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Vietnam
Son Doong Cave
Where is it?
Son Doong Cave is located in the Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, in Quảng Bình Province in central Vietnam. The cave is part of the Sơn Đoòng system, which is the world’s largest known cave by volume. Situated in a remote area of Vietnam, the cave is in the Annamite Mountains, an area known for its dense jungles and rugged terrain. The entrance to Son Doong is found near the Rao Thuong River, and the cave itself runs through an ancient karst landscape.
What is it?
Son Doong Cave was first discovered by a local man named Ho Khanh in 1991, but it wasn’t explored until 2009 when British cave explorers fully mapped the cave system. The cave measures about 200 meters (660 feet) wide, 150 meters (490 feet) tall, and extends for over 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) in length. The total volume of the cave is estimated to be over 38 million cubic meters (1.35 billion cubic feet), making it the largest cave in the world by volume. Inside Son Doong, there are large sections of the cave that have their own ecosystems. The cave features an underground river, massive stalactites, stalagmites, and even a jungle. Because of its size and unique ecosystem, parts of Son Doong contain their own weather systems. The cave's interior includes vast chambers where the sun does not penetrate, creating a surreal, almost alien environment with towering formations and dense vegetation. The cave’s name, Son Doong, means "mountain river cave" in Vietnamese, reflecting the river that runs through parts of the cave.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Son Doong Cave is during the dry season, which runs from February to August. During these months, the weather is more stable, and the cave's river levels are lower, making exploration easier.
Visiting during the rainy season, from September to January, is not recommended due to the increased risk of flooding and the challenging conditions in the cave.
Why Should You Visit?
World’s Largest Cave: Son Doong holds the title of the largest cave in the world by volume, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a truly extraordinary natural wonder.
Unbelievable Scale and Beauty: The cave’s massive size, striking formations, and subterranean ecosystems are awe-inspiring. Visitors will be mesmerized by the scale of the space and the sheer beauty of the environment inside.
Adventure and Exploration: The journey to Son Doong is not for the faint of heart. It involves multi-day treks through the jungle, and visitors must travel with a licensed guide and outfitter. It’s perfect for those seeking an extraordinary adventure in a remote, unspoiled environment.
Unique Ecosystem: The cave’s environment is unlike any other, with its own weather system, lush underground jungle, and remarkable geological features that make it a true natural wonder.
Tips for the Trip
Guided Tours: Due to the complexity and remoteness of the cave, visitors must book a guided tour with a certified operator, such as Oxalis Adventure Tours, who offers exclusive access to Son Doong. Tours are limited to a small number of people each year to help preserve the cave.
Physical Fitness: The trek to Son Doong involves challenging hikes through dense jungle and rough terrain, so physical fitness is necessary. The entire trip takes about 4-5 days, with a significant amount of hiking, so be prepared for a strenuous adventure.
Clothing and Gear: Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, sturdy boots, and bring essentials like a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and humidity, especially inside the cave.
Environmental Responsibility: The cave is fragile, and preserving it is a top priority. Ensure that you follow all guidelines from your tour operator to minimize your impact on the environment.
Ho Thuy Tien Waterpark
Where is it?
The Ho Thuy Tien Waterpark is located in Hue, in central Vietnam, approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) south of the city center. The waterpark sits near the Thuy Tien Lake and is nestled among lush, tropical greenery in the Thua Thien-Hue Province. Despite its proximity to Hue, the waterpark has been abandoned for many years, adding an element of mystery to its allure.
What is it?
Ho Thuy Tien Waterpark was originally opened in 2004 as a grand water attraction with various water slides, swimming pools, and entertainment facilities. The park was designed to attract tourists and locals alike, featuring a large water area with slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. One of the standout features was a giant dragon statue that towered over the park, with a water fountain coming out of its mouth. However, due to financial difficulties, the park closed shortly after it opened and was abandoned. Since then, it has fallen into disrepair, with the once vibrant water features now rusted, broken, and overtaken by nature. The giant dragon statue, which has become a symbol of the abandoned park, now stands as a surreal and eerie sight. The site has become a popular spot for urban explorers, photographers, and curious visitors seeking to explore a forgotten piece of Vietnamese tourism history. Despite its abandonment, the park's remnants are still an interesting place to visit for those looking to see an eerie, forgotten attraction in the midst of nature’s reclamation.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ho Thuy Tien Waterpark is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather in Hue is cooler and more pleasant. The park is located in a tropical climate, so during the rainy season (May to October), it can be muddy, and accessibility may be more difficult. Additionally, the dry months are more suitable for exploring the area on foot or by bike, making it a more enjoyable visit.
Why Should You Visit?
Urban Exploration: For those interested in exploring abandoned places, Ho Thuy Tien Waterpark offers an intriguing look at a failed tourist attraction. The overgrown slides, dilapidated buildings, and the giant dragon make for an atmospheric and slightly eerie experience.
Photography and Adventure: The park's decaying structures juxtaposed with lush greenery provide unique opportunities for photography and adventure. The haunting atmosphere of the abandoned site can create striking, memorable images.
Historical Curiosity: Visiting the waterpark gives insight into a piece of Vietnam's modern tourism history. It’s a fascinating example of how infrastructure projects can falter, and how nature slowly reclaims man-made structures.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Attraction: Ho Thuy Tien Waterpark is not a typical tourist destination, so it offers a sense of exploration and discovery for those looking to visit places off the beaten path.
Tips for the Trip
Prepare for the Terrain: The park is abandoned, so you will be walking through areas that might be overgrown with plants, flooded, or unstable. Wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves, and insect repellent to protect yourself from thorns, bugs, and other hazards.
Safety Considerations: The site can be dangerous due to the condition of the structures, such as broken glass, rusted metal, and unstable concrete. Be cautious while exploring and avoid entering any areas that may seem unsafe.
Local Guidance: While the park is accessible to visitors, it’s a good idea to check with locals or hire a guide who knows the area for additional safety and context about the waterpark’s history.
Respect the Site: Given the abandoned nature of the park, be respectful of the environment and the site itself. Avoid vandalizing or damaging any structures, and clean up after yourself to help preserve the site for future explorers.