The Halong Bay in Vietnam It is a place of such beauty that every traveller who visits is impressed. As you probably know, it lies in the north of the country, in Quang Ninh province, on the Gulf of Tonkin. A little further north lies China.
The Halong Bay or Ha-Long was declared Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. It covers a protected area of 150,000 ha along approximately 120 km of coastline. Its most striking feature is the multitude of islands, rocks and islets in many shapes and sizes, forming a maritime labyrinth in which it is a pleasure to lose yourself.
Legend has it that the islands scattered across Ha Long Bay were created by a dragon wanting to help the Vietnamese resist the Chinese advance, fired jade and pearls at enemy ships. This explains why, in the local language, the Halong Bay means ‘Bay of the Descending Dragon’ (Vịnh Hạ Long).
Early in the morning, when the light regains its power, it seems that we are still dreaming as we contemplate the capricious forms that seem to float in the turquoise sea. Some of the islands in Halong Bay have curious names, or animals, because just like when one looks at the clouds, each one recognizes familiar forms on the rocks.
Kayaking in Halong Bay on your Vietnam trip
In our Vietnam routes allow you to explore by kayak and explore this natural paradise from a unique perspective, officially named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World in 2011.
Approaching the rocks, peering into hidden island caves, stopping on a tiny white-sand beach or simply floating on clear water are some possibilities. A wide range of cruises is available, but paddling a kayak at your own pace through Ha Long Bay is memorable. It also means a comfortable night anchored beside a remote island, enjoying a cinematic sunset. The opinions of those who have been lucky enough to travel there attest to this.
All our routes include the Halong Bay cruise, staying overnight on board to enjoy magical sunsets and sunrises, while avoiding the crowds on popular day trips from Hanoi.
The vast majority of Vietnam trips dedicate at least one stage to getting to know Halong Bay. It would be a shame to miss it before or after continuing to Hanoi, Vietnam’s nearby capital.