Cat Ba Island: 2 Days Lan Ha Bay – hiking, biking, kayaking

Exploring the scenic corners of northern Vietnam often involves a mix of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable outdoor activities. This 2-day tour around Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island combines all of those in a well-rounded adventure that’s perfect for nature lovers and active travelers alike. We’ve gathered insights into what makes this trip special, along with some honest considerations to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What immediately stands out is the blend of cruise experiences, authentic village visits, and adventure activities like kayaking and biking—all packed into a manageable two-day itinerary. The trip isn’t just about snapping photos of limestone karsts; it’s about truly engaging with the environment, tasting local cuisine, and even swimming in secluded lagoons.

One thing to keep in mind is that some activities, such as hiking and kayaking, require a reasonable level of mobility and comfort with outdoor conditions. Also, the tour involves a fair amount of time on the water and in nature, which might not appeal to everyone. Still, if you’re someone craving genuine, active exploration with stunning views at every turn, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Vietnam adventure.

This experience suits travelers who love outdoor activities, are comfortable with boat journeys, and want a taste of both cultural and natural highlights in northern Vietnam.

Key Points

• Stunning limestone scenery: The cruise offers incredible views of towering limestone formations rising from emerald waters.
• Authentic local visits: Explore Cai Beo Floating Village and learn about traditional Vietnamese fishing life.
• Active adventures: Kayaking, biking, swimming, and cliff-jumping enable hands-on engagement with nature.
• Unique night experience: Kayaking in bioluminescent waters provides a magical glow that’s unlike anything else.
• Delicious local cuisine: Enjoy freshly prepared Vietnamese meals and participate in a cooking class onboard.
• Diverse itinerary: From tranquil beaches to caves and mountain trails, variety keeps the experience fresh.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Tour

Overview and Introduction

This tour offers a nice balance of relaxing cruising, active exploration, and culture. At $118 per person, it presents a good value for what it includes—meals, guided excursions, kayaking, and transportation. It’s operated by Beka Travel Co. Ltd, known for organizing immersive and well-structured tours in northern Vietnam.

Transport and Group Size

Travel begins with hotel pickup in Cat Ba town, which is convenient and helps streamline the start of your adventure. You’ll be traveling on a boat that cruises through the stunning formations of Lan Ha Bay—expect a comfortable, yet adventure-ready vessel ideal for small groups. The tour emphasizes a personalized experience, which means fewer crowds and more space to enjoy the scenery.

Day 1: Cruising Lan Ha Bay and Exploring Hidden Lagoons

Morning: From Cat Ba to the Bay

Your day kicks off around 11:15 am with pickup from your hotel. The boat departs from Ben Beo Pier, where the crew hands out entrance tickets for Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay—so you don’t have to worry about extra costs. The cruise begins with impressive views of limestone towers, some resembling seals or chopsticks, and a glimpse into Cai Beo Floating Fishing Village—a living snapshot of traditional water-based livelihoods.

Lunch and Scenic Cruising

A freshly cooked Vietnamese lunch is served onboard, with vegetarian options available—an appreciated touch for dietary preferences. The crew’s meals are generally well reviewed, often described as flavorful and authentic, setting a tasty tone for the day.

Afternoon: Kayaking and Exploring Caves

Post-lunch, you’ll paddle through Dark and Bright Caves, natural tunnels that highlight the ecological beauty of Lan Ha Bay. The kayaking experience is described as both visually stunning and peaceful—perfect for catching reflections of limestone formations on the water. The area’s ecological protection status ensures these sights remain pristine, making the experience both scenic and environmentally responsible.

Late Afternoon: Beach Stop and Cooking

Later, the boat anchors at Ba Trai Dao Beach—a secluded spot ideal for swimming, cliff-jumping, and simply soaking in the sun. Reviewers mention that the beach is “quiet and less touristy,” which adds to the sense of discovery. Around this time, you’ll visit a floating fish farm, gaining insight into local fishing practices.

Back onboard, there’s a fun, interactive cooking class. Guests often appreciate how this adds a hands-on element and helps deepen their understanding of Vietnamese cuisine. Dinner follows, giving everyone a chance to savor their culinary creations while gazing at the bay’s sunset.

Evening: Bioluminescent Night Kayaking

The night session is a major highlight. As darkness falls, you’ll kayak in waters glowing with bioluminescent plankton—an experience many describe as “magical” and “surreal.” Light dances beneath your kayak strokes, and some guests even swim under the stars, watching their silhouettes sparkle in the dark water.

