Discovering the wonders of Cat Ba Forest and Lan Ha Bay is an adventure that beckons nature enthusiasts and active travelers. This two-day journey blends a scenic ferry ride, a thrilling forest trek, and serene stand-up paddleboarding, offering an unforgettable experience amidst Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes. With thoughtful accommodations, delectable meals, and expert guidance, adventurers are sure to be captivated by the sheer beauty and exhilaration that awaits.
Key Points
- Explore Cat Ba National Park’s lush forest on a guided trekking adventure, culminating in a visit to the local Viet Hai village.
- Enjoy stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay, surrounded by limestone cliffs and pristine natural beauty.
- Experience eco-friendly accommodations at a cozy ecolodge in Viet Hai village, with opportunities to immerse in the local community.
- Savor a variety of meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, during the two-day adventure.
- Bring the appropriate outdoor gear and attire, such as sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and a change of clothes, to fully enjoy the activities.
Activity Overview
This tour offers a two-day adventure that combines the stunning landscapes of Cat Ba National Park and the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay.
Participants will trek through the lush Cat Ba Forest, visit the charming Viet Hai village, and paddle stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) in the breathtaking Lan Ha Bay.
The tour includes transportation, meals, SUP equipment, and an English-speaking guide to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.
This tour includes transportation, meals, SUP equipment, and an English-speaking guide for a seamless and memorable experience.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking an active getaway, this tour promises to immerse you in the natural beauty of Northern Vietnam.
Looking for more options in Hai Phong? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
On the first day, participants depart from Hanoi and travel by ferry to Cat Ba.
They then trek through the Cat Ba National Park to Viet Hai village. After a lunch stop at Ao Ech, they embark on a 4-hour trek.
Upon arrival, they check in at an ecolodge, explore Viet Hai village, have dinner, and enjoy a campfire.
The next day, they ride an electric car to Viet Hai pier and take a boat trip to Lan Ha Bay.
They paddle to Ba Trai Dao Bay, have lunch onboard, and return to Cat Ba before heading back to Hanoi.
Transportation and Logistics
The tour starts with participants departing from Hanoi and traveling by ferry to Cat Ba.
From there, they’ll trek through the Cat Ba National Park to reach Viet Hai village. After lunch, they’ll continue on a 4-hour hike before checking into an ecolodge.
On day two, you will take an electric car ride to Viet Hai pier and board a boat to explore Lan Ha Bay, paddling to Ba Trai Dao Bay.
After lunch on the boat, they’ll return to Cat Ba and travel back to Hanoi, arriving around 7 PM.
All transportation, including private bus transfers, is included in the tour.
Accommodations and Dining
After trekking through the Cat Ba National Park, participants check into an ecolodge in Viet Hai village. The ecolodge offers a cozy and eco-friendly accommodation experience. Participants enjoy a delicious dinner and gather around a campfire in the evening.
| Accommodation | Meals | Facilities |
| — | — | — |
| Ecolodge | 1 Breakfast | Campfire |
| Homestay | 2 Lunches | Common Area |
| | 1 Dinner | Outdoor Seating |
| | | Private Rooms |
| | | En-suite Bathrooms |
The next morning, participants start their day with a hearty breakfast at the ecolodge before embarking on the boat trip to Lan Ha Bay.
More Great Tours NearbyEquipment and Attire
Participants need to come prepared with the right equipment and attire for the trekking and paddling activities on this tour. Sturdy hiking shoes or water shoes are a must for navigating the forest trails and getting in and out of the boats.
Sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and biodegradable sunscreen are essential. Lightweight, quick-drying outdoor clothing that can get wet is recommended. Bringing a change of clothes, including a swimsuit, is advised.
Participants should also carry a water bottle, snacks, and any personal medications. Proper preparation ensures a comfortable and safe experience during the Cat Ba adventure.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour includes a range of services to provide a comfortable and convenient experience for participants. It covers private bus transfers, support boats, meals, SUP equipment, an ecolodge stay, and an English-speaking guide. However, some costs are excluded, such as personal expenses, transportation before and after the tour, and alcoholic drinks not included in the tour package.
| Included | Excluded |
| — | — |
| Private bus transfers | Personal expenses |
| Support boat for paddling | Transportation before and after the tour |
| Meals (2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast) | Alcoholic drinks not included in the tour |
Participant Suitability and Restrictions
The tour is suitable for adult participants, but certain restrictions apply.
Children under 6 years old, pregnant women, and people with high blood pressure aren’t allowed to join.
Participants should bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, hiking shoes, and water shoes.
Smoking in vehicles, consuming alcohol and drugs, and nudity are prohibited.
The tour operator will provide SUP equipment, accessories, and daily drinking water.
Guests must present a valid ID card or disability card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own SUP Board for the Tour?
The tour company provides all the necessary SUP equipment, including boards and accessories. Participants are not allowed to bring their own SUP boards for this tour. The provided equipment is included in the tour price.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to 3 Days?
Unfortunately, the tour does not offer an option to extend it to 3 days. The itinerary is fixed at 2 days, with no customization available. Participants must adhere to the provided 2-day schedule for this SUP and trekking experience.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Free Exploration in Viet Hai Village?
The itinerary allocates time for exploring Viet Hai village after checking in at the ecolodge on the first day. However, the exact duration of free exploration time isn’t specified in the provided information.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Electric Car Ride?
The itinerary doesn’t mention any age restrictions for the electric car ride. The tour is suitable for adult participants, but it’s not recommended for children under 6 or certain medical conditions like high blood pressure.
Can I Store My Luggage at the Meeting Point Before the Tour?
Yes, participants can store their luggage at the Happy Cafe meeting point before the tour. The tour provider offers this service to allow travelers to travel light during the activities.
The Sum Up
This two-day adventure in Vietnam’s Cat Ba National Park and Lan Ha Bay offers an exhilarating blend of trekking, stand-up paddleboarding, and immersion in stunning natural landscapes. With cozy accommodations, delicious meals, and expert guidance, it’s an unforgettable opportunity for nature enthusiasts and active travelers to explore this captivating region. Participants can expect an adrenaline-fueled journey through lush forests, serene waters, and breathtaking vistas.
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