Best Things to Do at Van Long Nature Reserve: Ninh Binh’s Pristine Wetland & Sustainable Eco-Tours with Legend Travel Group

Ninh Binh Province, 90 km southeast of Hanoi in Vietnam’s Red River Delta, is celebrated for its karst landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and rich biodiversity, often dubbed “Halong Bay on Land.” Now a unified province encompassing former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, Ninh Binh is a haven for eco-tourists. Van Long Nature Reserve, located in Gia Van Commune, Gia Vien Ward (formerly Gia Vien District), 17 km from Ninh Binh City, is Northern Vietnam’s largest wetland reserve, spanning 3,500 hectares. Known as the “Non-Wave Bay” for its mirror-like waters, it attracts over 60,000 visitors annually with its pristine ecosystem, rare Delacour’s langurs, and stunning caves. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers eco-friendly tours to Van Long, bookable via links around this guide. Immerse yourself in untouched nature—reserve your tour today!

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Vietnam and Southeast Asia experiences with expert English-speaking guides, eco-conscious practices, and tailored itineraries. Our Ninh Binh tours combine Van Long’s tranquil boat rides with eco-adventures like cycling through rice paddies and tasting local cơm cháy (crispy rice), ensuring a culturally immersive journey. Committed to sustainability, we support local communities, use low-impact transport like electric vehicles, and align with Ninh Binh’s “Heart of Heritage” project. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we prioritize your satisfaction. Discover our curated tours to explore Van Long responsibly—book via the links on this page!

Van Long Nature Reserve, in Gia Vien Ward, Ninh Binh Province, is a pristine wetland formed by a 30-km dyke along the Day River, creating a vast lagoon dotted with limestone karsts and caves. Established as a protected area in 2001, it hosts 457 plant species, 72 animal species, and 39 bird species, including the critically endangered Delacour’s langur, with the world’s largest population (over 300). Its crystal-clear waters reveal aquatic moss, and its 32 caves, like Fish Cave and Shadow Cave, add mystique. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, boat tour tickets cost $5 (120,000 VND) per person for a 1.5-hour ride, supporting conservation. Its proximity to Tam Coc (15 km) and Trang An (12 km) makes it a serene eco-tourism gem.

Administrative Update

Ninh Binh Province has merged with former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, with Ninh Binh City as its hub. District-level units, like Gia Vien District, are now wards or communes (e.g., Gia Vien Ward). This change does not affect tourism, and Van Long retains its identity in Gia Vien Ward. Ninh Binh aims to become Hoa Lu City, a “Millennium Heritage Urban Area,” enhancing its eco-tourism appeal.

• Pristine Wetland Ecosystem: As Northern Vietnam’s largest wetland, Van Long’s mirror-like waters and diverse flora, including lotus and water lilies (July–August), create a tranquil “Non-Wave Bay.”

• Rare Wildlife: Home to the endangered Delacour’s langur, storks, and herons, it’s a biodiversity hotspot recognized by Vietnam’s Red Book.

• Stunning Landscapes: Limestone karsts, rice paddies, and caves like Fish Cave offer breathtaking feng shui vistas, less crowded than Tam Coc or Trang An.

• Cultural Authenticity: The reserve’s Kinh and Muong communities, ancient villages, and rustic bamboo boats provide a glimpse into rural Vietnam, supporting local livelihoods through sustainable tourism.

1. Take a Bamboo Boat Tour
   Glide on a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride through Van Long’s lagoon, passing limestone karsts, lotus fields (July–August), and caves like Fish Cave, with clear waters revealing aquatic moss.

   • Cost: $5/person (120,000 VND, shared boat for 2–4); tips $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

   • Highlights: “A serene, mirror-like journey” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

   • Tip: Book morning tours (7:00–9:00 AM) for calm waters; bring a hat. Included in our Van Long Eco Boat Tour ($75–$95).

2. Spot Delacour’s Langurs and Wildlife
   Observe the critically endangered Delacour’s langur, herons, and kingfishers from boats or viewing platforms, especially at dawn or dusk when wildlife is active.

   • Cost: Included in boat tour; guided wildlife tours $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

   • Highlights: “A rare wildlife encounter” (Vietnam Tourism).

   • Tip: Use binoculars; maintain silence to avoid disturbing animals. Included in our Van Long Wildlife Tour ($85–$110).

