Ba Be
2 Days / 1 Night
Paddle boarding, caving, camping
6/10
5 (0 Customer rating)
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Tour overview

This distinctive journey combines SUP paddling on the Nang River and Ba Be Lake with an exploration of Tham Phay Cave. In two active days, guests paddle through Puong Cave, camp beside Ba Be Lake and travel through forest terrain to one of the region’s most intriguing cave systems.

Also known as Fire Cave, Tham Phay extends for approximately 5–6 km. Sections of the route involve wading through water that may reach waist or chest height. The cave contains striking formations, underground river branches and dramatic rock walls. Professional guiding and purpose-specific equipment support the exploration.

Highlights

  • Paddle approximately 8 km downstream on the Nang River
  • Travel by SUP through the immense Puong Cave
  • Swim and travel by support boat on Ba Be Lake when conditions allow
  • Camp beside Ba Be Lake near Pac Ngoi Village
  • Explore Tham Phay Cave for approximately four hours
Summary

  • Departure from: Hanoi

  • Min: 5 people

  • Destination: Ba Be

  • Max: 15 people

  • Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night

  • Best season: Sep - Mar

  • Activities: Paddle boarding, caving, camping

  • Level: 6/10

Images & Videos
Itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi - Cho Ra Town - Ba Be NP - Puong Cave - Campsite

06:30 Travel by private vehicle to Bac Kan Province, with a rest stop in Thai Nguyen.

12:00 Have lunch at a local restaurant, then continue to Boc Luom boat pier to begin the SUP journey.

Afternoon: Paddle downstream on the narrow, fast-flowing Nang River through steep limestone scenery, small valleys and farmland. Pass through Puong Cave, an immense natural tunnel through which the river flows. After leaving the cave, stop on a small river island for fresh fruit and cold drinks, then continue to the confluence of the Nang River and Ba Be Lake.

Late afternoon: Board the motorised support boat and travel into Ba Be Lake. In suitable warm-weather conditions, stop for swimming. Arrive at Umove Adventure’s lakeside campsite near Pac Ngoi Village, enjoy a welcome drink, receive the tents, shower and rest before dinner.

18:30 Have dinner at the campsite and enjoy time around the campfire before sleeping.

* Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 2: Campsite - Tham Phay Cave - Hanoi

06:30 Have breakfast at the campsite.

07:30 Pack the equipment, walk to the vehicle pickup point and travel approximately 20 minutes to the trailhead. The guide provides a safety briefing and issues the necessary cave-exploration equipment.

08:30 Begin the approach through forest trails, small valleys and sections of sloping terrain.

09:30 Reach the cave entrance and begin an exploration of approximately four hours. Discover large chambers, rock layers, narrow passages, underground river branches and dramatic formations. Several sections require wading through water. The cave becomes significantly wider beyond the initial entrance passage.

11:30 Have lunch in the cave, then continue along the second branch of the system to view ancient stalagmites and other formations.

12:30 Return to the cave entrance and trek back to the vehicle pickup point.

13:30 Travel back to Ba Be to shower and change clothes.

15:00 Begin the return journey. The program concludes upon arrival in Hanoi.

Inclusion & Exclusion

Inclusion:

  • Round-trip private vehicle between Hanoi and Ba Be
  • Lakeside camping accommodation
  • SUP board and paddling accessories
  • Tham Phay cave-exploration equipment
  • Motorised support boat
  • Meals specified in the itinerary
  • Tour guide and activity support personnel
  • Daily drinking water
  • Entrance and sightseeing fees
  • Domestic travel insurance

Exclusion:

  • Drinks not specified in the itinerary
  • Beverages during meals
  • Transportation before and after the tour
  • Personal expenses and services not listed under inclusions

Departure schedule
Departure day Finish day   Tour cost
Difficulty of the activity

Difficulty Level (6/10): Most people can participate in the tour, children from 6 years old and above also can join with parents. It will be easier and more comfortable for you to experience outdoor activities if you have good preparation for physical training before the trip. The duration of each trip is 2 days generally. With those trekking tours at this level, it might take 2 – 3 hours/day to do the trek with the quite easy terrain. At the same level, the kayaking and SUP tours, 2 – 3 hours/ days paddling with the large water surface, and plenty of times to take photos and rest as well.

