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7 Things To Try On A Halong Tour

Welcome to Halong Bay, a place that is attracted by its captivating beauty and a great amount of adventures! Situated in Northern Vietnam, the bay is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, overwhelming line karsts, and warm turquoise waters. During this article, we are going to navigate you through the top 7 things to try on a Halong tour. Each activity promises a different way of connecting with the unparalleled natural beauty, rich culture, and boundless charm of the bay. So, let’s dive into the magic without any further ado to find out the top things to try on a Halong tour!

7 Things To Try On A Halong Tour

Overnight Cruise on Halong Bay

Halong Bay in Things To Try On A Halong Tour

Halong Bay

If you only do one thing when visiting Halong Bay, take an overnight cruise! Imagine just drifting on the calm waters of the bay aboard a luxury cruise ship with towering limestone islands in view. At sunset, the colors become riotous as the sky unleashes every hue possible across the horizon; the calm sea reflects every shade, turning it into a mirror-like surface that is almost magical. Truly, this is one of the top things to try on a Halong tour!

This overnight cruise on Halong Bay is not just being on a cruise; instead, it has elements to it that could make one fully immerse themselves in the serenity of the bay. It encompasses luxury and adventure, along with stunning views at any time of day or night. It is more like a peaceful ambiance, and comfort while having all the amenities of a floating hotel, and a chance to experience Halong Bay exclusively. It really should be number one on any list of things to try on a Halong tour.

Practical Tips:

  • Choosing Your Cruise: Options range from budget-friendly boats to opulent five-star ships. Choose based on your comfort level and desired amenities.
  • Best Time to Go: The months of October to April are considered ideal for going on this trip because of much calmer seas and clearer skies, although cruises run throughout the year.
  • What to Pack: Comfortable clothes, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and, of course, a camera to help record the magic of these moments.

Kayaking through Hidden Lagoons

Kayaking through Hidden Lagoons

Kayaking through Hidden Lagoons

Is seeking a way to draw near to nature? Then, kayaking through hidden lagoons could be one of the most thrilling attempts during your things to try on a Halong tour! Halong Bay is just a kayak paradise: hundreds of serene lagoons, secret caves, and quiet bays-just about the ideal destination for every type of kayak. Kayaking allows you to discover the close beauty of the bay at your own pace.

Kayaking offers an incomparable experience: a kayaking adventure to some of the most beautiful and secluded spots in Halong Bay. Cruising into emerald waters, paddling through narrow channels with towering limestone cliffs, and entering areas big boats can’t venture near. Paddle into Luon Cave, where the ceiling is so low only kayaks can fit, or head into Ba Hang Fishing Village to see the day-to-day living of the locals.

Kayaking in Halong Bay creates a relationship with nature that big vessels cannot afford. You will get into corners of the bay where silent and hidden caves are waiting. By all means, it will be an adventure to paddle through the serene waters of the bay-peaceful yet thrilling.

Practical Tips:

  • Best Time for Kayaking: The best time for kayaking is from October to April since the temperature condition is perfect.
  • Safety First: Wear life jackets, and follow the guide instructions. Be aware of tides and currents.
  • Top Spots for Kayaking: The most awe-inspiring places not to miss are: Crazy Luon Cave, Dark and Bright Cave, and Ba Hang Fishing Village.

Rock Climbing Adventures

Rock Climbing Adventures

Rock Climbing Adventures

Are you an adrenaline junkie? Then, rock climbing in Halong Bay features as one of the most exciting things to try on a Halong tour. With its dramatic limestone cliffs jutting out of emerald waters, Halong Bay is home to a unique and challenging environment for rock climbing enthusiasts of all levels.

Some of the most popular rock climbing sites in Halong Bay include Butterfly Valley, Hidden Valley, and Moody Beach. All of these have routes that vary in difficulty, meaning whether you are a seasoned climber or a beginner trying it out, there will be a challenge suitable for your level. Local climbing schools offer guides with experience and rentals to make sure you have everything to ensure a fun and safe adventure.

Rock climbing in Halong Bay For the ones interested in pushing themselves to new limits, rock climbing in Halong Bay is an active form of adventure viewed differently from this bay. Ideal for adventurous people, with physical challenges intermingled with breathtaking scenery, it should be a must for those willing to add a bit of adrenaline into their Halong Bay trip.

