Phong Nha Botanic Garden – Explore Quang Binh’s Fascinating Ecosystem

Why You Should Visit Phong Nha Botanic Garden

1. Explore Diverse Nature

Phong Nha Botanic Garden spans over 41.82 hectares, preserving around 500 rare plant species and various wildlife. It is one of the few nature reserves that implement both in-situ conservation—protecting the natural forest ecosystem—and ex-situ conservation—collecting and relocating plant species from other areas.

Beyond dense forests, the garden features the 30-meter-high Gio Waterfall, the crystal-clear Vang Anh Stream, and a refreshing natural lake. Every step along the forest trail brings you closer to the untouched beauty of nature.

This is home to over 500 rare plant species and wild natural wonders!

2. Exciting Activities for All Ages

Whether you enjoy trekking, waterfall swimming, or simply exploring nature, Phong Nha Botanic Garden offers exciting activities for you. Walking under the lush forest canopy, wading through streams, or spotting vibrant peacocks are unforgettable experiences. This destination is also great for children and families, providing a fun way for kids to learn about ecosystems and observe wildlife up close.

With countless activities for all ages, Phong Nha Botanical Garden is a suitable destination for the whole family

3. Affordable Entrance Fee

For an affordable fee (40,000 VND per ticket), you can fully enjoy the beautiful natural scenery without worrying about costs. In just 2 to 4 hours, you can explore all the garden’s highlights. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable yet budget-friendly trip.

Guide to Visiting Phong Nha Botanic Garden

Location & How to Get There

Phong Nha Botanic Garden is part of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, located at kilometer 9 on Route 20 Quyet Thang. It is about 12 km northwest of Phong Nha town, in Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province.

How to get to Phong Nha Botanic Garden:

• Motorbike: The most popular and convenient option. You can rent a motorbike in Phong Nha for about 150,000–200,000 VND per day. From the town center, follow the Ho Chi Minh West Branch Road for about 20 minutes to reach the garden.
• Car: If traveling with family or a group, you can rent a private car or take a taxi from Phong Nha. Rental prices range from 300,000–500,000 VND per trip.
• Bicycle: For a slower, more immersive experience, you can rent a bike. However, some sections of the road are steep, so good physical fitness is recommended.

Phong Nha Botanic Garden Opening Hours and Entrance Fees

Phong Nha Botanic Garden is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s best to arrive early to explore all the attractions, especially in summer when midday temperatures can be high.

The entrance fees are quite affordable:

• Adults: 40,000 VND/person
• Children under 1.3m: 20,000 VND/person

Visitors can also hire a guide to learn more about the local ecosystem. Guide service fees range from 200,000 – 300,000 VND per tour, depending on the language.

Additional services:

• Planting a memorial tree: 100,000 VND/tree
• Tent rental: 70,000 VND (single), 130,000 VND (double)
• Camping & bonfire activities: Price negotiable
• Outdoor BBQ party: Price negotiable

No prior booking is required. Simply buy a ticket, choose a trekking route, and start your adventure!

For a more immersive adventure, join the Phong Nha: Nuoc Nut Cave Discovery Tour, featuring:

• Botanical Garden Exhibition House – Discover diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like the Ha Tinh langur, red-shanked douc, and white-cheeked gibbon.
• Rescue, Conservation & Development Center – Observe tigers, monkeys, birds, and other rare animals being cared for before their release back into the wild.
• Tra Ang Bridge – A historic site marked by war remnants, now overlooking the mighty waters flowing from Son Doong Cave.
• Nuoc Nut Cave – Admire stunning stalactites, crystal-clear pools, and an underground river connecting to Va Cave and Son Doong Cave.

You can also combine this tour with Phong Nha Cave or Paradise Cave for a complete exploration of the region’s wonders!

A tour guide leads visitors through the Center for Rescue, Conservation and Development of Organisms.

Best Time to Visit Phong Nha Botanic Garden

Phong Nha Botanic Garden is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit is from December to August. During this period, the weather is dry, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor activities.

If visiting during the rainy season (September to November), check the weather forecast beforehand, as trails can become slippery.

Top 7 Things to Do in Phong Nha Botanic Garden

If you're wondering what to do in Phong Nha Botanic Garden, check out the following activities that will make your visit truly unforgettable.

1. Trekking Through Phong Nha Botanic Garden

Visitors can choose a trekking route based on their time and fitness level. For a smooth journey, ask staff at the ticket counter for advice on the best trail.

With over 40 hectares of natural forest and 4 km of trails, the garden offers an incredible trekking experience in the heart of nature. One highlight is the Interpretive Trail, connecting the ancient forest to the exhibition house, where you can enjoy fresh air, birdsong, and the serenity of the deep forest.