Suggested physical training: Practice running or kayaking/SUP 1 - 2 weeks in advance. Run twice a week, each session 3 - 5km every night. Or paddling from 2- 3 times, each time is 5 km.

Equipment

Equipment provided by UA:

  • SUP board and paddling accessories
  • Personal flotation device
  • Caving helmet
  • Helmet-mounted headlamp
  • Camping tent and accessories
  • Dry bag
  • Motorised support boat
  • Basic group first-aid kit carried by the guide

Essential stuff you need to bring:

  • Secure walking shoes or sports sandals suitable for wet terrain
  • Reusable water bottle of approximately one litre
  • Weather-appropriate clothing and quick-drying clothes for the cave
  • Towel, hand sanitiser, toothbrush, toothpaste and toilet paper
  • Personal dry bag or additional waterproof protection
  • Phone, camera, power bank and suitable waterproof cases
  • Passport or ID

Optional items to bring:

  • Spare clothing
  • Pocket knife or multi-tool
  • Personal medication
  • Toiletries
  • Hand santiniser  
Umove Adventure equipment provided
Essential info

1. Travel Insurance

  • Umove Adventure provides travel insurance through Bao Viet Insurance, with maximum coverage of VND 100 million per person per incident.
  • Please refer to the Bao Viet Insurance Policy for further details.

2. Tour Postponement and Cancellation Policy

3. Liability Waiver

  • Guests joining an Umove Adventure tour acknowledge that adventure travel involves physical challenges and inherent risks. All guests are therefore required to carefully read and sign the Liability Waiver before departure. Please review the form carefully before booking the tour.

                  Release Of Liability Form.     

4. Notes on the paddle boarding

  • The first-day paddle covers approximately 8 km downstream from Boc Luom pier to the confluence of the Nang River and Ba Be Lake. The current can be fast in places. A properly fitted personal flotation device and SUP leash must remain worn throughout the paddling activity.

  • Beginners should start seated or kneeling and stand only when confident. Follow the guide’s route and avoid fast-flowing channels, rocks and branches.

5. Notes on Tham Phay Cave Exploration

The cave exploration lasts approximately four hours. Several sections require wading through water up to approximately 1.2 metres deep. The route is not highly technical and does not normally require rope-climbing equipment. Umove Adventure provides a caving helmet, helmet-mounted light and dry bag. Participants must remain with the group and follow the cave guide’s instructions.

6. Food and Drinks

  • Meals served during the tour are varied and feature local specialities. Vegetarian or special dietary meals may be arranged upon request. Please inform Umove Adventure in advance of any dietary requirements so that suitable meals can be prepared. If we are unable to accommodate specific requirements for medical, health or religious reasons, we recommend bringing your own suitable food.
  • Drinking water is provided in the vehicle and during the paddling activity. To reduce the use of single-use plastic, guests should bring a reusable water bottle of approximately one litre, which can be refilled from the larger water containers provided by Umove Adventure.
  • Alcohol must not be consumed during SUP, kayaking or trekking activities. Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are not included with meals.

7. Environmental Responsibility

  • Umove Adventure follows Leave No Trace principles throughout its tours and outdoor activities. We also encourage our guests and partners to apply these principles whenever travelling in natural environments. Learn more about Leave No Trace.
  • To reduce the use of single-use plastic, each guest should bring a reusable one-litre water bottle for daily refilling.
  • Guests must follow all environmental protection instructions and regulations at each destination.

8. Health and Medical Considerations

  • If you have a cardiovascular condition or problems affecting your bones or joints—including your knees, ankles or shoulders—you should consult your doctor before joining the tour.
  • The tour guide carries a basic first-aid kit. If you have a medical condition that requires medication, please bring an adequate supply of your prescribed medication.
Q&A
What is the best time to go on this program?

Ba Be Lake is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique charm and experiences. The ideal period for this program is March to October, when the weather is warm and pleasant:

  • Perfect for cooling off with swims in the crystal-clear waters of Ba Be Lake.
  • Lush greenery and vibrant natural scenery at their peak.
  • In spring (March–May), the landscape bursts into color with red peach blossoms and white cotton flowers set against the brilliant blue sky—a truly picturesque backdrop for paddling and camping.

