The values of Son Doong cave
Hang Son Doong Cave is confirmed as the largest natural cave in the world by many domestic and international organisations. From its values, the cave has contributed a lot to Quang Binh’s tourism development, bringing this province to the world tourism map.
Home to towering stalagmites, underground rivers, and even a jungle with exotic wildlife, Son Doong offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore nature’s beauty up close and personal.
Thanks to Son Doong, other tours and services in the region have opened and developed. A lot of homestays and hotels were built for tourists and many people have jobs with stable incomes. The Son Doong tour has created jobs for 125 men in Phong Nha and hundreds of indirect jobs for locals through food supplies, accommodations, transfers, and many others.
Hang Son Doong or Mountain river cave is the most significant discovery in all our time exploring caves around the world. It is not just the unbelivable scale of the cave that sticks in your memory but the vast number of unique situation you find yourself in when traveling through.
We had already explored the enormous Hang En cave and downstream the river was lost in a major collapse of boulders and flood debris. We had a huge gap in the map but it was not until 2009 that we managed to final succeed to find the missing link in the form of the fabulous Hang Son Doong.
With wonderful images we hope give somes insight into the discovery and the future of thí very special place.
Son Doong is located within Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, a breathtakingly beautiful area of over 2,000 square kilometers, encompassing dense jungles, meandering rivers, and vast underground splendors.
Beyond the marvel of Son Doong itself, the national park is home to an extensive network of over 404 other Vietnamese caves waiting to be explored. Visitors can choose from a variety of cave tours, each catering to different fitness levels and interests. There are also opportunities to go on jungle treks, take boat rides, and connect with local communities.
Unique features of Son Doong Cave
But what truly sets Son Doong apart and makes it a global sensation is the hidden world that lies within it.
Unique microclimates: The cave’s large size and different chambers create diverse microclimates that influence the distribution of organisms and contribute to the overall ecosystem. The varying levels of humidity, temperature, and light provide distinct niches for different forms of life to thrive.
Enormous stalagmite and stalactites: Part of Son Doong’s allure comes from the enchanting stalagmite and stalactite system in the cave. Not only is it strikingly beautiful, but it also tells the story of the cave’s formation, with droplets of mineral-rich water slowly accumulating over millions of years. With formations reaching 70 to 80 meters high, the stalagmites and stalactites in Son Doong are truly stupendous.
Breathtakingly diverse ecosystem: Son Doong is home to lush vegetation and unique flora and fauna. As you traverse the cave’s labyrinth, you will be able to witness nature thriving in some of the most unexpected places. It is both a humbling and awe-inspiring experience, reminding you of the powerful forces of nature and the resilience of life.
Visitors often describe the experience of being inside Son Doong as stepping into another world, akin to the landscapes depicted in the movie “Avatar.” The ethereal beauty, coupled with the immense size of the cave and the unique features it houses, makes it an otherworldly destination.
