Walk around for roughly an hour and explore the area around the Quy Mon Quan Gate, which translates as “The Gate of Monsters”, named after the many invasion forces that would spill through the pass throughout history only to be beaten back by stalwart Vietnamese defenders.

Have lunch at a local restaurant in Dong Dang, and continue your trip into the past, stopping to visit Mother’s Temple and Dong Khe – an important historical site where The Battle of Dong Khe was fought during the First Indochina War. This was the first battle of the Indochina Wars, and the fight lasted through September and October 1950, ending in a resounding victory for the Viet Minh.

Enjoy dinner and spend the night in a homestay owned and operated by a local Nung family.

Take in the fantastic atmosphere surrounding the Ban Gioc waterfall, which presents an excellent opportunity for photographs. Nestled amongst these unique landscapes, this waterfall spans over 300 meters, split half and a half between Vietnam and China. 

After this, head over to Nguom Ngao Cave for a very different but no less impressive natural wonder. The cave stretches 2,144 metres underground and brimming with incredible stalactites and stalagmites.

Then, return to Cao Bang town and head down the “snake pass” to Ba Be Lake to stay overnight in a homestay constructed in traditional Tay fashion, which is owned and operated by a local Tay family. Here, relax, unwind from the day, and enjoy a delicious and authentic home-cooked meal.

Explore the caves of Puong Grotto as the boat continues along the Nang River. Marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites created through river erosion, and observe the thousands-strong bat colony that lives here.

At the end of the tour, drive the roughly 230 kilometres back to Hanoi, stopping at a tea plantation nestled among rolling hills. Arrive in Hanoi and return to your accommodation with lifelong memories and connections.