Explore Van Long Nature Reserve in Ninh Binh! Discover its serene wetlands, Delacour’s langurs, costs, and eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group for an authentic Vietnam nature adventure.
Capture the tranquil beauty of Ninh Binh’s eco-gem (Source: Internet)Ninh Binh Province, located 90 km southeast of Hanoi in Vietnam’s Red River Delta, is famed for its karst landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the title “Halong Bay on Land.” Now a unified province encompassing former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, Ninh Binh blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. Van Long Nature Reserve, in Gia Van Commune, Gia Vien Ward (formerly Gia Vien District), 20 km northeast of Ninh Binh City, is Vietnam’s largest wetland reserve, spanning 3,500 hectares. Recognized as a Ramsar site in 2019, it’s home to the endangered Delacour’s langur and over 100 bird species, offering serene boat rides through mirror-like waters and limestone caves. Known as the “Bay Without Waves,” Van Long attracts over 25,000 visitors annually for its untouched beauty and biodiversity. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers eco-friendly tours to Van Long, bookable via links around this guide. Immerse yourself in Ninh Binh’s natural wonder—reserve your tour now
Legend Travel Group crafts authentic Vietnam and Southeast Asia experiences with expert English-speaking guides, sustainable practices, and tailored itineraries. Our Ninh Binh tours pair Van Long Nature Reserve with eco-adventures like cycling through rice paddies and tasting local cơm cháy (crispy rice), ensuring a rich, immersive journey. Committed to eco-tourism, we support local communities, use low-impact transport like electric vehicles, and align with Ninh Binh’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we prioritize your satisfaction. Explore our curated tours to experience Van Long responsibly—book via the links on this page!
Photograph the scenic allure of Ninh Binh’s landscapes (Source: Internet)Van Long Nature Reserve, located in Gia Van Commune, Gia Vien Ward, Ninh Binh Province, is a pristine eco-tourism destination established in 1999. Spanning 3,500 hectares, it features wetlands, limestone forests, and over 1,000 caves, including Ca Cave and Bong Cave. Home to 120 of the world’s 200 remaining Delacour’s langurs, it holds two Vietnam Records: the largest Delacour’s langur population and the “largest natural painting” for its scenic beauty. The reserve hosts 722 plant species, 39 animal species, and 100 bird species, including storks, herons, and the rare Bonelli’s eagle. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the boat tour costs $5 (125,000 VND) per person for a 1.5-hour ride, offering an affordable escape into Vietnam’s biodiversity. Its tranquil waters and limestone peaks, featured in Kong: Skull Island, make it a must-visit.
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 restructuring does not impact tourism, and Van Long Nature Reserve retains its identity in Gia Vien Ward. Ninh Binh aims to become Hoa Lu City, a “Millennium Heritage Urban Area,” enhancing its tourism appeal.
Experience Ninh Binh Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Van Long’s unique ecosystem combines wetlands, limestone karsts, and tropical forests, supporting 687 vascular plant species, 35 aquatic plants, and 8 species listed in the Vietnam Red Book. Its fauna includes 39 mammal species, 12 of which are rare, such as the Delacour’s langur, serow, and leopard. The reserve’s 38 reptile species include 9 Red Book-listed species like cobras and pythons. Over 100 bird species, including migratory waterfowl like the coot, thrive here, with tens of thousands of storks feeding in mudflats. The Belostomatidae insect, a Red Book species, indicates a clean water environment. Van Long’s conservation efforts, supported by the Netherlands Government and the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, protect this biodiversity hotspot.
Start your Ninh Binh Travel with serene vistas (Source: Internet)Experience Van Long’s natural and cultural treasures with these activities:
Eco-Friendly Boat Tour
Glide through serene waters on a bamboo boat, passing limestone karsts, caves like Ca Cave (250 m long), and rice paddies. Spot Delacour’s langurs, storks, and herons with local rowers sharing insights.
Price: $5/adult (125,000 VND, 2 per boat); 1.5 hours.
