Highlights
- Spot the rare Delacour’s langur in the wild on the towering limestone cliffs
- See rescued moon and sun bears thriving in spacious semi-wild enclosures
- Glide through the mirror-like waters of Van Long on a bamboo boat
- Navigate through Ca Cave to discover a hidden, peaceful lagoon
- Support meaningful wildlife conservation and ethical eco-tourism
Description
Nature’s Serenity & Wildlife Rescue: Van Long & The Bear Sanctuary
Discover the 'Bay without Waves' and support meaningful wildlife conservation in this peaceful half-day escape. This tour perfectly balances the breathtaking limestone landscapes of Van Long Nature Reserve with an educational visit to the Bear Sanctuary Ninh Binh, where rescued bears are given a second chance at life.
The Itinerary: Half-Day Discovery (Choose your start time)
• 08:00 AM / 01:30 PM | Departure: We pick you up from your accommodation and head toward the outskirts of Ninh Binh, passing through peaceful rural villages on the way to the sanctuary.
• 09:00 AM / 02:00 PM | Bear Sanctuary Ninh Binh: Start your journey at this modern facility managed by FOUR PAWS. Walk along the skywalk to observe moon bears and sun bears playing in semi-wild enclosures. Learn about their journey from the illegal bile industry to this peaceful haven, and see firsthand how conservation is changing the future of Vietnamese wildlife.
• 10:30 AM / 03:30 PM | Van Long Nature Reserve Boat Trip: Step onto a traditional bamboo boat rowed by local villagers. Van Long is a 'water-submerged nature reserve' famous for its mirror-like water surface. As you drift through the reeds, keep your eyes on the karst cliffs—this is the only place in the world where you can easily spot the critically endangered Delacour’s Langur in the wild.
• 11:30 AM / 04:30 PM | Exploring Ca Cave: Navigate through the base of the mountains into Ca Cave, a 250m long natural tunnel. Emerge on the other side, you'll find a hidden lagoon surrounded by towering limestone peaks, offering some of the most tranquil photography spots in Vietnam.
• 12:30 PM / 05:30 PM | Scenic Return
We conclude the tour with a relaxing drive back, dropping you off in time for an included lunch or dinner. Enjoy the local cuisine and a chance to chat before we drive you back to your accommodations
Why This Experience?
This tour is designed for those who prefer a slower pace and meaningful animal encounters. Unlike the busier tourist hubs, Van Long remains a quiet sanctuary for birds and primates, while the Bear Sanctuary offers a heart-warming look at international rescue efforts. Pro tip: Bring binoculars! The birdlife and langurs at Van Long are best viewed from a slight distance to respect their natural habitat.
Includes
Entrance ticket to Bear Sanctuary Sky Walk
Eco-Conscious Travel: We honor nature by touring in quiet electric sedans & SUVs, never buses. Enjoy a wind-in-your-hair countryside drive with easy, flexible pickups—an intimate, seamless journey in perfect harmony with the earth
Free Pickup & Drop-off: Hassle-free door-to-door service from your hotel or homestay in Ninh Binh City, Tam Coc, or Trang An, Bai Dinh
Visit Van Long Nature Reserve
See rescued moon and sun bears thriving in spacious semi-wild enclosures
Boat tour on traditional bamboo sampan
Opportunity to spot Delacour’s Langur
Birdwatching during dry season
Enjoy Lunch/dinner at a local restaurant
Bottles of water
Excludes
Personal expenses
Tips
Entrance ticket to Van Long Nature Reserve: 150,000 VND (Optional)
Important Information
- Bring Binoculars & a Camera: Van Long is a paradise for birds and the rare Delacour's Langur. They are best viewed from a distance to respect their habitat, so a good lens or binoculars will go a long way
- Dress Comfortably & Appropriately: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for walking around the sanctuary. Since the bamboo boat ride is fully exposed to the elements, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are highly recommended
- Be Prepared for the Weather: Pack a light raincoat or poncho just in case of unexpected showers, especially if you choose the afternoon tour
- Sanctuary Etiquette: The Bear Sanctuary is a place of healing. Visitors are asked to keep voices down near the enclosures and respect the animals' space—feeding the bears or littering is strictly prohibited
- Respect the Ecosystem: Both locations are pristine natural habitats. We practice strict leave-no-trace ethics—please carry out all trash with you
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
