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Cruise through Lan Ha Bay
a tranquil alternative to Halong Bay
Kayak into hidden lagoons
and explore limestone grottoes
Trek through Cat Ba National Park
to panoramic viewpoints
Visit the wartime-era
Hospital Cave and Cannon Fort
A Hidden Gem of Limestone Cliffs and Jungle Serenity
Cat Ba Island is a stunning and serene destination – a harmonious blend of forest-covered mountains, hidden coves, and vibrant marine life, offering a rare chance to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s raw natural beauty.It is unmissable for its emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay, dramatic limestone karsts, secluded beaches, and the UNESCO-protected Cat Ba National Park. Equally rewarding is exploring its sleepy fishing villages and winding coastal roads that reveal ever-changing views across the Gulf of Tonkin. The quiet rhythm of island life is infectious, and the surrounding nature invites you to slow down and savour each moment.
This is where some of Vietnam’s rarest wildlife resides, including the endangered Cat Ba langur. You’ll find yourself trekking through ancient forests, paddling through sea caves, or marvelling at the views from wartime lookout points like Cannon Fort. Along the way, discover tales of resilience at the fascinating Hospital Cave, tucked into the heart of the mountains.
Depending on your interests, we can arrange a guided hike through the national park, a private kayaking trip to untouched lagoons, or a scenic overnight cruise around Lan Ha Bay. Our expert-led experiences offer both insight and comfort, ensuring you connect deeply with the island’s soul.
Cat Ba may feel a world away, but it remains refreshingly accessible - making it the perfect retreat for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity in Vietnam’s northern waters.
Highlights
- Glide across Lan Ha Bay by kayak or bamboo boat
- Sample Cat Ba’s famous seafood at a floating restaurant
- Spot rare langurs and butterflies in the National Park
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Cat Ba always gives me a sense of quiet freedom - the way the sea meets the forest, and the light changes over the cliffs in late afternoon. It’s a place I return to whenever I need clarity. I usually let my guests start their mornings with a peaceful hike to Ngu Lam Peak, where the mist still clings to the jungle canopy or let them enjoy a luxury cruise trip and having a kayak through the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay to find themselves completely surrounded by nature. No motor noise, no crowds - just the sound of the wave and the echo of birds. Don’t miss sunset at Cannon Fort with a fresh coconut in hand; it’s one of the most poetic scenes in all of Vietnam.
Jolie Cao
Senior Travel Designer
Luxury accommodations in Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island offers a diverse options for your stay. Here are some of our travel designers' handpicked favourites:
Why travel with Viland?
Crafted with you in mind
Each journey begins with listening. We design experiences that reflect your pace, your passions, and the stories you wish to uncover. With thoughtful guidance and care, every detail is curated just for you.
Authentic experiences
Our trips are crafted by a team who truly knows the destinations - from seasoned travel designers to local guides with years of on-the-ground experience. They bring you beyond what the normal booked guides always do, to places and stories only insiders can show. Every detail is personal, every moment is one of a kind.
Leave a Positive Trace
Every Viland luxury journey is designed with care - for people and the planet. By choosing local partners, supporting community-led projects, and prioritizing low-impact travel, you help preserve cultures and natural beauty for generations to come.
Trip Inspiration
Get inspired with our Cat Ba Island journeys - and let us craft yours to make your mark in Vietnam
Meet our team
When to visit?
The best time to visit Kep is from November to April, when the dry season offers clear skies and cool sea breezes for outdoor exploration.
Dry Season
April to September: Pleasant temperatures (28 - 34°C), ideal for swimming, kayaking, and island-hopping around Lan Ha Bay.
Rainy Season
October to March: Cooler and mistier (18 - 25°C); atmospheric views and fewer crowds. Occasional drizzles, especially in January and February.
Festivals
Cat Ba Tourism Festival (April) - Celebrates the island’s natural beauty with music, food, and cultural performances.
Plan your trip Vietnam
No matter how you imagine your trip - restful, adventurous, or deeply cultural - our travel designers are here to bring it to life with care and local insight.
Plan with Confidence
Traveling today calls for thoughtful planning, and with Viland Travel, you’ll never have to navigate it alone. Our experienced team is here to support you at every step - from the first idea to the final farewell.Should unexpected changes arise, we’ll do our best to adjust your plans smoothly, find the right alternatives, and ensure you’re always cared for. And if no solution feels right, our money-back guarantee offers added peace of mind - because your journey should feel as secure as it is inspiring.
