Overview
CAT BA PATHFINDERS - A BRANCH OF VIETNAM EXPEDITIONS - INVITES YOU TO A THRILLING JOURNEY IN CAT BA!
Tucked away amidst ancient forests and towering limestone mountains, Hang Vem is the largest saltwater lake in Lan Ha Bay. Here, you'll enjoy a grilled seafood dinner on a secluded beach and experience a magical kayaking journey under the stars, where bioluminescent plankton light up the water – a rare natural phenomenon found only in a few places around the world.
Continue the journey with breathtaking views from Hai Quan Peak, where you'll take in panoramic view of two stunning bays before arriving at Viet Hai ancient village – a remote settlement located deep within the Cat Ba archipelago that preserves the pristine beauty and traditional culture of the region.
Abseiling into Lan Ha’s Hidden Lagoon
Embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure as you abseil directly into the largest saltwater lake of Lan Ha Bay. Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and ever-shifting water levels due to monsoons and tides, this journey reveals a dynamic, ever-changing ecosystem. As a brand-new activity introduced for the first time in Vietnam, it offers a bold and immersive way to connect with nature.
Bioluminescent Kayaking at Night
As darkness falls, set out on a kayak into quiet waters where nature hides one of its most magical sights. With every stroke, bioluminescent plankton light up beneath your paddle, sparkling like stars below the surface. It’s a surreal experience that feels like paddling through stardust.
Experiencing Local Life
Stop by Cai Beo fishing village – the oldest floating village in Vietnam – where you’ll observe the daily lives of sea-bound communities. Then venture deeper into the wilderness to reach Viet Hai village, an isolated hamlet where time seems to slow down, and people live in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature.
Itinerary
6:00 AM: The bus departs from Hanoi to Cat Ba.
9:30 AM: Gather at the Cat Ba Pathfinders office, where the guide will explain the itinerary, safety guidelines, and help you familiarize yourself with the equipment.
10:00 AM: Trek through 2km of forest trails with rugged terrains, sharp rocks, and enjoy the rich ecosystem under the dense primeval forest canopy.
11:00 AM: Golden Monkey Peak:
- A high point in the west of Hang Vem, from the top of Golden Monkey Peak, you can take in the vast water and sky scenery of the 28,800 square meter lake.
- Abseiling is an adventure sport using safety equipment. Participants descend the cliff using ropes, belts, and safety locks. The equipment is entirely imported from Europe and has a minimum load capacity of 2.5 tons.
- The first abseiling descent is 35m high, perfect for capturing super cool photos that few people have!
1:00 PM: The adventure continues as we make our way to Lan Ha Bay’s largest saltwater lake. Prepare for an exhilarating 25-meter abseiling descent from the cliffside, landing on our floating raft.
2:00 PM: Unwind and relish the peaceful, fresh atmosphere with a delightful spread of fruits and cakes.
2:30 PM: Kayaking Exploration:
- Paddle into the heart of Hang Vem Lake, where the ecosystem is constantly transformed by the tides and seasons. Kayaking allows you to witness this incredible biodiversity firsthand.
- Marvel at the limestone formations sculpted by centuries of wind and rain, and keep an eye out for hidden caves tucked into the cliffs, vital havens for wildlife during the rainy season.
3:30 PM: Return to the floating raft to gather our belongings and prepare for a scenic kayak to the boat pick-up point.
4:00 PM: After returning our equipment to the support staff, we’ll board the boat and embark on the next chapter of our adventure: a breathtaking sunset cruise over Lan Ha Bay, followed by a visit to uninhabited islands with secluded, pristine beaches.
6:00 PM: Get on the floating deck to rest, camp and enjoy a BBQ dinner amidst the peaceful natural scenery.
8:00 PM: Experience kayaking at night, “hunting”/watching the magical phosphorescence phenomenon on the water surface.
9:00 PM: Return to the floating deck, shower and rest, relax after a vibrant evening.
7:30 AM: Fuel up with breakfast and prepare for our trek to Hai Quan Peak.
8:00 AM: Reaching the summit of Hai Quan Peak, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Ha Long Bay and Ha Long City. The serene beauty stretching before you will make every step of the climb worthwhile.
11:00 AM: We’ll return to Viet Hai village, where you can relax with the foot massage fish and learn about the charm of this secluded village nestled between the mountains and the sea. A delicious, hot lunch awaits us.
1:00 PM: Enjoy a leisurely electric car ride to Viet Hai Pier, soaking in the poetic scenery that unfolds along the route.
1:30 PM: We’ll get on the boat to return to Cat Ba town, capturing unforgettable memories with stunning photos and continuing to revel in the clear blue, refreshing waters.
3:00 PM: We’ll arrive back at the Cat Ba Pathfinders office, where you’ll have time to relax, pack, and ensure you have all your belongings.
4:00 PM: We’ll board the bus to return to Hanoi.
Cat Ba Pathfinders hopes you depart with cherished memories of your extraordinary adventure!
Preparation
Your tour staff will advise you on the items you need to prepare very carefully before you join the tour.
Included
Not included
- Difficulty
- Duration
- Location
- Participants
FAQ
Booking
Tour booking process
To ensure a safe and thoughtful trip, you need to clearly read the information about the tour booking process as follows:
Step 1: Find out tour information
Step 2: Fill in the information in the booking form.
Step 3: VNE will contact you to confirm the information
Step 4: Pay 50% of the tour fee to confirm, the remaining amount will be paid 3 days before tour departure.
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