Hanoi in 2 Days for Couples - Ban Gioc Waterfall (Thác Bản Giốc)
In Collaboration with Vietnam Northern Travel. Updated on February 16, 2026.
Explore Ban Gioc Waterfall with local people, visit Angel Mountain, and travel through hidden villages on a less-touristy route. The tour runs by comfortable car/limousine van with a local English-speaking guide, 1 night accommodation in Ban Gioc commune, meals as listed, entrance fees and travel insurance included.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Vietnam Northern Travel, inspired by the tour From Hanoi: Ban Gioc Waterfall - Angel Mountain 2D/1N By Car. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Ban Gioc Waterfall (Thác Bản Giốc)
- Ngườm Ngao (Ngao) Cave
- Angel Mountain scenic viewpoint
- Quay Sơn River homestay experience
- Scenic border-belt drive through ethnic villages
Itinerary
Day 1
Hanoi – Cao Bang City – Angel Mountain – Ban Gioc area. Early pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter, drive north to Cao Bang, afternoon scenic route and homestay check-in on Quay Son river.
Pickup in Hanoi (Old Quarter)
Meet at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter for pickup by limousine van. Boarding and quick briefing before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready in the hotel lobby 5–10 minutes before pickup; the vehicle will stop briefly for boarding.
- Carry a small day bag with essentials (camera, light jacket, water) since luggage stays in the van during short breaks.
- Confirm your room number and a local mobile contact with the guide when boarding for smooth communication.
Drive Hanoi → Cao Bằng (limousine van)
Long scenic transfer north to Cao Bang city. The drive follows national roads with rest stops. The guide will provide commentary about the region and ethnic groups.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a neck pillow and light blanket for comfort during the 6–7 hour transfer.
- Use rest stops to stretch and use toilets; carry hand sanitizer and any personal medication.
- Keep copies of passports or ID accessible — checkpoints may request identification during provincial travel.
Arrival in Cao Bằng — lunch & short rest
Arrive in Cao Bang city. Lunch at a local restaurant and short rest to refresh before the afternoon drive.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have dietary preferences (vegetarian), inform the guide before the meal to ensure suitable options.
- Try local specialties like Cao Bang duck noodle soup or sour noodle if you have no dietary restrictions.
- Use this stop to change into lighter layers; mountain afternoons can be warmer than mornings.
Scenic drive through Global Geopark toward Ma Phuc Pass
Drive through the Cao Bang Global Geopark area toward Ma Phuc Pass, passing stilt houses and village roads with scenic mountain and rice-field views.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep your camera ready for roadside photo stops; the guide will suggest safe pull-over points.
- Wear comfortable shoes for short roadside walks; some viewpoints have uneven ground.
- Carry insect repellent for brief stops near vegetation and rice paddies.
Visit Angel Mountain (scenic viewpoint)
Arrive at the Angel Mountain viewpoint to admire the green valley, stream and forested mountains — a quiet, less-touristy setting.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan for a short, easy walk from the roadside to the viewpoint; bring a light jacket against wind.
- This spot is ideal for couple photos at golden hour; the guide will suggest best framing and angles.
- Respect local farmland and stay on paths — avoid entering private fields or stilt-house compounds.
Unique border-belt route through ethnic villages
Continue along the border-belt road through Tay, Nung and Dao villages — quiet roads with very little heavy traffic, offering authentic rural scenery.
Tips from local experts:
- Observe respectfully: many villages are residential — ask before photographing people, especially children.
- Carry small change for any spontaneous purchases of local snacks or handicrafts from villagers.
- Stay hydrated on warm afternoons; the driver will stop if you need a short break or restroom.
Check-in at homestay/hotel along Quay Sơn River
Arrive and check in at a riverside homestay/hotel on Tl211 near the Quay Sơn River. Short time to settle before evening activities.
Tips from local experts:
- Rooms in rural homestays vary; ask the host about hot water availability and bedding if you prefer extra warmth.
- Keep valuables in the room safe or with the guide; rural homestays have basic security compared to city hotels.
- If you wish to swim later, change into swimwear before departure from the van to save time.
Swimming in the Quay Sơn River (relaxation)
Optional swim in the Quay Sơn River to relax after the day's travel. Supervised and depending on water conditions and season.
