Beginner Rock Climbing on Halong Tours

Top Rock Climbing Spots in Halong Bay 

Cat Ba Island – The Ultimate Rock Climbing Paradise

Cat Ba Island,  the largest in Halong Bay, is a very popular destination for those who like climbing on rocks. More famous for its verdant jungle, secluded beaches, and rugged limestone cliffs, Cat Ba is a climber’s playground with plenty of routes for climbers of all abilities.

Key Climbing Spots on Cat Ba Island:

• Butterfly Valley, in Lien Minh village: This beautiful valley is one of the prime rock climbing spots on Cat Ba Island. There are more than 30 climbing routes that cater for all abilities (5a to 7b). The climbs are well-established, have anchors and good markings, and are convenient for beginners.
• Ben Beo Cliff: Overlooking the sea, this picturesque coastal climbing spot is ideal for intermediate and experienced climbers. Limestone walls here combine sport climbing and traditional climbing.
• Hospital Cave Area: Famous for its history and hard climbs, this area is the best combination of culture and adventure.

Why Choose Cat Ba for Climbing?

• A variety of climbing walls for beginners and experienced climbers.
• Friendly local guides with good equipment, safety briefing, and help.
• The opportunity to pair climbing with kayaking, a visit to Lan Ha Bay, or hiking in Cat Ba National Park.

Lan Ha Bay – A Hidden Gem for Climbers

The Lan Ha Bay is a sanctuary for climbers wanting soft adventure in seclusion. The bay contains more than 400 limestone islands and islets that provide climbers with numerous boat accessible climbing locations.

Top Climbing Areas in Lan Ha Bay:

• Moody Beach (Deep Water Soloing Area):  Only accessible by boat, this is where climbers go to deep water solo climb without ropes above the sea. The cliffs are 5 to 15 m above the water, which is perfect if you are just starting with this activity and you want a safe yet adventurous first time.
• The Three Brothers Rocks: A group of tall limestone cliffs that are great for sport climbing. The climbing here ranges in difficulty, so it’s perfect for climbers wanting to test their limits.
• Nam Cat Island has beautiful, pristine beaches, lush high mountains, and dense forest, and it is a nice place for rock climbing with its rocks rising directly from the sea and hundreds of golden-handed monkeys.

Why Choose Lan Ha Bay for Climbing?

• Quieter and less crowded than Halong Bay, with a more laid-back vibe.
• From deep water soloing to sport climbing and everything in between.
• Picturesque boat rides to climbing destinations make your experience as much about the journey as the climbing.

Hidden Cliffs of Halong Bay – Exclusive and Thrilling

If you are searching for adventure off the beaten path, the Hidden Cliffs Halong Bay trip is the ideal pick for your attention. These climbing areas are accessible only by boat, so the feeling of adventure and discovery is hard to miss.

Top Hidden Climbing Areas:

• Hon Xep Rock Face: Found hidden among the karsts of Halong Bay, this cliff has a range of routes for beginner to intermediate climbers and breathtaking vistas across the bay’s emerald waters.
• Cong Do Island: A far-flung island with jagged limestone walls that are suitable for more experienced climbers. The island is an ecological preserve, which helps to preserve its natural environment.
• Vung Vieng Cliffs: Reached by kayak, the cliffs are unusual, combining rock climbing with paddling on water. Ideal for the adventurous.

Why Choose the Hidden Cliffs of Halong Bay?

• Discover secret, off-the-beaten-path climbing areas that the crowds don’t know about.
• Get away from it all with boat-access-only locations.
• A variety of beginner and challenging routes, suitable for all levels of skill.

Unforgettable Halong Bay Rock Climbing Tour Itinerary (1-Day Tour)

8:00 AM: Your adventurous Halong Bay Rock Climbing begins as our team picks you up at your hotel lobby in Cat Ba Island or Halong City. You will be greeted by our smiling guide, who will provide a short introduction to today’s adventure.

8:30 AM: Sail to the most beautiful climbing spots! You are welcome to opt for either Lan Ha Bay, relatively calm and beautiful, or Butterfly Valley, located in the Catba Island, wonderful for climbing activities.

9:00 AM: You’ll meet with your friendly and professional climbing guide when you arrive. You are provided with the best quality climbing gear, such as helmets, harnesses, and climbing shoes, to guarantee safety and maximum comfort whilst climbing.

9:30 AM: Start with a warm-up and a short crash course in climbing basics. Our guides will show you the proper technique of gripping, stepping, and staying on your feet on the cliffs! It is the ideal time for you, novices, to get confident.

10:00 AM: Time for the real adventure! First day of the Halong Bay Rock Climbing trip . Climbing easy routes for warming up. We want you to have the best experience possible climbing the rock, so we have carefully selected routes from beginner to experienced. Our experienced guides will be there to lend support and will keep you feeling comfortable on the climb.

