HANOI TO/FROM PHONG NHA
It is relatively easy to reach Phong Nha from Hanoi and vice versa with a number of transport options including train, bus and of course by flight. Most bus companies will now stop directly in Phong Nha, and taking a bus is therefore becoming a popular choice amongst travellers as it saves on the additional transfer required from Dong Hoi (closest train station and airport to Phong Nha).
Air Travel to Phong Nha
Of course, the easiest mode of transport is to take a flight here from Hanoi, it being just a 50 mins flight. However, you have to factor in the time travelling to the airport (1 hour from old quarter) and the fact there are only 4 to 5 flights per week. It is best to check the Vietnam Airlines website ahead of time to ensure you can catch a flight on your desired travel dates, otherwise we recommend the train or bus to save your travel days. If you take a flight you will have to book a transfer from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha.
Taxi from Dong Hoi Airport station to Phong Nha: 500.000 VNĐ
HO CHI MINH CITY TO PHONG NHA
Ho Chi Minh City, also still known by its former name of Saigon, is the biggest city in Vietnam. It is a focal point for those looking to see highlights such as the Mekong Delta, and it’s also a hub for international travel.
The only practical way to journey between Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and Phong Nha is to take a flight with Vietnam Airlines (or from February, Jetstar Pacific Airlines) to Dong Hoi City (located 45 mins drive from Phong Nha). The tickets cost between $80 and $120 each way and please note the flights are not daily.
The bus and train journeys are both just too long to be viable options for those wanting to get quickly between the two cities. Alternatively, for those on a budget but who have a little bit more time, it’s common to find that the cheapest flights are often available between HCMC and Da Nang or Hue (versus direct to Dong Hoi). From Da Nang or Hue, one can find a train to get to Dong Hoi, or even a bus to Phong Nha directly.
