Arrive in Phong Nha and then the group starts to visit Paradise Cave - the longest dry cave in Asia. Surrounded by forested karst peaks, this staggering cave system extends for 31km, though most people only visit the first kilometre. The scale is breathtaking, as wooden staircases plunge into a cathedral-like space with vast alien-looking stalagmites and stalactites. Get here early to beat the crowds, as during peak times (early afternoon) tour guides shepherd groups using megaphones. Paradise Cave is about 14km southwest of Son Trach. From the buggie drop-off, it's a further 600m-plus sweaty climb up to the cave entrance. To explore deep inside the cave beyond the barrier at the end and with luck see the eyeless cavefish that are part of its ecosystem

By 12:30, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Phong Nha village.

After lunch, the group will continue the trip to explore the most impressive Phong Nha cave. You will take a boat to cruise on the Son River for about 25 minutes to the Phong Nha cave. While on the boat you will see the greenfield, people, houses, and limestone along the river. Arrive in Phong Nha and start visiting, this cave is a water cave famous for its rock formation which has been given names such as the “Lion”, the “Fairy Caves”, the “Royal Court”, and the “Buddha. As the boats reach the caves they queue up, entering only one or two at a time. Engines die and the operators drag them along with long poles, slowly and methodically spearing them into the murky water. Once past the entrance, the immense cavern opens up. Giant stalactite chandeliers hang down from the ceiling. Without prodding or asking, everyone falls silent as eyes gaze up and the stone cathedral’s grandeur spills out. It’s a spectacular sight.

Come back to the vehicle to leave Phong Nha. The group will go back to Dong Hoi for drop-off at your hotels/places. The trip will end around 17:30