Mooc Spring is one of the famous eco-tourism destinations in Quang Binh, Vietnam. Hidden in the pristine forest of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, the place is about 70km northwest of Dong Hoi City. Mooc Spring is considered a “paradise” in the wild, with its crystal-clear stream, cool waters, and magnificent natural scenery. The spring also offers various exciting activities, such as bathing in the spring, kayaking, fishing, and more, allowing visitors to relax, relieve stress, and fully enjoy their trip.
Overview of Mooc Spring
Mooc Spring is nestled in the valley of limestone mountain ranges along the Chay River within Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh, Vietnam. It is blessed with pristine and breathtaking beauty. From a distance, the emerald-green water winds and intertwines through the rocks, creating gentle sounds that blend with the chirping of birds, forming a natural symphony.
The spring’s allure lies in its fresh, clean beauty and the local legends about its origin. In the local language, “mooc” means “to rise from below,” referring to the spring’s water columns that rise from the earth, creating the stream that flows into the Chay River.
Despite multiple surveys by the British Royal Caving Team, the exact origin of Mooc Spring remains a mystery. Its depth remains unknown. The spring’s source is believed to be an underground water stream that emerges through a rock face, where geologists speculate that the spring originates from hidden underground channels.
Things to do at Mooc Spring
Exploring nature and learning about the rich flora
Mooc Spring offers visitors a chance to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Phong Nha – Ke Bang’s wilderness. This destination leads visitors through dense limestone forests along the sparkling spring.
Along the way, tourists can admire diverse ecosystems, from colorful birds and dragonflies to orchids. From mid-March to late April, the area is adorned with vibrant golden wildflowers. As visitors move deeper into the forest, they are surrounded by vast landscapes, with streams flowing under small waterfalls and boulders scattered on both sides, creating a picturesque and poetic scene.
Bathing in the spring and enjoying water activities
Bathing in the spring is a must-do activity at Mooc Spring. With an average water temperature of about 20°C, it is refreshingly cool and relaxing. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or just relax in the clear waters. The experience of cooling off on a hot summer day is truly rejuvenating. For those looking for adventure, kayaking through the rocks, waterfalls, and lush forests offers a completely different view of Mooc Spring.
Also, many visitors enjoy the thrill of diving, offering moments of excitement and refreshment in the cool water. A popular activity is the water slide at Ghenh Chum. This thrilling ride takes visitors down from a high point into the cool waters of Mooc Spring, creating an unforgettable experience full of speed and excitement. To participate in the water slide, visitors must be at least 1.3 meters tall and in good health. Safety vests are provided before engaging in this activity.
Picnic and photography
Mooc Spring offers a pristine, picturesque beauty with its lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and charming bamboo bridges. This makes it an ideal destination for picnics and photography. When visiting Mooc Spring, you can enjoy the fresh, peaceful atmosphere. The sound of the babbling stream and the gentle rustling of the wind will calm your mind and soul. You can relax in the cool water, sunbathe on Dao Tien or Tam Hop Pebble Riverbanks, or paddle a kayak to explore the surrounding scenery.
For a perfect picnic at Mooc Spring, you should prepare essential items such as sunscreen, hats, etc. You can buy food from the local restaurants in the tourist area. Also, to capture beautiful photos at Mooc Spring, it’s best to visit early in the morning or in the afternoon. At these times, the soft light will enhance the natural beauty of the landscape. You can also choose unique photo spots, such as from the bamboo bridge, the pebble riverbank, or along the stream.
Enjoy local flavors
Mooc Spring has a restaurant located within the tourist area, with a spacious, airy space surrounded by green trees. The restaurant is built using natural materials such as bamboo, palm leaves, and rattan. The menu features local specialties from Quang Binh, which are made with fresh ingredients and distinct Central Vietnamese flavors.
One of the most popular dishes at Mooc Spring is grilled free-range chicken. The chickens are raised naturally in the hills, with firm and flavorful meat. The chicken is grilled over charcoal and seasoned lightly to preserve its natural taste. When served, the chicken is dipped in “muoi cheo” (a dipping sauce mixed with herbs), a local specialty originating from Phong Nha. The restaurant also offers other dishes, such as grilled pork, fried stream fish, grilled or steamed shrimp, and sticky rice. All dishes are prepared in traditional styles, offering a true taste of the region. Dining at Mooc Spring, you’ll experience the simplicity and authenticity of Quang Binh’s people.
Mooc Spring ticket prices and opening hours
With reasonable prices, you can enjoy a memorable trip and explore the best that Mooc Spring has to offer. The ticket price for adults is 180,000 VND/person/entry, while for children, it’s 100,000 VND/person/entry. The ticket price does not include VAT. The tour package includes life jackets, kayaks, a view of “Thach Tuyen Lan Vien,” thrilling games, safety equipment at the swimming areas, and tour insurance.
If you’re only interested in sightseeing and do not participate in other activities, the entrance fee is 80,000 VND/entry for adults and children over 1.3m, free for those under 1.3m. Mooc Spring operates from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily. Therefore, if you plan to visit other nearby attractions such as Paradise Cave or Phong Nha Cave, make sure to schedule your trip accordingly.
Currently, tourists can book day tours to Mooc Spring through travel agencies in Phong Nha, such as Phong Nha Tourist or Phong Nha Mytour, or buy tickets independently. Tours typically depart and pick up guests from Dong Hoi City. The advantage of booking a tour is that families or groups of friends don’t have to worry about transportation and can fully enjoy all the activities and services at Mooc Spring.
