
- Local English Speaking Tour Guide
- All entrance fee and tickets
- Travel insurance for the whole tour with maximum compensation of VND 100,000,000/person/case
From$189per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How far is Ban Gioc Waterfall from Cao Bang city?
Ban Gioc Waterfall is located about 90 kilometers from Cao Bang City. The drive takes approximately two hours.
How do I get to the falls from Cao Bang City?
You can take a local mini-bus (number 3 or 7) for about 85,000 VND. You can also rent a motorbike or hire a private driver.
Can you camp at Angel Eye Mountain?
Yes, you can wild camp in the meadow during the dry season. Check weather conditions during the rainy season, as the valley can flood rapidly.