Hava Valley travel guide: Essential experience for visitors
Located along the Chay River in Quang Binh, Hava Valley offers an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in nature. You can swim, kayak, or SUP on the crystal-clear waters, enjoying a relaxing experience. However, what truly sets Hava apart is its thrilling 600-meter zipline – the longest water-landing zipline in Vietnam. In just a few seconds, soaring through the air, you’ll take in the breathtaking beauty of the river landscape before making an exciting splashdown. This is the perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for memorable experiences.
Pristine beauty and breathtaking landscapes
Stepping into Hava Valley, you will be captivated by its untouched beauty. A vast valley stretches between majestic mountain ranges, embracing a crystal-clear river that meanders gracefully like a silk ribbon. The calm water reflects the brilliant blue sky. Occasionally rippling as a gentle breeze passes, carrying the fresh scent of grass and the cool breath of the ancient forest.
Lush forest trees reach high into the sky along both sides of the riverbank, their canopies intertwining to form a natural shade. When the sun rises, its golden rays illuminate the Chay River, transforming the area into a massive, sparkling emerald jade.
In the evening, as the sunset casts its orange and red hues across the sky, the reflection on the water creates a rare and poetic scene. Standing in the green space, listening to the birds singing cheerfully, and the sound of the stream flowing over mossy rocks, visitors will feel an overwhelming sense of tranquility, as if completely disconnected from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
Hava Valley has wild scenery, majestic mountains and the crystal-clear river
Top 5 exciting activities at Hava Valley
1. Ride on a 600-meter-long zipline – Soar amidst majestic nature
One of the must-try activities at Hava Valley is the 600-meter zipline, the longest water-landing zipline in Vietnam. From the high platform, visitors will be securely harnessed and undergo a thorough safety check before launching themselves over the blue water.
The initial feeling may be a bit nerve-wracking, but the excitement quickly takes over as you feel the cool breeze rush past your skin. The flight lasts only a few seconds, but during this brief moment, visitors will be taken into the expansive river landscape and the towering mountains stretching endlessly to the horizon. The safe landing after the thrilling glide will encourage them to play it one more time.
2. Overcome obstacle challenge on the river
Have you ever been a fan of the show Wipeout?
Do you love watching the dramatic competitions in which players take turns jumping over giant inflatable obstacles, and then slip and fall into water in a moment of carelessness?
If so, the river obstacle courses at Hava Valley will surely excite you. Beneath the crystal-clear water, a series of challenges await daring players:
- Obstacle crossing on the bridge: Three triangular obstacles rotate continuously on the wooden bridge, requiring players to time their movements precisely to overcome each obstacle without falling into the river.
- Monkey bridge crossing: A narrow bamboo bridge requires dexterity and good balance. The initial shaky steps gradually become more confident as you conquer this challenge.
- Suspension bridge: Wooden planks fixed with ropes hang in the air, making each step a mental challenge. Sometimes, even a light breeze can make the bridge shake, creating thrilling moments.
- Inflatable bridge: Made up of floating pontoons on the water, the inflatable bridge lacks stable support, requiring players to be quick and agile to move without slipping and falling.
- Floating water slide: In the cool and crystal-clear river, a floating water slide offers a long, thrilling ride straight into the river's depths, also serving as a launch point for exciting cliff jumps.
- Inflatable water Saturn: Giant inflatable balls bounce on the water, and players must be careful not to fall while continuously bouncing to make their opponents lose balance.
Each obstacle offers a unique experience, from physical challenges and skillful maneuvers to bursts of laughter when someone loses their balance and falls into the water. Whether you’re a player or a spectator cheering from the shore, you’ll be drawn into the lively atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement.
Hava Valley has a complex of games and water sports such as roller coasters, inflatable bridges, etc.
3. Explore the turquoise waters by kayaking
After the energy-filled challenges, kayaking along the calm river is a wonderful way to enjoy a moment of relaxation. With a compact kayak or SUP, visitors can paddle at their own pace, exploring every corner of the gentle river. The soothing feeling of gliding over the still waters, surrounded by lush green forests, occasionally encountering colorful forest butterflies – all of them create a serene and intimate experience.
