Vinh Ha Long: Vietnam’s Timeless Wonder

Located in Quảng Ninh Province in Northern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is one of the country’s most iconic natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald-green waters, mystical caves, and floating fishing villages, Ha Long Bay offers a magical escape that continues to captivate travelers from around the world.

1.1  Why Ha Long Bay Always Attracts Tourists

Ha Long Bay is not only known for its breathtaking scenery, but also for its cultural and ecological value. Here’s why visitors keep coming back:

• Spectacular limestone karsts and islets
  With over 1,600 islands and islets, each shaped uniquely by nature, Ha Long offers an unforgettable landscape for sightseeing, photography, and exploration.
•  Exciting Activities
  From cruising on traditional wooden boats, kayaking through caves, swimming in hidden lagoons, to visiting floating villages – there’s something for every traveler.
•  Myth and Legend
  The name “Ha Long” means “Descending Dragon” – rooted in a legend about dragons sent to protect Vietnam. This mystical backstory adds to the bay’s unique charm.
•  Biodiversity & Heritage
  The bay is home to rare plants, marine species, and cultural heritage, including the UNESCO-listed Cat Ba Archipelago and Tuan Chau Island.

1.2 How Far Is Ha Long Bay from Hanoi?

• Distance: About 155–170 km (96–105 miles), depending on the route.
• Travel time: Typically 2.5 to 3.5 hours from Hanoi.

1.3 Transportation Options from Hanoi to Ha Long

• By Limousine Van or Bus
  Multiple daily departures; comfortable seats, air-conditioned, with hotel pick-up available. Travel time: 2.5–3 hours.
• By Private Car or Taxi
  Convenient and flexible, especially for families or groups. Travel time: 2.5–3 hours.
• By Train
  Less common and slower (~6–7 hours), but scenic.
• By Seaplane (Luxury Option)
  45-minute flight from Hanoi with stunning aerial views of the bay – perfect for those seeking a premium experience.

1.4 Best Time to Visit Ha Long Bay

• October to April (Dry Season):
  This is the most popular time to visit, with pleasant weather, mild temperatures (18–25°C), and calm seas – ideal for cruising and outdoor activities.
• May to September (Summer Season):
  Warmer and more humid, but also a great time for swimming and kayaking. Some rain and storms may occur, especially in July and August.

As one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, Ha Long Bay offers more than just scenic cruises. From kayaking through limestone caves, tasting fresh seafood, to relaxing in luxurious resorts, Ha Long Bay delivers a full package of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

2.1 Top Things to Do in Ha Long Bay

•  Cruise Around the Bay
  Embark on a day or overnight cruise to admire the bay’s thousands of limestone karsts and islands. Many cruises include stops at caves, beaches, and floating villages.
•  Kayaking & Bamboo Boat Tours
  Paddle through tranquil lagoons, under limestone arches, and into hidden caves like Luon Cave or Ba Hang Fishing Village – a peaceful way to explore the bay.
•  Explore Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave
  One of the largest and most impressive caves in Ha Long Bay, filled with unique rock formations and colorful lighting.
•  Visit Titop Island
  Climb to the top for panoramic views of the bay and enjoy swimming or sunbathing on its white sand beach.
• Cat Ba Island & National Park
  For nature lovers, head to nearby Cat Ba Island for jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, and eco-adventures.
• Join Night Squid Fishing or Cooking Classes
  Some cruises offer fun onboard activities like squid fishing at night or Vietnamese cooking demonstrations.

2.2 What to Eat in Ha Long Bay

• Fresh Seafood
  Ha Long is known for its abundant seafood: lobster, squid, oysters, sea snails, and grilled clams are must-tries.
•  Chả Mực (Fried Squid Cake)
  A local specialty made from fresh squid, often served with sticky rice or vermicelli – don’t miss it!
•  Seafood Hotpot
  A warm, flavorful dish perfect for groups, combining crab, shrimp, fish, and local herbs.
•  Grilled Scallops with Onion & Peanut
  A popular street food in Ha Long night markets.
•  Try Local Coffee or Sugarcane Juice
  Refreshing drinks served along Bai Chay Beach or in floating cafes.

2.3  Where to Stay in Ha Long Bay

• Overnight Cruises (Floating Hotels)
  Stay on luxury cruises (1–2 nights) with full-board meals, guided excursions, and relaxing views of the bay.
• Hotels & Resorts in Bai Chay
  Bai Chay is the main tourist hub, offering a wide range of accommodations from budget hostels to 5-star resorts with pools and ocean views.
• Eco-lodges on Cat Ba Island
  For a nature retreat, eco-resorts on Cat Ba offer cozy wooden bungalows nestled between jungle and beach.
•  Recommended Hotels:
• Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long
• Royal Lotus Hotel
• Paradise Suites Hotel
• Flamingo Cat Ba Beach Resort (on Cat Ba Island)

Ha Long Bay is more than a scenic destination – it’s an immersive travel experience. Whether you want to relax on a cruise, taste delicious local seafood, or seek adventure on water and land, Ha Long offers something for everyone.

Experience the legend, live the beauty – only in Ha Long Bay.

Looking to discover the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long Bay without the stress of planning? Hai Dang Travel offers a variety of affordable, all-inclusive tour packages that take you straight into the heart of one of Vietnam’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

With years of experience and thousands of satisfied travelers, Hai Dang Travel is proud to provide professional, convenient, and budget-friendly Ha Long Bay tours for individuals, families, and groups.

3.1  Why Choose Hai Dang Travel for Your Ha Long Adventure?

• ✅ All-Inclusive Packages
  All tours include transportation, accommodation (hotel or cruise), meals, entrance fees, guide services, and activities.
• ✅ Affordable Prices
  Tours start from just 1.9 million VND (~$75) per person – suitable for students, families, and budget travelers.
• ✅ Flexible Itineraries
  Choose from 1-day, 2-day-1-night, or 3-day-2-night tours. Options for staying in hotels or overnight cruises.
• ✅ Professional Support
  Our experienced team takes care of everything from departure to return, so you can relax and enjoy the view.

3.2 Popular Ha Long Bay Tour Packages by Hai Dang Travel

3.2.1 Ha Long Bay 1-Day Tour (From Hanoi)

• Round-trip transfer from Hanoi
• Cruise on Ha Long Bay
• Visit Sung Sot Cave, kayaking or bamboo boat ride
• Seafood lunch on board
• Ideal for short trips or first-time visitors

3.2.2 Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night (Overnight Cruise or Hotel)

• All features of the 1-day tour
• Sunset party, squid fishing, tai chi in the morning
• Optional visit to Titop Island or Luon Cave
• Choice of mid-range cruise or hotel in Bai Chay

3.2.3 Ha Long – Cat Ba 3 Days 2 Nights

• Cruise and stay in Cat Ba Island
• Trek in Cat Ba National Park
• Beach time + floating village visit
• Perfect for nature lovers and couples

+ Transportation Included

• Limousine van or sleeper bus from Hanoi
• Private group car available on request
• Professional tour guides throughout the trip

+ Book Your Tour with Hai Dang Travel Today!

Let Hai Dang Travel bring you unforgettable memories in Ha Long – where natural beauty meets comfort and convenience.

*** CONTACT US:

Hai Dang Travel Joint Stock Company

• Address: 367 Tan Son Street, Tan Son Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Hotline: +841900.2011 – +84911.2222.88
• Website: www.gotovietnam.vn