Dark Cave (Hang Tối) offers one of Quảng Bình’s most popular and action-packed adventures, uniquely combining exhilarating outdoor activities with true cave exploration. Unlike other caves in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, Dark Cave lacks artificial lighting, giving adventurers an authentic, pitch-black caving experience illuminated only by the headlamps they wear.
The Full Adventure Experience
Your journey begins on the Chày River, where the adventure activities are concentrated.
Zipline Thrill: You launch your adventure by soaring over the turquoise Chày River on the long zipline, which stretches approximately 400 meters. This thrilling ride transports you directly to the cave entrance tower. A second, shorter zipline is available for those who wish to splash directly into the river at the end of their visit.
The Cave Trek: After receiving a helmet and headlamp, you swim a short distance into the cave entrance. Inside, you trek approximately 1,000 meters along a path with rocky and sometimes slippery terrain. The cave’s interior is comprised mainly of black basalt rock, which amplifies the sense of true darkness.
Natural Mud Bath: The highlight of the cave trek is the massive, natural mud bath located deep inside. This mud is rich in minerals, and visitors float effortlessly in the buoyant, mineral-laden pool. This unique experience provides a fun, relaxing, and therapeutic break before you exit the cave.
Location and Logistics
Dark Cave is strategically located in the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park complex, making it an easy addition to any itinerary that includes Paradise Cave or Phong Nha Cave.
Getting There: The site is readily accessible via the Western branch of the Ho Chi Minh Highway. You can hire a taxi, book a tour package, or rent a motorbike from Phong Nha town to reach the location quickly.
Opening Hours: The facility is open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We recommend starting your visit early to avoid the midday crowds, especially during peak season.
Ticket Options and Requirements
The park offers tiered ticketing, allowing visitors to choose their level of adventure.
Full Access Package: Approximately 450,000 VND per person. This package includes the long zipline to the cave, the full cave exploration with the mud bath, kayaking on the Chày River, and all necessary safety equipment (helmet, headlamp, life jacket). This option provides the full, unforgettable experience.
Limited Access Package: A cheaper option is available (around 250,000 VND), which usually includes river activities and a short zipline but excludes the mud bath and full cave trek.
Physical Requirements: Operators strictly enforce a minimum age and height requirement (typically 1.3 meters) for the full adventure, and a weight range (typically 40kg–90kg) for the long zipline, for safety reasons. You must wear swimwear or quick-drying clothes, as you will get wet and muddy.