3. Explore Limestone Caves
   Visit caves like Fish Cave (250 m, with fish-filled waters), Shadow Cave, or Tortoise Cave, accessible by boat (dry season, November–April) or foot (rainy season, May–October).

   • Cost: Included in boat tour; guided cave tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

   • Highlights: “Mystical and untouched” (Legendtravelgroup.com).

   • Tip: Bring a flashlight; check water levels for cave access. Included in our Van Long Explorer Tour($75–$95).

4. Cycle Through Rural Villages
   Bike 5–10 km around Gia Van, passing rice paddies, lotus ponds, and Muong villages, for an eco-friendly exploration of Ninh Binh’s countryside.

   • Cost: Bike rental $2.50/day (62,500 VND); guided cycling $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

   • Highlights: “A peaceful rural escape” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

   • Tip: Cycle early morning; wear sunscreen. Included in our Ninh Binh Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95).

5. Photography and Lotus Fields
   Capture Van Long’s reflective lagoon, karst mountains, and lotus blooms (July–August), especially at sunrise or sunset for dramatic shots.

   • Cost: Free with boat tour.

   • Highlights: “A photographer’s dream” (Vietnam Tourism).

   • Tip: Use a waterproof phone case; shoot at dawn (6:00–7:00 AM). Included in our Sunset Photography Tour ($70–$90).

6. Experience Local Culture
   Visit Muong homestays or join craft workshops in Gia Van to learn bamboo weaving, supporting local artisans and cultural preservation.

   • Cost: Homestays $10–$20/night (250,000–500,000 VND); workshops $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

   • Highlights: “Authentic community connection” (Legendtravelgroup.com).

   • Tip: Book homestays 2 weeks ahead; tip hosts ($1–$2). Included in our Ninh Binh Cultural Village Tour($85–$110).

7. Savor Ninh Binh Cuisine
   Enjoy dishes like thịt dê (mountain goat), cơm cháy, and nem chua at eateries near Van Long pier (e.g., Van Long Restaurant, 500 m away).

   • Cost: $3–$15 per meal; drinks $0.60–$4.

   • Highlights: “Fresh, regional flavors” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

   • Tip: Try thịt dê with Bần sauce. Included in our Ninh Binh Foodie & Nature Combo ($100–$135).

• Boat Tour Fee: $5/adult (120,000 VND); children under 15 $2.50 (60,000 VND); free for children under 1 m.

• Activities: Guided tours $5–$15; cycling $2.50–$15; homestays $10–$20/night; workshops $5–$10; tips $1–$2; photography free.

• Transport (Hanoi to Van Long, 110 km, round-trip):

  • Bus: $10–$14 (250,000–350,000 VND) + $8–$12 taxi.

  • Train: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND) + $8–$12 taxi.

  • Private Car/Taxi: $70–$110 (1,750,000–2,750,000 VND).

  • Motorbike: $7–$12 rental + $10 fuel.

  • Guided Tour: $75–$175.

• Transport (Ninh Binh City to Van Long, 17 km): Motorbike $7–$12/day; bicycle $1.50–$2.50/day; taxi/Grab $8–$12 round-trip.

• Dining: Meals at local eateries $3–$15; drinks $0.60–$4.

• Accommodation: Homestays $10–$20/night; budget hotels in Ninh Binh City $18–$50; mid-range $50–$120; luxury $120–$300.

• Total Daily Cost: $20–$100 (budget: $20–$40; mid-range: $40–$70; luxury: $70–$100).

• Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Ninh Binh City; book tours for eco-transfers.

From Hanoi (110 km, ~2.5 hours)

• Bus: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND) from Giap Bat/My Dinh to Ninh Binh (2 hours); taxi to Van Long ($5–$7, 20 minutes). Every 30 minutes (5:00 AM–11:00 PM).

• Train: $5–$9 (125,000–225,000 VND) from Hanoi Station to Ninh Binh Station (2 hours); taxi ($5–$7). Trains: SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, SE19.

• Private Car/Taxi: $35–$55 (875,000–1,375,000 VND) via Hanoi–Ninh Binh Expressway, then National Highway 1A. Use Xanh SM electric taxis.

• Motorbike: $7–$12/day + $5 fuel; 2.5 hours via National Highway 1A.

