The cheapest and most convenient way of getting from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha is by overnight sleeper bus. We suggest using the Hung Thanh bus company which departs at 16:30 daily and arrives in the centre of Phong Nha at approximately 04:00 in the morning.
The sleeping bus is air-conditioned, and occasionally has wi-fi. There is a toilet at the back of the bus, and usually the bus will make a stop along the way, where there are (basic) toilet facilities.
Please visit these links for the current train timetables:
Southbound: Hanoi to Saigon
Northbound: Saigon to Hanoi
Book your train to Dong Hoi, not Dong Ha (a common mistake). You can then get to Phong Nha from Dong Hoi by private transfer, local taxi or local bus. Please see our page on how to get here from Dong Hoi.