Halong Bay vs Lan Ha | Which one to visit in Vietnam
Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay offer travelers a glimpse of the stunning beauty of northern Vietnam, each with its own unique charm. This article offers a comparison between Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay, to help you choose the destination that best suits your travel preferences in Vietnam.
Shared highlights of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay
There Lan Ha Bay and the Halong Bay share several points in common, including their location in the Gulf of Tonkin and their accessibility from Hanoi. Located approximately 160 km from the Vietnamese capital, these two bays are ideal destinations for a short getaway to Vietnam.
Halong Bay is distinguished by its limestone cliffs and spectacular emerald waters, while Lan Ha Bay is renowned for its peaceful beaches and serene landscapes. In terms of climate, the two bays share similar weather conditions, allowing travelers to enjoy outdoor activities all year round.
Comparison of landscape and natural beauty of Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay
These two bays offer unique landscapes with impressive caves, pristine beaches and traditional fishing villages. Whether you choose Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay, you can take part in exhilarating activities like kayaking, swimming on secluded beaches or exploring cave systems.
| Criteria | Lan Ha Bay | Halong Bay |
| Location | Located in Cat Ba, Hai Phong | Located in Ha Long city, Quang Ninh province |
| Area | 76 km² | 1,553 km² |
| Number of islands | More than 400 small islands | 969 islands |
| Landscape | Quiet beaches, tropical forests | Limestone islands, 200 beaches, 60 caves explored |
| Popularity | Less crowded | Very famous, crowded with tourists |
Lan Ha Bay
Lan Ha Bay is a peaceful and beautiful alternative to its more famous neighbor, Halong Bay. It is the ideal option for travelers looking for a quiet getaway while enjoying the natural beauty of Vietnam. Among the treasures of this bay are Ba Trai Dao Beach and Trung Trang Cave, perfect places for swimming and relaxing.
Landscape and Attractions
Lan Ha Bay, compared to Halong Bay, offers a idyllic getaway with its unspoiled beauty, home to over 400 small and large islands with peaceful beaches and crystal clear waters. Among them, the famous Ba Trai Dao beach, named after its three peach-shaped rocks, is a true hidden gem, perfect for swimming in calm waters and relaxing on soft sand.
As you explore further, you will discover hidden gems such as the Trung Trang cave on Cat Ba Island, a fascinating and more intimate cave, known for its impressive stalactites and unique rock formations. For adventure lovers, Cat Ba Island is a must-see with its Cat Ba National Park, a natural paradise offering a diversity of species and varied landscapes, perfect for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Activities
Make kayak is one of the best ways to experience Lan Ha Bay. Paddle through narrow, serene waterways, including around the Dark & Light cave and the Ba Trai Dao beach, where exceptionally clear waters extend beneath majestic limestone cliffs.
For a deeper cultural immersion, visit village of Viet Hai, a unique place where you can interact with locals and learn about their traditional way of life. This authentic experience allows you to discover local customs and enjoy the magnificent natural setting that surrounds the village.
Halong Bay
There Halong Bay is an emblematic destination, renowned for its limestone karst landscapes and its UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With famous attractions like Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island, this bay offers visitors a unique blend of spectacular nature and cultural experiences.
Landscape and Attractions
There Halong Bay is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, dominated by imposing limestone karsts which create a spectacular panorama above the emerald waters. This site classified as UNESCO world heritage is home to must-sees such as the Sung Sot Cave and the Luon cave, famous for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites, which attract lovers of geology and exploration.
L’Titop Island, with its pristine beach, offers an exceptional destination for those who want to admire panoramic views of the bay from the top of the island. This idyllic spot is perfect for relaxing and capturing stunning photos of the unique landscape of Halong Bay.
Activities
For an immersive experience of Halong Bay, embark on a cruise from Tuan Chau port. On board, a variety of activities are available to you, from swimming in isolated berries fishing, to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the bay. For those looking for relaxation, some cruises offer wellness experiences, such as yoga sessions. yoga and spa treatments, allowing you to relax while admiring the magnificent landscapes.
A visit to Halong Bay would not be complete without a stopover on theTitop Island. You can swim on its pristine beach or take a hike to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the spectacular limestone formations and tranquil waters of the bay.
Cruise suggestions :
- For Lan Ha Bay: Try it Mon Cheri cruise or the Heritage Binh Chuan cruise for a luxurious experience.
- For Halong Bay: Opt for the Ambassador cruise or the Amethyst Day cruise for a complete exploration in a day or night.
Travel Tips for Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay
For an optimal trip, avoid the rainy season between July and September. THE best times to visit Lan Ha Bay are from March to May and from September to November, offering a pleasant climate and reduced tourist numbers.
For Halong Bay, choose the period from October to April to take advantage of ideal weather conditions and avoid the summer crowds.
Conclusion
Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay both offer breathtaking landscapes and unique activities, but offer different experiences. There Lan Ha Bay is ideal for those seeking peace and untouched nature, while the Halong Bay is best suited for fans of adventure and famous attractions.
To find out more and explore Vietnam on an organized tour, discover our suggestions to get the most out of your trip.
