This would then be followed by an outstanding experience: the Sung Sot Cave with a Halong Bay Boat Tour. Being one of the most sought-after Halong Tours, this tour takes you right to the heart of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, into the majesty of the Sung Sot Cave. This is the largest and most breathtaking of the caves in the locale with an incredible combination of the unique rock formations and its legends. Being a main attraction included on all Halong Bay boat tours, a visit to this cave opens one to the breathtaking scenery and cultural history of the area. We will give all insights in this guide on the ultimate adventure of planning and exploring Sung Sot Cave, so your journey is full of excitement and wonder with a lifetime experience.
If you’re considering what makes Sung Sot Cave such an unmissable destination while taking your Halong Bay boat tour, then let me tell you some incredible secrets about it:
Sung Sot Cave was located on Bo Hon Island, which is situated at the center of Halong Bay. Bo Hon Island was, in essence, a vague middle area of the well-known Halong Bay ecosystem. These islands, full of dense green vegetation, stood among towering limestone karsts and stood as vital stops on many Halong Tours. Its strategic position right in the bay made it easily accessible for tourists and thus an essential part of any journey into Halong Bay’s wonders.
Sung Sot Cave
Discovered by the French in 1901, they were so astonished by its beauty that they named it “La Grotte des Surprises," or, in English, a surprise cave. And that is what you will be able to see inside this fantastic cave: surprises! The inside of the cave was incredibly awesome; it was something they had never seen before, a place where natural beauty and mystery intertwined with each other.
What makes Sung Sot Cave so special, then? In this cave, nature has created an astonishing geological work for millions of years by slowly dripping water through the mountains into fantastic stalactites and stalagmites. They are no ordinary rocks but have been molded by the forces of nature into amazing sculptures, resembling imaginary creatures, animals, or even everyday objects of human life. This is a fairy tale, where every turn opens a new wonder!
It is divided into two main chambers, each with its charm and wonder. The first chamber, right at the entrance, is sometimes referred to as the “Waiting Room." It greets visitors into a vault above that looks very much like a grand cathedral. Here, one could spot rock formations shaped like a dragon, a tiger, and even a general commanding his troops! The second chamber opens up into an enormous space that is filled with natural light filtering through cracks in the cave walls. From here, one obtains an incredible panoramic view of Halong Bay-one literally out of breath!
What probably adds to the magic of the Sung Sot Cave with a Halong Bay Boat Tour is the legends created in its history. According to a local legend, after driving the invaders away, the young hero Thanh Giong ascended into the heavens, leaving behind a sword and all sorts of precious gifts to protect the Vietnamese people. The place itself is said to be petrified within the formations of the cave, and for this reason, it carries an air of mystery and spiritual significance. Stories about dragons, hidden treasures, and ancient warriors further create the cultural appeal of Sung Sot Cave and make it more than just any ordinary natural wonder but also a passageway to rich heritage in Vietnam.
No wonder it regularly is included in the lists of the most beautiful caves not only in Vietnam but also around the world! It was included in the list of “Top Caves in Vietnam" provided by CNN Travel and touted countless times by international travel associations, together with various publications for its unique charm and incomparable beauty. Being one of the highlights of any Halong Tour, this cave is still enchanting and getting the words stuck in the throats of travelers around the world.
07:30 – 08:00: Morning Pick-Up in Hanoi
Our day gets underway early! Our comfortable bus will pick you up between 7:30 and 8:00 AM from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter or at the Hanoi Opera House. At this time, you will be welcomed aboard by our friendly guide who will get you all set for the beautiful ride to Halong Bay. Get set to kick back and enjoy the ride!
08:00 – 11:30: Scenic Drive to Halong Bay
Halong Bay
Leaving the bustling streets of Hanoi, drive through the beautiful countryside scenery dotted with rice fields, small villages, and local markets. Along the way, we stop in Hai Duong Province for 20 minutes to stretch our legs, enjoy a cup of local Vietnamese coffee, or see some unique local products. Continue the drive to Halong Bay and arrive at about 11:30 AM.
12:00: Boarding the Boat at Tuan Chau Harbor
Tuan Chau Harbor
On arrival at Tuan Chau Harbor, take an hour to board our deluxe boat. Following necessary check-in, you board the boat where your adventure will start kicking in. At about 12:30 PM, we set sail into the waters. Our guide will immediately brief you on the day’s activities and emerald sights to see during the day. Feel the refreshing sea wind; let us embark on our adventure cruising among the emerald waters of Halong Bay.
