It is all about limestone. At Halong Bay the tree covered limestone outcrops rise from the emerald ocean, making it THE tourist attraction in Vietnam. At Tam Coc (also called Halong Bay on Land…), they stick out like pillars from bright green rice paddies. Hard to say, which one is more spectacular!
Most popular is the 1 to 2 hour boat tour on the Hoang Long River, framed by karst landscapes. Gliding through such magic with only the sound of the paddles hitting the water, you are at peace. There are a few other ways to explore Tam Coc, each offering similar amazing views of the landscape:
- Trang An Grottoes – The landscapes is stunning and the boat-rides through the caves impressive. Inside the caves, the ladies rowing must zigzag the boats, so their customers won’t hit their heads on the low ceiling of the caves.
- Van Long Nature Reserve offers a bit of bird watching, but above all a less touristy experience of these beautiful landscapes.
- Also consider climbing the 450 steps up to Mua Cave (Cave of Dances) and enjoy the panoramic view over the whole area. Best done at sunrise or shortly before sunset.
