Hidden away in the remote mountains of Northern Vietnam, Cao Bang is a land of immense tourism potential, blessed with breathtaking scenery, historical monuments, rich cultural traditions, and distinctive natural landscapes. In 2018, UNESCO recognized Non Nuoc Cao Bang as a Global Geopark, affirming its outstanding natural and cultural values. This designation has opened new opportunities for sustainable tourism development while ensuring the preservation and promotion of its heritage.

Cao Bang captivates visitors with its magnificent landscapes, a network of significant historical sites, and a vibrant cultural tapestry woven by diverse ethnic communities. More than just a place to admire famous scenic wonders, a journey through Non Nuoc Cao Bang invites travelers to explore the depth of its history, traditions, and community life. Each experience reveals a unique facet of the region, making it a compelling destination on Vietnam’s tourism map.

Cao Bang does not have any golf courses yet…stay tuned for future projects in this spectacular province!

Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of the most iconic landmarks of the Non Nuoc Cao Bang region, symbolizing the province’s natural beauty and tourism identity. Located in Dam Thuy Commune, the Quay Son River winds through peaceful villages and fertile fields before cascading over rocky tiers to form a magnificent waterfall nearly 300 meters wide. This vast curtain of white water, set against a backdrop of mountains and forests, creates a breathtaking scene that changes with the seasons yet always retains its charm.

In summer, the waterfall surges with cool turquoise waters and frothing foam, offering a refreshing spectacle. Autumn transforms the landscape into a golden canvas, as ripe rice fields glow around the falls, highlighting their grandeur. Winter and spring bring a quieter atmosphere, with clear waters flowing gently through misty surroundings, lending the site a serene and poetic quality. These seasonal shifts have made Ban Gioc not only a natural wonder but also a centerpiece of the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark.

Visitors can experience the waterfall up close by taking a bamboo raft ride along the Quay Son River. Floating beneath the cascading waters provides a unique perspective of its power and beauty. The months of September and October are particularly enchanting, when the golden hues of ripened rice fields blend harmoniously with the river’s deep blue, creating a panorama that is both majestic and lyrical. The Ban Gioc (Vietnam) – Detian (China) Waterfall Scenic Area also stands out as a remarkable cross-border attraction, making it an essential experience for anyone exploring the Non Nuoc Cao Bang region.

From the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, the journey leads onward to Khuoi Ky Stone Village, a traditional settlement of the Tay people in Dam Thuy Commune. This ancient village is remarkable for its well-preserved stone stilt houses, a unique architectural style that has endured through generations. Built from stone and topped with yin–yang tiled roofs, the houses harmonize beautifully with the surrounding mountains, forests, and streams, creating a rustic and tranquil atmosphere.

Beyond its architectural charm, Khuoi Ky has embraced community-based tourism. Many of the traditional stone houses have been transformed into homestays, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in local life. Staying here provides a window into the customs, daily routines, and cultural traditions of the Tay people, making the experience both authentic and enriching. Visitors can savor the tranquility of rural borderlands, share in the warmth of Tay hospitality, and engage in cultural exchanges through Then singing and the resonant sounds of Tinh music. To complete the immersion, guests are treated to the distinctive flavors of traditional Tay cuisine, a feast as memorable as the setting itself.

Just 3 kilometers from Ban Gioc Waterfall lies the enchanting Nguom Ngao Cave, whose name in the Tay language translates to “Tiger Cave.” Stretching more than 2,000 meters, the cave boasts three main entrances: Nguom Ngao, Ban Thuon, and Nguom Lom.

Stepping inside, visitors are immersed in a mystical world shaped by millions of years of nature’s artistry. Towering stalactites hang like stone curtains from the ceiling, while stalagmites rise from the floor in striking formations. The interplay of shapes and textures creates a spectacular underground landscape. An internal lighting system highlights the shimmering surfaces, enhancing the cave’s otherworldly beauty and offering a truly captivating exploration experience.

In addition to the traditional route, the opening of the Ban Thuon entrance has expanded the area accessible to visitors. This new pathway allows travelers to discover even more of the cave’s distinctive features, making Nguom Ngao not only a natural wonder but also a highlight of any journey through Cao Bang.

Beyond its famous waterfalls and caves, Cao Bang is also home to a network of natural lakes, each offering tranquil beauty and pristine scenery. Among them, Thang Hen Lake, located in Tra Linh Commune, stands out as one of the province’s signature landmarks.