Visitors can explore two main trekking routes, each offering unique experiences and stunning natural scenery:

- Route 1 (2,500m): Exhibition House → Animal Rehabilitation Area → Vang Anh Lake → Peacock Viewing Spot → Gio Waterfall.

- Route 2 (5,000m): Exhibition House → Animal Rehabilitation Area → Peacock Viewing Spot → Interpretive Trail → Gio Waterfall.

2. Explore Animal Exhibits at the Specimen Display House

Before entering the forest, visitors can stop by the wildlife exhibition house to explore Phong Nha Botanic Garden’s rich ecosystem. Lifelike models showcase rare animals such as the red-shanked douc, pangolins, and unique bird species of Phong Nha.

The exhibition also preserves various specimens of endemic flora and fauna for scientific research and environmental education. Additionally, visitors can observe four-rayed coral and crinoid fossils, evidence of the area's ancient geology dating back over 400 million years.

3. Admire the Majestic Gio Waterfall

Leaving the exhibition house, visitors receive a map to begin exploring the 40-hectare forest. A narrow stone path leads into the peaceful ancient woods, where the temperature gradually drops, offering a refreshing coolness even at midday.

After about 15 minutes of walking, Gio Waterfall emerges. This 30-meter-high cascade originates from Vang Anh Stream, creating a breathtaking white foam against the wild landscape.

Standing on the wooden staircase, you can admire the waterfall’s full view or step closer to feel the cool water flowing over the rocks. This is a perfect check-in spot, where the sound of rushing water blends with the forest’s symphony, immersing you in nature’s tranquility.

4. Conquer the Mountain Peak and Enjoy the View

If Gio Waterfall is the perfect spot to relax, the journey deeper into the Botanical Garden is a true adventure for thrill-seekers. The terrain becomes rugged, the stream narrows, and the water deepens, requiring you to grip ropes to navigate slippery rocks.

As you go further, towering cliffs and winding jungle paths create an exhilarating challenge. Reaching the peak, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park—a well-earned prize for your daring expedition!

The trekking journey crosses high and slippery rock faces.

5. Take a Refreshing Dip in Vang Anh Lake

Nestled beneath the ancient forest canopy, Vang Anh Lake is a crystal-clear natural pool perfect for relaxing after a trekking journey. Surrounded by lush greenery and a gentle stream, it offers a peaceful retreat where you can fully immerse yourself in nature.

Beyond simply soaking in the cool water, visitors can enjoy swimming, camping, or resting by the lakeside. The fresh air, blooming orchids, and melodic bird songs create a tranquil escape. Vang Anh Lake is also a picturesque check-in spot, capturing unforgettable moments amid the untouched beauty of Phong Nha Botanic Garden.

The clear and cool Vang Anh Lake, where many tourists stop to swim and relax.

6. Observe Rare Flora and Fauna

Throughout the journey, the rich flora of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park unfolds, boasting nearly 500 plant species. Among them are precious hardwoods like ironwood, sindora, and mahogany, along with the century-old Vietnam Star Tree—a newly named species with a trunk so large it takes three people to embrace.

As the trek nears its end, nature continues to surprise. If you're lucky, you might spot a great hornbill soaring through the canopy or catch glimpses of black squirrels and wild monkeys swinging between branches.

A true highlight is witnessing the mesmerizing dance of the peacock—one of the world's most beautiful birds—making the journey even more unforgettable.

The splendid peacock, among the top 10 most beautiful bird species in the world, at the botanical garden.

7. Visit the Wildlife Rescue Center

The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center is a special stop within Phong Nha Botanic Garden. It serves as a sanctuary for injured, weak, or illegally captured wild animals, helping them recover before returning to nature.

Beyond conservation, this center plays a crucial role in educating visitors about wildlife protection. It offers a meaningful experience, deepening your understanding of the rich ecosystem of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park.

The rescue center at Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is receiving and nurturing a tiger individual

Important Tips for Visiting Phong Nha Botanical Garden

Before exploring Phong Nha Botanic Garden, keep these key tips in mind for a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Pack smart: Wear comfortable clothing and non-slip shoes for trekking. Bring water or purchase it at the ticket counter, as there are no water stations along the trail.
• Stay safe: Follow signposts along the route to avoid getting lost and ensure a secure journey.
• Use a map: Get a guide map at the ticket counter for easy navigation. If unsure, ask fellow visitors or check direction signs.
• Protect nature: Avoid picking plants, disturbing wildlife, or leaving litter. Help preserve the pristine beauty of the garden.

Phong Nha Botanic Garden is a perfect destination for nature lovers, offering stunning landscapes and exciting activities.

Whether you seek relaxation in the lush greenery or an adventure on scenic trekking trails, this place has something for everyone.

Add Phong Nha Botanic Garden to your travel itinerary and enjoy a memorable day in Quang Binh’s untouched nature!