Full Day Tour Exploring in Phia Oac Mountain Ancient French Villa

This full-day adventure in Cao Bang offers a taste of Vietnam’s rugged beauty, cultural diversity, and historical remnants. Spanning around 12 hours, it combines stunning mountain vistas, visits to ethnic villages, and a walk through colonial history — all accessible via a motorcycle tour that turns sightseeing into a sensory experience.

What we love most? The chance to see untouched nature and traditional village life in one trip, plus the opportunity to learn from passionate, friendly guides who know every hidden corner. On the flip side, the early start and the motorbike component might not suit everyone, especially if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or have mobility issues.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy active exploration, culture, and authentic scenery. If you’re keen to go beyond typical tourist spots and get a real feel for Northern Vietnam’s diversity, this could be your ideal day out.

Key Points

Stunning Scenic Routes: Expect breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and water bodies, including the famous Cao Bang Geo Park.

Cultural Encounters: Visit ethnic villages, including Tày, Nùng, Dao, and H’Mong, with opportunities to observe traditional lifestyles and local crafts.

Historical Highlights: Discover French colonial architecture and old houses in Phia Oac, adding a layer of historical interest.

Authentic Local Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Vietnamese breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including specialties like fried green tea and Cao Bang’s signature noodle dishes.

Adventure and Off-Roading: The tour’s off-road motorcycle segments on winding passes are thrilling, offering an authentic sense of Vietnam’s mountainous terrain.

Expert Guides: The knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides enhance the experience by sharing local stories and ensuring you don’t miss any hidden gems.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Morning Kickoff: Cao Bang’s Early Start and Local Flavors

Beginning around 6:00am, the tour kicks off with a pickup at your hotel in Cao Bang City. The early start allows you to maximize your day while enjoying a hearty breakfast of local Vietnamese fare—think rice paper rolls and duck noodle soup. As you leave the city behind, the scenery rapidly transforms into a lush, green landscape.

Our guides tend to be friendly and well-informed. This particular tour is praised for having guides who are eager to share stories about each location, adding warmth and context even to the most straightforward sights.

First Stop: Nguyên Bình and the Bamboo Forest

After about four hours on the road, you arrive at Nguyên Bình, a gateway into Cao Bang’s UNESCO-recognized Geo Park. The journey itself is part of the adventure—winding roads through dense forests, with occasional stops to marvel at old stilt houses and waves of laughter from children playing nearby.

The highlight here? The bamboo forest, where the guide might suggest a quick photo shoot amid the tall, whispering stalks. Reviewers have commented on how magical the scenery feels, almost like stepping into a fairy tale. The tour’s inclusion of free entrance tickets makes this stop even more appealing, as you get to enjoy the natural beauty at no extra cost.

Mid-Morning: Kolia Eco-Tourism and the Tea Hills

Next, you head to Kolia eco-tourism area, roughly an hour away. Here, you’ll find romantic tea hills and an infinity lake perched at 1100 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views that are perfect for a selfie or two. This spot is highly praised for its peaceful atmosphere and photogenic settings, with one reviewer noting the “romantic and poetic” vibe.

Lunch is served in Kolia—here, you’ll taste a special fried green tea, a local delicacy that’s hard to find elsewhere. The food is simple yet memorable, a reflection of the area’s farm-to-table approach. Vegetarian options are available, making this a flexible stop for different dietary preferences.

The Afternoon: Scenic Drives and the Lonely Stone

Post-lunch, the tour continues through lush pine and bamboo forests, with stops along the way for spectacular photos—think tall trees, mountain peaks, and serene lakes. A particular favorite is the Lonely Stone, where you can lie on a glass-like green surface, capturing wide-angle shots of mountains, rivers, and villages. The peacefulness of this spot often surprises visitors, who remark on the moment’s almost meditative quality.

This section of the trip is rated highly for its stunning vistas and the sense of tranquility it provides. It’s a chance to really breathe in the mountain air and appreciate Vietnam’s unspoiled natural environment.

The Climax: Phia Oac National Park and Old French Houses

As the day progresses, you arrive at Phia Oac National Park, home to Vietnam’s second-highest mountain, standing at 1931 meters. The cooler temperatures and fresh air are invigorating, especially if you’re visiting during the winter months when snow might be present—a rare treat.

Here, you’ll see remnants of French colonial architecture in old houses built during the early 20th century. Guides often point out interesting details and stories behind these structures, adding depth to your understanding of Vietnam’s colonial past. For many, this part of the tour adds a surprising historical dimension to the natural beauty.

Evening Return and Dinner in Cao Bang

As the sun starts to set, you’ll take a different route back to Cao Bang, passing through rolling hills and verdant fields. The journey offers a different perspective on the landscape—more subdued, with the golden hour casting a warm glow over the scenery.

Dinner at a local restaurant caps off the day, with popular dishes like Cao Bang duck noodle soup or sour noodles. Reviewers highlight the quality of the food—simple yet flavorful—and note that vegetarian options are available, which is a bonus for those with dietary restrictions.

Practical Aspects: What to Expect and Consider

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes private transportation, with a motorbike provided for each traveler, although private cars can be arranged for an extra fee. This motorbike setup is a distinctive feature, giving you a more intimate experience of Vietnam’s mountain roads. Reviewers have appreciated the guided riding, which ensures safety and local insight. The maximum group size is eight travelers, creating a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Timing and Pacing

Starting early at 6:00am, the tour runs for approximately 12 hours. This means packing accordingly—bring warm layers for cooler mountain temperatures and sunscreen for exposed areas. The itinerary is well-planned to avoid feeling rushed, but keep in mind the long travel hours involved. If you’re not comfortable with early mornings or long rides, it’s worth considering whether this tour suits your style.

Cost and Value

At $79 per person, the price covers all entrance fees, a knowledgeable guide, breakfast, lunch, dinner, bottled water, and even insurance up to 20 million VND. When you factor in the included meals, scenic stops, and authentic experiences, it’s a solid value. Additional costs like a rider fee ($20/day) or private car ($50/day) are optional, depending on your needs.

What to Bring

Given the early start and outdoor nature of the trip, packing a warm jacket, sunglasses, and camera gear is recommended. Reviewers advise bringing layers to handle temperature fluctuations, especially if visiting during winter when snow might fall at higher elevations.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Based on reviews, guides are seen as a real strength of this tour. They’re described as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories, which enhances the culture. The stops at ethnic villages and French colonial houses add layers of history and local life often missed on standard tours.

Food is highlighted as a highlight—local dishes like fried green tea and Cao Bang’s noodle specialties elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. The opportunity to take panoramic pictures from the tea hills, lonely stone, or mountain summits makes this a photographer’s dream as well.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to those who enjoy active, scenic, and cultural discovery. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind early mornings and are comfortable on motorcycles. Nature lovers will appreciate the untouched landscapes, while history buffs enjoy the French colonial relics.

If you’re traveling in Cao Bang and want a rundown of the region’s natural beauty, ethnic diversity, and historical sites—all in one day—this tour hits the mark. The mix of off-road riding, peaceful village visits, and mountain vistas offers an authentic taste of Northern Vietnam.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour in Cao Bang balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a bit of adventure, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to go beyond the usual. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and genuine local experiences creates a memorable excursion worth the price. It’s especially valuable for travelers who seek active exploration, want to learn about ethnic groups, and appreciate well-organized itineraries.

For those comfortable with early mornings and outdoor activities, this tour delivers a full spectrum of Cao Bang’s natural and historical treasures. It’s a flexible, engaging, and visually rewarding way to spend a day in Northern Vietnam.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private transportation and a motorbike for each traveler. Private cars can be arranged for an extra fee.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts around 12 hours, starting at 6:00am and returning by evening.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, the tour offers vegetarian options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
All necessary gear like motorbikes and bottled water are included. It’s wise to bring layers for temperature changes and a camera for photos.

What type of guide will I have?
An English-speaking, knowledgeable guide who is friendly and eager to share details about each stop.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s mainly designed for physically moderate travelers comfortable on motorcycles and outdoor activities.

How much does the tour cost?
$79 per person, including meals, entrance fees, guide, and transportation. Additional fees for private car or rider service are extra.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, layered clothing suitable for mountain weather, plus sun protection. Bring a hat and sunglasses for sunny days.

This Cao Bang tour offers a well-rounded, authentic look at one of Vietnam’s most scenic and culturally diverse regions—ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore off the beaten path.