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($75–$175) include eco-transfers and guided activities.

From Ninh Binh City (17 km, ~20–40 minutes)

• Motorbike: $7–$12/day; 20–25 minutes via National Highway 1A to Gia Van.

• Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day; 30–40 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); 20 minutes.

• Guided Tour: Our half-day tours ($75–$95) include transfers.

From Tam Coc (15 km, ~20–30 minutes)

• Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day; 25–30 minutes.

• Motorbike: $7–$12/day; 20–25 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND); 20 minutes.

Route Tip: From Ninh Binh City, take National Highway 1A north to Gia Van; follow signs to Van Long pier. Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: $0.65/motorbike (15,000 VND).

• Dry Season (November–April): Cool (15–25°C), ideal for boat tours and wildlife spotting; clear waters enhance visibility. Book 2–3 weeks ahead for February–March.

• Lotus Season (July–August): Warm (25–35°C), vibrant with blooming lotus and water lilies; perfect for photography.

• Shoulder Season (April, October): Mild (20–30°C), fewer crowds, 15–25% cheaper.

• Rainy Season (May–October): Hot (25–35°C), showers; budget-friendly with 20–35% discounts, but some caves may be inaccessible. Morning tours (7:00–10:00 AM) avoid rain.

• Tip: July–August offers stunning lotus fields; November–February is best for langur sightings and clear waters.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance for dry season via Legend Travel Group, Baolau.com, or IZITOUR (+84 382 536 266). Confirm hours (7:00 AM–5:00 PM).

• Dress Code: Wear light, breathable clothing; sturdy shoes for cycling or cave visits; hat and sunglasses for sun protection.

• Pack Smart: Sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, waterproof phone case for boat rides, binoculars for wildlife, camera, umbrella for drizzles.

• Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$100/day; carry VND due to limited ATMs; confirm boat prices to avoid overcharges.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables; follow rower instructions on boats; avoid leaning out during tours. Check for insects in rainy season.

• Sustainability: Dispose of waste properly; avoid disturbing wildlife; choose bicycles or electric taxis. Our tours support langur conservation and local communities.

• Cultural Respect: Engage politely with rowers and villagers; ask permission before photographing; tip boatmen ($1–$2).

• Navigation: Start at Van Long pier for boat tickets; allow 2–3 hours for boat tours and nearby exploration. Book homestays early for overnight stays.

Our eco-friendly tours immerse you in Van Long’s pristine beauty and cultural heritage, paired with Ninh Binh’s highlights:

• Van Long Eco Boat Tour ($75–$95/person): Boat tour ($5), langur spotting, lunch at Van Long Restaurant ($3–$15). Includes transfers from Hanoi/Ninh Binh.

• Van Long Wildlife Tour ($85–$110/person): Boat tour, guided wildlife tour ($10–$15), Muong homestay ($10–$20/night). Includes transfers and meals.

• Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure ($135–$175/person): Van Long boat tour, Tam Coc ($7), Hoa Lu Ancient Capital ($1.50). Includes meals and eco-transfers.

• Ninh Binh Foodie & Nature Combo ($100–$135/person): Thịt dê, cơm cháy ($3–$15), Van Long boat tour, Trang An ($9–$12). Includes transfers and meals.

• Ninh Binh Explorer ($380–$600/person, 3–4 days): Van Long, Tam Coc, Trang An, Cuc Phuong National Park ($3), homestays ($18–$50/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include guides, transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page!

Van Long Nature Reserve in Ninh Binh’s Gia Vien Ward is a pristine wetland sanctuary, offering serene boat tours, rare Delacour’s langur sightings, and breathtaking lotus fields within Northern Vietnam’s largest reserve. Its tranquil waters, limestone caves, and vibrant ecosystem make it a standout eco-tourism destination, less crowded than Tam Coc or Trang An. By visiting, you support sustainable tourism, funding conservation and local livelihoods. Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours guide you through Van Long’s natural wonders, ensuring a sustainable Ninh Binh Travel experience blended with Ninh Binh’s historical sites and culinary treasures like thịt dê. Don’t miss this untouched paradise—browse our featured tours and book your Van Long adventure today!
Ready to glide through Ninh Binh’s Non-Wave Bay? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Vietnam’s natural and cultural splendor!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group