Van Long Nature Reserve is a quiet natural area that highlights the softer side of Ninh Binh’s landscape. Unlike places filled with constant movement, Van Long invites visitors to slow down and observe nature. The reserve is characterized by wetlands, limestone hills, and a peaceful rural atmosphere. As a protected area, Van Long also reflects Vietnam’s efforts to preserve its natural heritage, making it both a relaxing and meaningful place to visit.
What is Van Long Nature Reserve in Ninh Binh?
Van Long Nature Reserve is a large wetland area in Ninh Binh Province in northern Vietnam. It is the largest inland wetland in the Red River Delta and one of the few intact wetlands left in the region. The reserve covers thousands of hectares of marshes, shallow lakes, and karst limestone hills. The landscape is quiet and green, with wide water channels and tall stone peaks rising from the water. This makes Van Long special and very peaceful compared to busier tourist spots nearby.
The reserve is also an important home for wildlife and plants. It shelters the critically endangered Delacour’s langur, a rare monkey species found mainly in this area. You may also see many birds, fish, and plant species here. The rich nature makes Van Long ideal for birdwatching and nature lovers.
Visitors come here for quiet boat rides, nature views, and to enjoy the calm countryside. The wetland feels like a hidden gem with a slow pace and open scenery.
Read more: Why Van Long Lagoon should be on your Ninh Binh list? Fully travel guide
How to get there
Van Long Nature Reserve is about 17–20 km northeast of Ninh Binh City and around 80–90 km south of Hanoi. The reserve is easy to reach from both places by different transport options.
From Hanoi:
- Private car or taxi: This is the easiest way. It takes about 1.5–2.5 hours depending on traffic. The road goes south on National Highway 1A and then onto Provincial Road 477 to Gia Van Commune.
- Bus or limousine: You can take a bus or limousine van from Hanoi (Giap Bat or My Dinh) to Ninh Binh City, then get a taxi or motorbike taxi to Van Long.
- Train: Trains from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Station take about 2 hours. From the station, you take a taxi to the reserve.
From Ninh Binh City:
- Taxi or Grab: The ride takes around 30 minutes.
- Motorbike or bicycle: If you rent a motorbike or bicycle, you can reach Van Long along quiet country roads through rice fields and villages. It usually takes about 30–40 minutes by motorbike.
- Local bus: Some local buses run on the main road toward Gia Vien District. You can stop near the reserve and walk or take a short taxi ride.
Main activities in Van Long Nature Reserve
When you visit Van Long Nature Reserve, there are several engaging activities you can enjoy. These activities let you experience the peaceful nature and wildlife of the reserve at a comfortable pace.
Scenic Boat Ride Through the Wetlands
The most popular activity is riding a traditional boat through the calm water channels of Van Long. The boats move slowly among limestone peaks and reflective water. You can enjoy the quiet views and take memorable photos. The boat trip usually lasts around 1.5–2 hours. Local guides steer the boat and point out interesting rock formations and natural views.
Wildlife and Bird Watching
Wildlife watching is a highlight here. The reserve is home to many bird species, such as herons, kingfishers, and migratory birds. With luck and patience, you may spot the rare Delacour’s langur on limestone cliffs. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to see animals.
Photography
Van Long’s landscapes are great for photography. The still waters reflect the karst peaks, creating beautiful scenes. Sunrise and sunset offer especially attractive light for photos. Visitors often capture reflections, birds, and wide wetland views.
Cycling and Walking Along the Dikes
You can rent a bike or walk along the dike paths around the reserve. This gives you close views of rice fields, rural villages, and open wetland views. The peaceful routes are perfect for slow exploration and more photography.
Explore Caves and Surrounding Nature
Van Long has many limestone caves that you can see during boat trips. Some caves have interesting shapes and rock formations. As your boat moves through openings, light creates beautiful reflections and shadows.
Best time to visit Van Long Nature Reserve
The best time to visit Van Long Nature Reserve depends on the weather and what you want to see.
Many travelers choose to come during the dry season from November to April. During these months, the weather is usually cool and dry, with clear skies. This makes boat rides more enjoyable. The dry weather also gives good chances for birdwatching and photography.
In the early morning and late afternoon, the temperature is comfortable and the light is soft. These times are also the best for seeing birds and wildlife. Many visitors prefer to take the boat ride at sunrise or near sunset.
