Private 2-Day Hue to Phong Nha Cave Tour

Central Vietnam is a long ribbon of coast, mountains and old capitals, and this two-day private tour crosses it from Da Nang to Hue and on to Quang Binh. It is a driving tour, with a private air-conditioned car and an English-speaking driver, and it is useful for travellers who want to reach both Hue and the Phong Nha caves without arranging trains, taxis and tickets separately.

Day 1 begins at your hotel in Da Nang. The car crosses the Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam's most scenic mountain roads, with a stop for views of the mountains and coast, then continues to Lap An Fishing Village beside Lap An Lagoon, where you can see fishing and oyster farming. In Hue you visit Khai Dinh Tomb, known for its mix of Vietnamese and European influences, and the Imperial City, the former political and cultural centre of the Nguyen Dynasty, and you have a local lunch. The route continues north to Hien Luong Bridge and the Ben Hai River, and the day ends in Dong Hoi at the 4-star Red Hotel Quang Binh.

On Day 2, after breakfast at the hotel, you drive to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and take a boat on the Son River to Phong Nha Cave, whose limestone formations include stalactites and stalagmites. After a local lunch the car returns to Da Nang and drops you off at your hotel or another location you request.

The price covers the car and driver, tolls and parking, bottled water, sightseeing tickets, the hotel night, the boat trip, breakfast and lunch on both days. Dinner is not included, which leaves you free to choose where to eat in Dong Hoi, and tips are extra. The listing names a driver, not a guide, so do not expect commentary at the sights beyond what the driver can give. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera and sunscreen.

The operator is Foresttravel, and the tour is booked through GetYourGuide with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. The only restriction named is for people over 95 years.