Cha Loi Cave (Quang Binh): A hidden gem for adventure seekers

1. Overview of Cha Loi Cave in Quang Binh

1.1. Location, other names and discovery

Cha Loi Cave is 40 kilometers southwest of Dong Hoi in Quang Binh. Specifically, it is in Cay Sung Village, Ngan Thuy Commune, Le Thuy District. This area is known for its incredible cave systems and peaceful rural landscapes.

Regarding Cha Loi Cave, the locals often refer to it as "General’s Cave" or "Mr. Giap’s Cave," a tribute to General Vo Nguyen Giap. During the war, he and his troops stopped here to rest, and over time, the cave became closely tied to Vietnam’s wartime history.

Although the cave had long been known to the locals, it was not until 2018 that it was officially opened for tourism. Today, Cha Loi Cave draws tourists interested in both nature and history, offering a look into Vietnam’s past along with its underground beauty.

1.2. Scale and structure

Cha Loi Cave stretches for about 4 kilometers and contains several large chambers. It features three distinct levels, stretching between 30 to 100 meters wide and averaging about 60 meters in height. The second level serves as the main entrance. From there, tourists descend to the first level before climbing up and exiting through the third level. Just standing at the entrance, you can feel a cool breeze coming from deep inside the cave, offering a refreshing hint of the adventure that lies ahead.

2. Highlights of Cha Loi Cave Vietnam

2.1. Breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites

One of the most stunning features of Cha Loi Cave is its untouched system of stalactites and stalagmites. Here, you will find natural formations in all kinds of shapes, including ones that look like custard apples, elephants, hanging lamps, and water wells. These formations are rich in silica, which gives them a shiny, golden glow when lit by flashlight. This sparkle adds a magical feel to the cave, making every step a visual surprise.

2.2. The awe-inspiring Love Tunnel

The “Love Tunnel” is a heart-shaped passage inside Cha Loi Cave, naturally formed over time by wind, water, and mineral deposits. Its unique shape has inspired many local love stories and legends. Some say that if you are single, visiting this spot and making a wish could bring you love. Besides its romantic charm, the Love Tunnel is also a popular photo spot with its spacious pathways and beautiful formations.

2.3. A cool underground river

Deep inside Cha Loi Cave flows a cool underground river with strikingly clear water. Scattered along the cave are small pools that add to the peaceful atmosphere. These waters are home to rare shrimp and fish with transparent bodies, making them a unique sight for tourists exploring the cave’s hidden world.

2.4. Lush landscapes outside the cave

Right outside Cha Loi Cave, you will find a vast field, a perfect place for camping overnight. Tourists often find themselves forgetting the noise of daily life as they breathe in the fresh air and soak up the peaceful surroundings here. This area also gives you a chance to experience the unique culture of the Van Kieu ethnic group. You can taste their local specialties, learn about their way of life, and enjoy the calm beauty of nature all in one unforgettable visit.

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3. Key info about Cha Loi Cave tours

Netin Travel, a certified tour provider in Quang Binh, organizes guided tours to Cha Loi Cave. Tourists can choose between a one-day tour or an overnight tour in the Love Valley in Coi Da Village, Ngan Thuy Commune.

3.1. 1-day Cha Loi Cave tour

• Maximum number of participants: 34
• Recommended age: 10+
• Price: From 1,550,000 VND per pax

Joining the one-day Cha Loi Cave tour is like stepping into the shoes of a true cave explorer. You will be equipped with a headlamp, helmet, and safety gear, all provided by the tour provider. Led by an experienced team, you will be guided through the cave’s wonders with care.

Itinerary:

• 8:00 AM - Pick-up: You will be picked up at your hotel in Dong Hoi or Phong Nha. The shuttle bus heads toward Long Dai Ferry, a wartime memorial site on the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The group will stop to offer incense at the memorial and take photos.
• 9:30 AM - Cave exploration: The adventure starts at the A72 Historical Site. Then, the group begins exploring Cha Loi Cave with a 5-kilometer route that includes walking, crawling, climbing, and swimming.
• 1:15 PM - Lunch: After exiting the cave, a local lunch is served.
• 2:30 PM - Visiting Coi Da Village: You will relax in the Love Valley with its green fields and gentle streams, free to swim, walk around, or take photos.
• 4:30 PM - Returning to Dong Hoi: You will be dropped off at your original pick-up point.

