Van Long Lagoon is a beautiful wetland that gives travelers a softer and more peaceful side of Ninh Binh. Instead of busy tour routes, the lagoon offers open views, calm waters, and a chance to enjoy nature at a slower pace. It is a great option for visitors looking to see local landscapes without rushing. The area is simple, quiet, and surprisingly scenic. Many people visit for the relaxing boat trip or to look for wildlife around the mountains. If you prefer gentle, natural experiences, this place is a great introduction to Ninh Binh’s outdoor charm.
What is Van Long Lagoon in Ninh Binh?
Van Long Lagoon is the largest wetland nature reserve in the northern part of Vietnam’s Red River Delta. It spreads over more than 3,500 hectares and combines calm water, grasslands, limestone mountains, and rich plant and animal life. The site is known for its huge wetland and is protected as a nature reserve.
The lagoon was not always a natural wetland. It formed after a dyke was built on the Day River to control flooding. Over time, this created a large lake surrounded by hills and mountains. The name “Van Long” refers to this lake area and its peaceful water.
This place is home to many species of birds, plants, and animals. Some animals and plants you see here are rare or endangered. The area supports many birds that migrate here in the dry season, and it is one of the best places in Vietnam to see the critically endangered Delacour’s langur in the wild.
Visitors love Van Long Lagoon for its quiet landscape and natural setting. The water is calm and still, which is why locals call it the “bay without waves.” Boats float smoothly on the water, and the reflections of the tall limestone peaks make the place feel like a giant natural painting.
Van Long Lagoon location and how to get there
Van Long Lagoon is located in Gia Van Commune, Gia Vien District, in Ninh Binh Province, northern Vietnam. The lagoon lies about 80–100 kilometers south of Hanoi and is part of a large protected wetland area near the border with Ha Nam Province.
How to get there from Hanoi
You have several options to reach Van Long Lagoon from Hanoi:
- By bus: Take a bus from major bus stations like Giap Bat or My Dinh in Hanoi to Ninh Binh city or Gia Vien district. The trip usually takes around 2–2.5 hours. Once in Ninh Binh, you can take a taxi, motorbike taxi, or rented motorbike to the lagoon area.
- By train: You can also take a train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Station. From there, take a taxi or motorbike taxi to the lagoon. Trains are slow but affordable and comfortable.
- By private car or motorbike: If you prefer flexibility, drive yourself. From Hanoi, follow the Phap Van–Cau Gie–Ninh Binh expressway and National Highway 1A. Then turn at key junctions toward Gia Van Commune until you reach the lagoon area. The drive takes about 1.5–2 hours.
Getting around locally
Once you arrive in Ninh Binh or Gia Vien, the lagoon area is about 15–20 kilometers from central spots like Hoa Lu or Ninh Binh city, so you can rent a motorbike or take a taxi to reach the lagoon. Many visitors also book local tours that include transport from their hotels.
No matter how you get there, Van Long Lagoon is well worth the trip for its peaceful scenery and natural charm.
Read more: Unveiling the Scenic Escape: Train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh
Activities to do at Van Long Lagoon
When you visit Van Long Lagoon, there is more than one way to enjoy the natural beauty of the wetland. You can try calm boat rides, watch wildlife, explore around on foot or by bike, and even discover caves and seasonal views. These activities help you experience the peaceful setting of the lagoon and learn more about its nature.
Van Long Lagoon boat trip
The most common and relaxing activity at Van Long Lagoon is the boat trip. Local rowboats or small wooden boats take you slowly across the still water. You sit low in the boat and listen to the sound of oars against the water. The boats move quietly between limestone peaks, past reeds and hidden water channels. The scenery reflects on the surface like a mirror. Boat rides often last about 1–2 hours and offer great views of the wetland and cliffs.
This slow ride gives you time to enjoy simple details. You can see floating plants, distant mountains, and birds above the water. Many visitors come early or late in the day when the light is soft, and the water is calm.
Wildlife watching at Van Long Lagoon
Van Long Lagoon is home to a wide variety of wildlife. The wetland supports many bird species, including herons, storks, ducks, and kingfishers. Some birds migrate and rest here during cooler months.
Another special animal here is the rare Delacour’s langur. This endangered primate lives in the cliffs around the lagoon. With patience and a good pair of binoculars, you may spot it on rocky ledges or moving through trees.
Many visitors enjoy watching birds in the early morning or late afternoon. These are times when birds are most active. A quiet boat ride or a slow walk along the water gives you more chances to see wildlife.
Cycling and walking around the lagoon
If you prefer to stay on land, walking or cycling around Van Long Lagoon is a great option. Paths along the dikes and rice fields offer peaceful views and fresh air.
Cycling lets you explore rice paddies and village scenes near the wetland. You can spot water buffalo grazing and farmers working in the fields. Walking gives you time to pause, take photos, and enjoy small details of nature.
Cave exploration and other activities
Around Van Long Lagoon, many limestone caves are worth seeing. Some caves open to the water and are part of the boat routes. Caves like Hang Ca (Fish Cave), Hang Bong (Shadow Cave), Anh Rua (Turtle Cave), and Hang Chanh have interesting formations. Watching light through the cave openings creates beautiful views.
