How to Get to Halong Bay: A Complete Guide
How to get to Halong Bay is the frequent question for travelers who are planning to travel to Vietnam and want to get updating information.
Halong Bay, located in the northeastern part of Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its emerald waters, towering limestone islands, and mystic caves. The bay covers an area of around 1,553 square kilometers and features approximately 1,600 islands and islets. This natural wonder is one of Vietnam’s most popular travel destinations, offering a wide range of activities such as cruising, kayaking, swimming, and cave exploring. Halong Bay’s mesmerizing beauty, combined with its cultural significance, has made it a must-visit spot for travelers from around the globe.
Given its popularity, there are several ways to get to Halong Bay, depending on where you start your journey. This guide covers how to travel to Halong Bay from two of Vietnam’s major cities: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
How to Get to Halong Bay from Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is the most common starting point for those visiting Halong Bay. Located about 160 kilometers away, the trip takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on your choice of transportation. Below are the main travel options:
1. Transfer by Private Car
One of the most comfortable and flexible ways to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay is by private car. This option allows you to set your own schedule and travel at your own pace. Typically, a private car service includes a direct hotel pickup in Hanoi and drop-off at your hotel or pier in Halong Bay.
Advantages:
- Privacy and Comfort: You’ll have the vehicle to yourself, with ample space for luggage.
- Direct Route: No stops unless requested, making it the fastest option.
- Flexibility: You can customize your travel itinerary, such as stopping for sightseeing or meals along the way.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: This is one of the more expensive options, typically ranging from $150 to $200 depending on the type of car and service.
If you’re traveling with a group, the cost can be split, making it more affordable. Additionally, high-end options like luxury sedans or SUVs are available for travelers who want a more upscale experience.
2. Transfer by Shuttle Bus
Another popular and budget-friendly option is the shuttle bus service that runs between Hanoi and Halong Bay. Shuttle buses are commonly organized by tour operators and hotels, and many buses leave from various locations in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Advantages:
- Affordability: Prices range from $15 to $20 per person, making it the most economical choice.
- Convenience: Many buses provide hotel pickups and drop-offs, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- Socializing: Shuttle buses are a great way to meet other travelers.
Disadvantages:
- Longer Travel Time: Depending on the number of stops, the journey can take up to 4 hours.
- Less Flexibility: You’ll have to adhere to the bus schedule, and there is less opportunity for detours or stops.
Most shuttle buses come equipped with air conditioning, reclining seats, and Wi-Fi, so the journey can still be comfortable even if it takes longer.
3. Transfer by Seaplane
For a unique and scenic way to travel, daily seaplane flights from Hanoi to Halong Bay offer stunning aerial views of the bay. This option is perfect for travelers who want to combine travel with sightseeing, as the flight provides a bird’s-eye view of Halong Bay’s limestone islands.
Advantages:
- Scenic Views: The seaplane offers breathtaking panoramic views of Halong Bay from the air.
- Speed: The flight only takes about 45 minutes, making it the fastest way to reach Halong Bay.
- Convenience: No road traffic, making your trip hassle-free.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: Seaplane flights are the most expensive option, with prices starting around $400 per person.
- Limited Luggage: Due to the small size of the seaplane, there are restrictions on luggage weight.
Seaplane to Halong Bay from Hanoi services are operated by Hai Au Aviation, and you can also opt for a scenic 15-minute flight over the bay once you arrive, allowing you to capture even more stunning photos.
4. Transfer by Charter Helicopter
For the ultimate luxury experience, charter helicopters are available to take you from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Like the seaplane, a helicopter offers unparalleled views of the region and a significantly reduced travel time.
Advantages:
- Luxury Experience: Helicopter transfers provide comfort, exclusivity, and the chance to arrive in style.
- Speed: The flight takes about 45 minutes, similar to the seaplane.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy incredible aerial views of the bay’s landscape from above.
Disadvantages:
- High Cost: Prices can be steep, starting around $6,000 for a one-way trip for a small group.
- Limited Availability: Helicopter services are less frequent than other options and must be booked in advance.
Charter helicopter services are generally arranged through luxury hotels or private tour companies, making this option ideal for those seeking a VIP travel experience.
How to Get to Halong Bay from Ho Chi Minh City
If you are starting your journey from Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), you’ll first need to take a flight to a nearby airport, as Halong Bay is over 1,500 kilometers away. Here are the main options:
1. By Flight to Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong)
Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong is the closest airport to Halong Bay, located about 50 kilometers away. Several domestic airlines, such as Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet Air, operate direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Hai Phong.
Advantages:
- Proximity: The short distance from Cat Bi Airport to Halong Bay means your land transfer will only take about 1 hour.
- Frequent Flights: There are multiple daily flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Hai Phong.
- Cost: Flights are generally affordable, with prices starting around $70 to $100 depending on the season.
Disadvantages:
- Land Transfer Required: You’ll still need to arrange a transfer from Cat Bi Airport to Halong Bay, which can add to the overall travel time.
Once you land at Cat Bi Airport, you can hire a private car, take a shuttle bus, or even arrange for a hotel transfer to complete the journey to Halong Bay.
2. By Flight to Van Don Airport (Quang Ninh)
Van Don International Airport is located in Quang Ninh province, about 60 kilometers from Halong Bay. This airport is relatively new but is quickly becoming a preferred choice for travelers due to its proximity to the bay.
Advantages:
- New and Modern Airport: Van Don offers a smooth and efficient travel experience, with new facilities and easy connections to Halong Bay.
- Short Transfer: The airport is only about 1 to 1.5 hours away from Halong Bay by car.
- Frequent Flights: Airlines such as Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways offer regular flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Van Don.
Disadvantages:
- Fewer Flight Options: Compared to Cat Bi Airport, there are fewer flights to Van Don, so it may require more advanced planning.
Once you arrive at Van Don Airport, you can book a private car or a shuttle bus to complete your trip to Halong Bay.
3. By Flight to Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi)
Another option is to fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and then take a land transfer to Halong Bay. While this option involves a longer land transfer compared to Hai Phong or Van Don, it may be more convenient if you wish to explore Hanoi before heading to the bay.
Advantages:
- Multiple Flight Options: There are many daily flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, making it easy to find a flight that fits your schedule.
- Flexibility: If you’re planning to visit Hanoi as part of your trip, this option allows you to enjoy the capital before traveling to Halong Bay.
Disadvantages:
- Longer Land Transfer: The drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, making this option less efficient if Halong Bay is your only destination.
Once in Hanoi, you can choose from the various transfer options mentioned earlier, including private cars, shuttle buses, or even the luxurious seaplane.
Conclusion
Whether you’re starting your journey from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, getting to Halong Bay is relatively straightforward with various transportation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From private cars and shuttle buses to flights and scenic seaplanes, there’s no shortage of ways to reach this iconic destination.