12:30 – 13:30: Enjoy a Delicious Lunch Onboard
Enjoy a delicious lunch while cruising deeper into the bay. A selection of fresh seafood, spring rolls, salads, and other local delicacies will be yours to try. Meanwhile, enjoy lunch amidst the breathtaking surroundings: limestone cliffs, islets, and crystal-clear waters create a picture-perfect backdrop of Halong Bay.
13:30 – 14:00: Exploring Halong Bay’s Iconic Formations
The boat will head into the bay, cruising by the Fighting Cock and Stone Dog Islet. Each of these strangely-shaped rocks has its legend, which your guide will tell you, to color and mystify your trip. And do not forget to shoot them with your camera!
14:00 – 15:00: Visit to Sung Sot Cave
We reach Bo Hon Island, about roughly 2:00 PM, and get off to the main attraction of this tour which is Sung Sot Cave! Going up about 100 steps leads to the entrance of this magnificent cave. Inside, you will explore two grand chambers filled with enormous stalactites as well as stalagmites. Your guide will indicate a dragon, a tiger, and many such impressive shapes. The size and beauty of the cave will amaze you, and the view from the exit is just breathtaking!
15:00 – 15:30: Kayaking or Bamboo Boat Ride at Luon Cave
From Sung Sot Cave, we move to Luon Cave, at about 3:00 PM, in which you can also choose either kayaking or a traditional bamboo boat. Paddle through the serene, emerald waters or be taken by a local rower to a bamboo boat gliding through this tranquil water cave enclosed by high limestone cliffs. It’s perfect to be plunged into the natural beauty of Halong Bay.
15:30 – 16:15: Relaxing at Ti Top Island
3:30 PM: Arrive at Ti Top Island. You are free to relax on the sandy white beach, and then swim in the crystal-clear waters of Halong Bay. Alternatively, if you feel a bit more energetic, a short hike up to the summit of Ti Top Island rewards you with wide-angle panoramic views of Halong Bay. It’s one of the great places for clicking photographs, and the climb is well worth The views are spectacular at the summit.
Ti Top Island
16:15 – 17:00: Afternoon Tea and Leisure Time on the Boat
Around 4:15 PM, it is now time to cruise back to the boat for the delightful afternoon tea. Delight yourself with a selection of pastries, fruits, and snacks as you sit on the sundeck. This indeed is the time to relax and ponder over today’s adventure and surreal beauty of Halong Bay, which starts to lean towards the sun.
17:00 – 17:30: Cruise Back to Tuan Chau Harbor
We begin our journey back to Tuan Chau Wharf. Again, the cruise gives you more time to relax on board while taking a final glimpse at the breathtaking views of the bay heading slowly back to shore-what a finale to a day full of exploration and discovery.
17:30 – 18:00: Disembark and Start the Return Journey to Hanoi
We arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor at about 5:30 PM and meet with our bus to drive back to Hanoi. Take a final relaxing drive in the car, recollecting the precious moments of the day.
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure with the Sung Sot Cave with a Halong Bay Boat Tour? Great! Here are some very practical tips to make sure you will enjoy the best time on one of the leading Halong Tours. Right in!
Time to visit Sung Sot Cave with a Halong Bay Boat Tour is from around March to May during autumn-from September to November. In these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, with clear skies and refreshing positive factors for the cruise and cave exploration. Furthermore, visiting at these times will result in fewer crowds, so you will have the chance to contemplate the diversified landscapes of Halong Bay in serenity and peacefulness.
Be sure to be prepared with everything that one would need for a comfortable day out on the water. Comfortable clothes should include light and breathable material for warm weather, but also a light jacket for cooler evenings. And of course, do not forget your swimming suits for those who plan to swim at Ti Top Beach! Protect yourself with sunscreen and a hat to keep the sun off of you. A camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking scenery, and a pair of water shoes or heavy sandals is helpful in managing the unequal terrain inside Sung Sot Cave. Finally, bring a personal water bottle to make sure that you remain well-hydrated throughout the day.
