In this blog, we will guide you through everything you need to know to conquer the Cao Bang Loop Route. Whether you are traveling by motorbike or car, prepare yourself to embark on a journey to discover the most mysterious beauties of the Cao Bang Loop Route.1. Overview Cao Bang
Cao Bang is a mountainous province in the Northeast of Vietnam, bordering China. Famous for its majestic limestone peaks and waterfalls, Cao Bang is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It is home to natural treasures such as Ban Gioc Waterfall and Nguom Ngao Cave, offering a tranquil retreat. With its remote location, peaceful roads, and stunning scenery, the Cao Bang Loop Route is the ideal journey for adventurous travelers who want to explore the wild Northeast of Vietnam. 2. Cao Bang Route Map
2.1. Route 1: Ban Gioc Waterfall Loop
The Ban Gioc Waterfalls is one of the most scenic routes on the Cao Bang Loop Route, taking you from Cao Bang city to the majestic Ban Gioc Falls, with an optional detour to the mysterious Nguom Ngao Cave. At around 165 to 190 km long, the loop can be completed in 1 to 2 days, making it ideal for those short on time but still keen on adventure.
Along the way, you will pass towering karst mountains, peaceful ethnic minority villages and majestic waterfalls near the Chinese border. The roads are mostly in good condition and traffic is light, although the return journey can be quite bumpy if you choose the more remote trail – perfect for the adventurous. >>> Read more: How to travel from Cao Bang to Ban Gioc Waterfall 2.2. Route 2: Ba Be Lake Loop
For those looking to explore Vietnam’s unspoiled Northeast, the Cao Bang Loop Route offers an extension to the serene Ba Be Lake – one of the country’s largest natural freshwater lakes.
The loop is approximately 315km long and takes 2-3 days, rolling through mountainous terrain, lush forests, tranquil river valleys and quiet ethnic minority villages, making it a highlight of the Cao Bang Loop Route for nature lovers. However, there are some sections of the road that can be quite challenging for you because they are rough and steep sections. For adventurous people who want to explore new things, this route is a highlight that cannot be missed on the Cao Bang Loop Route. 2.3. Route 3: Mau Son Mountain ↔ Bac Son Valley Loop
For those looking to extend their exploration beyond Cao Bang province, the stunning 190km loop road from Lang Son is a perfect choice for a Cao Bang Loop Route. Starting in Lang Son, the road winds around the misty peaks of Mau Son, down to the Dong Dang border region and into the spectacular Bac Son valley – famous for its vast rice fields surrounded by limestone mountains. This loop can be completed in 1 to 2 days, with mostly good, paved roads, light traffic, and a few rough patches through rural stretches. Along the way, expect cool mountain air, ethnic minority villages, tranquil rivers, and cozy homestays nestled in peaceful valleys. While not part of the main route, it’s a rewarding side trip that beautifully complements the Cao Bang Loop Route.2.4. Route 4: Bac Kan Back Roads Criss – Cross Loop
If you are looking for a longer journey, exploring more of Vietnam’s remote Northeast, this 455km loop from Cao Bang to Bac Kan and Lang Son is a perfect option to explore the Cao Bang Loop Route further. Over a period of 2 to 3 days, this route will take you through quiet back roads and highways, dense forests, winding mountain passes, and sparsely populated river valleys with traditional ethnic minority villages. Although located in a remote location, the road conditions are very good, with sparse traffic, helping you have a better experience during the trip.2.5. Route 5: China Border Crawl Loop
One of the most rugged and adventurous sections of the Cao Bang Loop Route, this 285km loop takes you along Vietnam’s northern border with China, passing through a series of spectacular landscapes and historical sites.
Starting in Cao Bang, the route leads to Bao Lac, then loops past the famous Pac Bo cave, where President Ho Chi Minh once hid, and continues over the spectacular Ma Phuc pass. For the adventurous, this 2-3 day loop offers spectacular mountain views, winding river valleys and remote ethnic villages. But it is also challenging: the road is good in some parts, but rough in others, and you will occasionally have to pass through areas prone to landslides. However, for those who want to explore the wildest corners of the Cao Bang Loop Route, this journey along the border will bring you unforgettable memories as you feel the combination of nature, history and tranquility. 3. Ha Giang Loop vs Cao Bang Loop: A Co mparison
Both the Ha Giang and Cao Bang loops are among the most worth-exploring routes in Northern Vietnam, with stunning scenery and cultural experiences, but they offer very different atmospheres and travel experiences.
The Ha Giang Loop is more popular and is often considered the “classic” route, famous for its majestic peaks, like Ma Pi Leng pass, etc. With a more developed infrastructure, more homestays and regular guided tours, you will also easily find motorbike tours. The Ha Giang Loop Route is a good option for those who have no experience driving a motorbike. In contrast, the Cao Bang Loop is quieter because it is less touristy than the usual route. The landscape is also stunning with valleys, majestic waterfalls like Ban Gioc Waterfall, mysterious caves like Nguom Ngao, and historical sites like Pac Bo Cave. Although the Cao Bang Loop Route is less traveled, you will have a quieter, more in-depth local experience. CONCLUSION
From the majestic Ban Gioc waterfall to hidden caves and peaceful villages, the Cao Bang Loop Route will give you something deeper – the feeling of discovering untouched lands where nature, history and culture remain intact.
The Cao Bang Loop Route will be more meaningful when you travel with YESD Travel – a social enterprise committed to developing responsible tourism. YESD provides tailor-made travel services with great experiences for you in the local community. When traveling with YESD, your trip is not just a sightseeing tour, but also involves sustainable activities and connections with local people. So, if you are looking for a memorable and impactful adventure. The Cao Bang Loop Route with YESD Vietnam is the perfect choice for you.