There are many highlights for those travelling in Vietnam. Its popularity is on a steep incline upwards with a Vietnam visa available on arrival and Vietnam packaged tours available to meet the exact wishes of clients. The Country is full of historical, cultural and religious treasure but there is also a wonderful natural environment to explore. One of the natural gems which has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status is Halong Bay about four hours due east of the capital, Hanoi in the north of the country. The Bay has a 120 kilometre coastline and hundreds of islands, all but a few uninhabited, but there for exploration and adventure.
Many tourists go on a leisurely cruise in the bay, even staying overnight on board a traditional junk. The more adventurous traveller has the opportunity to go kayaking, and it is something that even novices can do because there are always experienced guides at hand.
Whether you have a base in Hanoi and go to Halong Bay for a couple of days or whether you are heading elsewhere after the Bay to other parts of Vietnam, a kayaking tour is easy to arrange with a good Vietnam tour operator. You can expect an early start from Hanoi to get to Halong Bay by lunchtime. All your kayaking equipment will be provided by you should make sure you have suitable clothing and footwear, something waterproof that can protect your belongings as well as a hat, sun cream, sun glasses and of course your camera.
After lunch, you will be on the water. It depends upon the time you have allocated as to what you do. You may go on board a junk which in itself can help you explore the islands for the rest of the day. After a night on board, breakfast and your kayak. The pace of the trip will be dictated by the people in the party. You can explore the canes and lagoons on peace with a support vessel on hand and experienced kayakers with you.
After a day in a kayak you’ll have an appetite for dinner and reflection on the day’s adventures. You will have to be moderately fit to spend a day kayaking, but you do not necessarily have needed to kayak before. It’s easy as long as the sea conditions are calm. In most cases, you will have the choice of a single or double kayak with everything like life jackets supplied of course. The best time of the year to do this is October to June though weather conditions can never be fully guaranteed.
Vietnam’s coastline in general is wonderful, over 3,000 kilometres of it in all with several areas becoming increasingly popular for water sports. Halong Bay remains among the highlights of the coast because of the stunning setting. What better way to enjoy it than by kayaking? If you decide on an activity within your holiday in Vietnam, kayaking in Halong Bay deserves very serious consideration.
Read more about our Halong travel guide and Halong cruise tour.
