Hang En, one of the largest caves in the world, is located in the heart of Vietnam’s cave kingdom, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh. This impressive 3-million-year-old natural wonder has captivated explorers and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can experience the thrill of camping overnight inside this colossal cave, immersing themselves in a unique adventure amid spectacular natural beauty.
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1. A Global Spotlight
Hang En’s mystique and grandeur caught global attention soon after its discovery in 1994. This Vietnamese cave was featured in leading travel magazines such as National Geographic, The New York Times, and Lonely Planet, drawing worldwide interest. Most recently, on November 26, 2023, Hang Son Doong, Hang En, and Hang Va were all spotlighted in Episode 6 – “EXTREMES” of the acclaimed BBC documentary series Planet Earth III, bringing the cave’s allure to millions of viewers around the globe.
2. Trekking and Camping in Hang En
A night’s camping experience inside Hang En is part of the renowned Son Doong Expedition. On the first night of this tour, participants set up camp within Hang En itself. Visitors, both domestic and international, highly recommend this unique trekking experience, which combines stunning landscapes, cultural discovery, and an awe-inspiring cave environment.
3. Climate and Best Travel Time
Hang En’s area in Phong Nha experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Tours are only available from December through mid-September each year, making this period ideal for a visit. Here’s what you can expect across different seasons:
- January to March: Cooler weather with some sunny days, ideal for trekking.
- April and May: Spring brings milder temperatures and beautiful, blooming landscapes.
- June to August: Hot summer months are perfect for cooling off in the cave’s underground rivers.
Inside the cave, campers are sheltered from the elements, so there’s no need to worry about rain or intense sunlight during the overnight stay.
4. Adventure Level
The Hang En Tour is rated as Moderate (Level 3), suitable for generally active individuals without the need for advanced fitness. Here’s what to expect:
- Distance: 25 km of trekking through rocky, varied terrain, with forest paths and river crossings.
- Activities: Includes trekking, rock scrambling, and stream crossings.
- Elevation Gain: 650 m, with steep inclines.
5. Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Hang En Adventure
Arrive in Phong Nha by 7:00 AM for your adventure to Hang En. From 7:30 to 8:00 AM, a car will pick you up at your hotel and bring you to the Oxalis office for a safety briefing and equipment check.
The journey starts with a jungle trek, descending a steep hill to the Rao Thuong Stream. After 1.5 hours of walking and wading, you’ll reach Doong Village for lunch and a glimpse into local life. Then, continue trekking through the jungle, crossing rivers, and reach Hang En after 3 hours. Explore the cave with helmets and headlamps, then relax by the turquoise lake near your campsite. Enjoy dinner inside the cave for a memorable first night.
Day 2: Exploration & Return
After breakfast, explore more of Hang En, admiring its stalagmites and stalactites. The back of the cave offers a stunning view of the campsite. After exploring, return to the camp for lunch before the final challenge—crossing streams and climbing a 450m hill. A bus with cold drinks will be waiting at the top to bring you back to Phong Nha, wrapping up the adventure!
6. What to Pack for Your Hang En Adventure
Here are essentials to bring for a comfortable and safe journey:
Trekking Clothing
- 1-2 quick-dry, long-sleeved shirts
- 1-2 pairs of quick-dry, long trekking pants
- 1 waterproof jacket (winter months: December to March)
Campsite Clothing
- Warm clothing (December to March)
- Shorts and T-shirts for summer (April to September)
Footwear and Gear
- Good-quality, drainable trekking shoes (non-waterproof recommended)
- 1 medium backpack (20L-25L)
- Calf-length socks, swimwear, and a dry bag for electronics
Additional Essentials
- Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat
- Personal items (toothbrush, biodegradable soap, medication, etc.)
- Power banks and antifungal foot powder
- Passport
Exploring Hang En is a rare chance to journey into the heart of Vietnam’s most majestic caves, discovering breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural history along the way. Join this unforgettable adventure and uncover the magic of Hang En for yourself!