Cat Ba: National Park Day Trip With Cycling and Kayaking

Nestled in the picturesque Ha Long Bay region, Cat Ba National Park offers an enthralling day trip that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure and cultural discovery. Trekkers can enjoy the park’s lush forests, keeping an eye out for rare wildlife like the endangered Delacour’s langur. After exploring the village of Viet Hai by bicycle, visitors can embark on a serene kayaking journey through the captivating Lan Ha Bay, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. This multifaceted excursion promises a truly unforgettable experience, leaving one eager to uncover more of the park’s hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Cat Ba Island.

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO-recognized Cat Ba National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and captivating trekking adventures through lush forests and rugged terrain.
• Set out on a guided 3.5-hour trek to scenic vantage points, with opportunities to spot endangered species like the Delacour’s langur and the endemic Cat Ba langur.
• Enjoy a 2.5-hour bike ride from Cat Ba town to the serene Viet Hai harbor, with stunning views of limestone cliffs and diverse bird species along the way.
• Cruise and kayak in the beautiful Lan Ha Bay, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, and spot a variety of marine life.
• Visit the colorful and interconnected Cai Beo Floating Village, where residents maintain a traditional way of life integrated with the surrounding Lan Ha Bay.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Cat Ba National Park

Visitors to Cat Ba National Park can expect to embark on a captivating trekking adventure through the park’s lush forests and rugged terrain, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife that inhabits this UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve.

The guided hike takes guests on a 3.5-hour journey, leading them to the scenic vantage points of Ang Vat, May Bau, and Ang Phay peaks.

Along the way, hikers will have the chance to spot a variety of native species, such as the endangered Delacour’s langur and the endemic Cat Ba langur.

The park’s well-marked trails provide a peaceful and immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the natural beauty and ecological significance of this remarkable protected area.

Trekking Through the Park

The guided trekking adventure through Cat Ba National Park takes hikers on a captivating 3.5-hour journey, leading them along well-marked trails to the scenic vantage points of Ang Vat, May Bau, and Ang Phay peaks. Trekkers can expect to encounter a diverse array of flora and fauna, including rare bird species and towering limestone formations. Along the way, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the park’s rich ecosystem and cultural heritage, enhancing the overall experience. With plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the stunning landscapes, the trek is both physically invigorating and mentally rejuvenating.

Trekking Highlights	Duration	Difficulty
Ang Vat Peak	1 hour	Moderate
May Bau Peak	1 hour	Moderate
Ang Phay Peak	1.5 hours	Challenging

Wildlife Observation

As hikers make their way through the lush landscapes of Cat Ba National Park, they’re rewarded with ample opportunities to spot an array of captivating wildlife.

The park’s diverse ecosystem is home to numerous rare and endangered species, including the critically endangered Cat Ba langur, one of the world’s rarest primates.

Keen-eyed explorers may also catch glimpses of the elusive civet, a small nocturnal mammal known for its distinctive markings.

They may also spot the colorful Pied Hornbill, a striking bird with a distinct beak and vibrant plumage.

Plus, the graceful Wobbegong shark, a camouflaged bottom-dwelling predator, can be found in the park’s coastal waters.

Visiting Viet Hai Village

After cycling to Viet Hai harbor, explorers step into a traditional Vietnamese fishing village frozen in time.

One finds Viet Hai’s residents engaged in their daily maritime activities, from mending fishing nets to tending their floating gardens.

The village’s isolation within the national park lends it an intriguing sense of remoteness, offering visitors a rare glimpse into a way of life largely untouched by modern development.

Wooden homes and boats line the water’s edge, and the rhythmic sounds of village life create a serene atmosphere.

Visitors can wander the narrow paths, observe local customs, and gain a deeper understanding of the tight-knit community that calls this stunning natural setting home.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Biking to Viet Hai Harbor

Cyclists embark on a 2.5-hour ride from Cat Ba town to the picturesque Viet Hai harbor, winding their way through the lush landscapes of Cat Ba National Park. The bike tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the park’s natural beauty.

