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Explore Ha Long Bay on a combination guided tour and boat cruise. Those with limited time can visit on day trips from Hanoi, which typically include a few hours cruising Ha Long Bay, stops at some islands and caves, swimming or kayaking, and a seafood lunch.
For a more in-depth experience, opt for a multi-day or overnight cruise, spending at least one night aboard a traditional junk boat or luxury cruise ship, and enjoy activities such as cooking classes or squid fishing.
Ha Long Bay is ideal for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventure travelers.
Don't forget your camera; there are plenty of photo-worthy opportunities.
Bring swimwear and sun protection if you plan to enjoy the water.
Sturdy footwear is a must to hike and climb up to viewpoints.
Full-day tours from Hanoi usually last around 12 hours.
Located 103 miles (165 kilometers) east of Hanoi near Ha Long city in the Quang Ninh province, Ha Long Bay is easiest to visit as part of a tour that includes round-trip transportation. Otherwise, it's accessible by car, bus, motorbike, and ferry. The fastest (and most expensive) way to get there is by helicopter or seaplane.
The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is from March to May and from September to November. Summers are the monsoon season and can see a lot of storms, which can impact a cruise. Winters can be cold, foggy, and drizzly, which can limit visibility.
Ha Long Bay offers numerous attractions, including deserted islets, caves, and villages. Some of the more popular attractions include the Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot) and Thien Cung Cave; the floating villages of Cua Van, Cong Dam, Ba Hang, and Vong Vieng; and Cat Ba Island National Park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to plentiful wildlife, including the golden-headed langur (Vietnam's most endangered primate).