11:30 AM: Grab a snack and a quick break. Rehydrate, snack a bit, and soak in the stunning vistas in every direction. This is an excellent time to take unforgettable photos.

12:00 PM: Keep climbing on your own, check out other lines with our awesome staff. Whether it’s your first climb or you’re upping the ante on higher walls, now’s your time to make those challenges count.

1:00 PM: Head back to the boat for a local seafood lunch. Feast on delicious and fresh seafood while cruising through beautiful Lan Ha Bay with its dramatic limestone islands.

2:00 PM: Relax after lunch with 1 of 3 de-stressing activities:

• Kayaking around Lan Ha Bay: Kayak on the calm surface, explore secret lagoons, and immerse yourself directly in the breathtaking beauty of the bay.
• Kick back on the boat: Just lie in the sun and take it easy.

3:00 PM: Feeling adventurous? You have two options:

• Carry on your Halong Bay Rock Climbing experience with some new climbs – great for challenging yourself and for even more amazing views.
• Or, take a nice boat trip in Halong Bay and appreciate its characteristic limestone formations and jade-green water.

4:30 PM: Back to the harbor, well done and amazing stories about rock climbing!

5:00 PM: Return to your hotel in Cat Ba Island or Halong City, and soak in the memory of this amazing day.

5:30 PM: The end of your Halong Bay Rock Climbing tour, but don’t worry, the memories and photos you made here will last you forever.

2-Day Halong Bay Rock Climbing Tour

Day 1: Full Day of Rock Climbing and Scenic Exploration

8:00 AM: Your good morning is a warm greeting from our team in your hotel lobby in Cat Ba Island, or Halong City. After a brief introduction from our friendly guide, you’ll be good to go.

8:30 AM: On a comfortable boat, then head off to the incredible climbing spots in Lan Ha Bay or Butterfly Valley. Feel the ocean wind on your face as you ride among limestone islands.

9:00 AM:  Arrive at the climbing location, get your harness, and listen to a safety brief. Helmets, harnesses, climbing shoes, and other necessary equipment will be provided by one of our knowledgeable guides.

9:30 AM: Begin the day with a warm-up session and some basic climbing instruction. Your guides will instruct you in basic climbing methods, such as how best to grip, place your feet, and keep your balance.

10:00 AM: Start your Halong Bay Rock Climbing experience with easy routes. With the help of our teachers, you can master your first "limestone" walls.

11:30 AM: Break for refreshments. Rehydrate and take beautiful pictures of the bay with beautiful views of the surrounding valley.

12:00 PM: Ride, riding more routes suited to your level of experience. First-timer or seasoned climber, there are routes to challenge and inspire you.

1:00 PM: Lunch on the boat, chip in the incredible local seafood, and a local Vietnamese Lunch cooked by the onboard chef, enjoy, and let us take you on a culinary experience for lunch on the water. Specialties here include grilled shrimp, fresh fish,  and stir-fried veggies.

2:00 PM: Pick an activity you like:

• Keep on Rock Climbing: Experiment with different walls or take on something a little more difficult.
• Kayak Safari: Venture into hidden lagoons, paddle under arching cliffs, and discover secluded beaches.
• Enjoy On The Boat: Enjoy the sun on the boat deck, witness the stunning scenery, or dip in the crystal waters.

3:00 PM: Keep climbing if you’re still feeling energetic, or reward yourself with a scenic cruise throughout the calm waters of Halong Bay. Spy secret caves, floating fishing villages, and lush islands.

4:30 PM: Return to the harbor, then pick your lodging for the night.

• Option 1: Traditional Overnight Cruise: Spend the night on a small and traditional cruise ship with overnight accommodation in a private cabin, meals on board, and the opportunity to watch the sunset on the bay.
• Option 2: Rustic Bungalow on Cat Ba Island Beach: Get back to nature and enjoy a restful night’s sleep by the sea in a simple bungalow setting. Fall asleep to the waves.

7:00 PM: Feast on a delectable dinner, be it a seafood smorgasbord on board the cruise or a barbecue on the beach.

9:00 PM: Free time to relax. Go for a beach walk under the stars, stargaze from the boat deck, or have a drink at the onboard bar.

Day 2: Explore New Climbing Routes and Hidden Gems

6:00 AM: Wake up early and admire the stunning sunrise in Halong Bay. Take beautiful pictures as the golden light dances across the emerald waters.

7:00 AM: Have a substantial breakfast on the boat or at your beachside bungalow: eggs, fresh fruit, toast, Vietnamese coffee.

8:30 AM: Venture out for more climbing:

• Three Brothers Rocks (Lan Ha Bay): Take on multi-pitch climbing routes of all levels.
• Hon Xep Cliffs:  A secluded climbing area with a range of intermediate and advanced climbs overlooking the sea.
• Hidden Cliffs of Halong Bay: For the adventurers among us, visit the impossible-to-reach cliffs that are accessible by boat only.