4. Check in at Soi Vang Bay
In addition to the active adventures, Hava Valley offers several stunning photo opportunities, with Soi Vang Bay being a standout. This riverbank area is lined with smooth, polished stones that reflect the sparkling sunlight from the sky. The pristine natural scenery, combined with the jade river, creates the perfect backdrop for artistic, Instagram-worthy photos.
5. Swim in the small pool for children - A safe play area for families
For families with children, Hava Valley also provides a dedicated safe play area with a mini swimming pool. The water pool is shallow so that children can comfortably splash around in the fresh water. Parents can rest assured that their children can enjoy a refreshing summer vacation without having to worry about safety concerns.
6. Organize team building – strengthen team bonds through fun activities
Hava Valley is also an ideal place to organize team-building activities for many organizations, businesses, and tour groups. With a campus of nearly 16 hectares amidst beautiful nature, this area is designed to be suitable for large groups with many open spaces and diverse terrain. Team-building activities here are not just fun games but also have a bonding nature, helping team members understand each other better and promoting team spirit.
From physical games like boating and team obstacle courses to intellectual challenges like code breaks, each activity is designed to test coordination, communication, and teamwork skills. Cheers and encouragement echo throughout the green space, creating memorable experiences and a strong sense of unity.
7. Cuisine at Hava Valley
The cuisine at Hava Valley offers a colorful experience with a diverse menu at affordable prices.
One of the most notable dishes here is the grilled platter, featuring 12 local specialties such as grilled chicken with cheo salt, grilled native pig, grilled shrimp, crispy fried stream fish, fruits, and so on, priced between 1,000,000 and 1,200,000 VND.
The restaurant also offers a menu with individual dishes priced from 50,000 - 300,000 VND and set meals ranging from 160,000 - 250,000 VND per person. Each dish is made from fresh, high-quality ingredients, capturing the rich flavors of Quang Binh’s mountains and forests.
The restaurant in Hava Valley offers a varied menu with famous local specialties such as grilled chicken with “cheo” salt, stream fish, etc.
Ticket prices and operating hours at Hava Valley
Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily. Hava offers two ticket options, from 150.000 - 250.000 VND/person, including:
All-inclusive ticket (includes 600m water-landing Zipline):
- Adults: 250,000 VND/person/entry
- Children (height 1.1m – 1.4m): 80,000 VND/person/entry
- Children (under 1.1m): Free (must be accompanied by an adult)
Standard ticket (excluding 600m Zipline)
- Adults: 150,000 VND/person/entry
- Children (height 1.1m – 1.4m): 80,000 VND/person/entry
- Children (under 1.1m): Free (must be accompanied by an adult)
Water slide in Hava valley
Location and directions to Hava Valley
Hava Valley is located in Son Trach Commune, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province, just 17 meters from the Chay River – Dark Cave. Its proximity to major attractions in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park makes Hava Valley an easily accessible destination while offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural landscapes of the region.
Directions to travel Hava Valley
Traveling from Dong Hoi:
- From Dong Hoi Airport, you can take a car, taxi, or motorbike (approximately 1 hour, 50 km) via the East branch of Ho Chi Minh Road (QL16)
- At Km 0 of the West branch of the Ho Chi Minh Trail (Khe Gat intersection), turn left onto the West branch of Ho Chi Minh road (QL15) and continue for another 15 km to reach Chay River – Dark Cave
Traveling from Phong Nha Town:
- From Phong Nha Town, you can rent a motorbike or car and follow DT20 for about 6 km
- Turn left onto the East branch of Ho Chi Minh Road (QL16) and continue for 10 km to Km 0 of the West branch of the Ho Chi Minh Trail (Khe Gat intersection)
- Then, turn left onto the West branch of the Ho Chi Minh Trail (QL15) and drive another 15 km to reach Chay River – Dark Cave
From Other Provinces:
- By Plane: Arrive at Dong Hoi Airport, then travel by private car, taxi, or tourist bus
- By Train/Bus: Arrive at Dong Hoi Train Station or Dong Hoi Bus Station, then continue your journey by taxi or private vehicle
Essential tips for visiting Hava Valley
1. Appropriate clothes
- Prioritize Comfort: Hava is an eco-tourism destination with many water activities. Choose comfortable, quick-drying outfits like swimsuits, shorts, and t-shirts.
