Halong bay highlights and travel guide

Halong Bay is one the iconic natural beauties of Vietnam and unsurprisingly one of the most popular destinations in the whole of the country. The crystal blue waters scattered with limestone peaks make for a vision that epitomises the wonder of Vietnam. The name translates as ‘Descending Dragon Bay’ because of the local legend of a family of dragons who descended to protect the bay from foreign invaders. This mystical origin is certainly fit for the otherworldly landscape. Set in the Bay of Tonkin, this stunning coastal area became a UNESCO World Heritage sight in 1994. It is clear to see why this unique landscape consists of clear waters with thousands of islands that seem to rise up majestically out of the ocean with thick carpets of forest covering their peaks. Northeast of Halong Bay sits Bai Tu Bay and to the south is Lan Ha Ba and Cat Ba Island, all of equal beauty and sharing a similar geological makeup.

► Learn more on Halong Bay UNESCO Heritage

 

A birds’ eye view of the bay.
 

It’s hard to believe that this peaceful was ever embroiled in war but in the past, there have been some vicious battles that took place here. The 120km stretch has been involved in numerous fights against Chinese invasions and was also heavily mined by the USA during the America – Vietnam war.

Today, however, the islands sit in peace, their only enemy the elements that have eroded them over thousands of years. The majority of the islands are made up of limestone and have been formed over approximately 20,000,000 years. Erosion from the sea and weather has resulted in some incredible rock formations and deep cavernous caves. The diversity of the geology has resulted in a rich biodiversity with many rare and beautiful species being found in the area. From the tropical evergreen forests to the marine ecosystems and coral reefs there are plenty of amazing environments to shelter the many species of flora and fauna.

This magnificent bay has two main seasons, Summer and Winter. The Summer is hot and moist and the perfect time to enjoy some water sports like kayaking, swimming and snorkelling. A dip in the clean sparkling water is the perfect way to cool down. The Winter, on the other hand, is cold and dry. The bay spends much of its time shrouded in a veil of mist during the winter which creates an eery and mystical atmosphere.

 

One of the most popular activities in Halong Bay is a cruise around the karst islands. There are many options to suit different timeframes and budgets so it can be difficult choosing the best option!

There are also different styles of ship to choose from. Some are designed in the style of French steamers, reminiscent of the French colonial era with an air of grandness about them. Others are designed as traditional junk ships with their sails, much like dragons’ wings, hoisted high above the boat. There are many routes around the islands that stop off at different islands and caves and offer a range of activities depending on the price. Some offer kayaking trips which allow you to get closer to the islands and explore the magical caves. Others include early morning tai chi on the deck of the ship and some even include a cooking lesson.  

The islands and islets in Halong Bay are plentiful, each one extending out of the water like a mythical creature rising from the deep. One of the most popular islands for tourists is the picturesque Titop Island. This conical island meets the water at a fringe of sandy beaches with the peak being swathed in a thick forest. Here visitors can enjoy relaxing on the sandy beaches or walking to the peak to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the bay. There are also hundreds of other interesting islands to visit. Some have been named after the animals they resemble such as fighting cock island, elephant island and porcupine island.

Some of these caves are also home to fascinating cave systems which are ready and waiting to be explored. One of the most popular is Hang Sung Sot whose magnificent chambers are studded with incredible rock formations. Colourful lights and rays of sun that break in from the roof light up the intricate designs of the rocks. Also buried deep in the cavern, is a particularly surprising rock formation. In the heart of the chamber, visitors can view a large fertility symbol illuminated by red lights.

 

Another fantastic cave is Hang Dau Go or Wooden Stake Cave. This remarkable cave is seated at the top of a 90 step climb. As you enter the cave a whole new world opens up before your eyes. Inside the roof and walls tower around high around the chamber, their surface weathered with varying formations. This cave takes its name from the power struggle between Vietnam and Mongolia that once took place here. The Vietnamese were able to defeat their enemy using wooden stakes to sink their boats, hence the name.

Thien Cung Cave or Heavenly Palace Cave is also very popular for its captivating stalactites and stalagmites that capture the imaginations of onlookers. After passing through a narrow entrance to the cave visitors will be treated to an ethereal world steeped in local legend. The rock formations create an organic sculpture whose surface changes from smooth undulating planes to jagged spikes.

Another unique attraction of Halong is the Halong Pearl Farm where you can see the incredibly artistry and dedication that goes into creating a single pearl. Here traditional Vietnamese techniques are used in tandem with Japanese technology to produce the finest quality pearl jewellery.

The neighbouring bays are also well worth a visit with a beauty that matches Halong Bay, but a more remote and undisturbed atmosphere. Lan Ha Bay which sits just south of Halong Bay, shares the same stunning karst islands, beautiful clear waters and climate as Halong Bay with the added bonus of more sandy, white beaches. This area is less well known and the waters aren’t cluttered with the boats and cruise ships of Halong Bay. These tranquil waters are also home to seals and dolphins which can be spotted frolicking in the still bay. The enchanting Bright and Dark Cave is another fantastic attraction in Lan Ha Bay. This is best explored by kayak as the low-lying, the dark mouth of the cave is too small for other vessels. The Dark Cave is long and mysterious with visitors needing a torch to illuminate their way through to the other side whereas the Light Cave is small and flooded with natural light accentuating the weather and sea-worn rocks.

 

To the east of Lan Ha Bay is the sublime Cat Ba Island. An incredible haven for explorers and lovers of outdoor adventure. This is a larger island and features a national park carpeted in thick green vegetation which is home to some amazing wildlife including the last remaining 65 golden-headed langurs. Because of the varied terrain, there is a fantastic ion of adventure sports on offer. The quiet waters make this the perfect place for guided kayaking around the islands or snorkelling in the bay looking for the plethora of ocean species inhabiting the waters. The jagged cliffs and rocky caves make many different types of climbing a possibility. There are also hikes and treks through the dense forests with great opportunities to spot the wildlife living there. Cannon Fort on the islands offers one of the best viewpoints of the island, especially at sunrise or sunset when the limestone islands are set against the dramatic skies and the water is dotted with resting fishing boats.

► Explore Cat Ba in 3 days trekking & Kayaking
 

 

North East of Halong Bay is Bai Tu Long Bay which, like Lan Ha Bay, shares the same striking vista as Halong Bay but with a much quieter atmosphere. Here the area is far less developed and has a much more relaxed atmosphere. Although less popular as a tourist destination, there are a small number of boats that run cruises in this stunning, unspoilt bay. One popular island in Bai Tu Long Bay is Quan Lan Island. This island with a handful of sandy beaches and a humble three street town makes the perfect relaxing getaway.  

 

The real art of this area is the ethereal, captivating scenery that surrounds you on all sides. An incredible panorama of fascinating form and vivid colours. The unique culture of this area is best seen in one of the floating villages such as Vung Vieng which is found in Bai Tu Bay. The tiny flotilla of colouful houses sits at the foot of the limestone peaks bobbing gently on the rippling, glassy water. With a population of just 200-300 people, this peaceful community compliments the serene environment. Local fishermen with their worn nets hanging over their boat will be keen to show you the ropes, children smile as they pass by in their boats and women deftly cut through the water effortlessy working the oars of their rowboats.

► Follow our Tips to plan your cruise in Halong Bay
 

 

Another great place to see the culture of the area is at the market on Cat Ba Island where you can see the local gathering to socialise and sell their goods. This market, in particular, is characterised by the heaps of seafood all freshly caught from the surrounding bays some still alive. You can also sample a whole range of dried seafood and flavoursome local dishes.