Must seeEcotourismNatureWildlife

    Van Long Nature Reserve

    Khu Bảo Tồn Thiên Nhiên Vân Long

    4.6₫40k-120k2-3 hours
    Ama Journey
    Overview

    Northern Vietnam's largest freshwater wetland reserve, offering silent sampan boat rides through mirror-still waters, towering karst peaks, and rare Delacour's langur sightings.

    Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve in Gia Vien District is the largest natural wetland in northern Vietnam, protecting over 3,000 hectares of karst limestone, flooded valleys, and rare biodiversity. Known as the 'Bay without Waves,' its glassy surface perfectly reflects surrounding cliffs. The reserve is one of the last habitats of the critically endangered Delacour's langur, one of the world's rarest primates. Slow traditional rowing boats are the only way to explore — no motorized vessels — keeping the experience extraordinarily tranquil compared to Tam Coc or Trang An.
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    What to know before you go

    • Van Long is home to 39 species of mammals, 72 bird species, and 39 reptile and amphibian species, making it one of the most biodiverse wetlands in Vietnam. The critically endangered Delacour's langur — a striking black-and-white primate — is regularly spotted on cliff faces in the early morning.
    • Unlike Tam Coc and Trang An, Van Long sees far fewer tourists, meaning boat rides feel genuinely peaceful. The wetland's calm water creates perfect mirror reflections of the karst peaks, especially magical on still mornings in autumn and winter.
    • The best time to visit is early morning between October and March when mist clings to the karst peaks and the light is golden. Lotus flowers bloom across the wetland from May to July, transforming the landscape into a sea of pink.
    Good to know

    Culture, safety & access

    Culture & etiquette
    Crowd: Low — one of the quietest nature spots in Ninh Binh; busier on weekendsBest season: October to March for mist and clear reflections; May to July for lotus blooms

    Keep voices low on the boat to maximize wildlife sightings, especially Delacour's langurs

    Safety & health

    Wear a life jacket provided on the boat; water is calm but deep in places

    Weather

    Best in dry season; lotus season (May–July) is also beautiful despite higher humidity

    Boat Access Only

    The wetland interior is accessible only by traditional rowing boat — no walking trails inside.

    Wildlife Viewing

    Bring binoculars for langur and bird spotting; best sightings at dawn.

    Sun Protection

    Boats have no shade — bring a hat, sunscreen, and water.