January
15.3°C ~ 60°F
12 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
Cao Bang
Ban Gioc Waterfall
One of Southeast Asia’s largest waterfalls, on the border with China, with a bamboo raft ride.
- Time needed
- From 1.5 hours
- Entry fee
- 45,000 VND
- Best months
- Sep – Nov
- Best time
- September – October for green water and golden rice
Overview
Ban Gioc is the main attraction of Cao Bang. The waterfall spreads over several tiers on the Quay Son River, which forms the border between Vietnam and China, and drops about 30 m with a total width of some 300 m.
In the rainy season from May to September the water is strong and brown, and in autumn it is clear and green with rice fields around. Visitors walk around the base and take a bamboo raft to the foot of the falls for a closer view.
Highlights
- Walk around the base of the falls
- Take a bamboo raft toward the water
- See the Chinese side across the river
- Combine with Nguom Ngao Cave nearby
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Summer: 7:00 – 18:00 Winter: 7:30 – 17:30 |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | 45,000 VND per adult Children 1 – 1.3 m: about 20,000 VND Under 1 m: free Bamboo raft: about 50,000 – 100,000 VND per person |
| Time needed | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Best time of day | September – October for green water and golden rice |
| Good for | Photographers, nature lovers, families |
| Accessibility | Flat paths; the raft needs balance |
| Facilities | Parking, toilets, food stalls, raft pier |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Cao Bang by month.
February
16.5°C ~ 62°F
12 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
March
20.5°C ~ 69°F
17 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
April
23.7°C ~ 75°F
16 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
May
26.1°C ~ 79°F
23 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
June
27.6°C ~ 82°F
25 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
July
27.8°C ~ 82°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
August
27.4°C ~ 81°F
27 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
September
26.5°C ~ 80°F
21 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
October
23.4°C ~ 74°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
November
20.2°C ~ 68°F
11 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
December
15.8°C ~ 60°F
10 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
How to get there
From Cao Bang centre
Ban Gioc is about 2 hours by car from Cao Bang city. Many visitors travel from Hanoi, which takes about 6 hours by road, and stay overnight in Cao Bang or in Trung Khanh.
Tips before you go
- Bring cash; card payments are not accepted at the ticket kiosk
- Go on a weekday to avoid crowds
- Carry your passport in case of border checks
- Wear sandals or shoes that can get wet
Location
Dam Thuy, Trung Khanh, Cao Bang
About 85 km from Cao Bang city
More attractions in Cao Bang
FAQs
How much is the ticket?
Guides list about 45,000 VND for adults. The raft ride costs extra, from about 50,000 VND per person.
When is the best season?
September to October has clear water and golden rice. Summer has the strongest flow, but the water is brown.
Do I need a permit?
Cao Bang is open to visitors, but carry your passport. Ask your hotel or driver about any border-area rules.