Part of Cao Bang’s interconnected lake system, Thang Hen is distinguished by its clear, blue waters that remain vibrant throughout the year. Surrounded by lush forests and limestone mountains, the lake exudes a peaceful atmosphere that draws travelers seeking relaxation and natural charm.

Its fresh air and serene setting make Thang Hen Lake a favorite destination for those exploring Cao Bang, offering a quiet retreat that perfectly complements the region’s dramatic waterfalls and mysterious caves.

From Thang Hen Lake, travelers can continue their journey to Mắt Thần Núi (God’s Eye Mountain), also known as Núi Thủng (The Mountain with a Hole). In the Tay language, the peak is called Phja Piót, meaning “the mountain with a hole.” Its defining feature is a striking circular opening near the summit, more than 50 meters in diameter – a rare geological formation in Vietnam that makes the mountain truly unique.

Nestled within a valley of the Thang Hen Lake complex, God’s Eye Mountain is surrounded by vast grasslands, shimmering lakes, and limestone ranges. This harmonious setting creates a pristine natural landscape that feels both majestic and serene. The mountain’s beauty shifts with the seasons, offering a different charm throughout the year.

By September, as the lake’s waters gently recede, the landscape transforms into a vast meadow. A carpet of vibrant green grass unfurls across the lakebed, where herds of horses graze under the care of local villagers. The scene, serene and poetic, captures the quiet harmony between nature and rural life.

Showcasing another facet of Cao Bang’s natural charm, Ba Quang Grass Hill in Vinh Quy Commune – about 70 kilometers from the provincial center, and roughly than an hour’s drive from Ban Gioc Waterfall – remains a pristine and tranquil destination. Its wide-open landscapes and untouched beauty make it a refreshing escape for travelers seeking peace and simplicity.

Ba Quang’s appearance transforms with the seasons. From May to October, the hills are blanketed in lush green grass, creating a vibrant and airy atmosphere. As the weather cools between October and January, the grass gradually turns golden, lending the area a rustic, poetic allure. Each season paints the hills in a different light, offering visitors a unique experience every time.

With its harmonious scenery and expansive open spaces, Ba Quang Grass Hill is ideal for picnics, camping, and photography. Travelers can capture memorable moments against the backdrop of rolling hills and shifting colors, making it one of Cao Bang’s most captivating natural landscapes.

Continuing the journey through the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, travelers will find Phja Oac – Phja Den National Park, a pristine natural sanctuary renowned for its biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. As part of the geopark network, the park safeguards rare species of flora and fauna, making it an invaluable site for scientific research, genetic conservation, and environmental education.

At 1,931 meters, Phja Oac Peak – often called the “roof of Cao Bang’s western region” – is cloaked in clouds throughout the year, creating a majestic and poetic atmosphere. The park is home to primeval forests, rolling mountain ranges, and architectural remnants from the early 20th century, all of which contribute to its distinctive character.

In winter, Phia Oac transforms into a rare spectacle in Vietnam: frost and even snow blanket the summit, turning the landscape into a magical wonderland. Surrounding the park are highland villages, terraced rice fields, and tea plantations, which together provide ideal conditions for eco-tourism, resort stays, and immersive experiences that blend nature with culture.

Cao Bang is not only celebrated for its natural beauty but also revered as a land deeply tied to Vietnam’s history. Among its most significant destinations is the Pac Bo Special National Relic Site, a place that leaves lasting impressions on visitors. Located in Truong Ha Commune, this site marks the historic moment when President Ho Chi Minh returned to the Fatherland on January 28, 1941, after more than 30 years abroad seeking a path to national salvation. From here, he directly led the Vietnamese revolution.

Pac Bo is home to landmarks forever linked with this pivotal period. Visitors can see Lenin Stream, Cac Mac Mountain, Coc Bo Cave, Milestone 108, and the stone table set where Uncle Ho worked, as well as Lan Khuoi Nam. Each of these sites reflects important decisions and events that shaped the revolution.

Set against a peaceful natural backdrop of streams and mountains, Pac Bo is more than a historical monument – it is a place of reflection and education. The relics here preserve patriotic traditions and serve as a destination for “return-to-origin” tourism, allowing visitors to connect with both the natural landscape and the nation’s revolutionary spirit.

