Discover Viet Hai Village, a serene eco-tourism haven in Cat Ba National Park. Book a cycling, trekking, or boat tour with Legend Travel Group to experience its rustic charm and Lan Ha Bay beauty!
Begin your Cat Ba Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Internet)
Photograph the serene allure of Cat Ba’s paradise (Source: Internet)Located 18 km from Cat Ba Town within the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Cat Ba National Park, Viet Hai Village is a small, eco-friendly community in Cat Hai District, Hai Phong. Spanning 141 hectares, the village is home to nearly 300 residents who maintain a traditional lifestyle rooted in fishing, agriculture, and aquaculture. Unlike bustling tourist hubs, Viet Hai offers a peaceful retreat, with bamboo houses, rice fields, and a rich cultural heritage dating back over 200 years. Its isolation, surrounded by jungles and limestone karsts, has preserved its authenticity, making it a favorite among international travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. Legend Travel Group’s tours ($25-$60 per person) provide immersive access to Viet Hai, combining cultural interactions, scenic boat rides, and outdoor adventures in Lan Ha Bay.
Start your Cat Ba Travel with tranquil vibes (Source: Internet)Viet Hai’s origins trace back to fishermen seeking refuge in this secluded valley, evolving into a tight-knit community with deep cultural roots. The village is a living example of Northern Vietnam’s rural traditions, with homes like Mrs. Pham Thi Hoat’s 40-year-old stilt house showcasing traditional architecture with leaf roofs and mud walls. Recognized as a national monument, Viet Hai promotes eco-tourism through community-based initiatives launched in 2011, supported by local authorities and the Hai Phong Border Security Force. Visitors can witness age-old practices like rice harvesting and traditional wine distillation, offering a window into Vietnam’s heritage. The village’s lack of social evils, open-door hospitality, and communal spirit create a welcoming atmosphere for travelers.
Seize the adventurous spirit of Cat Ba Travel (Source: Internet)Pedal along a 5-6 km scenic route from Viet Hai Pier to the village, passing rice fields, wetlands, and ancient acacia forests. Bicycle rentals cost $3-$5 per day, or opt for electric buggies ($5-$8 per ride). Legend Travel Group’s cycling tours ($25-$40 per person) include a guide, bike, and stops at cultural sites like the Ancient Style House ($1 entry). Enjoy a fish massage ($2-$4) at local ponds for a unique relaxation experience.
Hike to Navy Peak (also called Hai Quan Peak), a 1-1.5 hour trek offering panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay, Halong Bay, and Cat Ba National Park. The trail, costing $3.50 entry (80,000 VND), is moderately challenging with rocky steps, best tackled in clear weather. Legend Travel Group’s trekking tours ($30-$50 per person) include a guide ($15-$20 if hired separately) and insights into local flora and fauna.
Engage in daily activities like fishing, rice planting, or vegetable harvesting alongside Viet Hai residents. Homestay visits ($5-$10 per person) offer tea, storytelling, and traditional wine-tasting. Legend Travel Group’s cultural tours ($35-$55 per person) include a home-cooked lunch ($5-$8) at a local family’s house, featuring fresh fish and organic vegetables.
Arrive at Viet Hai via a scenic 45-minute boat ride from Ben Beo Harbor through Lan Ha Bay’s limestone karsts and floating villages. Group boat tickets cost $8-$12 per person round-trip, or rent a private boat ($35-$50 for 6 people). Legend Travel Group’s tours ($25-$60 per person) combine Cai Beo Floating Village and Viet Hai visits with kayaking ($5-$10 per hour).
Explore a nearby bat cave, a 30-45 minute hike from Viet Hai, home to thousands of bats in a natural limestone cavern. Entry is included in the trekking ticket ($3.50), and guided tours ($10-$15) provide safety and context. Legend Travel Group’s adventure tours ($40-$60 per person) pair the cave with Navy Peak for a full day of exploration.
Begin your Cat Ba Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Internet)Viet Hai Village is accessible by boat or trekking from Cat Ba Town, 18 km away:
By Boat from Ben Beo Harbor: A 45-minute boat ride to Viet Hai Pier costs $8-$12 per person (group) or $35-$50 (private canoe, 6 people). From the pier, cycle or take an electric buggy (5-6 km, $5-$8) to the village. Local ferries run at 11 AM and 4 PM from Ben Beo, returning at 12:45 PM ($5-$8).
