Increasingly, tourists are seeking pristine destinations where they can immerse themselves in nature and escape the noise of the city. Located in the renowned tourist region of Ninh Binh, Van Long is akin to a “sleeping beauty in the forest,” exuding a pure and captivating charm.

You can visit Van Long Nature Reserve year-round, but the best time for a boat ride is during the rainy season, from May to October. A visit in May or June will treat you to the stunning sight of the entire area adorned with beautiful pink lotus flowers.

A Glimpse of Van Long

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve was established in 2001 and is recognized as the largest wetland nature reserve in the Northern Delta of Vietnam. Spanning over 3,500 hectares, the reserve encompasses eleven ecosystems, with the limestone forest and wetland ecosystems being the most prominent.

The reserve is characterized by its canals, lakes, and streams, which meander through a landscape dotted with karst limestone mountains. These mountains are home to the only viable population of the Delacour's Langur, one of the world's most critically endangered primates.

3 Reasons to Visit Van Long

1. Exceptionally Diverse Ecosystem

Van Long, the largest wetland nature reserve in the Red River Delta region, is a haven for nature lovers. Home to 39 animal species and 722 plant species, many of which are listed in the Red Book, it also hosts hundreds of bird species. At sunset, the sight of flocks of birds flying towards the lagoon and rice fields to forage is truly breathtaking.

Notably, Van Long is one of the few places where you can see the white-rumped langur, a monkey listed among the world's 25 most endangered primate species. This species is found only in Northern Vietnam, with about 40 individuals residing in the Van Long reserve.

2. Untouched Beauty and Tranquil Atmosphere

Although tourism has been present in Van Long since 1998, the area has retained its pristine beauty, largely untouched by mass tourism.

Unlike the bustling tourist hubs of Tam Coc or Trang An, where boat piers are crowded with visitors, Van Long offers a serene and peaceful experience. The simple dock with rustic boats and the stunning, natural scenery reminiscent of a watercolor painting create a tranquil atmosphere free from human interference.

The boat rowers in Van Long are exceptionally friendly, and you won't encounter people trying to sell souvenirs or push for photographs as you might in Tam Coc. This ensures a more enjoyable and relaxing trip.

3. Immersive Activities Reflecting Local Life

Van Long offers more than just a nature reserve; it provides a window into the daily lives of the gentle and simple local people.

Rent a bicycle and leisurely ride along the dikes or village roads, taking in the vast rice fields and gently winding rivers. Stop to chat with friendly locals and savor the peaceful, rustic lifestyle.

Nearby, visit Thung La Temple, an ancient temple from the reign of King Dinh Tien Hoang, rich with fascinating historical stories.

Van Long is also renowned for its traditional hand embroidery. You'll have the chance to experience an embroidery lesson with a skilled village artisan.

If cycling isn't for you, consider riding a buffalo or ox cart—a popular and enjoyable activity in Van Long.

How to organize a day tour in Van Long?

1. Detailed Program

10:00 AM – Arrival at Van Long. Meet our guide at the Van Long boat pier. Collect your bicycle and take a leisurely ride around the mountainous area.
Dream Up Homestay Visit: Visit Dream Up Homestay, a stilt house located by the Van Long lagoon in Doi Ngo village. Known for its serene atmosphere and communal vibe, the homestay was inspired by the owner’s father, who created organic soap and cosmetics to treat his daughter’s sensitive skin.

It has since become a hub for local children to play, learn, and connect. Enjoy lunch at the homestay, featuring local drinks. Cultural Exploration: Continue to Thung La Temple, dedicated to the mother of Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang, and learn about the emperor’s early life.
Cooking Experience: Visit Ms. Phong’s orchard for a hands-on cooking session, where you will learn to make the Vietnamese dish banh troi nuoc.
Enjoy afternoon canapés with tea and fruit in the orchard.
Optional Activity: Herbal foot soak (optional).
Return to Van Long Boat Pier: Bike back to the boat pier and bid farewell to your tour guide.

Tour Inclusions

+ English/Vietnamese-speaking guide

+ Meals and drinks at Dream Up Homestay as specified in the program

+ Bicycle and entrance fee to Thung La Temple

+ Carriage to transport bikes back in case participants cannot return to the boat pier

+ Cooking experience

+ Fruit and afternoon canapés at a local orchard

Tour Exclusions

+ Transfer to Van Long
+ VAT
+ Shopping and other personal expenses
+ Optional herbal foot soak experience

How to Get to Van Long Nature Reserve?

How to Get to Ninh Binh

1. By Train:

Traveling by train to Ninh Binh is convenient, as the Tam Diep – Ninh Binh urban axis is located on the North-South Railway. Ninh Binh province has several railway stations, including Ninh Binh, Cau Yen, Ghenh, and Dong Giao.

From Hanoi, you can take trains SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, SE9, SE19, and SE35. From Ho Chi Minh City, the suitable option is SE8, which departs at 6:00 AM and arrives in Ninh Binh at 6:05 PM.

2. By Car/Limuosine:

You can take the Phap Van – Cau Gie – Ninh Binh Highway. Covering a distance of about 90 km, the trip typically takes around 1 hour to reach the center of Ninh Binh City.

3. By Motorbike:

For a more adventurous journey, you can ride a motorbike on the old National Highway 1A, passing through Ha Nam and heading towards Ninh Binh – Thanh Hoa.

Ninh Binh to Van Long

The distance between Ninh Binh City and Van Long is about 20 km. If traveling by private car, take National Highway 1A towards Hanoi. At Gian Khau Crossroad (477 Street), turn left and continue for about 5 km to reach Van Long Market. Then, turn right and travel 2 km further to reach Van Long Boat Wharf.

Alternatively, you can take bus number 01 or 09, which runs along 477 Street.

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve is famous for its surreal limestone mountain formations, which beautifully reflect on the clear waters below. Visitors can enjoy boat tours through this enchanting landscape or hike along well-maintained trails to discover hidden caves, rare wildlife species, and exotic flora.

Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil place to relax and connect with nature, this reserve is well worth a visit.