According to National Geographic Traveller, Cat Ba Island, with an area of over 260 km², is the largest island in the Ha Long Bay complex, standing out with its majestic limestone mountains, pristine landscapes, and diverse marine ecosystem.
The American magazine described Cat Ba as "paradise for climbing enthusiasts" , especially at Butterfly Valley – where steep cliffs and winding caves create a rare, wild beauty. Besides adventurous climbing, visitors can also kayak in the clear blue waters, admire the glowing bioluminescent plankton at night, or conquer Ngu Lam Peak to admire the panoramic view of the islands.
The majestic beauty of Cat Ba island from above. (Source: Collected)
Cat Ba archipelago is one of the island and sea areas possessing the richest ecosystems in Asia, with 7 adjacent and sequential ecosystems: primary rainforest, coral reefs, mangrove forests, intertidal zones, saltwater lakes, freshwater caves, and seabed ecosystems.
Notably, over 1,000 ha of primary forest on the island is home to the Cat Ba langur – a rare primate species listed in the World Red Book, currently only existing here. Many endemic plant species are found only on the limestone islands of Cat Ba, adding to the ecological and research value of this heritage.
In September 2023, UNESCO officially recognized the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago complex as a World Natural Heritage Site, opening a new turning point for Cat Ba tourism in its sustainable development journey.
According to the Agoda platform, Cat Ba is among the most searched destinations in Vietnam for 2025. On Tripadvisor, international tourists frequently praise the pristine beauty of Lan Ha Bay, the richness of Cat Ba National Park, and the peaceful, pleasant atmosphere here.
Not just a resort destination, Cat Ba also attracts young people who love green tourism, adventure sports, and ecological exploration – contributing to bringing the image of Vietnam tourism closer to global travelers.
The Cat Ba Archipelago has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site. (Source: Compiled)
Along with other famous destinations in the region such as Koh Chang (Thailand), Penang (Malaysia), or Komodo (Indonesia), Cat Ba's inclusion in the Top 3 most wonderful islands in Southeast Asia has once again affirmed the strong appeal of Vietnamese tourism.
This title is not only a source of pride for the people of Hai Phong but also a testament to the sustainable values of nature, culture, and people of Vietnam – factors that are creating a unique identity for Cat Ba tourism in the eyes of international friends.
With its majestic landscape, diverse ecosystem, and green tourism development strategy, Cat Ba is gradually becoming a leading international destination in Vietnam.
Not just a place for relaxation, Cat Ba is also an invitation to explore – a place where nature and people together write the story of the "green pearl of the Gulf of Tonkin", shining in the heart of Southeast Asia.
