Cat Ba Island
2 days / 1 night
AH-HP06
6/10
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WHY THIS TOUR?

Experience Cat Ba’s wild side on this action-packed 2-day expedition. Hike the dense primary forest of Cat Ba National Park to the isolated ancient village of Viet Hai. Then, take to the water to paddle through a magnificent labyrinth of thousands of limestone islands, capped off by an unforgettable exploration of the stunning Ba Trai Dao lagoon.

Highlights

  • Trek through the dense, pristine primary forest of Cat Ba National Park.
  • Kayak through the magnificent, towering arches of the Ba Trai Dao area.
  • Immerse yourself in an authentic overnight homestay in the isolated Viet Hai Village.
SUMMARY

  • Start / Finish Point: Hanoi

  • Duration: 2 days / 1 night

  • Destination: Cat Ba Island

  • Group Size : 2 - 20 pax

  • Best Season: Year-round

  • Difficulty level: 6/10

  • Activities: Hiking / Trekking, Kayaking

ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi – Cat Ba National Park – Viet Hai Village

08:00 Meet your tour guide and driver at your hotel. Board your vehicle to Cat Ba. Upon arriving at Cat Hai, we take a short ferry crossing to Cat Ba Island before continuing our drive to Cat Ba National Park.

11:00 Arrive at Cat Ba National Park. After a quick gear check, we begin trekking through the dense jungle toward Viet Hai—an isolated ancient village tucked away in a massive valley, reachable only by foot or boat. After roughly 2 hours of hiking, we will pause for a compact picnic lunch at Frog Lake (Ao Ech), a fascinating seasonal wetland perched 100 meters above sea level.

After lunch, the trek continues toward Viet Hai, featuring scenic rest stops to relax and take photos along the way.

18:00 After a challenging and rewarding 5–6 hour hike, we arrive in Viet Hai village. Check-in a ecolodge, take shower and relax.

19:30 Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner at the ecolodge. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful night's rest at the homestay.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 2hrs / Ferry 25mins / Trekking 4hrs / Lunch break 30 mins

* Meals included: Lunch , Dinner

Day 2: Viet Hai Village – Lan Ha Bay – Ba Trai Dao – Cat Ba – Hanoi

07:00 Have breakfast at the homestay.

08:00 At the pier, step aboard our boat and cruise into the heart of Lan Ha Bay—a spectacular seascape of thousands of rising islands. From here, launch your kayaks to explore Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches), one of the most stunning lagoons in the archipelago. You will have ample time to paddle, swim, and unwind on some of the bay's finest secluded white-sand beaches. After your paddling adventure, return to the boat for a freshly prepared lunch. Savor your meal as the boat glides smoothly back through the dramatic karst landscapes toward Cat Ba town.

13:00 Return to Cat Ba. Take a bus to the sea-crossing cable car station. We will cross the sea to Cat Hai by cable car, enjoying panoramic views from above. Board the bus back to Hanoi. The program will end when we arrive in Hanoi around 19:00.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 2,5hrs / Cable car 15mins / Kayaking 3hrs / Lunch break 30 mins

* Meals included: Breakfats, Lunch

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

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Inclusion:

  • Round-trip vehicle: Hanoi – Cat Ba – Hanoi
  • English speakig tourguide & local guide
  • Inflatble SUP and equipment
  • Trekking poles 
  • Cable car ticket (1 way)
  • Support boat when kayaking 
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • 01 night in ecolodge
  • Drinking water & snack provided daily during the tour
  • Entrance fees & tickets
  • Domestic travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Additional food and beverages not stated in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip
  • Tips
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

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Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Trekking poles
  • Sit on top kayay
  • Headlamp
  • Dry bag
  • First-aid kit. 

What to bring: 

  • Water shoes 
  • Trekking shoes or booths
  • Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
  • Rash guard for kayaking & swimming
  • Lightweight rain jacket.
  • Electronics: Mobile phone, camera, power bank, ...
  • Personal medications
  • Reusable water bottle
  • ID or Passport

Also recommended:

  • Toiletries
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Pocket knife or multi-tool
TOUR EQUIPMENT
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Trekking Notes

  • Distance: 7 to 8 km.
  • Terrain: Immersive route through a dense, old-growth primary forest along overgrown jungle trails. Features narrow paths, rugged rocky outcrops, and multiple steep, challenging sections.
  • Suitability: Due to the steep incline and technical terrain, this route is best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level and above. It is not recommended for complete beginners. Children from 10 years old are eligible to participate, provided they are active and used to outdoor activities.

2. Kayaking Notes

  • Distance: Approximately 4 to 5 km in total.
  • Terrain & Scenery: Paddlers will cross a stunning bay with clear, cool blue waters, dotted with dramatic limestone karsts and pristine white sandy beaches perfect for resting, relaxing, and swimming. The route covers the scenic Van Boi and Dark & Bright Cave areas (exploring the inside of Bright Cave only, per bay regulations).
  • Suitability: The water is generally calm and the distance is highly manageable, making it accessible even for those with little or no prior kayaking experience. However, for safety reasons on the open water, this activity is strictly not suitable for children under 10 years old.

3. Food & Water

  • Meals: All meals showcase authentic, hearty local cuisine designed to replenish your energy after active outdoor sessions. 
  • Water & Energy: Clean, safe drinking water and energy-boosting snacks (such as fresh fruits or local treats) are supplied daily during the tour. 

4. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). You can refill it throughout the day from our large water jugs.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

5. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical Fitness: Please maintain a regular walking routine of approximately 5–7 km per day in the weeks leading up to the tour to ensure you are adequately prepared for the trek.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.