Best time to visit Mooc Spring
The best time to visit Mooc Spring is from March to May. During this period, the weather in Quang Binh is cool and favorable for outdoor activities and relaxation. The average temperature ranges from 18-25°C with minimal rain, making it perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the beauty of Mooc Spring. If you’re interested in seeing the wildflowers, you can visit Mooc Spring around February to March. Flowers bloom in early spring, creating a stunning natural landscape with its vibrant yellow color and beautiful clusters.
You can also visit Mooc Spring in the summer, from June to August. However, the weather during this period in Quang Binh can be quite hot, reaching 35-40°C. Despite the heat, this is the breeding season for butterflies, and it’s not hard to see Phong Nha’s stunning scenery filled with butterflies fluttering among wildflowers, tree branches, or the clear, emerald waters. Although the weather is hot, the surrounding green forests, mountains, and water make Mooc Spring’s atmosphere refreshing and pleasant, making it an ideal time for swimming and water activities.
How to get to Mooc Spring
Mooc Spring is located in Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province, about 70 km northwest of Dong Hoi City. You can reach Mooc Spring by two main ways:
By motorbike
After arriving at Dong Hoi Airport, you can rent a motorbike in the city to explore nearby tourist attractions. The road to Mooc Spring is quite straightforward; just head north along the eastern branch of the Ho Chi Minh Road for about 60 km. Then, turn onto the western branch at the Khe Gat intersection and continue for another 5 km.
By car or renting a service car
If you prefer not to drive a motorbike, you can take a car either by joining a Quang Binh tour or by renting a self-drive car. The travel time from Dong Hoi City to Mooc Spring is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Tips for visiting Mooc Spring
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Mooc Spring, consider these tips:
- Shopping near Mooc Spring: There are several shopping spots near Mooc Spring, such as Phong Nha Market, Dac San Mien Trung 24h Supermarket, and others. You can also shop for clothes and souvenirs at stores in Dong Hoi, including Dong Hoi Market and Vincom Plaza Dong Hoi.
- Clothing and essentials: Bring comfortable, cool clothing suitable for exploring and playing in the spring. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and other personal items to protect yourself from the sun.
- Fitness: Since the road to Mooc Spring is quite long, it’s best to ensure you’re in good health for a comfortable trip.
- Safety: Participate in activities under the guidance of Mooc Spring’s staff to ensure your safety.
- Environmental guidance: Mooc Spring is an eco-tourism destination, so it’s important to keep the environment clean by not littering.
With its rich biodiversity and the value of its forest ecosystem, Mooc Spring offers visitors a chance to experience new things. You can explore pristine forests, admire rare wildlife, or participate in eco-tourism activities like spring bathing, kayaking, etc. This offers moments of peace and relaxation, helping you escape from the stresses of daily life.
FAQs
How can I book a tour to Mooc Spring?
Currently, visitors can book one-day tours to Mooc Spring through travel agencies in Phong Nha by phone or email, such as Phong Nha Tourist, Phong Nha Mytour, etc.
How much is the entrance fee to Mooc Spring?
The entrance fee for adults is 180,000 VND/person, while for children, it is 100,000 VND/person. The tour price does not include VAT. The tour fee includes a life jacket, kayak, “Thach Tuyen Lan Vien,” thrilling games, safety equipment at the swimming areas, and tour insurance.
Are there any hotels or accommodations near Mooc Spring?
If you wish to experience staying at a comfortable location with various recreational activities yet close to nature, you can choose Chay Lap Farmstay. The rooms here are uniquely designed with green surroundings and numerous amenities, such as a swimming pool, bar, restaurant, and small golf course, and are located near Chay Lap Riverside, where you can enjoy SUP/Kayak on the Chay River.
How long does a tour to Mooc Spring last?
If you go on your own, you can enjoy a flexible schedule based on your interests. Tours organized by companies usually last for a day. A tour can be extended if combined with nearby attractions like Paradise Cave, Chay River – Dark Cave, etc.
What activities are available for families and children at Mooc Spring?
Families can enjoy swimming and local cuisine or take photos of the stunning natural scenery. Moreover, parents can walk around the area with their children to explore the diverse ecosystem of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park.
How does the weather at Mooc Spring change throughout the year?
The best time to visit Mooc Spring is from March to May. During this period, the weather in Quang Binh is cool and ideal for recreational activities. The average temperature ranges from 18-25°C with little rain, providing favorable conditions for sightseeing.
Are there other tourist attractions near Mooc Spring that I can visit on the same day?
You can also visit Phong Nha Cave, Paradise Cave, Chay River – Dark Cave, etc., in Phong Nha. There are several other famous tourist spots in Dong Hoi City, such as Nhat Le Beach and Quang Phu Sand Dunes.
How can I ensure safety during my tour at Mooc Spring?
It’s essential to strictly follow the guidance of the tour guide if you are on an organized tour and the instructions of the tourist area’s staff if you are visiting independently, especially when participating in swimming and water sliding at Ghenh Chum. Visitors should also be conscious and mindful of their own safety.
What plants and animals can I see while visiting Mooc Spring?
During your exploration, you will witness the diverse beauty of the local ecosystem, from colorful birds and dragonflies to distinctive orchids. Notably, from mid-March to the end of April, Mooc Spring is adorned by golden wildflowers.
