Introduction to Halong tours cruise to Monkey Island
Location and History
Situated just off the coast of Cat Ba Island, access to Monkey Island is a short boat ride from the main town. Originally named “Cat Dua Island" for the wild pineapple trees that covered it, it has since gained the fame of being inhabited by adorable creatures-playful monkeys that roam freely across the island’s lush terrain. This site will keep visitors of all ages in stitches and is a must-see on any Halong Tours adventure.
What Makes Monkey Island Special?
Monkey Island offers much more than its charismatic primates. The island is further endowed with stunning sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming or just relaxing under the sun. For the adventurous, kayaking along the shoreline of the island is a fantastic way to explore its hidden coves and experience the tranquility of Lan Ha Bay. Wildlife enthusiasts will get their cameras clicking with excellent photographs of monkeys and other native species in their natural habitat.
Going beyond the natural beauty, in Monkey Island, there is a panoramic trail and the chance to contemplate an unforgettable vista of Lan Ha Bay from the top, with emerald waters and limestone karst scenery.
Proximity to Other Attractions
One of the best things about Monkey Island is that it’s part of Lan Ha Bay, thus, it is situated not far from other main stops in the Halong tours cruise to Monkey Island Viet Hai Village and Cat Ba National Park. It means the travelers easily visit all those places without much problem, hence enabling them to check off several various highlights at once. Whether you’re coming from Halong Bay or staying on Cat Ba Island, Monkey Island is a conveniently located treasure that fits perfectly into your itinerary.
Monkey Island (Sours: www.tripadvisor)
Sample Itinerary for Turquoise Halong Tours Cruise to Monkey Island (2,3 Days)
Day 1: Hanoi to Halong Bay – Exploring Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island
Morning: Today, the journey begins early in Hanoi, where you will be met by our friendly guide and driver. Take a beautiful drive to Halong Bay, passing through picturesque countryside landscapes. At midday, arrive at Halong Bay and board your cruise, where you will be greeted with a refreshing drink and a briefing on the exciting days ahead.
Savor a fresh seafood lunch as the cruise begins its journey across the magnificent bay. Limestone karsts rise higher than the eye can see, emerald green waters, and signature structures like Fighting Cocks Rock and Stone Dog Islet are the signatures of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Afternoon: The first stop of your Halong tours cruise to Monkey Island is the awe-inspiring Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Halong Bay. Marvel at its dramatic stalactites and stalagmites forming unique, mythical shapes.
After visiting the cave, cruise to Titop Island, famous for its panoramic viewpoint. Climb to the top for a bird’s-eye view of Halong Bay or relax on the sandy beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
Evening: Get back on board as the sun sets over the bay, with golden and orange hues all around. Enjoy an onboard dinner that includes a huge buffet spread consisting of a mix of international and local food items.
The night is spent with squid fishing, karaoke, or simply relaxing on the deck under the starry night sky. Let the sound of the waves gently carry you to sleep in your cozy cabin, knowing this is just the beginning of the adventure.
Day 2: Lan Ha Bay and Monkey Island
Lan Ha Bay (Sours: daiichitravel)
Morning: Day breaking under the view of the horizon, where the sun wakes up over the serene view of Halong Bay to start a new day of your life. The beautiful morning will start with some light breakfast on board as fresh coffee, tea along pastries.
As the cruise starts to sail into the serener and more pristine Lan Ha Bay, a less-known gem rivaling Halong Bay in beauty, take a kayak and paddle through serene lagoons, exploring hidden caves and untouched corners of this stunning region.
Afternoon: After kayaking, get to the highlight of your tour, Monkey Island. This charming island is now home to playful monkeys in their natural habitat. It’s a chance to enjoy these cheeky residents a bit closer up in controlled interactions, and you can take time to relax on the sandy beaches of this island or take in panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay from the top.
Lunch will be provided to 3-day tour participants upon arrival at Cat Ba Island. Check into a cozy resort, you will have some time to relax amidst the lush landscapes.