If you visit in May and June, you can see lotus flowers blooming on the water. The pink flowers add color to the wetlands and make beautiful scenes. The wet season from May to October brings more rain and higher water levels. This makes the landscape very green and lush. Some people enjoy this too, but rain may affect boat trips at times.
Overall, November to April gives the most pleasant weather for most travelers. Early morning and late afternoon each day also give the best experiences on the water and chances to see wildlife.
Entrance fees and visitor information
To enter the reserve, you must buy a ticket at the entrance. Most visitors pay a small fee to access the wetland area. The cost is usually around 20,000 VND per adult. Children under about 1 meter tall and seniors often pay a lower rate. Local sources list similar prices of 10,000 VND for kids or seniors. These fees help maintain the reserve and its natural habitat.
If you want to take a boat ride in the wetlands, you will also need a boat ticket. Boat prices can vary but are typically around 50,000 VND for adults and less for children or older visitors. These boats move slowly through the calm water, giving you a close look at the scenery and wildlife.
Opening hours at the reserve are usually from early morning to late afternoon. Many guides note hours around 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM until about 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. Going early helps you avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos.
When you arrive, you’ll pay both the entrance fee and boat fee at separate ticket booths. Cash is often preferred, as electronic payments may not always be available at the ticket counter.
In addition to the main water activities, some areas near the reserve offer parking for cars and motorbikes, basic rest areas, and small local food stalls or restaurants. These make planning a visit for several hours easier and more comfortable.
Suggested itineraries for visiting Van Long Nature Reserve
Here are a couple of simple and practical itineraries you can follow when visiting Van Long Nature Reserve. These plans help you see the best of the reserve at a good pace.
Van Long half-day itinerary
Morning
- Arrive at the reserve early, around 8:00 AM, when the gates open.
- Buy your entrance ticket and boat ticket at the counter.
- Take a boat ride through the calm wetlands. Enjoy watching birds and the reflections on the water.
- After your boat trip, take a short walk around the entrance area.
- Stop for a quick drink or snack at a small café near the reserve before you leave.
Van Long full-day itinerary
Morning
- Start early and head to Van Long from your hotel or base.
- Begin with the first boat ride of the day to see the wetland in soft morning light.
- After the boat tour, rent a bike and explore the dikes around the reserve.
- Visit small villages nearby. Talk with local people and see how life works in the countryside.
Afternoon
- Have lunch at a local restaurant near the reserve. Try some regional dishes.
- Return to the water for a second boat ride in the late afternoon. This time gives you a chance to see more wildlife and different light for photos.
- Complete your visit by relaxing near the water or walking around other scenic spots before heading back.
Van Long full-day itinerary
Early Morning
- Travel from your accommodation to Van Long Nature Reserve.
- Take the first boat ride of the day to enjoy peace and soft morning light.
Midday
- Visit local villages on a bicycle tour.
- Stop at a local café or eat traditional dishes for lunch.
Afternoon
- Second boat ride during sunset for amazing colors.
- Spend time exploring cave entrances by the water.
- Return to Ninh Binh or your base for dinner.
Read more: Ninh Binh tour 1 day: ? All the detailed schedule of what to eat, what to play
Tips for visiting Van Long Nature Reserve
Here are some helpful tips before you go:
- Go early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring sunscreen and water. Even in cooler months, the sun can be strong.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for boat rides and cycling.
- Carry binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.
- Respect wildlife and local culture. Keep noise low and avoid feeding animals.
Van Long Nature Reserve offers a peaceful escape into nature with stunning views, rare wildlife, and easy-going activities. It’s a perfect destination for travelers who want to slow down, explore quiet wetlands, and experience Vietnam’s natural beauty in a relaxed way.
Turn your Van Long Nature Reserve into a meaningful journey. Lily’s Travel has spent more than 15 years creating tours that connect travelers with Vietnam’s natural landscapes and cultural diversity. Their focus on responsible tourism and deep local knowledge makes them a strong choice for exploring Van Long Nature Reserve in a relaxed, informative, and sustainable way.
Van Long Nature Reserve provides a refreshing contrast to busier tourist sites in Ninh Binh. With wide wetlands, limestone formations, and a slow pace, it allows travelers to reconnect with nature. Clear visitor information and flexible itineraries make planning easy, while the calm setting ensures a relaxing experience. This reserve is an excellent stop for those who value scenery, peace, and authentic nature encounters.