Practical Tips:

  • Best Time to Climb: The best time to make the climb is during the cooler months ranging from November to March.
  • Gear Up: Bring appropriate clothes and equipment or rent from local climbing schools.
  • Safety First: Always climb with a guide, especially if you are a beginner.

Exploring the Majestic Caves

Exploring the Majestic Caves in Things To Try On A Halong Tour

Exploring the Majestic Caves

The attractions in Halong Bay concern not only the glamorous views on the surface but also the hidden wonders beneath. One of the most worthwhile things to try on a Halong tour, which is the top priority of almost every visitor, is to a visit to the exploring the majestic caves, which are the result of millions of years in geology. Each of the mentioned geological caves boasts unique charm and beauty.

Be prepared to be amazed, as one enters into the famous caves of Halong Bay-Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, and Dau Go Cave. At Sung Sot Cave, stalactites and stalagmites are multipart pretty surprising. The rock formations of the Thien Cung Cave look especially attractive with colored lights. The interesting historical version at Dau Go Cave is exciting and goes back in history to the 13th century.

Exploring caves in Halong Bay is the most fantastic way to discover the hidden beauty of this incredible destination. This is an adventure that stitches together natural wonder, history, and culture all in one.

Practical Tips:

  • Accessibility: Many of the caves can only be reached by way of boat tours, and some guides will give insight into their history and geology.
  • Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is during the dry season, around October through April.
  • What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes, bring a flashlight, and be prepared for some steps and uneven ground.

Indulging in Halong’s Unique Cuisine

Enjoy peanut worms in Things To Try On A Halong Tour

Enjoy peanut worms

No Halong Bay tour will be complete if you do not savor its mouth-watering local delicacy! For all the food lovers out there, indulging in unique delicacies that belong to Halong Bay is one of the top things to try on a Halong tour.

From squid grilled to fresh crabs and the most well-known Sá Sùng, which is a worm living in the sand, Halong Bay offers an open list of seafood delicacies that will make one’s mouth water. Oyster porridge, steamed prawns, sweet and sour clams-all these dishes try to turn your simple meal into a party of flavors. And finally, don’t be surprised by the local street food markets, or just go to one of the restaurants along the coast and taste these delicacies with a bay view.

Halong Bay cuisine The food in Halong Bay represents the rich maritime culture, and the one that deserves a great taste of them is those who travel deep into the local culture and tradition. It is also one delicious way to explore Halong Bay, which is supposed to be a must for any foodie.

Practical Tips:

  • Top Places to Eat: Head to local markets, like Bai Chay Market, for a delicacy or two, or make reservations at top-rated restaurants, such as Green Mango or Co Ngu.
  • Try a Food Tour: Besides, taking part in a food tour allows one to taste a variety of items and learn more about local eating traditions.
  • Dining Etiquette: Be adventurous, and ask locals for any recommendations!

Hiking up Bai Tho Mountain

Hiking up Bai Tho Mountain

Hiking up Bai Tho Mountain

Bai Tho Mountain sits at 168 meters and offers a vantage point like no other, offering a full 360° panoramic view of the bay. The hike begins in a quaint local neighborhood, meandering through narrow streets before reaching the start of the trail. This moderately difficult hike takes about 30-45 minutes to reach the summit. While ascending, the trail gets somehow steeper; however, it is well worth the effort. You then get to the top, catch your breath, and marvel at an amazing view of Halong Bay-emerald waters and so many limestone islands stretching to the limit of your eyes.

Hiking in Halong Bay Therefore, it is well recommended for hiking enthusiasts and all lovers of the outdoors who would wish to witness Halong Bay from atop high. This is a great hike with a nice unparalleled view of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Practical Tips:

  • Best Time to Hike: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time for hiking. This would ensure that midday burning does not occur, and you will also get good light for your photos.
  • Safety First: The use of comfortable trekking shoes, enough water, and having in mind to watch your step on rocky sections.
  • What to Bring: A camera, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure!

Experiencing Sun World Halong Park 

Get a kick on your journey to Halong Bay at Sun World Halong Park! This entertainment complex is the ideal combination of fun, thrill, and relaxation-perfectly mixed and an ideal stop for families and groups seeking another kind of adventure in Halong Bay.

