🇻🇳 Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island offers a scenic contrast to our urban experiences. Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and rich biodiversity, Cat Ba is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and exploring secluded coves. We plan to visit Cat Ba National Park, take a boat tour to nearby islets, and sample fresh seafood along the coast.
This nature-filled segment provides a refreshing pause and a connection to Vietnam’s raw beauty.
Scheduled Itinerary
Mon, Sep 15
🏨Flamingo Resort Cat Ba
Resort stay on Cat Ba island.
Objective
To check in and settle into our scenic resort on Cat Ba Island, which will serve as our base for exploring Lan Ha Bay and the national park.
🔢 Key Steps & Checklist
- Arrival: Arrive via our pre-booked private transfer.
- Check-in: Proceed to the front desk with our booking confirmation and passports. Check-in is from 3:00 PM.
- Settle In: Get the keys to our rooms and relax after the multi-part journey.
💡 Pro-Tip
The resort is located on a beautiful beach. Take some time on the first evening to walk along the shore and enjoy the sunset.
🚕Hanoi → Cat Ba Island
Private transfer from Hanoi Airport (HAN) to our hotel on Cat Ba island.
Objective
A multi-part private transfer to get us from Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport (HAN) directly to our resort on Cat Ba Island.
🔢 Key Steps & Checklist
- Meet Driver: After clearing immigration and customs at HAN, look for our driver holding a sign with our name.
- Car to Ferry: The driver will take us from the airport to the Gót Ferry terminal (~2-hour drive).
- Ferry Crossing: We will board the ferry for the crossing to Cat Ba Island.
- Car to Hotel: A second private car will be waiting on the island to take us the final distance to our resort.
➡️ Upon Arrival
- Next Location: Flamingo Cát Bà Beach Resort.
- Next Action: Check into the hotel and settle in for our island stay.
Tue, Sep 16
🗺️Monkey Island (Đảo Cát Dứa)
A day trip to a nearby island known for its resident monkey population and scenic beaches.
The Mission
To take a short boat trip to a nearby island for a mix of wildlife encounters, hiking, and beach relaxation.
Itinerary Highlights
- Boat Trip: Enjoy the scenic 15-minute boat ride from Cat Ba Town across a corner of Lan Ha Bay.
- Monkey Sighting: Observe the island's resident macaques (from a safe distance).
- Viewpoint Hike: A short but steep climb to the island's summit for a stunning panoramic view of Lan Ha Bay.
- Beach Time: Relax and swim at one of the two sandy beaches (Cát Dứa 1 or Cát Dứa 2).
✅ What to Bring
- Clothing: Swimsuit, towel, and sturdy shoes (not just flip-flops) for the hike.
- Supplies: Water and sunscreen.
- Money: Cash to pay for the boat and any drinks/snacks at the small beach bar.
💡 Pro-Tip
Do not feed the monkeys and keep a secure hold on your belongings, especially phones and sunglasses. They are known to be opportunistic snatchers! The hike to the viewpoint is rocky and can be challenging, but the view is well worth the effort.
Wed, Sep 17
🗺️Cat Ba Island & Lan Ha Bay Day Trip Cruise
Full-day cruise trip in Lan Ha Bay with lunch included.
The Mission
A full-day boat tour to explore the beauty of Lan Ha Bay, a quieter and more pristine alternative to the famous Ha Long Bay, with opportunities for kayaking and swimming.
Itinerary Highlights
- Cruising Lan Ha Bay: Enjoy the stunning scenery of countless limestone karsts rising from the emerald water.
- Kayaking: Paddle through sea caves (like the Dark & Bright Cave) to discover hidden lagoons inaccessible to the main boat.
- Floating Villages: See a traditional floating fishing village and learn about the local way of life on the water.
- Swimming: Anchor in a secluded, scenic cove for a chance to swim in the calm, clear water.
✅ What to Bring
- Clothing: Swimsuit and a towel. A light jacket or windbreaker for the breeze on the boat.
- Supplies: Sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof bag for your phone and camera.
- Documents: Have your tour booking confirmation handy for pickup.
The Payoff
An unforgettable day immersed in one of Southeast Asia's most spectacular seascapes, with a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Thu, Sep 18
🗺️Hike in Cat Ba National Park
Half-day guided hiking trip to Cat Ba National Park.
The Mission
A half-day guided hike into Cat Ba National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with the primary goal of reaching the Ngu Lam Peak viewpoint.
Itinerary Highlights
- Hotel Pickup: The tour begins with pickup from our resort.
- National Park Center: A brief stop at the park entrance and visitor center.
- Ngu Lam Peak Trail: The main hike, a moderately challenging trail through dense jungle leading to the summit.
✅ What to Bring
- Clothing: Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are essential. Lightweight, breathable clothing that you don't mind getting sweaty.
- Supplies: Insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
- Money: Small cash for tips for the guide is appreciated.
The Payoff
The hike culminates in stunning, 360-degree panoramic views of the island's unique and beautiful karst landscape from the Ngu Lam viewpoint.
Fri, Sep 19
🚕Cat Ba Island → Hanoi
Private transfer from our hotel on Cat Ba island to the Old Quarter in Hanoi.
Objective
To travel from our resort on Cat Ba Island back to our new hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter.
🔢 Key Steps & Checklist
- Preparation: Be packed and ready for pickup at the Flamingo Cát Bà Beach Resort lobby by 10:00 AM.
- Car to Ferry: A private car will take us from the resort to the Gót Ferry terminal.
- Ferry Crossing: We will board the ferry for the short crossing back to the mainland.
- Car to Hanoi: A second private car will be waiting on the mainland to drive us directly to our hotel in Hanoi.
➡️ Upon Arrival
- Next Location: Rex Hanoi Hotel in the Old Quarter.
- Next Action: Check into the hotel, drop off our luggage, and prepare for some afternoon shopping.