Ha Long: Full-day Island Escapade In Cat Ba

Ha Long Bay , Vietnam

Ha Long: Full-day Island Escapade In Cat Ba

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About this experience

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Cat Ba Island, part of the UNESCO-recognized Ha Long Bay Biosphere Reserve. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride and explore Cat Ba National Park, hiking through the stunning Kim Giao Forest to reach the summit of Ngu Lam for panoramic views. Discover the historical Quan Y Cave and unwind on the beautiful beaches of Cat Ba town.

Experience Highlights:
Scenic Ferry Ride: Enjoy a picturesque journey to Cat Ba Island with breathtaking views of Ha Long Bay.
Hiking Adventure: Trek through Kim Giao Forest, home to unique flora and fauna, to reach the summit of Ngu Lam.
Historical Exploration: Visit Quan Y Cave, a wartime hospital with fascinating history and three levels to explore.
Relaxing Beach Time: Unwind on Cat Ba’s stunning beaches, soaking in the sun and tranquility.

Available options

Group Tour (max 15 pax/group)

Group Tour (max 15 pax/group) <br/>Pickup included

Private Tour

Private Tour <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Travel insurance

Bottled drinking water

Transfer and transportation as per itinerary

Boat and ferry

Lunch

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Bai Chay area

English speaking guides (other languages available upon request with surcharge)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Take a ferry from Tuan Chau Island to Cat Ba Island, part of a stunning chain of 366 islands within the UNESCO-recognized Ha Long Bay Archipelago Biosphere Reserve, established in April 2005.
Upon arrival, we will venture to the heart of Cat Ba National Park for an exhilarating hike up the mountain. The trails here lead you through the enchanting Kim Giao Forest, filled with a rare and precious type of wood that appears on Vietnam’s “Red List” due to its remarkable ability to detect toxins. Next, we will ascend to the summit of Ngu Lam, where breathtaking panoramic views of Cat Ba and its countless mountains await, providing a perfect backdrop for stunning photographs.

Continuing our journey, we will make our way to Cat Ba town, taking advantage of scenic stops along the route. One highlight will be our visit to Quan Y Cave, a natural cave that served as a war hospital during the resistance from 1960 to 1965. The cave features three floors with rooms used to aid the sick and injured. Finally, we will arrive in Cat Ba town, where you can unwind on the beautiful beach and relax after an adventurous day.

What to bring: Sun cream, hat, flip flops or sandals, swimsuit, beachwear, towel, camera.

What's not included

Personal expenses such as: shopping, telephone, beverage, etc.

Tips and gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Maximum 1 child accompanied 1 adult, the 2nd child will pay the adult price.

About Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. This natural wonder offers stunning landscapes, unique geological formations, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination in Northern Vietnam.

Top Attractions

Ha Long Bay Cruise

A cruise is the best way to experience the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay. Overnight cruises offer cabins, meals, and various activities.

Nature/Adventure 1-3 days Moderate to Expensive (5,000,000 VND to 30,000,000 VND per person)

Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)

One of the largest and most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay, featuring stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Nature/Historical 1-2 hours Free (included in most cruise packages)

Ti Top Island

A small island with a beautiful sandy beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Nature/Beach 2-3 hours Free (included in most cruise packages)

Cat Ba Island

The largest island in Ha Long Bay, offering hiking, kayaking, and a national park with diverse wildlife.

Nature/Adventure Full day to overnight Budget to Moderate (depending on activities)

Ha Long Bay Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore the bay's hidden corners, caves, and lagoons.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate (200,000 VND to 500,000 VND per person)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bun Cha Ha Long

Grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce.

Lunch Contains meat, can be made vegetarian with tofu

Ha Long Bay Squid

Freshly caught squid grilled or stir-fried with garlic and chili.

Dinner Seafood

Banh Da Cua Ha Long

Rice flour cakes topped with crab meat, quail eggs, and shrimp.

Snack Seafood

Nem Cuon Ha Long

Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, and herbs, served with peanut sauce.

Appetizer Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Kayaking Rock climbing Caving Beach relaxation Spa treatments Sunset cruises Visiting local markets Exploring historical sites

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This is the best time to visit Ha Long Bay due to pleasant weather, clear skies, and calm waters. It's ideal for cruising, kayaking, and exploring the bay's natural beauty.

20-25°C 68-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Ha Long Bay is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and when using public transportation.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air

Van Don International Airport • 50 km from Ha Long Bay
Noi Bai International Airport • 170 km from Ha Long Bay

By train

Ha Long Station

By bus

Hanoi's Giap Bat Bus Station, Ha Long Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses connect major towns and ports but are not the primary means of transportation for exploring the bay.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Halong City Tuan Chau Island Cam Pha

Day trips

Cat Ba Island

Within Ha Long Bay • Full day to overnight

Cat Ba Island offers hiking, kayaking, and a national park with diverse wildlife. It's a great escape from the crowds of Ha Long Bay.

Lan Ha Bay

Within Ha Long Bay • Full day

Lan Ha Bay is a quieter alternative to Ha Long Bay, offering stunning landscapes and unique geological formations.

Hai Phong City

100 km from Ha Long Bay • Full day

Hai Phong City is a bustling port city with a rich history and vibrant culture. It's a great day trip for those interested in history and local life.

Festivals

Ha Long Bay International Film Festival • Annually in October Ha Long Bay Carnival • Annually in December Tet Festival • Annually in January or February (lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Book your cruise in advance, especially during peak season (October to December).
Choose a reputable cruise operator with good reviews and safety standards.
Bring a waterproof bag or dry bag to protect your belongings during boat tours and kayaking.
Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes for exploring caves and rocky areas.
Carry small denominations of cash for tips, small purchases, and street food.