Some reviews mention that the intensity of bioluminescence can fluctuate depending on environmental factors like humidity or moonlight, but most find it a captivating spectacle. Guides are attentive, ensuring safety and providing plenty of tips for the best experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Evening and Overnight Stay

Your overnight stay is in a private jungle bungalow—a cozy, authentic stay surrounded by lush forest. The rustic charm enhances the sense of adventure, and some reviews highlight how peaceful and immersive this setting feels compared to typical hotel stays.

Day 2: Discovering Viet Hai Village and Monkey Island

Early Morning: Biking and Village Life

The next morning starts with a hearty breakfast before hopping on a bicycle to cycle around Viet Hai Village. The ride offers scenic views with mountain air and a chance to see local life up close. Reviewers mention that the trail is approximately one hour and can be muddy if it rained, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Guests have enjoyed trying a fish massage in the natural streams—an unusual but memorable local activity. The peaceful village, surrounded by greenery and mountains, provides a quiet contrast to the bay’s dramatic scenery.

Mid-Morning: Monkey Island

Around 9:30 am, the boat moves toward Monkey Island—a popular stop for relaxation and wildlife interaction. Visitors can lounge on the sandy beach, swim, and spend time with playful monkeys. Some reviews note that the short trek up to the island’s viewpoint provides excellent panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay.

Lunch and Return Journey

A final onboard lunch marks the end of the tour as the boat cruises back toward Cai Beo Harbour. The return trip offers stunning views once more, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Disembarkation and Return

By around 11:30 am, the tour concludes at Cai Beo Harbor, and guests are transported back to their hotels in Cat Ba. The entire experience—from boats to villages—takes about 24 hours, making it a compact yet fulfilling adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the biggest draws is the combination of scenic cruising and active exploration. You don’t just sit back and watch; you paddle through caves, cycle through mountain trails, and swim in lagoons. This hands-on approach makes the experience more memorable and satisfying.

The bioluminescent kayaking at night is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime moment, with several reviews emphasizing how magical and mesmerizing it is. Many guests also appreciate the local touch—the floating villages, the cooking class, and the chance to interact with fishermen and villagers.

Another notable feature is the value-for-money aspect. For $118, you get meals, activities, transfers, and comfortable accommodations. While some might find the schedule full and physically demanding, most say it’s worth the effort for the stunning scenery and authentic experiences.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sun protection: Sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen are essential since you’ll spend plenty of time outdoors.
• Prepare for muddy trails: Wear comfortable, durable shoes—especially if you plan to bike or hike.
• Pack swimwear and a towel: You’ll want to take advantage of swimming spots and the night kayaking experience.
• Photo gear: Bring waterproof or protective covers for your camera or phone, especially during kayaking and beach stops.
• Be flexible: The bioluminescence glow can vary, but regardless, kayaking at night under the stars is an experience you won’t forget.

Final thoughts

This 2-day tour from Cat Ba offers a compelling mix of nature, culture, and adventure. The opportunity to paddle through caves, surf secluded beaches, and see glowing plankton makes it stand out in the crowded bay cruise scene. The included activities are well-paced, and the authentic touches—like local food and village visits—add depth to the experience.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who prefer active travel options, enjoy scenic landscapes, and want to get off the beaten path to see lesser-known parts of Lan Ha Bay. While it demands some physical effort and comfort with outdoor activities, the rewards are substantial in the form of unforgettable views and meaningful encounters.

If you’re looking for a trip that combines adventure, relaxation, and authentic Vietnamese culture in a stunning natural setting, this tour deserves strong consideration.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cat Ba town, making the day convenient to start and end.

What meals are included?
All meals are covered—one breakfast, two lunches, and one dinner—featuring authentic Vietnamese dishes prepared onboard.

Can I join if I don’t like kayaking?
Kayaking is a core activity, but if you prefer not to, you might still enjoy the cruise and village visits. Let the guides know beforehand to accommodate your preference.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for the onboard meals, as mentioned in reviews.

Is the overnight stay comfortable?
Guests stay in private jungle bungalows, which are rustic but cozy, providing an immersive experience close to nature.

How physically demanding is the trip?
Some activities, like biking and hiking, last about an hour and may involve muddy or uneven terrain, so moderate fitness helps.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, flip-flops, comfortable clothes, and sports shoes are recommended.

Is it suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The trip involves outdoor activities and some walking on uneven trails, so it’s best suited for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness and mobility. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or those with serious health issues.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In the end, this tour balances scenic beauty with active fun, offering a slice of Vietnam’s spectacular landscape that’s both authentic and memorable. Whether you’re paddling through caves, biking mountain trails, or watching bioluminescent waters glow, it’s a journey that stays with you long after the trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: