Explore the Tu Lan Cave System in Quang Binh’s Phong Nha! Discover jungle treks, cave swims, costs, and Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours. Book your eco-adventure now!
Capture the wild beauty of Phong Nha’s eco-tourism gem (Source: Internet)The Tu Lan Cave System, a breathtaking network of over 20 caves, is a highlight of Quang Binh’s Phong Nha region, within Quang Tri Province, which draws over 1.5 million visitors annually to the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Located 70 km northwest of Phong Nha and 120 km from Dong Hoi, this pristine wilderness offers jungle treks, river swims, and cave exploration, with tours costing $150–$200 (3,750,000–5,000,000 VND). Perfect for adventurers and eco-tourists, Tu Lan’s untouched caves and vibrant ecosystems make it a must-visit in Quang Binh.
Quang Binh champions sustainable tourism at Tu Lan, with guided-only access and biodegradable gear preserving its fragile environment, aligning with Quang Tri’s “Green Tourism” initiative. The tropical climate (dry season: November–April, 18–28°C or 64.4–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 24–34°C or 75.2–93.2°F) makes February–August ideal for treks. Legend Travel Group, with over 17 years as Southeast Asia’s leading tour operator, crafts eco-friendly tours to Tu Lan, ensuring a responsible, unforgettable journey. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Quang Binh into Quang Tri Province, with Quang Binh now a ward under Dong Hoi City. Use “Tu Lan, Phong Nha, Quang Tri” for navigation, but “Quang Binh” and “Phong Nha” remain iconic for tourism, especially for the Tu Lan Cave System.
As Vietnam’s travel ambassadors, Legend Travel Group connects adventurers with Southeast Asia’s wild wonders. Our eco-friendly tours to Tu Lan Cave System feature low-impact transport—shared vans or kayaks—and expert guides sharing insights on cave geology, jungle ecology, and local culture, ensuring a safe, immersive experience. Supporting local communities, we align with Quang Tri’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, planning is seamless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Quang Binh responsibly!
Photograph the lush allure of Phong Nha’s biodiversity (Source: Internet)Situated 70 km northwest of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, near Tan Hoa’s ethnic minority village, Tu Lan Cave System spans a lush jungle valley dotted with buffalo fields, peanut crops, and rivers. Discovered in 1992 and expanded through recent explorations, Tu Lan comprises over 20 caves, including Hung Ton, Ken, and Kim, linked by underground rivers and dramatic karst landscapes. Unlike the more accessible Phong Nha or Paradise Caves, Tu Lan’s remote, untouched nature requires guided treks of 1–4 days, offering a raw adventure through misty jungles, river crossings, and cave swims. Sustainable practices, such as small-group tours and waste removal, preserve its pristine ecosystem, making Tu Lan a top destination for eco-conscious explorers in Quang Binh.
Diverse Caves: Over 20 caves, from dry chambers like Hung Ton to wet caves like Ken, with stalactites, fossils, and underground rivers.
Jungle Immersion: Treks traverse dense forests, rice paddies, and rivers, offering a true wilderness experience.
Remote Access: Located near Tan Hoa village, 70 km from Phong Nha, requiring guided hikes and swims for entry.
Biodiversity: Home to bats, fish, and rare jungle flora, preserved through strict conservation measures.
Adventure Intensity: Combines trekking, swimming, and caving, ideal for fit adventurers seeking a challenge.
These eco-friendly activities, costing $150–$200 for tours, showcase Tu Lan’s wild allure:
Hike 8–10 km through Tan Hoa’s jungles and fields, best at 7:00 AM, included in the $150–$200 tour, reaching Hung Ton’s dry entrance with valley views.
Cost: Included in 1–2-day tours ($150–$200); entry $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Guided trails minimize impact; local porters support Tan Hoa community.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; included in Legend Travel Group’s Cave Explorer Tour ($200–$250).
Swim through underground rivers in Ken and Kim Caves, best at 10:00 AM, included in the $150–$200 tour, exploring illuminated stalactites.
Cost: Included in tours; headlamp provided.
Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable gear; no touching formations.
Tip: Bring swimwear; featured in Legend Travel Group’s Jungle Adventure Tour ($300–$400).
Camp near caves like Rat Cave, best at 6:00 PM, included in 2–4-day tours ($150–$200), with meals cooked by local chefs.
Cost: Included in multi-day tours; camping gear provided.
Eco-Friendly Note: Waste removal enforced; supports local livelihoods.
Tip: Enjoy stargazing; included in Legend Travel Group’s Cave Explorer Tour ($200–$250).
Wade or kayak across Tu Lan’s rivers, best at 9:00 AM, included in the $150–$200 tour, offering scenic karst views.
Cost: Included in tours; solo kayak rental $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Non-motorized kayaks; guided routes protect rivers.
Tip: Wear life jackets; included in Legend Travel Group’s Kayaking Eco-Tour ($70–$100).
Capture dramatic cave formations and jungle vistas, best at 8:00 AM, included in the $150–$200 tour, with guided access to prime spots.
Cost: Included in tours; tripod rental $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Guided tours avoid sensitive areas; minimal equipment use.
Tip: Use waterproof cameras; featured in Legend Travel Group’s Photo Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Experience Phong Nha Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Visit from February to August for dry, cool weather (18–28°C or 64.4–82.4°F), ideal for trekking, swimming, and caving, with stable river levels. The rainy season (September–January, 24–34°C or 75.2–93.2°F) risks flooding, closing some caves. Early mornings (7:00–10:00 AM) offer cooler temperatures; weekdays (Monday–Thursday) see fewer groups (10–20 daily trekkers) than weekends (30–50), especially during Tet (January/February). Book tours 1–3 months ahead for peak months (March–April).
Tu Lan Cave System, 70 km from Phong Nha and 120 km from Dong Hoi, requires guided transport:
By Private Car: Drive 1.5–2 hours from Dong Hoi or 1 hour from Phong Nha to Tan Hoa, costing $30–$50 round-trip (750,000–1,250,000 VND) for 4 people. Book via Legend Travel Group.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly VinFast taxis from Dong Hoi (2 hours, $20–$30 one-way or 500,000–750,000 VND; $40–$60 round-trip) or Phong Nha (1 hour, $10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND). Use Xanh SM app.
By Motorcycle: Ride from Dong Hoi (2 hours, $5–$10 fuel or 125,000–250,000 VND) or Phong Nha (1 hour, $2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND); rental $5–$8/day (125,000–200,000 VND). Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).
By Private Tour Bus (Legend Travel Group): Group bus from Dong Hoi (2 hours, $10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND/person for 20+), including guide.
To Trailhead: From Tan Hoa, guided treks (8–10 km) or van transport to the trailhead are included in tours ($150–$200).
From Hanoi: Train to Dong Hoi (9–11 hours, $15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND) + car ($30–$50); flight to Dong Hoi (1 hour, $40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND) + car. Navigation Tip: Save “Tu Lan Cave System, Tan Hoa, Quang Tri” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow guides from Tan Hoa. Parking at Tan Hoa: $0.40–$0.80 (10,000–20,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Shared vans and kayaks reduce emissions; guided treks limit jungle impact.
Safety: Wear helmets on motorbikes; follow guide instructions on treks.
Start your Phong Nha Travel with serene vistas (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable trek:
Clothing: Moisture-wicking layers, sturdy trekking shoes, swimwear for cave swims; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; hat for sun.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50), small towel.
Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND). Waterproof camera recommended.
Outdoor Gear: Small backpack (20–30L), headlamp (provided or $5–$10), waterproof bag ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND).
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes), tour confirmation.
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for gear ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.
Extras: High-energy snacks; first-aid kit; cash for tips ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND for crew).
Tip: Guides provide camping gear; pack light (8–10 kg); secure valuables in waterproof bags.
Tour and Activity Fees
Tu Lan Cave Tour (1–2 days): $150–$200 (3,750,000–5,000,000 VND), includes guides, gear, meals, permits.
Solo Kayak Rental: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Tripod/Binoculars Rental: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Local Snacks (e.g., Bánh Lọc in Tan Hoa): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Drinks (Water, Sugarcane Juice): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., Tai Crafts): $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND).
Guided Eco-Tour (Pre/Post-Trek): $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Dong Hoi)
Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND).
Motorcycle: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) fuel; rental $5–$8/day.
Private Tour Bus: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND)/person.
From Phong Nha: Taxi $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND); motorbike $2–$3 fuel.
Parking at Tan Hoa: $0.40–$0.80 (10,000–20,000 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person, Including Tour)
Budget: $170–$200 (tour, bus, snacks).
Mid-range: $200–$250 (tour, taxi, dining).
Luxury: $300–$350 (tour, private car, homestay).
Tip: Budget for tour ($150–$200), transport ($10–$60), and snacks ($0.50–$2); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).
Seize the vibrant spirit of Phong Nha Travel (Source: Internet)Timing: Trek 7:00–10:00 AM for cool weather; February–August for dry trails. Weekdays for smaller groups (10–20 vs. 30–50 on weekends). Book 1–3 months ahead for March–April.
Preparation: Train for 8–10 km hikes; bring swimwear for cave rivers. Follow guide safety briefings for river crossings.
Sustainability: Stick to guided trails; use biodegradable gear. Support Tan Hoa vendors for snacks ($0.50–$2).
Navigation: Rely on guides from Tan Hoa; save “Tu Lan Cave System, Quang Tri” in offline maps for pre-trek travel. Avoid solo jungle hikes.
Safety: Wear provided helmets and life jackets; secure valuables in waterproof bags. Carry first-aid kit; report injuries to guides.
Weather: Dry season for safe trekking; rainy season risks cave closures. Check AccuWeather for Tan Hoa.
Cultural Respect: Say “xin chào” to Tan Hoa villagers; respect local farms. Avoid touching cave formations; tip porters $10–$20.
Health: Drink provided filtered water; carry mosquito repellent ($0.50). Vaccinations (e.g., tetanus) recommended.
Our eco-friendly tours elevate your Tu Lan adventure:
Cave Explorer Tour ($200–$250/person, 2 days): Van from Phong Nha to Tan Hoa, Tu Lan trek, camping, meals ($1–$3). Includes guide, transport.
Jungle Adventure Tour ($300–$400/person, 3 days): Tu Lan caves, Chay River kayaking, Tan Hoa homestay. Includes meals, guide.
Central Vietnam Explorer ($350–$500/person, 4 days): Tu Lan, Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
The Tu Lan Cave System in Quang Binh’s Phong Nha region, with tours from $150–$200 (3,750,000–5,000,000 VND), is a wild jungle and cave network near the UNESCO-listed park, enchanting 1.5 million visitors yearly, 70 km from Phong Nha. Its pristine caves, vibrant ecosystems, and sustainable practices like guided-only access offer an epic adventure. Legend Travel Group’s Phong Nha Tours guide you through this wilderness with eco-friendly experiences, ensuring a responsible, thrilling Phong Nha Travel escape. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-journey today!
Ready to explore Tu Lan Cave System near Phong Nha? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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