What to do in Halong Bay
A visit to Vietnam wouldn't be complete without a traditional junk boat cruise around spectacular Halong Bay, with its iconic limestone peaks and emerald green waters. While a peaceful cruise is a perfect way to kick back, relax and take in the iconic views that this UNESCO World Heritage site has to offer, there is plenty else to keep you busy in Halong Bay.
1. Learn Tai Chi on deck
The ancient martial art of Tai Chi has been practiced for generations in China to promote the health of mind, body, and soul through its soft, controlled movements. It is said that practicing Tai Chi in the peace and tranquillity of the great outdoors aids in the deep concentration and inner peace many hope to achieve through this art form – and what better place to do it than surrounded by the sublime beauty of Halong Bay?
Guided by an experienced Tai Chi master, you can learn how to control your body and mind on the deck of your junk boat cruise, as you breathe in the fresh air and watch the sunrise behind jungle-clad peaks.
What to do in Halong Bay
2. Visit a traditional floating village
For most of us, a cruise on the emerald green waters of Halong Bay is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so it may be difficult to imagine living day-to-day life surrounded by the incredible beauty of this famous bay. But for the families of Halong Bay’s floating fishing villages living in a water world is second nature. Rising and falling with the tide, these villages have been home to generation after generation of fishermen who earn their living from the bay’s bountiful supply of marine life and growing tourism in the region.
Pay a visit to one of these charming villages, meet grinning fishermen and playful children and learn about their fascinating way of life in Halong Bay.
3. Go cycling on Cat Ba Island
As if being the largest island in Halong Bay was not enough, Cat Ba also possesses some of the most impressive natural beauty found in the region, and not to mention an incredible range of species and fascinating natural habitats. Forming part of the Cat Ba archipelago on the south-eastern edge of Halong Bay, this beautiful isle can be reached by boat and is best explored on foot or bicycle (rented locally).
Explore the limestone hills and discover hidden waterfalls, lakes, and grottos; spot wildlife (like the Cat Ba langur) hidden in coastal limestone forests and mangroves, or go snorkeling off the coast in search of underwater life – the possibilities are endless!
4. Discover hidden caves and grottos
Hidden among the thousands of jungle-covered peaks rising dramatically out of the emerald waters of Halong Bay are illuminated caves, isolated grottos and picturesque hidden coves of all shapes and sizes. Hop on board a rowboat and venture out to explore these hidden gems for yourself, such as the beautiful Thien Cung Cave – nicknamed the Heavenly Palace Cave, famed for its many stalagmites and stalactites, and Dau Go Cave – known as the Cave of Wonders, featuring fascinating rock formations illuminated by a kaleidoscope of colour.
What to do in Halong Bay
5. Kayak between karst limestone outcrops
While a traditional junk boat cruise is an excellent way to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Halong Bay at a relaxed pace, the active among you can get your paddle out on an off-boat excursion and explore the beauty of the bay up close on a kayaking adventure.
Paddle out to the calmer, less-visited corners of the bay, which the bigger boats cannot maneuver, and discover hidden caves, isolated lagoons, unspoiled islands and much more with the direction of a local guide.
With Halong Bay trips from Hanoi, Halong bay cruise 2 days 1 night or cruise 3 days 2 nights, you will have the opportunity to see all interesting destinations and join what to do in Halong Bay in 2 days and longer.