By Trekking: A challenging 12-17 km trek through Cat Ba National Park’s jungle takes 4-5 hours, starting at the park entrance ($3.50 entry). Hire a guide ($20-$30) for safety. Legend Travel Group’s trekking tours ($40-$60 per person) include park fees and a boat return via Lan Ha Bay.
From Hanoi: Take a bus and ferry combo to Cat Ba (3.5-4 hours, $13-$18 one-way), then a taxi ($2-$3) to Ben Beo Harbor. Legend Travel Group’s packages ($80-$150 per person) cover round-trip transportation, Viet Hai tours, and accommodation.
From Hai Phong: A ferry or speedboat from Binh Wharf to Cat Ba (45-60 minutes, $6-$10) connects to a taxi or motorbike to Ben Beo Harbor.
Homestays: Stay with local families for $10-$20 per night, including breakfast. Options like Mrs. Pham Thi Hoat’s house offer traditional stilt-house experiences with home-cooked meals ($5-$8).
Bungalows and Guesthouses: Small eco-lodges near the village, like Viet Hai Ecolodge, cost $15-$30 per night with basic amenities and forest views.
Cat Ba Town: For more comfort, stay in Cat Ba Town at hotels like Hung Long Harbour ($25-$45 per night) or Hôtel Perle d’Orient MGallery ($100-$200 per night), 18 km away. Legend Travel Group can arrange accommodation with tour packages.
Dining options are limited, with homestays and small restaurants serving fresh, local dishes. Expect:
Homestay Meals: Home-cooked seafood, chicken, and vegetable dishes cost $5-$8 per person. Popular dishes include fish porridge and grilled mackerel.
Local Restaurants: A few village eateries offer rice, noodle dishes, and seafood for $3-$6. Order in advance at homestays due to limited menus.
Floating Restaurants: On the return boat trip, stop at Lan Ha Bay’s floating restaurants for seafood meals ($10-$15). Legend Travel Group’s tours include dining options.
Best Time to Visit: February to April offers misty, refreshing scenery, while June showcases ripe rice fields and clear skies (15-25°C). Avoid August due to rough seas and rain, which can disrupt boat travel.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable shoes for trekking/cycling, a waterproof camera bag, and Vietnamese Dong (VND) for cash-only payments. A light jacket is useful for cooler months.
Cultural Respect: Ask permission before photographing locals or entering homes. Avoid littering to preserve the village’s pristine environment.
Physical Preparation: Trekking routes require moderate fitness; inform guides of health concerns. Cycling is suitable for all levels but involves some uphill sections.
Combine with Other Attractions: Legend Travel Group’s tours ($25-$60 per person) pair Viet Hai with Cai Beo Floating Village, Monkey Island, or Cat Ba National Park for a comprehensive Cat Ba adventure.
Legend Travel Group, a trusted local tour operator, delivers authentic and sustainable experiences in Viet Hai Village and beyond. Our offerings include:
Expert Guides: Local experts share insights into Viet Hai’s culture and history.
Small Groups: 4-10 participants for personalized experiences.
Eco-Friendly Tours: Support for local communities and minimal environmental impact.
Flexible Packages: Day tours ($25-$60 per person), multi-day trips ($80-$150 per person), or private tours ($100-$200 per group) with hotel pickup and customizable itineraries.
Seamless Logistics: All transportation, permits, and activities coordinated for a stress-free journey.
Contact us at +84 825862222 or info@legendtravelgroup.com to book your Viet Hai Village adventure today!
Viet Hai Village, a rustic gem in Cat Ba, offers an eco-tourism haven with cycling trails, cultural immersion in traditional homes, and serene natural beauty, enchanting visitors to this hidden paradise. Legend Travel Group’s Cat Ba Tours guide you through Viet Hai’s authentic charm, ensuring a sustainable Cat Ba Travel experience that blends seamless logistics with eco-friendly practices. From cycling to cultural immersion, we have the perfect itinerary to make your Cat Ba journey unforgettable. Don’t miss out—browse our exclusive tour packages and book with Legend Travel Group for a seamless eco-tourism experience!
Ready to uncover the rustic beauty of Viet Hai Village? Reserve your spot now with Legend Travel Group and explore Vietnam’s hidden paradise!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, 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.
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