Phuoc Long

Phước Long is a district-level town in the east of Bình Phước province, approximately 25 km east of Đồng Xoài. It was once the capital of the former Phước Long province before reunification and was an important administrative centre during the Vietnam War. The town sits near the Thác Mơ hydroelectric dam and reservoir, making it a gateway for water-based recreation.

Phước Long has a tropical climate with a distinct dry season (November–April) and wet season (May–October). Temperatures range from 24–34°C year-round. The surrounding landscape is dominated by rubber and cashew plantations, with forested hills to the north and east.

The Battle of Phước Long (December 1974 – January 1975) was one of the final major engagements of the Vietnam War, marking the first time a provincial capital fell to North Vietnamese forces and foreshadowing the fall of Saigon months later.

By Plane

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City is the nearest major airport, about 140 km south. From Ho Chi Minh City, take a bus to Đồng Xoài and then a local xe ôm or taxi the remaining 25 km east to Phước Long.

By Car / Road

Phước Long is accessible via a paved branch road off National Route 14, about 25 km east of Đồng Xoài. Driving from Ho Chi Minh City takes approximately 3 hours (140 km). Public buses run from Đồng Xoài's bus station to Phước Long several times daily. Motorbike taxis are available for the final leg.

Phước Long is a small town that can be navigated on foot in the central area. For trips to Thác Mơ Lake or surrounding plantations, renting a motorbike (150,000–200,000 ₫ per day) is the best option. Taxis are limited; xe ôm (motorbike taxis) are more common.

• Thác Mơ Hydroelectric Dam — A major infrastructure project on the Bé River, with a scenic reservoir stretching into the Central Highlands. The dam site offers panoramic views.

• Thác Mơ Lake — A vast artificial lake popular for fishing, boat rides, and picnics. Local operators offer boat tours for around 200,000–300,000 ₫ per hour.

• Bà Rá Mountain — Visible from Phước Long, this 736 m peak offers hiking trails and summit views.

• Phước Long War Memorial — A memorial dedicated to the 1974–75 Battle of Phước Long, located in the town centre.

• Rubber and cashew plantations — Miles of orderly plantations surround the town; visitors can observe tapping and processing.

• Boat trip on Thác Mơ Lake — Hire a locally operated boat for a leisurely cruise through the flooded valleys.

• Fishing at the reservoir — Thác Mơ Lake is stocked with freshwater fish; bring your own gear or ask at a local guesthouse.

• Hike Bà Rá Mountain — A half-day trek through secondary forest to the summit cross and communications tower.

• Quán Như Ý — A local eatery serving bún riêu (crab noodle soup) and cơm tấm (broken rice with grilled pork). Dishes 30,000–50,000 ₫.
• Nhà Hàng Thác Mơ — A lakeside restaurant specialising in grilled freshwater fish and seafood hotpot. Meals 80,000–150,000 ₫.
• Phở bò Phước Long — Street-side phở stalls around the market serve bowls of beef noodle soup from 40,000 ₫.

Cà phê sữa đá is widely available at small coffee shops around the market square. Fresh coconut water is sold by street vendors. Bottled water is recommended for drinking.

• Budget: Nhà Nghỉ Thái Bình — Basic rooms with fan and cold water from 180,000 ₫ per night.
• Mid-range: Khách Sạn Phước Long — A simple hotel on the main street with air-conditioned rooms from 350,000 ₫ per night.
• Upscale: Thác Mơ Resort — A lakeside resort-style property with clean rooms, a restaurant, and boat access. Rooms from 500,000 ₫ per night.

The town market sells local cashew nuts, black pepper, and rubber products. Phước Long is particularly known for its high-quality cashews, which can be purchased shelled or roasted from roadside stalls. Small bags cost 50,000–100,000 ₫.

• Đồng Xoài (25 km west, 30 min) — Provincial capital with markets and war memorials.
• Bu Gia Mập National Park (70 km north, 2 hr) — Dense forest with hiking and wildlife.
• Đắk Nông province — The Central Highlands region begins just north of Phước Long, with coffee plantations and waterfalls.
• Bà Rá Mountain (15 km west, 20 min) — The highest point in the province with panoramic views.