Evening: For 2-day trips, this would be a good time to wrap up the day with a serene cruise back towards the harbor, and for 3-day overnight guests, the treat would continue with dinner at a delightful resort, including the possibility of spending a relaxed evening out into the nightlife of Cat Ba Island. Take an evening walk around the local markets for their special seafood dishes or just to unwind in your resort.
Day 3 (Optional for 3-Day Tours): Cat Ba Island Exploration
Cat Ba National Park (Sours: national-parks)
Morning: Have a hearty breakfast in the resort and proceed to the Cat Ba National Park for an exciting trip of hiking, being both a biodiversity hot spot as well as a trekker’s hotspot with its ever-green trails, vibrant flora, and fascinating wildlife.
Another popular option for guests is going on a biking tour through the mountains to Viet Hai Fishing Village for its calm surroundings of enormous mountains and vast rice fields. During the cultural outing, enjoy meeting friendly village natives nearby to get a vision and flair into the village’s way of life.
Afternoon: Return to the cruise by noon for an afternoon cruise back through Halong Bay into the harbor. Disembark and take the final glorious views of the iconic karsts and islets of the bay by navigating near the harbor.
Evening: Take the transfer back to Hanoi, making stops en route to shop for souvenirs and local specialties. Late evening arrival to Hanoi to end the Halong tours cruise to Monkey Island. We will drop you at your hotel, assist in onward arrangements for other destinations in Vietnam, or take you to the airport for your onward flight home.
What’s Included in the Tour?
- Transports: Round-trip transfer in A/C vehicle from Hanoi – Halong Bay -Hanoi.
- Accommodation: On a cruise boat overnight; resort on Cat Ba Island for 3-day tours.
- Meals: All meals during the tour as per the itinerary include buffet and local Vietnamese dishes.
- Activities: Kayaking, cave exploration, hiking, and wildlife on Monkey Island.
- Entrance Fees: All tickets for Ha Long Bay, Monkey Island, and Lan Ha Bay.
- Guide Services: Experienced English-speaking guide for the whole duration of the tour.
What’s Not Included?
- Personal Expenses: Beverages, souvenirs, snacks, and any other items not mentioned in the tour description.
- Travel Insurance: Please make your arrangements.
- Optional Activities: All other tours/activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Tips: Gratuities for guides, drivers, and crew, are not included but highly appreciated.
Tips for Joining the Halong Tours Cruise to Monkey Island
Halong (Sours: www.google)
Best Time to Enjoy Halong Tours Cruise to Monkey Island
Your Halong tours cruise to Monkey Island during the spring months, between March and May, and autumn between September and November. The best seasons allow for good temperatures, fine clear skies, and small crowds of tourists. Such seasons provide an ideal climate for kayaking, trekking, and island tours. You would avoid this place if you don’t like the bustles of crowded summer periods. If your idea is a peaceful stay, avoid visiting in June, July, and August, for this is a summer peak when so many tourists troop to the region.
Packing for Halong Tours Cruise to Monkey Island
Pack in such a way that your luggage is light, with wearables for hot days, strong shoes for hiking both Monkey Island and caves, swimming suits for refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters, and sunscreen against the tropical sun. Keep your good camera or smartphone ready for the striking scenery of Halong Bay and playing monkeys. A waterproof bag is also one of those very good ideas to carry, especially while kayaking or doing water activities that are related to your tour.
Safety on Halong Tours Cruise to Monkey Island
To make the journey safe and pleasurable, bring medications if you have a predisposition to seasickness. Also, follow your guide in every activity, such as kayaking and hiking, and approach the wildlife on Monkey Island with great caution. Also, remember to stay hydrated, especially during active excursions, and avoid feeding or teasing the monkeys to ensure safe interactions for everyone.
Conclusion
It would be an experience of incomparable beauty and thrill in a Halong tours cruise to Monkey Island, where Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Monkey Island all meet in one beautiful memory. At Impress Travel, you will get a well-guided and smooth tour, full of spectacular views, exciting activities, and relaxing moments. Never hesitate to contact us to book your tour on the Halong Tours journey of a lifetime!