Highlights: “A peaceful, untouched gem” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Bring binoculars for wildlife; visit late afternoon for birdwatching. Included in our Van Long Eco Adventure ($70–$90).
Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting
Observe over 100 bird species, including kingfishers and migratory coots, and the endangered Delacour’s langur, with 120 individuals in Van Long.
Price: Included in boat tour; binoculars rental $2 (50,000 VND).
Highlights: “A haven for nature lovers” (Vietnam Tourism).
Tip: March–April for migratory birds; early morning for langurs. Included in our Ninh Binh Wildlife Tour ($85–$110).
Cycling Through Rural Villages
Cycle along dikes and rice fields, experiencing Ninh Binh’s rustic charm and local life.
Price: Bike rental $2.50/day (62,500 VND); guided cycling $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Highlights: “A serene rural escape” (Legendtravelgroup.com).
Tip: Opt for early morning rides; wear sunscreen. Included in our Van Long Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95).
Cultural and Historical Sites
Visit Dich Long Pagoda, Chi Le Temple, or the 600-year-old Diospyros decandra tree near Van Long, linked to Dinh Tien Hoang’s legacy.
Price: Free; donations $0.60–$1.20 (15,000–30,000 VND).
Highlights: “Rich in history and spirituality” (Tripadvisor).
Tip: Dress modestly; combine with boat tours. Included in our Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure ($135–$175).
Nearby Attractions
Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital (15 km, $1.50 entry), Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (25 km, $9–$12 boat tour), or Cuc Phuong National Park (30 km, $3 entry) for a full itinerary.
Price: Varies; combo tours $20–$45.
Highlights: “A perfect Ninh Binh circuit” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Visit Trang An early to avoid crowds; book combo tours for savings. Included in our Ninh Binh Explorer ($380–$600).
Boat Tour Fee: $5/adult (125,000 VND, 2 per boat); children under 15 $2.50 (62,500 VND).
Activities: Guided cycling $10–$15; binoculars rental $2; temple donations $0.60–$1.20.
Transport:
Motorbike: $7–$12/day from Ninh Binh City (20 km, 30 minutes).
Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day, 45–60 minutes.
Taxi/Grab: $5–$7 one-way from Ninh Binh City; $12–$16 from Hanoi (85 km).
Private car: $35–$55/day.
Bus from Hanoi: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours to Ninh Binh, then taxi $5).
Train from Hanoi: $5–$9 (2 hours to Ninh Binh, then taxi $5).
Dining Nearby: Meals at local restaurants (e.g., Van Long Restaurant, 500 m) $3–$15; drinks $0.60–$4. Try grilled snakehead or cơm cháy.
Accommodation: Budget homestays (e.g., Ninh Binh Friendly Homestay) $18–$50/night; mid-range (Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh) $50–$120; luxury (Ninh Binh Legend Hotel) $120–$300.
Total Daily Cost: $20–$95 (budget: $20–$40; mid-range: $40–$65; luxury: $65–$95).
Tip: Use VND for small transactions; ATMs in Ninh Binh City (Vietcombank, Agribank); book tours for eco-friendly transfers.
From Hanoi (85 km):
Bus: $5–$7 from Giap Bat or My Dinh stations, 1.5–2 hours to Ninh Binh; taxi to Van Long ($5–$7, 30 minutes).
Train: $5–$9 from Hanoi Station, 2 hours to Ninh Binh Station; taxi ($5–$7, 30 minutes).
Private Car/Taxi: $35–$55 one-way, 2 hours.
Motorbike: $7–$12/day rental, 2–2.5 hours via Hanoi–Ninh Binh Expressway.
From Ninh Binh City (20 km):
Motorbike: $7–$12/day, 30 minutes via National Highway 1A to Gian Khau Crossroad, then 477 Street.
Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day, 45–60 minutes.
Taxi/Grab: $5–$7, 25–30 minutes.
From Tam Coc (15 km): Bicycle ($1.50–$2.50/day, 30–40 minutes); taxi ($4–$6, 20 minutes).