Exploring Sung Sot Cave is suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for a bit of activity. Reaching the cave involves climbing around 100 steps and walking on uneven ground inside. A moderate level of physical fitness will help you enjoy the tour more comfortably. Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned hiker just take your time, and our friendly guides will be there to support you at every step. The stunning sights inside the cave make every step worth the effort!
Your safety is our number one concern on any of the tours available here in Halong! Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if it’s hot. When kayaking or taking the bamboo boat at Luon Cave, please remember to put on your life jacket for this type of activity. Always follow the instructions of the guide, who will be aware of all routes and best practices concerning the safe passage through both the boat and the cave, taking part in the activities.
Are you seeking an unforgettable Sung Sot Cave with a Halong Bay Boat Tour? Choose Impress Travel! We commit to quality in service, knowing guides, and well-organized tours. We believe in responsible tourism; thus, our Halong Tours respect the local environment and culture while delivering memorable experiences to our customers. With options to make the tour your own, we can include more adventure, more cultural exploration, or take it easy-it’s up to you. No two travelers are alike, and we make sure your tour reflects that one way or another.
Please don’t just take our word; have a look at what our satisfied customers and industry awards say! To book your spot on a Sung Sot Cave with a Halong Bay Boat Tour, please visit our website at impresstravel.com, give us a call at (+84) 912 379 189, or email us at info@impresstravel.com. A friendly team looks forward to your call for an unforgettable journey. Let Impress Travel take you through the wonders of Halong Bay, and we can’t wait for your welcome aboard!
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? A Sung Sot Cave with a Halong Bay Boat Tour guarantees to be a great combination of outstanding natural beauty, interesting legend, and active kayaking and cave exploring activities. You raise a booking to Impress Travel to guarantee an unforgettable, safe, and well-organized private tour. Please contact us at impresstravel.com, (+84) 912 379 189, or info@impresstravel.com to plan your perfect Halong Bay tour now! We look forward to seeing you on board!
How long does the tour last?
This full-day Sung Sot Cave with a Halong Bay Boat Tour usually takes 12 hours. The morning pick-up is foreseen in Hanoi between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM. Return to Hanoi will be around 8:30 PM to 9:00 PM, which gives us ample time to see the great sights of Ha Long Bay, enjoy kayaking, and swimming, and also discover time for Sung Sot Cave.
What is the difficulty level of the cave trek?
Most of our travelers easily do Sung Sot Cave; it means that moderately fit travelers can easily do it. There are about 100 steps leading up to the entrance of the cave, and the bottom of the cave itself is uneven in some places. But never mind guides will help you every step of this trek. So just take your time, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy the beauty around-you won’t regret it!
Are meals included in the tour package?
Of course! Our local seafood onboard lunch menu and Vietnamese food on our Halong Tours are as delightful. In the afternoon, we also offer a light tea with pastries and fruits. Should you prefer any dietary order or restriction, kindly please let us know, and we will be happy to accommodate accordingly.
Can I customize my tour?
Sure, you can! At Impress Travel, we believe that every single traveler is unique, so we offer Sung Sot Cave with a Halong Bay Boat Tour for options to customize on your demand. Whether you want to add more activities or adjust the tour to fit your interest, extend kayaking, and visit the extra sights that our guides suggest, we are here to help. Just contact us, and will work with you to create the perfect adventure that fits your needs.
Is it safe to swim and kayak in Halong Bay?
Yes, safety is the most important thing in all of our Halong Tours. Generally, Halong Bay is very safe for swimming and kayaking since there is quite calm water and specified areas for activities. Life jackets shall be provided by guides on all water activities, besides instructions for keeping everyone comfortable and secure. Providing you follow all the safety guidelines given by our team, you will surely enjoy Halong Bay waters fantastically and safely! 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.
Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi
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 Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, transfer, tour guide.
What’s included in this trip :
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 |
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.
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!
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
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.
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
Impress Travel offers daily tours to attractive destinations in the capital of Hanoi as well as package tours to explore the most popular destinations in North Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa, or adventure tours to explore the Northeast & Northwest regions such as Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Mu Cang Chai. Our products focus on providing travel services for private tours, small groups, family groups, and couples who need to make special requests for the trip. For the trip to Hanoi & North Vietnam, your submission to Impress Travel & Destination Management Company (DMC), which will bring the greatest value to your trip.
To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).
