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Hanoi City tours
Ha Long Bay & Cat Ba Island Discovery from Hanoi – 3 Days
3 D / 2 N
Easy
Private
Discover the breathtaking karst landscapes of Ha Long Bay and the natural wonders of Cat Ba Island on this three-day tour departing from Hanoi. Experience a scenic cruise, explore ancient caves, trek through Cat Ba National Park, and enjoy kayaking in Lan Ha Bay.
Destinations & Route
Hanoi - Ha Long - Cat Ba
Hanoi
Ha Long
Tour Overview
Tour Overview: Ha Long Bay & Cat Ba Island
This three-day, two-night excursion provides an immersive experience into the stunning natural beauty of Northern Vietnam. Beginning with a transfer from Hanoi, the journey quickly transitions into a captivating cruise through the iconic limestone formations of Ha Long Bay. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore magnificent caves before reaching the tranquil shores of Cat Ba Island for an overnight stay.
The adventure continues on Cat Ba Island with an exploration of its lush National Park, offering panoramic views from an observatory point. The afternoon is dedicated to the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay, where activities like kayaking and swimming around Monkey Island await. The tour concludes with a return transfer to Hanoi, leaving participants with lasting memories of Vietnam's coastal and island splendors.
Journey Highlights
- Cruise through the spectacular limestone karsts and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay.
- Explore the impressive formations within Sung Sot Cave, one of the bay's largest grottoes.
- Trek through the verdant landscapes of Cat Ba National Park to an elevated observatory.
- Enjoy a boat trip through the picturesque Lan Ha Bay, a quieter alternative to Ha Long Bay.
- Experience swimming and kayaking in the clear waters surrounding Monkey Island.
- Relax with comfortable hotel stays on Cat Ba Island, providing a peaceful retreat.
Route Summary
The tour commences with a morning departure from Hanoi, heading east towards Ha Long City. From there, a boat trip navigates through Ha Long Bay, culminating in an evening arrival and overnight stay on Cat Ba Island. The second day focuses entirely on Cat Ba, with activities spanning its national park and the adjacent Lan Ha Bay. The final day involves a leisurely morning on Cat Ba before a bus transfer returns guests to Hanoi via Hai Phong.
Who This Tour Suits
This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty, light adventure, and cultural exposure. It appeals to those who appreciate natural landscapes, enjoy outdoor activities like trekking and kayaking, and prefer a guided experience with transfers and accommodations arranged. Families, couples, and small groups looking for a comprehensive yet manageable exploration of Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Island will find this tour particularly engaging.
Practical Information
Participants should prepare for varying weather conditions, especially during boat trips and outdoor activities. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the national park trek and cave exploration. While most meals are included, personal expenses and drinks are not, so budgeting for these is advisable. English or French-speaking guides ensure clear communication throughout the journey.
Tour Highlights
- Cruise amidst the iconic limestone islands and floating villages of Ha Long Bay.
- Explore the vast chambers and intricate formations within Sung Sot Cave.
- Trek through the dense forests of Cat Ba National Park to a scenic observatory.
- Enjoy a peaceful boat journey through the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay.
- Visit Monkey Island, offering opportunities for swimming and kayaking.
- Experience comfortable overnight accommodation in a hotel on Cat Ba Island.
Tour Accommodation
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Accommodation Options
Sunflower Cat Ba Hotel
The journey commences with a morning pickup from your hotel in Hanoi, followed by a comfortable transfer towards Ha Long Bay. The drive offers scenic views of the verdant rice paddies characteristic of the Red River Delta. A brief stop is scheduled en route for a rest before continuing to Ha Long City.
Upon arrival in Ha Long City around midday, guests will complete check-in procedures and board a boat. Lunch is served on board as the vessel begins its captivating cruise through the iconic Ha Long Bay, famous for its thousands of limestone islets and tranquil floating villages. The afternoon includes a visit to Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave, one of the largest and most magnificent grottoes in the bay, where visitors can marvel at its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
As evening approaches, the boat continues its passage towards Cat Ba Island. Upon reaching Cat Ba around 5:30 PM, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the evening is free to relax and enjoy dinner, preparing for the next day's adventures.
Activities
- Transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
- Scenic drive through Red River Delta
- Cruise through Ha Long Bay
- Enjoy lunch on board
- Explore Sung Sot Cave
- Transfer by boat to Cat Ba Island
- Check into hotel on Cat Ba Island
Following breakfast at your hotel, a bus will transfer you to Cat Ba National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its diverse ecosystems. Here, you will embark on a trek to an observatory station, which provides an expansive panoramic view of Cat Ba Island's rugged terrain and lush canopy. This moderate hike offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the island's natural beauty from a unique vantage point.
After returning from the national park, the bus will take you back to the central area of Cat Ba Island for lunch. The afternoon is dedicated to a captivating boat trip through Lan Ha Bay, a serene and less-trafficked extension of Ha Long Bay, characterized by its calm waters and numerous small islands. The boat will make a stop at Monkey Island, also known as Cat Dua Island, where you can enjoy swimming in the clear waters.
A highlight of the afternoon is the opportunity for kayaking. Guests can paddle through the tranquil bays, exploring hidden lagoons and getting closer to the limestone karsts. This activity offers a peaceful and intimate way to experience the bay's natural splendor. After a full day of exploration and activity, the boat returns to the harbor, and you will be transferred back to your hotel for dinner and another overnight stay on Cat Ba Island.
Activities
- Transfer to Cat Ba National Park
- Trek to the observatory station for island views
- Enjoy lunch on Cat Ba Island
- Embark on a boat trip to Lan Ha Bay
- Visit Monkey Island for swimming
- Go kayaking in Lan Ha Bay
- Return to hotel for dinner
Start your final day on Cat Ba Island with breakfast at the hotel. The morning is designated as free time, allowing you to relax, explore the local area at your own pace, or simply enjoy the amenities of your accommodation. This provides a chance for some personal reflection or last-minute souvenir shopping before the journey back to the mainland.
After enjoying a leisurely morning, lunch will be provided. Following lunch, a bus transfer will be arranged to take you from Cat Ba Island back to Hanoi. The return route typically passes through Hai Phong, offering different scenery compared to the initial journey. The transfer is comfortable and air-conditioned, ensuring a relaxed trip back to the capital.
The tour concludes upon arrival in Hanoi around 4:00 PM, where you will be dropped off at a central location or your hotel, marking the end of your three-day Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Island adventure.
Activities
- Enjoy free time on Cat Ba Island
- Have lunch
- Transfer by bus from Cat Ba Island to Hanoi
- Arrive in Hanoi
What's Included
Included
- 3-star Hotel (Double/twin sharing room)
- Private air-conditioned car/van
- Private boat trip for Ha Long - Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay
- Entrance fees for all mentioned sites
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- English/French speaking tour guide
Not Included
- Personal expenses
- Drinks
- Other items not explicitly mentioned
Price Includes
- 3-star Hotel (Double/twin sharing room)
- Private air-conditioned car/van
- Private boat trip for Ha Long - Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay
- Entrance fees for all mentioned sites
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- English/French speaking tour guide
Departure date: On request. This tour runs on a private / custom schedule.
Request a date →
Cancellation Policy
Tour Code: IMP-5615D7695F3C
· Updated Aug 03, 2026
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