This tour is ideal for those who want a day full of light adventure.

3.2. 2-day-1-night Cha Loi Cave tour

• Maximum number of participants: 34
• Recommended age: 10+
• Price: From 4,550,000 VND per pax

This tour offers a completely different experience from typical cave trips. You will explore wild cave systems, camp under the stars in a quiet valley, enjoy campfires and local treats, trek through forests and streams, and join team-building activities if requested.

This overnight tour is perfect for adventure lovers looking to fully immerse themselves in the nature and culture of Quang Binh.

*The tour prices may change over time. Contact Netin Travel via their hotline (02323 850 505) or email ([email protected]) to get the latest updates.

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4. Tips for first-time visitors to Cha Loi Cave

4.1. Transportation

If you are staying in Dong Hoi or Phong Nha, you will be picked up at your hotel by the tour provider. The journey to Cha Loi Cave includes a stop at Coi Da Village. From the village, you will follow a narrow, grassy path lined with cassava plants grown by the locals. The walk to the cave entrance is about 500 meters. After that, there is a short 100-meter climb up a mountain to reach the cave entrance.

4.2. Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cha Loi Cave is the dry season from April to August. During this period, Quang Binh experiences very little rainfall, ideal for exploring caves. While it may be hot outside, the temperature inside the cave stays cool, averaging 20°C. This natural contrast makes cave tours a comfortable experience even on the hottest days.

4.3. Travel essentials

Make sure to pack the right gear for a safe adventure:

• Wear hiking shoes or sneakers with good grip for slippery or muddy trails.
• Bring a lightweight, waterproof jacket to protect yourself from moisture in the cave or while crossing streams.
• Wear pants and a long-sleeve shirt to protect your skin from sharp rocks and thick vegetation.
• Wear a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
• Bring a bathing suit to get a refreshing dip at the streams. 
• Carry a flashlight to help you see clearly inside the cave.
• Pack water and snacks to stay energized during the tour.

4.4. Important notes

To enjoy a memorable trip, keep the following guidelines in mind:

• Make sure you are in good health and physically prepared to enjoy the full experience of exploring Cha Loi Cave. The tour is not suitable for individuals with a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or low blood pressure.
• Always follow your tour guide’s instructions. Do not leave the group or enter areas that have not been explored.
• Never walk alone or separate from the group, as the complex terrain makes it easy to get lost.
• Keep the environment clean by not littering or disturbing the cave’s natural ecosystem. Bring a small bag to carry trash.
• Only pack what is necessary to make it easier to move around during the tour.

5. FAQs

5.1. Is the Cha Loi Cave tour available daily?

Cha Loi Cave tours do not run every day. Netin Travel organizes tours based on advance bookings. Make sure to contact them ahead of time to secure your spot.

5.2. Can I visit Cha Loi Cave without a guided tour?

No, you are not allowed to explore Cha Loi Cave on your own. Netin Travel offers guided tours with proper measures to ensure a safe experience for you.

5.3. How hard is the Cha Loi cave tour?

The one-day tour is suitable for most people. The two-day, one-night tour is more challenging, rated as level 3 in terms of difficulty. It includes activities like rope climbing through narrow passages, wading through underground rivers, and scaling steep rock walls.

5.4. What are some must-see attractions near Cha Loi Cave?

In addition to Cha Loi Cave, you can visit nearby attractions such as Bang Hot Springs, General Vo Nguyen Giap Memorial House, Than Dinh Mountain, and Nuoc Lanh Stream. 

Cha Loi Cave in Quang Binh is a lesser-known but no less captivating attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is a place where history meets nature, where each step takes you deeper into a fascinating underground world. Whether you are trekking for a day or camping overnight, a tour through Cha Loi Cave offers a chance to disconnect from the everyday and experience something truly unique.

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