Sun World Halong Park is the largest playground for fun purposes in this locality. One can start here by directly proceeding to the Dragon Park. Consumers can get a playlist of thrilling rides from roller coasters to water slides, which raises their pulse. For those guests who seek to have a laid-back and relaxing experience, take a ride on the Queen Cable Car to Ba Deo Hill and enjoy the panoramic scope of Halong Bay. Most especially, do not miss the Sun Wheel, among the largest Ferris wheels anywhere in the world, which provides a fantastic panorama over the bay, especially at sunset.

Cool off at the Typhoon Water Park with its wave pool, lazy river, and slides of any size one might imagine. Seasonal events and performances are held at the park all year round.

Sun World Halong Park is among the very best things to do in Halong Bay, housing a great combination of entertainment and relaxation. Name it: an adventure junkie or just a person who wants to relax with a view; it has something for everyone. This place is among its great bonuses for families carrying kids and lots of friends or just wanting to enjoy a fun-filled day.

Practical Tips:

  • Tickets and Hours: While the park is open all year, sometimes the hours might be affected depending on the season. Please check the most recent information on the website about ticket prices and opening hours.
  • Maximizing Your Experience: Come in early to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. Wear comfortable clothes and bring your swimwear in case you will drop by the water park.

Conclusion

From cultural explorations of traditional villages, exciting rides at Sun World Halong Park, and breathtaking aerial views from a seaplane, to an endless list of things to try on a Halong tour each one of these experiences offers a special way of communicating with the natural beauty, vital culture, and adventurous spirit of Halong Bay.

Ready to start your journey? Let’s book a tour to IMPRESS TRAVEL for a more convenient and memorable trip through all the wonders of Halong Bay. From planning a perfect itinerary to arranging for expert guides, we’re here to ensure you experience the best things to try on a Halong tour! Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ha Long and to book HaLong Tour at the best prices.

Hanoi Temple of literature
Hanoi Temple of literature
The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Hanoi Van Mieu
Hanoi Van Mieu
Halong Bay
Halong Bay
Hanoi people
Hanoi people
WINTER IN HANOI
WINTER IN HANOI
Hanoi Cyclo Tour
Hanoi Cyclo Tour
Halong Boat
Halong Boat
Halong islet
Halong islet
Halong Bay
Halong Bay
Hanoi Temple of literature
The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Hanoi Van Mieu
Halong Bay
Hanoi people
WINTER IN HANOI
Hanoi Cyclo Tour
Halong Boat
Halong islet
Halong Bay

TOUR IN BRIEF

  • Day 1: Hanoi arrival & Hanoi city tour(L)
  • Day 2: Hanoi to Halong Bay & Overnight on Cruise (B, L, D)
  • Day 3: Halong bay – Hanoi (B, Brunch)
  • Day 4: Hanoi city then departure (B)

Tours Itinerary

Day 01

HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)

  • Good morning,  pick up at Noi Bai International Airport and transfer to Hanoi Capital city.
  • Check-in the hotel, have lunch.
  • Afternoon sightseeing tour begins with a visit to President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum . Inside the mausoleum, there are sightseeing of the Presidential Palace (view from outside), President’s Fishpond, House On Stilts, and One Pillar Pagoda.
  • Next, we will pay a visit to the Temple of Literature. It is where Confucius – The founder of Confucianism was worshiped. This place also considered the first National University of Vietnam; it is where kings, mandarins and talented people of Vietnam were trained.
  • Our tour continues with an exciting visit. We will visit one of the most beautiful lakes in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake. Then, we will go to the Ngoc Son Templet because it is in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake.
  • A short walking tour around the old quarter.

Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi

Day 02

HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)

  • Good morning, have breakfast at your hotel, then check-out of the hotel.
  • 08:00 am, pick up from your hotel to travel to Halong Bay (notice: pickup time can be a bit flexible depending on each different Cruise, distance Hanoi – Halong bay is 160km, a stop for break time on halfway for a refreshment).
  • You enjoy the drive and sightseeing of the peaceful countryside scenery during the bus trip (4 hours). We arrive at the Ha Long bay seaport at around noontime.
  • At noon, you aboard the cruise, check-in & enjoy a welcome drink while your cabin is assigned.
  • Check-in your cabin and put your luggage inside the cabin. Try to relax and do a short tour by moving around the cruise to learn about the cruise’s architecture & design.
  • Relaxing, sightseeing and taking photos
  • A sumptuous lunch with fresh seafood meal is served while the cruise was slowly gliding out into the Halong bay.
  • 15h00 – 16h00 explore the amazing Sung Sot Cave – the most beautiful cave in Halong Bay.
  • 16h00 – 17h00 Cruising to Titov Island for swimming and relaxing at the beach. You can climb up to the top of the island for a panorama view of Halong Bay.
  • 17h00 – 17h30 Return to the main boat. Continue cruising to the quiet area while enjoying the beautiful sea view on the way.
  • 17h30 – 19h00 Enjoy Sunset Party on the cruise and admire the best moments of the day. It is when the sunset happens.
  • 19h00        Dinner is served. Socialize with other guests, take part in board games, go fishing for squid, or just laze around.
  • Overnight in your cabin on Cruise.

Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, shuttle bus A/C transfer, English speaking tour guide on CRUISE only, entrance fee, full board, join Cruise in Halong bay with private cabin (2 persons share 1 cabin)

Day 03

HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)

  • Start your day with Tai Chi exercises or a photo hunt.
  • 07h00 – 07h30 Have breakfast on board and enjoy the peaceful morning of Halong Bay.
  • 08h30 – 09h30 Kayak among the hidden areas of the bay, around the Drum Cave.
  • 09h45 Return to the boat. Freshen up and check out of your cabin.
  • 10h00 – 10h30 Continue your cruise exploring the Bay, passing Ba Hang fishing village, Dog Islet, and more.
  • 10h30 – 11h30 while heading back to the harbor, watch the fruit carving demonstration and participate in the Cooking Class before enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
  • 11h45 – 12h00 Disembark in Halong Bay Port.
  • 12h15 – 12h30 Transfer back to Hanoi.
  • About 16:00 – Arrival back to Hanoi central city, recheck in the hotel
  • Free time & Overnight in Hanoi city
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, brunch, activities in Halong bay, transfer, tour guide, hotel in Hanoi.

Day 04

HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)

  • Good morning, enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Then, you have some free time to explore Hanoi city before going to Noi Bai airport for your scheduled flight.
  • The end of the tour, thank you and see you again!

Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, transfer, tour guide.

What’s included in this trip :

  • A/C accommodation with DOUBLE or TWIN ROOM (2 persons share 1 room; single room can be available on request) with daily breakfast
  • A/C transfer from Airports to the hotel and other tourist destinations according to the itinerary
  • Bus round trip to Hanoi – Ha Long Bay; (private land transfer available on request)
  • 2 days 1 night on Joint Cruise trip in Ha Long Bay, with DOUBLE or TWIN (2 persons share 1 cabin; single cabin can be available on request), full meals on board
  • Kayaking in Ha Long Bay
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary. (Breakfast = 04; Lunch = 04; Dinner = 01)
  • English- speaking guides as specified (Chinese/ Malaysian speaking guide can be available on request)
  • Entrance fees
  • Mineral water (2 bottles/ per day with sightseeing tour)
What’s excluded in this trip:
  • All international and domestic flights
  • Specified as Chinese/ Malaysian/ Indonesian/Thai speaking guide can be available on request to pay for extra-fee.
  • Travel Insurance
  • Airport taxes
  • All meals not mentioned
  • Tips for tour guides, drivers, crew members in Ha Long Bay, other attendants if may have (3 USD/pax/day)
  • Other personal expenses not mentioned.

4  STAR HOTEL TO BE USED

City Hotel Room
Hanoi Silk Path/ La Siesta Premium Deluxe with windows
Halong Bay Paradise Sail/Bhaya cruise Deluxe with windows

5 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED

City Hotel Room
Hanoi Peridot Hotel/Apricot Deluxe with windows
Halong Bay Paradise Elegance/Au Co Deluxe with windows

Hanoi to Halong bay 4 days

Ranana

You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.

We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.

Ebrahim

Tour of Vietnam

Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!

Solly Pochee

The tour was fantastic

I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee

Bernard Lim

Great value for money with 4 stars hotel

Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.

Derek.Schooling

We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel

This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.

My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .

We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress

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