Ban Gioc Waterfalls

Ban Gioc Waterfall (called Detian Waterfall on the Chinese side) is one of the most spectacular natural sights in Vietnam — and in all of Southeast Asia — for several reasons: 🌟 What makes Ban Gioc Waterfall special 1. It’s one of the largest waterfalls in Asia Ban Gioc is often listed among the top 4 largest transnational waterfalls in the world (alongside Niagara, Iguazu, and Victoria), based on width. • The falls extend about 300 meters across, creating a dramatic multi-tiered cascade. 2. It straddles an international border The waterfall sits between Vietnam and China, with the Quây Sơn River forming the border. • The left side is Vietnam, • The right side is China. This unique location gives the place a fascinating mix of cultures, landscapes, and history. 3. Multi-tiered, terraced design Unlike single-drop waterfalls, Ban Gioc has three major tiers, creating a layered, photogenic effect. In rainy season, the falls are thunderous and wide; in dry season, they break into dozens of silky streams. 4. Dramatic karst mountain setting It sits in a valley surrounded by limestone karsts, rice fields, and small ethnic villages. The scenery is often described as “like stepping into a painting.” 5. Peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere (compared to major global waterfalls)

Ban Gioc Waterfalls are one of the most impressive natural sites in Vietnam. The waterfalls are wide and powerful, with open and beautiful scenery, and the surrounding area is well maintained and pleasant to visit. Access to the site is relatively easy, and the visit offers a calm and immersive nature experience. A recommended destination for anyone seeking striking landscapes and a special stop in northern Vietnam.

Cao Bang left me genuinely amazed from the moment I arrived. Tucked away in Vietnam’s far north, this land feels untouched, pure, and breathtakingly beautiful. The journey itself was already a delight – winding mountain roads, fresh cool air, and endless views of rolling hills fading into the horizon. But nothing prepared me for the sight of Ban Gioc Waterfall. Standing before it, I was overwhelmed by its sheer size and power. The water cascaded down in layers, white and foamy, into a jade-green pool, surrounded by lush greenery. It was like stepping into a scene from a dream. Everywhere in Cao Bang seemed to hold its own magic. The Quay Son River flowed calmly through golden rice fields, reflecting the towering limestone mountains like a giant natural mirror. Villages dotted along the way felt peaceful and welcoming, with traditional stilt houses and warm smiles from the locals. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of fresh earth and blooming flowers. What surprised me most was how raw and untouched everything felt. There were no crowds, no rush – just nature in its purest form. I spent hours simply sitting by the river, watching the sunlight dance on the water, feeling a deep sense of peace I rarely find elsewhere. Leaving Cao Bang, I couldn’t help but feel grateful to have witnessed such beauty. It’s the kind of place that stays with you, not just in photographs, but in your heart – a reminder that some of the world’s most stunning treasures are found where few have yet to wander.

Absolutely beautiful! Come before 10 am to avoid crowds that arrive by buses. And it was great to see China so close :)

Should you come here or not? If you expect Niagrafalls..don’t come here, but if you are in this region, just take an hourt to visit this place. Real nice waterfalls. Come here early in the day before the waterfall get in the shadow (i think betweem 9.00 and 14.00-ish) Costs: 40k p.p. Entrance, 50k p.p. Boat, 10k parking for scooter: if you come with 2 persons: 190k = €6,23. just pay and enjoy, they realy try to make it a good Experience. There are a lot of locals selling all kinds of things to tourists, you can even get dressed up for a fotoshoot in Vietnamees outfit. Just support.

The view of Bản Giốc Waterfall, nestled along the border between Vietnam and China is simply breathtaking. This natural wonder is one of the most majestic and scenic spots in Northern Vietnam. The cascading waters, surrounded by lush emerald green rice fields, create a serene and charming atmosphere. The waterfall itself is massive and powerful, yet incredibly peaceful to watch. The mist rising from the falls adds a magical feel. Whether viewed from the river below on a bamboo raft or from one of the nearby viewpoints, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. However, the park is relatively under developed compared to other tourist destinations, which actually adds to its charm. It feels authentic, quiet, and not overly commercialized. The locals are warm and welcoming, and there's a sense of calm that stays with you long after you've left. Getting there however is a bit challenging, the road journey from Hanoi Airport to the waterfall is around 11 hours if you add in stopovers for meals and toilet breaks, but the stunning landscapes along the way make it worthwhile. It will be a good idea to find a nearby accommodation to rest for the night to rest and head for the waterfall the next day. Highly recommended for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone looking to experience the raw beauty of Vietnam. I can assure you it is all worth the effort

Horrifically polluted waterfalls and viewpoints closed off. There was a marathon the day before but that is no excuse, all events should have waste management plans. Furthermore much of the garbage is old and in the water (cannot blame the event for that). With thousands of visitors each week the tourism department is making a lot of money from this. I think they should actually use that money to clean this place and make it nice to visit or else why are you charging entry at all? Of course the waterfalls are spectacular but I'm giving it 1 star for management. Absolutely disgusting.

Amazing views, cheap ticket for entry can buy inside. Don't feel like you need to get one of those boats out to the waterfalls since you can walk along the river bank quite close to soak it in. Also cool to be able to see china right across the other side. After checking the waterfalls out, make sure to go up to the Buddhist pagoda on the hill nearby for an amazing above view of the falls and the entire valley you worn regret it - some ladies at the road might try and tell you you can't drive up the road to the temple in the hope you park in front of their stalls but you can no problem to save yourself a big steep walk - just be careful and go slow on the ride up & down.