This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Phong Nha.
Phong Nha, Vietnam, is a city in the central part of the country, most known for the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which also is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Phong Nha has developed into a popular tourist area in recent years, after some big caves were discovered in the area and opened to the public. This increase in popularity also led to an increase in accommodation options in and around the town of Phong Nha.
There are many hostels in Phong Nha, Vietnam, most of which are located on the main street. Most of Phong Nha, Vietnam's hostels offer the same -- cramped dorms with good beds, clean bathrooms, and small common areas that are not very memorable. If you are looking for a social hostel in Phong Nha, Vietnam with a restaurant/bar, you will have to book in advance, as places like these fill up quickly. That being said, the other hostels in Phong Nha, Vietnam, are good value for money, but just don't offer anything special. It is worth booking in advance in high season (January through March), because all Phong Nha, Vietnam hostels are usually fully booked at this time of the year. The average price of the hostels in Phong Nha, Vietnam, is quite low. Sometimes breakfast is included, but at most hostels in Phong Nha, Vietnam, you have to pay extra for breakfast.
There are three main caves in the national park that are worth a visit -- Dark Cave, Paradise Cave, and Phong Nha Cave. Dark Cave is more of an adventure spot, with a zipline, swimming, and kayaking included in the tour. Paradise Cave is a beautiful cave that you can walk into on a boardwalk. Phong Nha Cave can only be reached by boat. All hostels in Phong Nha, Vietnam, offer tours to all the caves, but it is also possible to do the trip on a motorbike. All hostels in Phong Nha, Vietnam, rent out motorbikes as well and they can give you a map. The botanical garden is also worth a visit.
Phong Nha is still changing a lot and it is turning into a relaxed backpacker town. Most people end up staying longer than they intended.
Written by local enthusiast for Phong Nha hostels
Paulien