- Footwear: Wear sandals or shoes with good grip to prevent slipping when walking on rocky and wet surfaces.
- Accessories: Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.
2. Best time to visit Hava Valley
The best time to visit Hava Valley is from April to August, with a cool, fresh climate and beautiful natural scenery.
From September to November is the rainy season, so visitors should check the weather forecast to ensure a complete vacation.
December to February is the cold season in Quang Binh, with the average temperature from 18 to 22°C. Therefore, visitors need to prepare warm clothes if traveling during this time.
The dry season (especially from April to July) is the best time to enjoy the Hava Valley
3. Environmental protection guidelines
- Please maintain general cleanliness and do not litter.
- Do not dispose of trash, leftover food, or chemicals (shampoo, shower gel) into streams or lakes.
- Prioritize the use of biodegradable bags and personal water bottles to minimize plastic waste.
- Respect nature: Do not break branches or pick flowers, as this affects the natural environment.
Famous tourist attractions near Hava Valley for a perfect trip
Chay River - Dark Cave
- Location: Just 17 meters away, right next to Hava Valley.
- Highlights: This destination is famous for its magnificent Dark Cave, offering a unique caving experience with diverse stalactite formations. Meanwhile, Chay River is the perfect spot for relaxing and engaging in exciting water activities.
- Experiences: Zipline adventure to explore Dark Cave, mud bathing, kayaking on Chay River, and enjoying thrilling water games.
Chay Lap Farmstay & Chay Lap Riverside
- Location: Situated right next to Chay River, about 3 km from Hava Valley.
- Highlights: An eco-friendly resort designed to blend harmoniously with nature, offering a peaceful space.
- Experiences: In Chay Lap Farmstay, tourists can relax in charming bungalows, enjoying local cuisine. Besides that, Chay Lap Riverside is a water sports center, providing activities such as kayaking/SUP, canoeing to visit the Chay River, and cycling to explore Chay Lap village.
Mooc Stream
- Location: About 2.8 km from Hava Valley.
- Highlights: A refreshing green oasis in the heart of the mountains, Mooc Stream features crystal-clear, cool water and a diverse ecosystem.
- Experiences: Swimming in the stream, relaxing on swinging hammocks, walking on bamboo bridges, and exploring the beauty of the pristine forest.
Paradise Cave
- Location: About 6.5 km from Hava.
- Highlights: Known as the "Palace inside the earth," Paradise Cave boasts a magnificent beauty with a diverse system of stalactites, shimmering in vibrant colors.
- Experiences: Exploring the cave via wooden bridges, admiring the magical beauty of the stalactites, and learning about the cave's formation process.
Blue Diamond Retreat
- Location: Situated near the Phong Nha - Ke Bang area, about 15 km from Hava.
- Highlights: Blue Diamond Retreat is a secluded getaway surrounded by lush green fields and majestic mountains. The retreat offers modern amenities, runs on 100% green energy, and features stunning forest landscapes—perfect for those seeking relaxation, nature immersion, and wellness tourist experiences.
- Experiences: Enjoy a peaceful stay, savor refined cuisine, and take part in recreational and wellness activities such as kayaking, night kayaking, night safari, e-rice ship, and so on.
Guests staying at Blue Diamond Retreat can experience night kayaking tours and watch the sunset on the Blue Stream
Phong Nha Cave
- Location: About 25 km from Hava Valley.
- Highlights: Phong Nha Cave is famous for having the longest underground river system in the world and the majestic beauty of its caves.
- Experiences: Take a boat ride on the Son River, explore the mysterious beauty of Phong Nha Cave, and admire the unique stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can also experience a kayak tour exploring Phong Nha Cave in the evening.
From the peaceful moments by the stream to the thrilling experiences like ziplining and the water slide, Hava Valley is truly a wonderful remedy for the soul. You will feel a sense of calm and relaxation, offering a way to reduce stress and regain balance amid a busy life. It’s also a great opportunity to bond with loved ones and share memorable moments with friends and family.
Whether you prefer long treks, camping in a cave, sleeping under the stars in the jungle, swimming underground in river caves, explore the huge dry caves or just taking an exploratory day trip, Oxalis Adventure Tours can provide the right amount of adventure just for you.