Along the route, cyclists can:

1. Admire the towering limestone cliffs that rise majestically from the surrounding vegetation.
2. Spot a variety of bird species, including the endangered white-headed langur, as they dart through the tree canopy.
3. Pedal past quaint village homes and fields, catching glimpses of the local way of life.

Reaching the serene Viet Hai harbor, cyclists will board boats for a relaxing cruise and kayaking adventure in the nearby Lan Ha Bay.

Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay

From the tranquil Viet Hai harbor, visitors board boats that whisk them away to the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay, where they’ll embark on a captivating kayaking adventure.

Gliding silently through the emerald-green waters, kayakers can admire the towering limestone cliffs that rise dramatically from the bay, their jagged peaks shrouded in lush vegetation. As they paddle along, they’ll have the chance to spot a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and seabirds.

The gentle lapping of the waves and the peaceful seclusion of the bay create a truly restorative experience, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and escape the stresses of everyday life.

Visiting Cai Beo Floating Village

Capping off the day’s adventures, visitors board a boat that transports them to the remarkable Cai Beo Floating Village, a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the local fishing community.

This unique floating settlement consists of:

• Dozens of colorful, interconnected houseboats that serve as both homes and workplaces for the villagers.
• Floating markets where locals trade and sell their daily catch of fresh seafood.
• A school and other essential infrastructure that allow the community to thrive on the water.

A tranquil atmosphere where visitors can observe the residents’ traditional way of life and gain a deeper appreciation for their harmonious coexistence with the surrounding Lan Ha Bay.

Important Considerations

Travelers should be mindful of several key considerations before embarking on this adventurous day trip to Cat Ba National Park.

The itinerary involves moderate to strenuous physical activity, including 3.5 hours of hiking and 2.5 hours of cycling. Those with limited mobility, respiratory issues, or other health concerns may find the trek challenging. Plus, the trip may not be suitable for young children, pregnant women, or elderly individuals.

It’s crucial to dress appropriately, with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and insect repellent. While lunch is included, travelers should bring extra snacks and drinks to stay hydrated.

Ultimately, this trip offers an immersive experience in a UNESCO-recognized biosphere, but participants must carefully assess their fitness level and physical capabilities beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Bicycle?

No, participants cannot bring their own kayak or bicycle for this tour. The tour provides all necessary equipment, including kayaks and bicycles, as part of the included activities and transportation.

Is There a Weight or Age Limit for the Kayaking?

There is typically a weight limit of around 100-120 kg per kayak. The tour also has an age limit, usually excluding children under 10 years old, to ensure the safety of all participants during the kayaking activity.

Are There Any Vegetarian/Vegan Food Options Available?

The tour operator provides vegetarian and vegan meal options for lunch in Viet Hai Village. Guests should notify the tour company in advance of any dietary requirements to ensure appropriate meals are prepared.

Can I Swim in the Bay if I Don’t Want to Kayak?

Yes, travelers can swim in Lan Ha Bay if they don’t wish to kayak. The tour includes a boat cruise and time set aside for swimming in the bay’s calm waters, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic surroundings without the need for kayaking.

What Kind of Wildlife Can I Expect to See in the Park?

Visitors to the Cat Ba National Park can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, civets, and dozens of bird species. The park is home to one of Vietnam’s largest remaining populations of the endangered Delacour’s langur.

Recap

Cat Ba National Park’s diverse offerings make for an unforgettable day trip. Trekking through lush forests, visitors can spot rare wildlife.

Biking to Viet Hai Village provides a cultural glimpse, followed by serene kayaking in Lan Ha Bay’s captivating limestone landscape.

This multifaceted excursion seamlessly combines outdoor exploration, culture, and appreciating nature’s beauty, making it a must-visit destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: