Cat Ba Island Review: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Cat Ba island's biosphere reserve is home to various endemic and endangered species, this Cat Ba Island Travel Reviews will provide you with comprehensive information on how to get there, what to see, and the best time to visit this enchanting island. Get ready to explore this stunning destination, often referred to as the pearl island of the Gulf of Tonkin.

1. Introduction about Cat Ba island

Nestled in the Gulf of Tonkin, Cat Ba Island is a hidden gem that beckons travellers with its captivating charm and natural beauty. Cat Ba Island is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich culture. This island is home to a variety of ecosystems, including rainforests, limestone karsts, mangrove forests, and coral reefs.

Cat Ba Island

It is also home to a number of endangered species,..so this is the reason why Cat Ba is a must-visit destination in Vietnam. Cat Ba Island Travel Reviews consistently praise the island's mesmerizing scenery, diverse attractions, and welcoming locals. Travelers rave about the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay, with its towering limestone formations and secluded grottos. Cat Ba National Park, a lush haven of biodiversity, draws hikers and nature lovers alike, while the island's pristine beaches provide a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

2. The best time to travel to Cat Ba island

The best time to travel to Cat Ba Island is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.

Cat Ba Island Travel Review

There is also less rainfall during the shoulder seasons, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and swimming. In order to plan your Cat Ba trip, it is essential to check the weather forecast beforehand. There are now many weather-forecast websites with high accuracy that help you to plan your trip efficiently.

3. How to get to the Cat Ba archipelago

• From Hanoi, you can either take a minibus from the old town or rent a private car to pick you up at your hotel. This route passes through the Hanoi - Hai Phong Expressway. From the Got Ferry, you have the option to either take a ferry or use the Cable Car to reach the Cai Vieng wharf. From there, continue by car to Cat Ba town, which is approximately 25 km away.
• Alternatively, if you are starting from Halong City, head to Tuan Chau Island Wharf. From here, take a ferry to Gia Luan wharf on Cat Ba Island. This ferry is capable of carrying cars, passengers, and goods.

Below are some of your suggestions about reputable bus companies moving from Hanoi to Cat Ba that you can refer to:

• Cat Ba Discovery

• Hotline: +84 986 062 233
• Depart from Hanoi: 07h30 am
• Arrived at Cat Ba: 14h00 pm
• Price: 280,000 VND (12.5 USD)

• Cat Ba Express

• Hotline: +84 848 244 999
• Depart from Hanoi: 7h45 am
• Arrived at Cat Ba: 14h00 pm
• Price: 300,000 VND (13 USD)

• Good Morning Cat Ba

• Hotline: +84 913 096 281
• Depart from Hanoi: 7h30 am
• Arrived at Cat Ba: 14h00 pm
• Price: 280,000 VND (12.5 USD)

• Daichi Travel

• Hotline: +84 961 004 660
• Depart from Hanoi: 8h30am
• Arrived at Cat Ba: 10h30 am
• Price: 300,000 VND (13 USD)

4. Top attractive things not to be missed on Cat Ba archipelago.

Cat Ba has much to offer, making your trip more memorable and much more relaxing. As you explore Cat Ba Island, you'll find a wealth of Cat Ba travel reviews from fellow adventurers, sharing their experiences and insights. These reviews serve as a valuable guide, helping you navigate the island's attractions and plan your itinerary to maximize your time in this paradise. Below are our recommendations as to what you can find on this marvelous island.

A. Explore Cat Ba National Park

Located near the northeastern shore of Vietnam, Cat Ba National Park encompasses the largest of the 367 islands that make up the Cat Ba Archipelago. Established in 1986, this UNESCO World Heritage Site and biosphere reserve is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. The park's striking landscapes have captivated artists and storytellers for generations, serving as the backdrop for movies, books, poems, and other creative works.

Cat Ba National Park

Cat Ba National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, encompassing lush tropical forests, fascinating mangroves, and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can embark on invigorating hikes through verdant greenery and encounter an array of wildlife, from exotic birds to elusive primates. Hiking trails wind through diverse landscapes, leading to hidden waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints. Kayaking enthusiasts can explore the park's waterways, while rock climbers can challenge themselves on the towering limestone karsts.

B. Visit Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay, often considered an extension of Ha Long Bay, is a hidden gem in the Gulf of Tonkin, Vietnam. With 400 small islands surrounding clear water, this place offers poetic scenery and enchanting beauty, yet it is largely untouched by tourism, retaining its authenticity and mesmerising charm.

Kayak in Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering countless outdoor activities that satisfy the spirit of every adventurer and kayaking is a great way to explore Lan Ha Bay and experience its natural beauty up close. Kayak is one of the most popular activities with tourists among the Cat Ba travel reviews. This is a truly impressive experience, taking you through the bobbing waves, your hands at the wheel as if you have mastered the majestic nature...While kayaking in this magnificent bay, you will have the opportunity to see some of the most stunning natural scenery in Vietnam. You will see towering limestone karsts, pristine beaches, and hidden coves. You may also see a variety of marine life, including fish, turtles, and dolphins.

C. Explore the Hospital Cave

Cat Ba Island has many large and small caves for you to explore. One of the most worth visiting is the Hospital Cave, a huge complex that once served as a treatment facility for those injured during more than 10 years of resistance against the United- States. Explore this hidden treasure, situated amidst the scenic Cat Ba National Park, where a harmonious fusion of historical intrigue and breathtaking natural beauty awaits.

The Hospital Cave

Delve into the depths of this cave and unravel its compelling past as a clandestine hospital during the Vietnam War. You will have a new perspective on how special hospitals operated in Vietnam during the war. Marvel at the exquisite stalactites and stalagmites gracing the cave's walls, while the echoes that once reverberated with the stories of refuge-seekers surround you. Amidst the serene atmosphere of the cave, seize a moment for contemplative reflection and connect with the timeless resilience of nature. The ticket price to visit Hospital Cave is only 80,000 VND per person (4 USD).

D. Bike ride around Viet Hai Fishing Village

Viet Hai fishing village, nestled among the emerald embrace of the beautiful island, offers a glimpse into the heart of Vietnam's traditional lifestyle. This quaint village, with its rustic charm and rich cultural heritage, is a haven of tranquility, where the pace of life slows down and the beauty of nature and tradition take center stage. Cycling to visit Viet Hai village is one of the activities not to be missed when coming to the paradise island of the Gulf of Tonkin.

Cycling in Viet Hai Village

You will be immersed in the daily lives of people, visit idyllic beautiful landscapes by bicycle, in the authentic atmosphere of the countryside, and explore narrow alleys with humble wooden houses, The people of Viet Hai Fishing Village are famous for their warm hospitality and genuine smiles... They welcome visitors with open arms, eager to share their stories, traditions, and delicious dishes. Along the way, you can meet local people tending their rice fields or raising livestock. Take a moment to stop and chat with them, learning about their lifestyle and deep connection to the land. As the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the village, find a quiet place to relax and reflect on your unforgettable cycling adventure. Note that the bicycle rental price here is only 50,000 VND (2.5 USD).

See more: Top must-see places in Cat Ba island

5. Some useful information for your voyage to Cat Ba island

Travelling to Cat Ba Vietnam is an interesting adventure, and here are some tips to help you have the best trip to Paradise of the Gulf of Tonkin:

• Be aware of your surroundings: Cat Ba Island is a generally safe place to travel, but it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings. Don't walk alone at night, and be careful when carrying valuables.
• Check weather conditions: Cat Ba island can experience different unpredicted weather. Check the weather forecast before your trip and be prepared for occasional rain.
• Prepare efficiently: Pack essentials such as comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, a camera and insect repellent.
• Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases: Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases will help you communicate with the locals and get around the island more easily.
• Respect the environment: Cat Ba Island is a beautiful natural destination, so it's important to respect the environment .. Be sure to dispose of your trash properly, avoid littering, and respect the local wildlife.

We hope this Cat Ba Island Travel Review helps you have the most comprehensive view and plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful island. If you have any additional suggestions or if you've experienced Cat Ba Island before, don't forget to share with Auasia Travel.

Cat Ba Island Review

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