Review: 2 Days 1 Night Adventure in Cat Ba National Park & Lan Ha Bay

So, you’re thinking about doing a 2-day, 1-night adventure in Cat Ba National Park and Lan Ha Bay? That’s awesome! Lan Ha Bay often gets overlooked, yet, it is just a little slice of paradise right next to the way more touristy Ha Long Bay. It is really almost like Ha Long Bay, only less crowded and arguably, even more beautiful. This trip gives you a generous helping of both natural landscapes and maybe, just maybe, a bit of adventure, which is awesome for anyone trying to escape the ordinary.

Getting to Cat Ba and Getting Settled

Okay, first things first, you have to actually get to Cat Ba. You could potentially get there a few different ways, most of which often involve a bus and a ferry, or maybe two. If you’re coming from Hanoi, tons of tourist buses will take you straight to Cat Ba Town. Honestly, the bus ride is quite straightforward, maybe just a little bumpy in parts, but hey, that is very much part of the fun, right? And then, the ferry offers pretty amazing views. Like your adventure is really starting right then and there.

Once you reach Cat Ba Town, that’s usually the base for most tours. The town can be a bit, well, chaotic, specifically, it is during peak season, but don’t let that put you off! Very quickly get yourself to your accommodation, drop off your luggage, and you are quite ready to start your adventure. A lot of people opt for hotels near the harbor. Just because you want that beautiful view, too it’s almost nice to wake up to the gentle sounds of the boats. Then, depending on the package you picked, your tour operator is just a little likely to meet you at your hotel, or you might want to head straight to their office.

Day 1: Lan Ha Bay Cruise and Kayaking

Alright, Day 1 – it’s really time to see Lan Ha Bay in all its splendor! So, typically, the morning starts with hopping on a boat, quite often a traditional junk boat. As you cruise through the bay, you are seriously going to be amazed by the karst mountains. They are almost jutting out of the water, looking like something out of a movie. Really almost an otherworldly feel about the entire place. Make sure you keep your camera charged; I want to tell you, every angle is like a postcard shot.

The best part of the day, as a matter of fact, for loads of people is kayaking. It gives you such an awesome opportunity to get up close and super personal with the bay. Most tours usually take you to some secluded lagoons and caves that can only be accessed by kayak. Getting the chance to paddle through the serene waters, or under these limestone arches, and into hidden pools? Absolutely magical. Pack a waterproof bag, you just might like to protect your valuables and, really importantly, your camera from any splashes!

In the afternoon, a little, maybe just a little later on, the boat often drops anchor in a peaceful spot. It is really that time for a swim or simply relax on the deck. You are possibly soaking up the sunshine. That is of course while gawking at the outstanding scenery. Dinner on board is really included, usually freshly caught seafood and it is so yummy. Like really so yummy, trust me! Very afterward, you are really possibly able to chill on the deck under a canopy of stars. If you’re lucky, too it’s almost able to share stories with the other travelers. Basically, an experience that creates a unique sense of camaraderie.

Day 2: Hiking in Cat Ba National Park and Hidden Beaches

The second day brings a little different type of adventure: Hiking in Cat Ba National Park! So, after an early breakfast, you have to make your way to the park. There are tons of different trails, you know but the most known is maybe the one leading to the viewpoint at the top of Ngu Lam Mountain. Okay, now this hike can be a bit strenuous, arguably more so in the heat. That said, very clearly, the view from the top is just outstanding. Looking out over the park’s dense forests and limestone hills is like a gift for your efforts. You can basically see the ocean sparkling in the distance, which offers a great backdrop for pictures and the best feeling.

In the afternoon, you should, too it’s almost unwind after your hike with a trip to one of Cat Ba’s nice beaches. Cat Co 1, 2, and 3 are probably close to town, as a matter of fact. Also, all often quite crowded, specifically Cat Co 1 and 2. So, for a less crowded vibe, seriously, you should try to find some of the smaller, maybe somewhat hidden beaches around the island. Those can sometimes require a bit more effort to reach, however, they’re totally, totally worth it if you like more peace. Spend a handful of hours swimming, that relaxing, and really just soaking up the rays before you had to head back to town. The end to what might be considered a rather busy but pretty epic couple of days.

Choosing the Right Tour and Operator

You’ll find loads of tour operators offering very similar itineraries. That means very you will really have to research! Read reviews online to ensure you pick a company with good ratings and maybe just a little bit of proven reliability. It may be pretty important to check what’s included in the package. Specifically the meals, activities, and the kind of boat they’re using.

Think about what type of traveler you’re more or less. Is that because some tours emphasize adventure activities and maybe cater to younger crowds? While others possibly focus more on relaxation, and arguably attract families or couples. So, in order to pick the trip, really basically, pick the one that basically fits what you’re seeking to experience. If you care, you just might look into maybe going with eco-conscious operators. Operators that commit to preserving the pretty outstanding natural beauty of the area.

Tips and Tricks for your trip

Okay, so you booked your trip and are preparing to depart. That really means you’ll like to make the very most out of your adventure with my tricks and tips:

• What to pack: Obviously bring sunscreen, bug repellent, a hat, and lightweight clothes. Comfy walking shoes are obviously very necessary for that hiking! Also, a swimsuit and towel for your dip at those nice beaches. A dry bag is very important to have on deck to look after that phone!
• Stay hydrated: Remember to drink tons of water, most definitely during the hike in Cat Ba National Park. The climate might be hot and humid, and also dehydration can ruin your experiences.
• Respect the environment: Don’t just litter! Try to be thoughtful when handling plastic waste and all rubbish. A great idea would be to actually bring a reusable water bottle in order to limit the need for plastic bottles! That is also very helpful when taking hikes because plastic water bottles take so long to decay.
• Be careful of the Monkeys: Those animals are super clever and nimble! You would actually need to watch out around them! Don’t leave anything that attracts those thieving, hungry creatures alone.
• Check the Weather: Take note of what it’s supposed to do before heading out so that if there’s wind or thunderstorms about, it could be called off or just moved.