Introduction
If opulent tourist destinations leave you yearning for something more authentic, then The Duck Stop Phong Nha is tailor-made for you. Imagine a place where adorable ducks waddle around, friendly locals welcome you with open arms, and “Donald Trump” the buffalo takes you on a ride through the countryside. Sound great? Let’s dive into this delightful experience with Student Exchange!
Location Of The Duck Stop Phong Nha
On the tourist map of Phong Nha, The Duck Stop is located in Bong Lai Valley, within Hung Trach Commune, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province. Owned by Mr. Tran Ngoc Quynh, the farm is home to various animals, including ducks, chickens, dogs, buffaloes, and other creatures that visitors can encounter.
How To Get To The Duck Stop Phong Nha
Getting to The Duck Stop is a breeze—it’s only about 15 minutes from the main area of Phong Nha. You can reach it by taxi, bicycle, or motorbike, but if I were you, I would go by bicycle. It’s affordable, and along the way, you can savor the breathtaking Phong Nha landscape.
Head to Bong Lai Valley via the East Ho Chi Minh Trail. After traveling approximately 25 kilometers from the center of Dong Hoi city, cross Bung Bridge. Look for the signboard and follow it to The Duck Stop.
The journey to The Duck Stop will never make you feel bored. Every corner of the Bong Lai landscape will surprise and amaze you with its stunning views.
Best Time To Visit The Duck Stop Phong Nha
There is no strict time limit to visit The Duck Stop in Phong Nha. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season from February to the end of August. This period is considered “smooth sailing” for participating in nature activities.
Detail Price At The Duck Stop Phong Nha
Depending on your preferences, the experience at this eco-tourism farm ranges from 100,000 VND to 250,000 VND. Don’t miss the duck massage—an activity you won’t find elsewhere! For a special rate of 20,000 VND, the farm’s friendly ducks will pamper you with their unique massage technique.
But that’s not all! The farm also boasts a friendly buffalo with a humorous name: ‘Donald Trump.’ You can hop on ‘Donald Trump’s’ back and explore the tranquil countryside roads for just 50,000 VND. Additionally, during your visit, indulge in a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine—the savory Banh Xeo.
Activities At The Duck Stop In Phong Nha
Come and experience the myriad of activities here; we are confident that this farm will be filled with your laughter.
Discover The Unique Duck Massage
Besides their quacking and following you around, the ducks here also have a talent for giving massages. Mr. Quynh will guide you through the process. You’ll sprinkle grains or crushed rice on your feet and wait for the ducks to come and eat. The sensation of the ducks nibbling on the food on your feet will make you feel as though you’re being professionally massaged. This is similar to the fish massages in Thailand and Japan. You’ll feel both relaxed and tickled by the hundreds of ducks.
Feed The Ducks At The Duck Stop Phong Nha
Here’s a valuable experience for you. When you arrive at The Duck Stop, you’ll be provided food for the ducks. Hundreds of ducks will waddle around you, eagerly waiting to be fed. You can sprinkle a bit of food in the palm of your hand and let them eat. Surprisingly, you’ll find yourself laughing as they nibble because it feels like they’re giving you a ticklish massage.
Additionally, you’ll notice the different personalities of the ducks. Some are shy and won’t come too close to you, while others boldly approach. It’s a delightful mix of relaxation and amusement as these feathered friends surround you.
Become The Captain Of The Duck Army
Visit and experience the ‘Duck Leader’ service. If you’ve never been pursued before, don’t worry—when you come here, you’ll be chased by hundreds of adorable little ducks. In one hand, hold some food seeds; in the other, carry a container. Run around while calling out ‘quack quack’ and shake the food container to signal the ducks. Imagine being trailed by a flock of cute, waddling ducklings—it’s a truly unique experience.
As you reach the end of the enclosure, continue shouting ‘quack quack’ and tossing the food. The ducks will quickly gather and settle down to eat. You’ll feel like a skilled leader with your own duck army. Quite an adventure.
Close-Knit With The Ducks
Besides participating in the Duck Leader experience and feeding the ducks, you can also catch some of the ducks and gently release them into the nearby pond. They’ll spread their white wings gracefully, skimming the water’s surface. The ducks truly enjoy this, and they may come to you again to be released like that one more time.
