January
19.5°C ~ 67°F
19 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
Son Doong Cave
The world's largest known cave, visited only on a guided multi-day expedition.
- Location
- Phong Nha
- Time needed
- 6 days
- Entry fee
- 79,500,000 VND
- Best months
- Feb – Aug
Overview
Son Doong is a vast cave with its own river, jungle and forest inside a collapsed ceiling. Access is limited to guided expeditions with the licensed operator, Oxalis.
The trek lasts 6 days and 5 nights, groups are up to 10 people, and about 1,000 places are sold each year. Places for 2026 and 2027 are reported sold out, so book through the official website only, as fake booking sites exist.
Highlights
- Trek through jungle to the cave
- Camp inside the cave
- See the Hang Va doline and giant formations
- Cross underground rivers with guides
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Guided expeditions only, January to August. All 2026 and 2027 places are reported sold out. |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | About 79,500,000 VND per person for the 6-day, 5-night expedition (2026), via the licensed operator only |
| Time needed | 6 days, 5 nights |
| Best time of day | January to August (expedition season) |
| Good for | Fit, adventurous travellers |
| Accessibility | Demanding trek; not accessible |
| Facilities | Camping, guides and porters provided |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Phong Nha by month.
February
20.4°C ~ 69°F
16 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
March
23.9°C ~ 75°F
15 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
April
27°C ~ 81°F
14 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
May
28.9°C ~ 84°F
18 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
June
30.6°C ~ 87°F
10 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
July
29.7°C ~ 85°F
17 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
August
29.4°C ~ 85°F
17 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
September
27.7°C ~ 82°F
23 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
October
24.9°C ~ 77°F
27 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
November
22.8°C ~ 73°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
December
19.8°C ~ 68°F
22 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
How to get there
- From Phong Nha centre
Expeditions start from the operator’s office in Phong Nha town.
- Son Doong Cave
Tips before you go
- Book months ahead
- Use only the licensed operator
- Check fitness requirements
- Avoid agents who add large mark-ups
Location
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
More attractions in Phong Nha
FAQs
How much is a Son Doong trip?
About 79,500,000 VND (about $3,000) per person for the 6-day, 5-night expedition in 2026, including VAT and services. Confirm with the licensed operator.
Can I visit independently?
No. Access is only on guided expeditions.
How far ahead should I book?
Places for 2026 and 2027 are reported sold out. Book as early as you can, and only through the official operator website.