Continuing the historical journey, the Tran Hung Dao Forest Special National Relic Site stands as a place of profound national significance. It was here, on December 22, 1944, that the Vietnam Propaganda Unit of Liberation Army – the precursor to today’s Vietnam People’s Army – was officially established. This milestone marked the beginning of a new chapter in the nation’s struggle for independence.

Together with the Border Victory (1950) Special National Relic Site, where President Ho Chi Minh personally monitored and directed the campaign, Tran Hung Dao Forest forms part of a distinctive historical tourism route in Cao Bang. Visiting these sites offers travelers not only a chance to admire the natural surroundings but also a deeper understanding of the pivotal events that shaped Vietnam’s revolutionary history.

Beyond its stunning landscapes and historic relics, Cao Bang also captivates visitors with its traditional craft villages, where indigenous cultural values have been preserved across generations. These villages are typically clustered together, their stone houses aligned in the same direction, backs resting against the mountains and fronts opening onto rice or corn fields that change with the farming season. Most residents continue to embrace a purely agricultural lifestyle, and the sight of locals wearing ethnic attire in daily life or during festivals remains common among the Nung An and Dao Tien communities. Each village not only safeguards unique artisanal techniques but also reflects the community’s way of life, customs, and identity, enriching the province’s experiential tourism offerings.

Located in Quang Uyen Commune, Phja Thap Incense-Making Village is a standout destination. For over a century, the Nung An people have passed down the art of incense-making, crafting sticks entirely from natural materials found in the limestone mountains – such as bau hat leaves, mai bamboo, and khao wood. Through meticulous manual steps, they produce incense with a gentle fragrance and distinctive color, embodying both tradition and craftsmanship.

In Dia Tren Village, the Nung An people have preserved the ancient craft of making giấy bản (handmade paper). Using bark from the May Sla tree and other natural forest materials, artisans follow a series of careful manual processes to create durable paper used for cultural, spiritual, and ritual purposes. Today, locals also craft innovative products such as notebooks, greeting cards, artwork, and souvenir bags, enhancing the village’s cultural and economic value. Visitors can observe the paper-making process and even try their hand at certain stages, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry and traditions behind each sheet.

Alongside paper-making, the Nung An people are also known for their traditional indigo dyeing. Using indigo and sản plants cultivated locally, artisans create deep-blue fabrics through a series of intricate processing stages. For the Nung An, indigo is more than a dye – it is a cultural symbol woven into daily life, festivals, and customs. Today, scarves, bags, hats, and other indigo products are introduced to visitors, promoting local culture while supporting community livelihoods. Travelers can explore the dyeing process firsthand, appreciating the skill and cultural meaning behind each piece.

In Hoai Khao Hamlet, Thanh Cong Commune, the Dao Tien people preserve the art of beeswax pattern printing on fabric. Using beeswax, linen, and handmade tools, Dao Tien women skillfully create intricate motifs that reflect their views on nature, life, and aspirations. After the wax patterns are applied, the fabric is repeatedly dyed in indigo, and the wax is melted away to reveal striking white designs against the deep-blue background. This craft not only remains a vital part of daily life but has also become a compelling cultural experience for visitors, offering insight into the Dao Tien’s identity and contributing to the preservation of Cao Bang’s traditional values.

No journey to Cao Bang is complete without savoring its distinctive culinary traditions. Drawing on fresh mountain ingredients and cooking techniques handed down through generations, the local cuisine reflects both the land and its people.

Among the highlights is Cao Bang steamed rice rolls, a beloved breakfast dish. What makes Cao Bang steamed rice rolls (bánh cuốn) unique is the way they are enjoyed. Unlike versions in other regions, which are typically served with diluted fish sauce, Cao Bang’s rice rolls are paired with a steaming bowl of bone broth. Simmered for hours, the broth develops a naturally sweet, delicate flavor and is garnished with scallions and cilantro. Diners often enhance the taste with lime juice, a sprinkle of pepper, or chili-marinated bamboo shoots, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

The rice rolls themselves feature thin, silky sheets filled with minced meat. An egg-filled variation is also popular: vendors crack an egg directly onto the freshly spread batter before steaming, resulting in a creamy richness that elevates the dish.

When accompanied by Vietnamese pork sausage (giò) and a poached egg, Cao Bang steamed rice rolls become even more satisfying. For locals, it is a staple breakfast; for visitors, it is a culinary highlight that captures the essence of Cao Bang’s food culture.

