Van Long Nature Reserve
Explore the home of rare langurs.
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Introduction
Van Long Nature Reserve (Khu bảo tồn thiên nhiên Vân Long) is the largest wetland nature reserve in Vietnam's Northern Delta, located in Gia Vien district, Ninh Binh. The reserve is characterized by a calm, vast body of water surrounded by dramatic limestone karst mountains. It holds exceptional importance as the primary home for the world's largest population of the critically endangered Delacour's langur, offering a less crowded alternative to other nearby attractions.
Wetland Boat Tour
The main experience at Van Long is a 1.5 to 2-hour boat trip on a traditional bamboo sampan. Local people, often women, row the boats manually, creating a peaceful journey across the water's mirror-like surface. This gentle pace is ideal for observing the natural surroundings without disruption.
Wildlife Spotting
Van Long is a crucial biodiversity site. The cliffs are the best place in Vietnam to spot the Delacour's langur, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon. The reserve is also a habitat for numerous bird species, including storks, herons, and kingfishers, making it a rewarding location for birdwatching.
Limestone Karsts and Caves
The landscape is dominated by spectacular limestone formations rising from the water. The boat journey includes passage through or near several small grottoes and caves, such as Ca Cave (Fish Cave), Rua Cave (Turtle Cave), and Chanh Cave (Lemon Cave), adding a sense of discovery to the trip.
Getting there
From Ninh Binh City Center to Van Long Nature Reserve (approx. 20 km):
🚗 Taxi: 25-35 mins | 250,000 - 350,000 VND ~ $10 - $14 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab): 25-35 mins | 200,000 - 300,000 VND ~ $8 - $12 USD
🛵 Motorbike: 30-40 mins. Renting a motorbike is a popular option for exploring Ninh Binh and offers the most flexibility.
⚠️ The route is straightforward and travels along well-paved rural roads. Traffic is generally light. If taking a taxi, agree on the price beforehand or ensure the meter is used.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
- Note: Ticket sales may end around 5:00 PM. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon is highly recommended for better weather and wildlife activity.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Entrance Fee: 20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD) per person.
- Boat Trip Fee: 80,000 VND (~$3.20 USD) per boat.
- Note: One boat accommodates a maximum of two adults. The ticket booth is located at the main entrance wharf. The fees support conservation and provide income for the local community who row the boats.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- The best time of year is during the dry season from November to April. For wildlife spotting, particularly the langurs, plan your boat trip for the early morning (7:30-9:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:30-5:00 PM). These times also help you avoid the midday heat, as the boats offer no shade.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Budget around 2 to 2.5 hours for your visit. This includes time for ticketing and the full boat journey, which typically lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours.
Tips from locals
Local tips
📸 Ask your boat rower to take you to the "Kong: Skull Island" film set location. While much of the set is gone, the specific area is recognizable and the rowers know exactly where to find the best angles that match scenes from the movie.
💧 There is no shade on the water. Bring ample water, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat, as the sun reflecting off the water can be intense, even on cooler days. It's a simple tip that makes the two-hour journey much more comfortable.
💡 Have small bills ready for tipping. While not required, tipping your rower (20,000 - 50,000 VND is a good range) is a customary way to show appreciation for their hard work. Many visitors forget this, but it makes a direct, positive impact on the local community.
Be aware
🛶 The boat tour is much less commercialized than Trang An or Tam Coc, which means facilities are very basic. Do not expect souvenir shops, elaborate restaurants, or modern restrooms at the pier.
💰 While most rowers are wonderful, a small number of visitors have reported being taken on a shortened route. It's helpful to confirm the duration ("một tiếng rưỡi đến hai tiếng" - 1.5 to 2 hours) before you depart to set a clear expectation.
FAQs
How long is the boat trip at Van Long?
The boat trip typically lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, covering a route that explores the wetlands, karsts, and several caves.
Can you guarantee seeing langurs?
No, sightings are not guaranteed as the Delacour's langurs are wild animals. However, your chances are highest if you visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when they are most active.
Is Van Long Nature Reserve better than Trang An or Tam Coc?
It depends on what you're looking for. Van Long is quieter, more authentic, and better for wildlife spotting. Trang An and Tam Coc are more popular, have more dramatic cave systems, and more developed tourist infrastructure.
What is the best time of day to visit Van Long?
Early morning (7:30-9:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:30-5:00 PM) are the best times to avoid the heat and have the highest probability of seeing langurs and other wildlife.
Was the movie "Kong: Skull Island" filmed here?
Yes, several scenes from the 2017 movie "Kong: Skull Island" were filmed on location in Van Long Nature Reserve.
Are there caves to see on the boat tour?
Yes, the boat tour passes through and by several small, natural grottoes in the limestone karsts, with the most prominent being Hang Cá (Fish Cave).
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
No, you can easily purchase tickets for the entrance and the boat trip upon arrival at the main ticket counter.
Is there a place to eat at Van Long?
There are a few small, local restaurants near the entrance providing basic Vietnamese dishes, but options are limited compared to other tourist sites in Ninh Binh.
How many people can fit in one boat?
Each sampan boat can carry a maximum of two adult passengers, plus the rower.
Can I row the boat myself?
Generally, visitors are not permitted to row the boat themselves. The local rowers are skilled at navigating the shallow waters and specific routes of the reserve.
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