In warmer months, lotus flowers bloom across parts of the wetland. The pink and white blooms make great photos and add color to your visit.
Best time to visit Van Long Lagoon
Choosing the right time to visit Van Long Lagoon can help you make the most of your trip. This natural wetland is beautiful year-round, but some seasons and times of day are better for certain activities.
The dry season from November to April is a very good time to visit. During these months, rain is less frequent, and the weather is cooler. This makes boat rides and wildlife watching more pleasant. Many birds migrate here in this season, and you can see more species around the lagoon.
If you like lotus flowers and bright colors, late spring to early summer (around May–July) is special. Lotus blooms cover parts of the wetland, creating lovely scenery for photos. The rainy season, from July to September, brings higher water levels and lush green landscapes. The views can be dramatic, but rain may make outdoor activities less comfortable. Boat rides might be wetter or change schedules during heavy rain.
The time of day also matters for your visit. Early morning offers cool temperatures and peaceful water. Birds are often most active then, and mist may rise off the lagoon. Late afternoon or early evening brings warm light and calm scenes, ideal for photos. Both times help you enjoy nature with softer light and fewer crowds.
No matter when you go, Van Long Lagoon remains a beautiful and calm place to experience nature in Ninh Binh. Adjust your schedule for the weather and your interests, and you will have a memorable visit.
Entrance fees and visitor information
Visiting Van Long Lagoon is budget-friendly. The entrance ticket is affordable for most travelers. Generally, adults pay around 20,000 VND to enter the wetland reserve. Children under 1 m tall and seniors (60 years old and above) often pay about 10,000 VND each. Boat rides cost extra and are also low-cost. Boat tickets are usually around 50,000 VND per trip for adults and about 25,000 VND for children and seniors.
Most visitors purchase the entrance ticket first and then buy the boat ticket at the dock before boarding. Boat rides typically last about one hour or more, depending on the route you choose.
Parking is also inexpensive, with a small fee for motorbikes and cars. If you rent bicycles nearby, that will be a separate cost. The wetland nature reserve is open daily, usually from early morning until late afternoon. Many travelers arrive early to enjoy the peace of the lagoon before crowds gather and to watch wildlife when it is most active.
How Van Long Lagoon compares to Trang An and Tam Coc
Van Long Lagoon offers a different experience from more famous spots like Trang An and Tam Coc in Ninh Binh. One big difference is the atmosphere. The lagoon is quieter and less crowded than the other two places. This makes it a good choice for travelers who want calm nature and peaceful scenery.
Trang An is a large UNESCO World Heritage site. It is busy and popular with many visitors. The boat routes at Trang An are longer and include many caves and temples. You will see temples and ancient sites along the water. This gives a mix of culture and nature.
Tam Coc is also well known. It features boat rides through rice fields and low hills. Tam Coc is famous for its countryside scenery, especially when rice fields turn golden. It also has cycling routes near the river that visitors enjoy.
In cost terms, Van Long Lagoon is often cheaper. Combined entrance and boat fees at Van Long are typically lower than similar tours at Trang An and Tam Coc. This makes Van Long a good choice for budget travelers.
Also, Van Long’s boat rides are generally quieter and slower. There are fewer vendors and fewer tourists pushing for photos or souvenirs. This gives you more time to enjoy nature and wildlife.
Tips for visiting Van Long Lagoon
Here are practical tips for your trip to Van Long Lagoon. First, arrive early if you can. Early morning has cooler weather and soft light. This time is also good for seeing birds and wildlife.
Bring sunscreen and a hat if you visit on sunny weather. The wetland has little shade in some areas, and the sun on the open water can be strong. It is also wise to bring water and insect repellent.
If you like watching birds or rare langurs, bring binoculars. These tools help you see animals high on cliffs or across the water. Wear comfortable shoes or sandals suitable for walking. You might want to explore paths around the lagoon or ride a bicycle nearby.
Check the weather before you go. Rainy season months can make boat rides wet and limit some activities. Respect nature and local rules. Do not litter or disturb wildlife. Be polite at temples and pagodas near the lagoon by wearing modest clothing.
Finally, it is a good idea to confirm ticket prices and opening hours on arrival, as they can change. Many visitors also choose to book tours ahead of time for convenience and local knowledge.
Choose Lily’s Travel to make your Van Long Lagoon trip smoother and more memorable. Established in 2007 and backed by thousands of 5-star reviews, Lily’s Travel is one of the top tour operators in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam. Our team is passionate, knowledgeable, and dedicated to sustainable, community-focused travel. With advanced 4.0 technology and a strong focus on human-centered experiences, Lily’s Travel provides expert guidance for travelers who want to explore peaceful destinations like Van Long Lagoon with confidence and curiosity.
Van Long Lagoon is a great place for travelers who want quiet nature and simple local experiences. The calm water, limestone mountains, and diverse wildlife make the area worth exploring. Whether you take a boat ride, watch rare animals, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, the lagoon offers something relaxing for everyone. Visiting this wetland is an easy way to slow down and enjoy natural beauty in Ninh Binh.
