Cao Bang – The Colors of the Borderland (Part 1)

This article is part of the “Revealing Photography Spots Across Vietnam” series, regularly published on my Personal Page or in the “Passionate Photography Journey” group. The goal is to share and spread knowledge and experience gained from numerous photography trips.

Let’s get started!

Difficulty Level: 4/10
Beauty: 9/10
Best Photography Angles: Sunrise/Sunset/Village Life/Setup (Highly Diverse)

Unlike previous articles, this one will list the most picturesque locations in Cao Bang and essential tips for capturing stunning shots.

1. Ban Gioc Waterfall

When talking about Cao Bang, Ban Gioc Waterfall is the first place that comes to mind. Spanning the Vietnam-China border, it is one of the most breathtaking transnational waterfalls in the world.

Best Time to Visit Ban Gioc Waterfall

• December to March: This is the dry season when the water flow is at its lowest. The rocks are covered with lush green moss, creating a unique look.
• March to August: Considered the best time for photography, as the water flow is moderate, and the weather is stable, providing ideal shooting conditions.
• August to December: This period coincides with the golden rice harvest, but the waterfall experiences high water levels due to heavy rainfall. From October to November, the water often turns brown instead of the usual turquoise due to strong currents. The mist created by the rushing water can make photography challenging. During this time, it’s best to use a telephoto lens and shoot from a distance.

Additionally, the waterfall’s flow is influenced by China’s water release schedule. To capture the perfect shot, ask the locals about the best timing within the day.

Best Photography Time at Ban Gioc Waterfall

The waterfall runs along an East-West axis, making both sunrise and sunset excellent for photography. These are also the best times to avoid the crowds.

• Sunrise: Requires climbing to the third tier of the waterfall (currently restricted), which is risky due to slippery paths.
• Sunset: Easier to capture, as a good vantage point is available from the front of the waterfall or slightly to the right, closer to the Chinese side.
• New Angle Option: A new service allows visitors to view the waterfall from the Chinese side for 750,000 VND (pre-registration required at least one day in advance), offering a unique perspective.

Accommodation & Nearby Attractions

Accommodation options are available near the waterfall or in Trung Khanh, as infrastructure is limited along the way. Nearby, you can explore Nguom Ngao Cave and take creative shots at Khuoi My Stone Village, both offering fantastic photography opportunities.

Essential Gear for Ban Gioc Waterfall

• Clothing: No special requirements, but temperatures can drop slightly at night.
• Footwear: Waterproof sandals are better than sneakers due to wet terrain.
• Electric Shuttle: Available but may not operate early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Recommended Camera Equipment:
  • ND filter (3-6 stops) for long-exposure shots
  • High-quality tripod
  • 24-70mm or 70-200mm lens for versatility
  • CPL filter to enhance colors
  • Remote shutter release for long exposures
  • Extra batteries, as long exposure photography drains power quickly

Potential Risks to Consider

• Flash Floods: Though rare due to upstream dams in China, sudden water surges can still occur. If the water suddenly turns brown, leave immediately.
• Slippery Surfaces & Water Damage: Exercise caution while moving around, and protect your gear from moisture.
• Border Security Restrictions: As Ban Gioc is in a border area, unauthorized drone flying and crossing into Chinese territory are strictly prohibited and highly dangerous.

Stay tuned for more hidden gems in Cao Bang in the next part of this series!