Among Cao Bang’s culinary treasures, the “Seven-Flavor” roasted duck of the Tay people is a dish that stands out for its meticulous preparation and unforgettable taste. The process begins with the careful selection of ducks of just the right size – firm, lean; and the highlight lies in the marinating stage, where the duck is infused with the secret “seven-flavor sauce” – a closely guarded recipe passed down through generations in eastern Cao Bang. This unique blend of spices penetrates deeply into the meat, ensuring every bite is rich and aromatic.

During roasting, the duck is inflated, blanched, then coated with wild honey and brushed with vinegar. This technique keeps the skin crisp yet moist, while the meat inside remains tender, succulent, and slightly pink. Once cooked, the duck gleams with a glossy amber-gold hue, its skin shatteringly crisp and its flesh juicy and flavorful. The savory juices collected from the cavity are served as a dipping sauce, adding depth and complexity to the dish.

The flavor profile is distinctive: a harmonious balance of sweetness from honey, richness from the duck, and a subtle bitterness from wild leaves and roots. This layered taste grows more compelling with each bite, making the dish beloved by both young and old. More than just food, the “Seven-Flavor” roasted duck has become a culinary icon of Cao Bang, embodying the artistry and cultural identity of the region.

In the rich culinary landscape of Cao Bang, Ap Chao cake stands out as a rustic yet flavorful highland specialty. Its batter is made primarily from glutinous rice flour mixed with shredded taro, giving the cake a chewy, nutty texture. The filling features finely chopped duck meat, carefully prepared without the skin to retain its natural sweetness and tenderness while avoiding excess greasiness.

To prepare the dish, a layer of batter is poured into a mold, the duck filling is added, and another layer of batter seals it. The cakes are then dropped into sizzling oil, frying until they float to the surface. As they turn golden-brown, the crust becomes shatteringly crisp while releasing an enticing aroma. Served piping hot, Ap Chao cakes combine a crunchy exterior with a savory, nutty filling – an unforgettable treat, especially when enjoyed in the cool mountain air.

Traditionally, the cakes are paired with papaya salad, which balances their richness with refreshing flavors. Diners can also order sides such as duck offal or fried duck, creating a more diverse and satisfying meal. With its distinctive taste and unique preparation method, Ap Chao cake has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. More than just a dish, it reflects the beauty of Cao Bang’s cuisine and offers travelers a memorable culinary experience.

Thanks to fertile soil, a cool year-round climate, and abundant water from rivers and streams, Trung Khanh in Cao Bang is home to 240 hectares of chestnut orchards. This region produces the renowned Trung Khanh chestnut, celebrated for its rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture – truly unmatched elsewhere.

Grown on hillsides at elevations of 450 – 600 meters, the chestnuts are cultivated under strict standards to ensure quality. Each autumn, from September to October, the spiny burrs – resembling tiny hedgehogs – split open to reveal one to three nuts inside. Farmers harvest them using bamboo poles or gather them after they naturally fall to the ground, preserving both tradition and flavor.

For generations, Trung Khanh chestnuts have been an integral part of the lives of the Tay and Nung ethnic communities. Beyond being a rustic treat, they provide significant income during harvest season, with traders purchasing directly from orchards before selling them in district and provincial markets. With their distinctive taste and cultural significance, Trung Khanh chestnuts embody the culinary identity of Cao Bang, offering visitors a memorable taste of the highlands.

Cao Bang sausage is a traditional delicacy that has long been a part of local life, especially during festivals and Tet celebrations. Its distinctive flavor comes from the harmonious blend of sweet, aromatic highland pork with mountain spices such as wild ginger, black pepper, and mac mat leaves.

The preparation is meticulous. Small intestines are thoroughly cleaned to make the casing, while pork shoulder – perfectly balanced between lean and fat – is sliced and marinated with honey, white liquor, and forest spices. Once stuffed, the sausages are sun-dried and smoked over sugarcane stalks, which imparts a signature aroma and a savory-sweet taste with a satisfyingly firm texture.

Versatile in cooking, Cao Bang sausages can be fried, grilled, steamed, or stir-fried, each method offering a unique flavor experience. Every bite is rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, leaving a lasting impression on those who taste it. More than just a rustic specialty, Cao Bang sausage has become a popular gift for visitors to bring home, embodying both the culinary artistry and cultural identity of the region.