Ride Big Don-Water Buffalo
Besides encountering the adorable ducks, you’ll also have the chance to meet an affable buffalo named Big Don, affectionately referred to as ‘Donald Trump. Sitting on the buffalo’s back, you can take a leisurely stroll through the rural roads of Vietnam or wade into the nearby river. The water level here isn’t too deep just about as high as the buffalo’s body, so you won’t completely submerge. It’s like sitting on the water’s surface.
Meet The Farmer And Savor Banh Xeo
You will feel satisfied with the friendly hosts at this farm. They are very welcoming and eager to assist you, ensuring you have an excellent experience at The Duck Stop Quang Binh. Additionally, you must try Banh Xeo here. The crispy texture of the “Banh Xeo” combined with the savory and slightly sweet “Tuong Dau” (bean sauce) will delight your taste buds.
Are Activities Safe For Ducks Here?
The answer is yes. The tourism model here is designed to provide an excellent experience for visitors without compromising the well-being of the ducks. The level of care these ducks receive surpasses that of many other animals. Furthermore, a portion of the fees you pay for experiencing the services here is used to care for them.
Other Destinations Near The Duck Stop Phong Nha
Besides The Duck Stop, you can explore other destinations to make your trip more interesting and fulfilling:
Cuong Rung Farm
Cuong Rung Farm, also known as Wild Boar Eco Farm and Bong Lai Swing Nature Farm, offers a serene experience where you can immerse yourself in nature. Additionally, you can test your courage at the Bong Lai Swing, an adventurous swing that propels you at high speeds over a considerable distance, unlike typical swings.
Another interesting game to try is the Monkey Bridge. The monkey bridge is a distinctive feature of Vietnam’s countryside. It’s a bridge that requires excellent balance. You have to pedal a bicycle to cross this bridge. If you manage to cross it, you can be proud of yourself. Additionally, there is a cricket farm and fresh fruit juice at Bong Lai Nature Farm.
Lie back on the hammock, eyes gently closed, suspended amidst the vast and majestic natural expanse. Listen to the symphony of nature, its harmonious notes lulling you into a peaceful slumber.
The Pub With Cold Beer
There’s nothing better than enjoying a cold beer, delicious grilled dishes, and fresh vegetables harvested from the garden. You can come here and experience that. Additionally, this place is famous for the warm hospitality of the owner.
Bong Lai Rattan House
This is a suitable place for photography enthusiasts and relaxation. It holds the rustic beauty of a countryside village amidst the majestic mountainous landscape. Besides capturing photos, you can sit in cozy huts with friends, enjoy street food, sing along, or take a leisurely ride on a buffalo cart along the rivers and paths of Bong Lai.
Additionally, you can immerse yourself in the stream and enjoy a cold beer with your friends when you visit here
Dong Soi Farm
Here is a tranquil slice of heaven waiting for you. Come and immerse yourself in lush green grass, interwoven with shades of pink and orange from blooming flower fields. Here, you have the opportunity to harvest organic agricultural products with your own hands, care for sheep, and go fishing like a true farmer. Moreover, this place boasts delightful restaurants serving mouthwatering specialties made from fresh, organic ingredients. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking an authentic countryside experience.
O O Lake Silence
The name ‘Oo Oh’ itself evokes a sense of wonder, and true to its name, this location will leave you in awe. Imagine a tranquil lake surrounded by lush green hills—a perfect spot for healing your soul. Nestled amidst this natural beauty is a charming café, inviting you to experience and capture beautiful moments through your lens.
Love Valley
While it may be a replica of Dalat’s Valley of Love, this place lives up to its name. Imagine a serene valley surrounded by lush hills—a perfect haven for couples. The iconic love seats here beckon you to capture beautiful moments together. Whether you’re admiring the flower fields, horseback riding, or fishing, this spot offers an intimate connection with nature.
Conclusion
The Duck Stop in Phong Nha is a worthy place for a relaxing getaway. Student Exchange guarantees that when you visit here, you’ll leave nothing but joyous smiles. Becoming the leader of a duck squad, you can feed them, experience duck massages, or sit on the back of a buffalo and wander through the Vietnamese countryside. Don’t miss the unforgettable taste of bánh xèo prepared by the friendly farm owner. Each experience here will offer you maximum cheerfulness until the last moment.