Cat Ba Archipelago Becomes World Natural Heritage
Boasting a unique island and ocean ecosystems and diverse flora and fauna, Cat Ba emerges as a promising destination in Vietnam. This island along with Lan Ha Bay will satisfy your adventurous spirit with unexpected excursions, simultaneously, immersing in the tranquil and leisurely life of the local fishermen.
1. Cat Ba Archipelago is UNESCO-listed World Natural Heritage Site
Cat Ba Archipelago (Hai Phong) in Northern Vietnam located 165 km from Hanoi, is known as the “Pearl of the Gulf of Tonkin.At the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on September 16, 2023, Cat Ba Archipelago was recognized as World Natural Heritage by UNESCO as a part of Halong Bay which is World Natural Heritage twice before (in 2000 and 2020).
According to the Vietnamese Cultural Heritage Bureau, Halong Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago is considered a geological museum, containing globally significant heritage. This place witnesses distinctive changes in the Earth’s developmental history.
2. Cat Ba Island – Important global biosphere reserve
Cat Ba Archipelago has an important role in the map of global conservation and sustainable development. This island holds significant value in biosphere reserves with seven island and ocean ecosystems. Cat Ba is the largest limestone archipelago of Vietnam with over 360 islands, including enchanting vegetation-covered limestone islands and spectacular karst formations.
Cat Ba National Park covers a total area of up to 15,200ha which is the the habitat of 2,320 species of plants and animals on land and in the sea, many of which are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species. In particular, there are several endemic animal species on the list of animals at highest risk of extinction such as Cat Ba Langur (roughly 60-70 individuals in Cat Ba), Cat Ba Tiger Gecko, etc
3. Cat Ba attractions – A Highlight on Vietnam’s Ecotourism Map
Thanks to its natural value, Cat Ba Archipelago and Lan Ha Bay have been conferred an array of national and international prestigious titles such as: Special National-level Monument Cat Ba, Proposed Lan Ha Bay as one of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World, World Marine Reserves and Biosphere Reserve, Biosphere Reserve with the most tourist attraction, Largest limestone island in Southeast Asia.
This land is an unmissable destination for coastal ecotourism activities in Vietnam. You will have a chance to explore Cat Ba National Park through trekking or hiking. In addition, a cruise is regarded as the best way to admire the stunning and unspoiled scenery of Lan Ha Bay. You should also grab the opportunity to sail a traditional wooden junk with local people to explore hidden lagoons nestled among the thousands of mountains and seafood farms, something you rarely come across.
Cat Ba – Lan Ha is an ideal destination to immerse in the normal life of Vietnamese fishermen where you can walk around floating fishing villages and enjoy local seafood with a cold beer. It is also a wonderful experience to join a local guide to mountain peaks with panoramic views of Lan Ha Bay, then have beachside relaxation on the sandy shores and interact with the hospitable local fishermen.
While there is still much work to be done to raise local awareness of environmental protection, Cat Ba Island is considered the hidden gem of Northern Vietnam and remains a favorite destination for DCT Responsible Travel and our customers because of its peaceful and authentic natural beauty and the local people.
If you desire to find ideal coastal vacations and bay cruises, we believe that Cat Ba Islands – Lan Ha Bay is the best choice for you due to its breathtaking natural landscape and the genuine local fishermen.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for your own unique itinerary!
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