10:00 AM: Work on test pieces, or go for some deep water soloing (climbing without ropes above the sea, with a safe plunge into the water below).

12:00 PM: Return to the boat for another delectable seafood lunch of local favourites such as grilled squid, sautéed greens, and tropical fruits.

1:30 PM: Pick your preferred afternoon pursuit:

• Further Rock Climbing: And the whole ‘seek and push’ your capacity for more difficult lines.
• Scenic Highlights: Sail past kissing chicken rock, swim at Titov Island, fish for local catch in a traditional floating village, or climb to the top of stunning Sung Sot Cave.
• Beach Relaxation: Relax on a secluded beach, perfect to go sunbathing or swimming.

4:00 PM: Soak in the gorgeous scenery one last time as you start your return to the docks.

5:00 PM: Return to your hotel in Cat Ba Island or Halong City, with a treasure chest of memories and full of fantastic photographs.

5:30 PM: Your 2-Day Halong Bay Rock Climbing Tour comes to an end.

Discover Halong Bay Rock Climbing with Impress Travel

Welcome to Halong Bay Rock Climbing with Impress Travel -Vietnam DMC welcomes you to the experience of Halong Bay Rock Climbing at Halong Bay, which is one of the newest additions to the list of ideal attractions that the talented Halong tourism brings forth. Our professional guides will take you on the adventure of a lifetime,  straight up, and ensure you’re safe and well-equipped during your climb. For both beginners and advanced climbers, we customize trips to include deep water soloing, kayaking, and sightseeing seeing sailing, great for those looking for adventure in Halong Bay.

To start planning your getaway with Impress Travel, send us an email here or call at (+84) 912 379 189 (Hanoi Office) or (+84) 961 675 566 (Saigon Office), or email us at info@impresstravel.com. Head over to our website to pick your ultimate adventure and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Halong Bay with a local team you can rely on. Let’s turn your climbing dreams into reality.

Safety Tips for Your Halong Bay Rock Climbing Adventure

Listen to Your Guide – Your Climbing Lifeline

Your guide is your friend on a Halong Bay Rock Climbing trip. They are certified professionals with tons of experience and know not just the climbing routes, but also safety protocols, best practices, etc.

• Never ignore the safety instructions.
• If anything is unclear or you’re in doubt, ask questions.
• Obey their commands on climbing methods, safety equipment application, and climbing area paths.

Start with Easy Routes – Build Your Confidence Gradually

That’s one of the awesome things about Halong Bay Rock Climbing: there are routes for everyone! If you’re a beginner, it’s important to begin with simpler climbs and work your way up in terms of ability.

• Start with beginner-friendly Butterfly Valley on Cat Ba Island or the scenic cliffs of Lan Ha Bay.
• Work into harder and harder routes as you get comfortable.
• Don’t rush—enjoy the process. Climbing is at once a physical challenge and a state of mind.

Stay Hydrated – Keep Your Energy Up

Climbing is an energy-intensive adventure, and keeping hydrated can be crucial to help you.

• Bring plenty of water: At least 1-2 liters for a half-day climbing trip.
• Stay away from sweet drinks: Drink water or an electrolyte beverage.
• Hydrate regularly: don’t wait until you’re thirsty.

Respect the Environment – Preserve Halong Bay’s Beauty

While you’re chilling on the rock in Ha Long Bay, bear in mind that you’re enjoying a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This beautiful work of nature deserves to be taken good care of for the benefit of all of us.

• No littering: Keep your crags clean—pack out what you pack in.
• Prevent defacing the rock surfaces: Do not etch, scratch, or scar the rocks.
• Stick to established climbing routes: In addition to protecting vulnerable ecosystems, you’re also protecting yourself.
• Take nothing but photos, drop nothing but footprints.

Know the Emergency Contacts – Be Prepared

Emergencies can occur even under the best circumstances. And be sure to know how to reach help if necessary.

• Your Guide: They are your first stop for any issue.
• Tour Operator Numbers: Ensure you have the contact details of your tour operator.
• Police, fire, and medical emergencies: 113, 114, and 115, respectively.
• Boat Captain (for those climbing on Lan Ha Bay): If you are on a boat, have a plan for how to communicate with the captain in the event of an emergency.

Conclusion

Eager to take on the rocks of Halong Bay Rock Climbing? Novice or intermediate climber,  you’ll get stunning views, pro instruction, solid gear, and some unique memories. Take the plunge, check out the top climbing spots, and the best activities in Halong Bay.  Make a reservation for your Halong Bay Rock Climbing Tour with Impress Travel today! Please contact our hotline (+84) 912 379 189 (Hanoi), or (+84) 961 675 566 (Ho Chi Minh City), or send an email to info@impresstravel.com. Let’s turn your climbing dreams into a reality!