Tips from local experts:
- Check water conditions with the guide before entering; currents can change after rain.
- Bring a towel and quick-dry clothing; some homestays provide changing areas but limited privacy.
- Avoid swimming after dusk; plan swimming during daylight and keep valuables secured at the homestay.
Dinner — local specialty cuisine
Dinner served at the homestay or nearby restaurant featuring local Cao Bang specialties. Vegetarian options available on request.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the guide in advance if you need vegetarian or allergy-friendly dishes so the host can prepare accordingly.
- Try small portions first if you have dietary restrictions — local dishes may use unfamiliar herbs and spices.
- Evening temperatures can drop by the river; bring a light jacket for after-dinner relaxation outdoors.
Free time & overnight at homestay/hotel
Relax at the homestay/hotel. Free time to rest; early night recommended after a long travel day. Overnight in Ban Gioc area.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm wake-up time and breakfast arrangements with the host or guide before turning in.
- Charge cameras and phones overnight; power supply in rural homestays may be limited after evening.
- Keep a small flashlight or phone torch handy for short walks after dark; rural areas have limited street lighting.
Day 2
Ban Gioc Waterfall area — Ngao Cave, Ban Gioc, Truc Lam Pagoda, return to Cao Bang and transfer back to Hanoi.
Visit Ngườm Ngao (Ngao) Cave
Morning visit to Ngườm Ngao Cave (Tiger Cave). Walk through natural caverns and see stalactite formations formed over millions of years.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear shoes with good grip — cave floors can be wet and uneven in places.
- Carry a light jacket inside the cave; temperatures can be cooler than outside.
- Follow the guide and stay on marked paths to protect both the site and your safety.
Ban Gioc Waterfall visit (boat approach when available)
Visit Thác Bản Giốc (Ban Gioc Waterfall). Time to admire the cascade, walk riverside paths and — season permitting — take a short boat trip closer to the falls.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a waterproof layer or camera protection — spray from the falls can reach viewing areas and boats.
- Boat trips depend on water level and weather; follow the guide’s instructions and lifejacket rules if offered.
- Respect border rules and signage — parts of the area are adjacent to the international border.
Trúc Lâm Zen Monastery (viewpoint)
Short visit to Trúc Lâm Pagoda to climb to a viewpoint offering a panoramic perspective over the Ban Gioc area and interleaving water and mountains.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress modestly for the pagoda (shoulders and knees covered); remove hats inside religious buildings.
- The climb to the pagoda viewpoint may include steps; take it slowly and use available handrails.
- Quiet observation is appreciated — this is an active religious site for local visitors.
Return to Cao Bằng city (alternate scenic route)
Return drive to Cao Bang via a different route to vary scenery and avoid schedule overlap; light commentary from the guide on local agriculture and landscapes.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this comfortable transfer time to nap or review photos from the morning.
- Keep small change handy for restroom stops or snack purchases along the way.
- If you need to adjust arrival expectations, notify the guide early so timings for lunch are managed.
Lunch in Cao Bằng — local specialties
Lunch in Cao Bang city at a well-known local restaurant to try regional dishes such as duck noodle or sour noodle (vegetarian options available).
Tips from local experts:
- If you have dietary restrictions, remind the guide before the meal so the kitchen can adapt dishes.
- Ask for milder seasoning if you're sensitive to spicy or strongly sour flavors commonly used in the region.
- Keep the lunch brief (approx. 60 minutes) to maintain the scheduled departure time back to Hanoi.
Return transfer Cao Bằng → Hanoi (limousine van)
Board the limousine van and return to Hanoi. Drop-off will be around Hanoi Old Quarter (Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Opera House area or nearest hotel). Estimated arrival in Hanoi late evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Store any items needed immediately on arrival (phone chargers, keys) in a small bag accessible during the drive.
- Expect a long drive back (approx. 6–7 hours); rest stops will be made for comfort breaks and refreshments.
- Confirm your preferred drop-off point in the Old Quarter with the guide at boarding to ensure efficient routing on arrival.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 12 |
| Total Places | 16 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Meal, Outdoor, Attraction, Hotel, Break, Culture |