From November onward, temperatures cool down significantly (often 15–22°C), making it an excellent time for:

  • Comfortable SUP paddling and trekking without excessive heat.
  • Crisp, clear days ideal
What is the minimum age for children to join this tour?

This 2-day SUP adventure is suitable for children aged 12 and older, who must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult at all times.

  • Participants under 18 require parental consent and supervision.
  • Younger children (under 12) are not permitted due to safety considerations, including the downstream river current on the Nang River, paddling through Puong Cave, and the physical nature of the trekking and camping activities.
  • All participants (regardless of age) must be able to swim confidently and follow the guide's safety instructions.

If you're traveling with younger children or have specific questions about family suitability, please contact us—we're happy to discuss alternatives or private tour options!

Can I join this program if I have no caving experience?

Prior caving experience is not required. These tours are designed for adventurous participants without specialized skills, as professional guides provide safety equipment (helmets, headlamps, gloves, sometimes boots) and lead the group. No sources mention mandatory previous caving experience; instead, they emphasize good physical fitness for the trekking and cave navigation.

However, it is not suitable for complete beginners in outdoor activities if you lack reasonable fitness—the hikes are strenuous (jungle trails, elevation changes), and the cave involves walking on uneven/rocky terrain, crossing water, and potentially tight spots or sinkholes. Tours are guided for safety, and groups are small.

If you're in moderate shape and up for an adventure, you can join—no prior caving needed.

Can I join this program if I have no paddle boarding experience?

Yes! This 2-day SUP adventure is designed to be beginner-friendly and suitable for those with little or no prior paddle boarding experience.

The main SUP segment on Day 1 is entirely downstream on the Nang River with a gentle-to-moderate current that does most of the work for you — minimal physical effort required. Our professional guides provide a full safety briefing and basic SUP instruction before you start paddling, including how to balance, paddle efficiently, and handle the board.

The calmer waters of Ba Be Lake on Day 2 are ideal for relaxed paddling and building confidence.

How much do I need to deposit when registering? When is the remaining amount due?

Deposit requirement to secure your booking, a 50% deposit of the total tour price is required at the time of registration.

Payment Methods:

  • Bank transfer
  • Credit/debit card via OnePay (secure online payment gateway)

Final Payment: The remaining 50% balance must be paid no later than 1 day before the departure date, using the same payment methods (bank transfer or OnePay).

Important note: Umove Adventure will only confirm your booking once the deposit has been received. You will receive a confirmation email with full details shortly after payment.

We recommend completing payment early to guarantee your spot, especially during peak seasons!

Can I join this tour if I’m going alone?

Yes, definitely! This join-in SUP adventure is perfectly suitable for solo travelers.

  • Many of our guests join individually and end up making new friends around the campfire, during paddling, or on the hike.
  • The group size is small (typically 6–15 participants), creating a friendly and social atmosphere.
  • You'll be paired with others for shared tents (same-gender unless otherwise requested) or can upgrade to a single tent for an additional fee (subject to availability—please inquire when booking).
  • Our professional guide and team ensure everyone feels included, safe, and supported throughout the trip—no prior companions needed.

 

If I am vegetarian (or have a dietary restriction), can the tour accommodate this?

Please inform Umove Adventure of any vegetarian preferences or other dietary restrictions before booking the tour. We will verify whether the tour destination and meal providers can accommodate your needs and get back to you promptly. In most cases, vegetarian options are available, though this may vary depending on the specific tour location and local suppliers.

Can I bring my pet (dog/cat) along?

Umove Adventure does not organize pet-friendly tours as standard, due to the nature of the activities (SUP paddling on rivers and lakes, camping, group trekking, and shared transportation).

However, in exceptional cases and only for small, well-behaved pets, we may consider your request subject to the following strict conditions:

  • Unanimous consent from all other participants in the group must be obtained in advance.
  • You (the owner) take full responsibility for your pet’s behavior, safety, cleanliness, and any waste disposal throughout the tour.
  • The pet must not interfere with activities, other guests, or wildlife (e.g., no barking/disturbance during camping or paddling).
  • Additional requirements may apply (vaccination records, leash, carrier, etc.).

To request permission, please contact us as early as possible when booking. We will check with the group and confirm feasibility.

For the comfort and safety of all guests, we generally recommend leaving pets at home or arranging separate pet care.

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