Van Long Nature Reserve in Ninh Binh: boat ride, langurs and prices (2026)
Van Long is Ninh Binh's big wetland: you visit it by rowing boat, about 1 hour, between limestone rocks, low caves and water birds, with far fewer people than at Trang An or Tam Coc. It shelters Delacour's langur, a critically endangered monkey you have only a small chance of seeing. Expect about 20,000 VND entry and 50,000 VND for the boat ride (two sources, reference prices; another site gives 50,000 VND all-in); precise opening hours were not found, so go in the morning. From Hanoi it is a day trip, often combined with Bai Dinh or Hoa Lu.
Highlights
The boat ride
A boatman rows through canals lined with cliffs; the routes are similar in length and price (about 1 h). You pass under low caves: sit down and keep your head in.
The marsh and its birds
Kingfishers, herons and storks can be seen from the boat; the mood is calm and little photographed.
Delacour's langur
A very rare animal: do not count on seeing it, and stay quiet near the cliffs. A forum mentions fewer than 250 animals worldwide, a figure not confirmed.
Practical info
Tips
- Go early, before the afternoon groups. Cap and sunscreen, as the boat does not always have shade. For a day in Ninh Binh, Van Long combines well with Hoa Lu or Tam Coc; compare with Trang An, better known and busier. To plan the day, see Ninh Binh in one day from Hanoi. If you stay overnight: where to stay in Ninh Binh.
How to get there
In Gia Vien district, north of Ninh Binh city; allow about 2 h by road from Hanoi. An organised tour or private driver is simplest.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
See on the map →
Comments
No comments yet.