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Your visit to Phong Nha Cave begins with a mandatory 30-minute dragon boat ride along the Son River.
You cannot reach the cave entrance on foot or by car. All visitors start at the Phong Nha Tourism Center to hire a motorized boat. This boat takes you down the river and directly into the cave mouth.
15-30 minutesBuy tickets here
This is the central dock in Phong Nha town where you buy entry tickets and rent traditional dragon boats. The adult entrance fee is 150,000 VND, and the mandatory boat rental is an additional 550,000 VND. A single boat holds up to 12 passengers.
30 minutesMotorized dragon boat
The 30-minute ride travels along the turquoise Son River toward the cave. You will pass rural villages, water buffalo, and large limestone karsts. Sit near the front of the boat for the best photos and unobstructed views. Life jackets are provided and must be worn during the trip.
