Located about 120 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City along National Route 20 leading to Da Lat, the volcanic cave systems beneath the Teak forest of Dong Nai Province have recently garnered attention from adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Discovered over ten years ago, these stunning caves reveal not only the area’s geological history but also promise to become significant attractions for tourism development.
The largest cave within the region measures approximately six meters wide, 200 meters long, and three meters high, creating a spacious and sturdy vault. Exploring this natural wonder requires specialized flashlights, as much of the interior remains dimly lit, enhancing the sense of adventure for hundreds of visitors discovering this hidden gem each month.
According to experts, these caves wereformed more than 15 million years ago after volcanic eruptions, leaving behind unique wall formations and fascinating patterns. Deeper inside, the caves serve as shelter for millions of bats, which is why locals refer to them as "bat caves." Visitors frequently remark on the refreshing atmosphere inside, noting it does not carry the strong odors typically associated with bat habitats.
One particularly narrow passageway leads to another section of the cave, where guests can experience the enchanting sight of roots reaching deep within the cave, illuminated by their flashlight beams. Many guests describe the experience as walking through an "underground tunnel" filled with unique natural architecture and cool, crisp air. The ceiling of the caves boasts volcanic rock formations adorned with shimmering mineral deposits, showcasing honeycomb-like structures.
"Exploring the volcanic caves for the first time, I was surprised by the beauty of nature right here among the farmers’ fields," shared Lan, a tourist visiting from Ho Chi Minh City. Such sentiments exemplify the excitement over the region's potential since it remains largely unexplored and untouched, with the access path currently challenging due to rough terrain.
Local authorities, along with tour companies, are now coordinating plans to design structured tours to accommodate the growing interest. The cave entrances, hidden under thick grass and vegetation, are known only to local residents, making guided tours even more valuable to the safety and enjoyment of visitors. It's advised to seek assistance from knowledgeable locals before venturing through the caves alone.
The Teak forest spans nearly 150 hectares across the two districts of Tan Phu and Dinh Quan, making it the largest of its kind currently recognized in Vietnam. Because the area remains largely untouched by commercial development, it offers unique challenges and risks, yet holds immeasurable potential.
Adding to the excitement around these natural wonders, the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has received proposals from companies such as Oxalis, which specializes in tourism development, to help design sustainable tourism models leveraging the area’s natural beauty. The Oxalis team has recently conducted surveys of several caves within the Teak forest and gathered insights on prospective tourism opportunities.
Oxalis plans to propose two tourism models: the unique "Cave Lodge" concept, allowing visitors to stay within the caves, and proposed exploration tours of the caves. These initiatives aim to attract both domestic and international tourists, especially school groups traveling along the popular route between Ho Chi Minh City and Da Lat.
If approved by local authorities, these tourism models could commence development within three months, significantly affecting the economic prospects of the region and benefiting local communities through job creation and business opportunities.
The untouched, raw beauty of the volcanic caves of Dong Nai Province not only captures the imagination but also presents viable paths for responsible tourism. The potential economic enhancement for local communities, paired with environmental preservation efforts, marks the start of what could be a remarkable era for tourism in Vietnam.
Those wishing to explore this hidden paradise need to act quickly as interest grows, and the delicate balance between exploration and conservation remains as pivotal as ever. With the planned developments on the horizon, this region could soon see new life drawn from its ancient rock formations.