Planning a side trip from Hanoi to Hạ Long Bay? Here’s what to expect at this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam.
Famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands crowned with lush rainforests, Hạ Long Bay is approximately three hours from Hà Nội. If you’re thinking of escaping the capital for the day, a side trip to this seascape is a worthwhile option. Here’s what awaits at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Table of Contents
Ha Long Bay Overview
Gliding along the emerald waters of Hạ Long Bay. Photo: Lord Acuña
Country: Vietnam (northern region)
Country Code: +84
Continent: Asia (Southeast)
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Language: Vietnamese
How to Get to Ha Long Bay
The most convenient and budget-friendly way to reach Hạ Long Bay from Hanoi is by booking a tour. With round-trip transfer from the Old Quarter, your day starts with an early pick-up from your hotel. The journey is quite long, but the air-conditioned vehicle makes it easy to catch up on sleep along the way. Tip: Pack light and bring essentials – a pair of slippers, sunscreen, a hat, and an extra set of clothes in case you get wet.
Duration: 12 hours (entire trip)
Cost: From VND 1,350,000
Ha Long Bay Highlights
1. Ha Long Bay Cruise
You’ll arrive at Tuan Chau Harbour after the three-hour journey from Hanoi. Once you embark on the boat, you will cruise past Hạ Long Bay’s picturesque limestone formations for about an hour. A buffet lunch is served onboard, perfect for fuelling up before the next set of activities.
2. Sung Sot Cave
Amazing rock formations in Sửng Sốt Cave. Photo: Lord Acuña
After a leisurely cruise, it’s time for the first physical activity: exploring Sửng Sốt Cave, the largest cave in the region. Nestled within a limestone mountain, its first chamber resembles a vast theatre hall. Deeper inside, the second chamber is much larger and features more intricate stalactite and stalagmite formations.
3. Luon Cave
Kayaking through the narrow passage of Luồn Cave. Photo: Lord Acuña
Luồn Cave is a stunning natural limestone tunnel that opens into a serene, emerald-green enclosed lake. The narrow passage is best explored by small bamboo boat or kayak, allowing you to drift quietly through the cave. Surrounded by towering mountains, the lake is sheltered from waves and wind, keeping its surface calm.
4. Ti Top Island
Featuring a crescent-shaped white sand beach, Ti Tốp Island is the final stop of the tour. Not in the mood for swimming? Hike up to Ti Top Peak for a panoramic view of Hạ Long Bay’s limestone karsts. Rising 110 metres above sea level, the climb involves more than 400 steps – but the sweeping views at the top are worth every single one.
A day trip to Hạ Long Bay offers a refreshing break from Hanoi’s endless motorbikes. Out here, it’s all about connecting with nature!
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