Our Tours: Include round-trip eco-friendly transfers from Hanoi or Ninh Binh City.
Route Tip: From Ninh Binh City, follow National Highway 1A to Gian Khau Crossroad, turn left to 477 Street, and reach the boat pier. Use offline maps for navigation.
Dry Season (November–April): Cool, 15–25°C, ideal for boat tours and birdwatching. March–April is peak for migratory birds; book 2–3 weeks ahead for December–February.
Lotus Season (May–June): Warm, 25–35°C, with blooming lotus flowers; perfect for photography.
Rainy Season (July–October): Hot, humid (25–35°C), with showers; budget-friendly with 20–35% discounts. Morning visits (7:00–10:00 AM) avoid rain; focus on caves and temples.
Tip: Late afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM) for storks returning to nests; bring binoculars.
Trang An Complex, Ninh Binh (Source: Internet)Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance for dry season via Legend Travel Group, Baolau.com, or IZITOUR (+84 382 536 266); same-day visits work in rainy season. Confirm hours (7:00 AM–5:00 PM).
Dress Code: Wear light, breathable clothing; sturdy shoes for cycling; hat and sunglasses for sun protection. Modest attire for temples (long pants, covered shoulders).
Pack Smart: Sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, raincoat for rainy season, waterproof bag for electronics, binoculars for wildlife.
Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$95/day; use VND for boat fees and vendors; ATMs in Ninh Binh City. Confirm tour prices to avoid rare overcharges.
Stay Safe: Secure valuables; watch uneven paths near caves; follow rower instructions. Avoid peak festival days for tranquility.
Sustainability: Dispose of waste properly; avoid disturbing wildlife; choose eco-friendly transport like bicycles or electric taxis. Our tours support Ninh Binh’s green goals.
Cultural Respect: Maintain silence in temples; ask permission before photographing locals; tip rowers ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND) for excellent service.
Combine Visits: Pair with Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Trang An, or Cuc Phuong for a full day.
Join a Guided Tour: Our tours offer vetted guides, eco-conscious transport, and curated itineraries for a seamless experience.
Our sustainable tours immerse you in Van Long’s natural and cultural splendor, paired with Ninh Binh’s highlights:
Van Long Eco Adventure ($70–$90/person): 1.5-hour Van Long boat tour ($5 entry), cycling through villages ($2.50 bike rental), and lunch at Van Long Restaurant ($3–$15). Includes transfers and guide.
Ninh Binh Wildlife Tour ($85–$110/person): Van Long boat tour, birdwatching with binoculars ($2 rental), and visit to Dich Long Pagoda (free). Includes meals, eco-friendly transfers, and guide.
Van Long Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95/person): Van Long boat tour, 15 km guided cycling ($10–$15), and visit to Chi Le Temple (free). Includes transfers and lunch.
Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure ($135–$175/person): Van Long boat tour, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital ($1.50 entry), and Trang An boat tour ($9–$12). Includes meals, eco-friendly transfers, and guide.
Ninh Binh Explorer ($380–$600/person, 3–4 days): Van Long boat tour, Trang An, Cuc Phuong National Park ($3), and homestay stays ($18–$50/night). Includes all activities, meals, and eco-friendly transfers.
Prices include guides, transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via the links around this page!
Van Long Nature Reserve in Ninh Binh’s Gia Vien Ward is a serene sanctuary of wetlands, limestone karsts, and rare wildlife, from Delacour’s langurs to vibrant birdlife. Its mirror-like waters, caves, and cultural sites like Dich Long Pagoda offer an authentic escape into Vietnam’s natural and historical heart. Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Toursguide you through this untouched gem, ensuring a sustainable Ninh Binh Travel experience paired with Ninh Binh’s historical sites, rural charm, and culinary delights like cơm cháy. Don’t miss this serene sanctuary—browse our featured tours and book your Van Long adventure today!
Ready to discover Ninh Binh’s pristine wetlands? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and embrace Vietnam’s natural splendor!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
