Skip to contentCAT BA ISLAND, VIETNAM
To get the best experience in Vietnam you need to book one of our local friendly tour guides. They will be able to show you around, make you feel like a local. Whether you want to see the tourist sites or visit places off the beaten track and discover new experiences, then our Guides4me guide is there to make it happen.
Tony
Tony is LGBT friendly and speaks French, English & Vietnamese.
He is an experienced guide, especially for those who are passionate about different cultures and who would love to know more. A very friendly guy and we guarantee you will leave Ninh Binh with a new friend for life. You simply cannot experience the real Vietnam without Tony.
Total cost for the guide services of Tony for one day or evening (8 hours) = a booking fee of USD 33 via Paypal, debit / credit cards, bank transfer or Crypto Currency plus USD 55 in cash to Tony after his services. This makes a total of USD 88.
This excludes transport, entrance fees or any food & beverage costs. Also there may be an additional fee as Tony needs to travel to this city as he is normally based in Hanoi. You will be advised at the time of the booking, if this applies.
Discovering Cat Ba Island
Nestled in the emerald waters of northern Vietnam’s Gulf of Tonkin. Cat Ba Island is the largest island in the Cat Ba Archipelago and an increasingly popular destination for travellers seeking a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and authentic cultural experiences. Just a few hours from Hanoi. Cat Ba offers a quieter, less touristy alternative to nearby Ha Long Bay, while sharing the same stunning limestone karst landscape and rich biodiversity.
What to See and Do on Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba Island is a nature lover’s paradise, a playground for adventurers, and a serene retreat for those looking to unwind.
Here are some of the top experiences:
Cat Ba National Park
This lush, mountainous park is a UNESCO recognized biosphere reserve, home to rare wildlife including the endangered Cat Ba langur (one of the world’s rarest primates). Hiking trails lead you through dense jungles, past waterfalls, and up to panoramic viewpoints like Ngu Lam Peak, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the island.
Lan Ha Bay
Often described as a quieter, cleaner cousin of Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay boasts over 300 karst islands and islets. You can kayak through hidden lagoons, explore sea caves, or take a boat tour to floating fishing villages. Swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding are also popular here.
Beaches
Cat Ba has several tranquil beaches, including Cat Co 1, 2, and 3, which are close to the main town. Each offers calm waters and scenic backdrops. For a more secluded experience, venture to Tung Thu Beach or take a boat to hidden spots only locals know about.
Cannon Fort (Pháo Đài Thần Công)
This historic site offers not only a glimpse into Vietnam’s military past but also one of the best sunset viewpoints on the island. The old bunkers and tunnels are a reminder of Cat Ba’s strategic importance during wartime.
Hospital Cave
Built during the Vietnam War, this secret bomb-proof hospital inside a cave is a fascinating stop. A tour through its eerie halls reveals an underground operating room, dormitories, and command centre.
Rock Climbing and Trekking
Cat Ba is becoming a hotspot for climbers, thanks to its dramatic cliffs and climbing routes for all skill levels. Many outdoor adventure companies offer equipment rentals and guided trips for safe exploration.
Why You Should Hire a Local Tour Guide
While it’s possible to explore Cat Ba Island on your own, booking a local tour guide can significantly enrich your experience:
Access Hidden Gems
Local guides know the island inside out. From secret beaches to lesser-known hiking trails and family-run eateries. They can take you to spots that are off the beaten path and not mentioned in guidebooks.
Support the Local Community
By hiring local, you’re directly contributing to the island’s economy and sustainable tourism. Many guides are lifelong residents passionate about sharing their home with respectful visitors.
Language and Cultural Insights
English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas. A local guide can help with communication, explain cultural nuances, and offer meaningful context to the places you visit, especially at historical or spiritual sites.
Safety and Convenience
Exploring jungles, caves, or remote coves can be challenging without guidance. A local guide ensures you stay safe, avoid dangerous paths, and make the most of your time with efficient routing.
Personalized Experience
Whether you’re into birdwatching, photography, climbing, or cuisine, local guides can tailor the experience to match your interests and energy level.
Cat Ba Island offers a beautiful blend of relaxation and adventure, with enough diversity to suit every kind of traveller. Whether you’re kayaking through emerald waters, spotting rare wildlife, or watching the sun set over Lan Ha Bay. Cat Ba delivers unforgettable memories. And with the insight and assistance of a local tour guide, your journey can become even more immersive, stress-free, and impactful.
So, pack your hiking shoes and sense of wonder as Cat Ba Island is waiting to be explored.
A map of local hotels with discounts up to 60%
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