The same applies at Ban Gioc as it straddles the Vietnam and China border, necessitating a clearance by the officials to potentially enter China. Think of the US/Canada situation with Niagara Falls, ie the Canadian falls in the own right are amazing, but then the US side steals the show. The drive to the falls is very scenic and you can see waterwheels on the way. Closest major centre to the falls is Cao Bang.

We to do Ba Be Lake National Park and Ban Gioc Waterfall instead of the ubiquitous Sapa trekking option for a number of reasons. Of course, there are a few food, drink and souvenir shops nearby but thankfully, no one was pushy about trying to make you buy anything. You may need to present your passport at the front entrance before you can go to the falls (we were not asked to but I've heard that they sometimes do ask to make sure you're legal), so be sure to bring that with you.

This is one of the largest international waterfalls in the world and it really is stunning. There is also a Vietnam concrete boundary marker. In front is Southeast Asia's version of Niagara Falls.īesides the main falls, there is a smaller but equally impressive falls that is to the left (on the Vietnam side). To your left, you're looking at Vietnam To your right is China. From there, boats are available to take you almost to the foot of the waterfalls. Park at the top and walk about 300 meters on a gravel road to the river.

It's about an hour from Cao Bang on a good, paved road. The Ban Gioc Falls is the number 1 reason for visiting this area, and making the trip here is well worth the effort.

Ban gioc waterfall pics