Viet Hai Fishing Village is an ancient village nestled within the Cat Ba National Park. Surrounded by lush forests, tranquil waters, and towering limestone mountains, it offers a serene and picturesque setting. The village has retained the traditional culture of the Northern Delta region of Vietnam. This guide will provide you with the most useful tips for traveling to Viet Hai Fishing Village.
Where is Viet Hai Fishing Village?
Viet Hai Fishing Village is a small settlement deep within the Cat Ba National Park, located in Cat Hai District, Hai Phong. Unlike other fishing villages, Viet Hai spans a modest area of about 141 hectares and is home to over 70 households. The village’s unique location, deep within the forest with winding paths, made it a hidden gem for many years, allowing the residents to maintain a “primitive” lifestyle reminiscent of ancient times.
Today, Viet Hai Fishing Village attracts a significant number of foreign tourists and is particularly famous for its cycling tours.
How to Get to Viet Hai Fishing Village
Traveling to Viet Hai Fishing Village offers two main routes: taking a boat across Lan Ha Bay to Viet Hai Pier or trekking through the pristine forests of Cat Ba National Park.
- Boat Ride Across Lan Ha Bay: You can embark on a luxury cruise to explore the beauty of Lan Ha Bay and visit Viet Hai Fishing Village. Various 5-star cruises operate on the Ha Long and Lan Ha routes, offering 2-day, 1-night or 3-day, 2-night experiences. Alternatively, you can head to Beo Pier in Cat Ba Town and choose from the following options:
- Ferry ticket: VND 50,000/person/way
- Tender rental: VND 150,000/way
- Canoe rental: VND 400,000 for up to 6 people/way
- Opt for a cruise package to enjoy sightseeing and a relaxing journey with prices starting from VND 3,000,000/person, depending on the itinerary.
- Trekking: This option involves trekking through the Cat Ba National Park. It is a challenging and demanding route, ideal for adventurous travelers. If you choose this method, it is advisable to go in a group and prepare well.
Best Time to Visit Viet Hai Fishing Village
The monsoon season, particularly in July and August, often brings rough seas, making boat travel less favorable. During this time, you might consider trekking through the forest. You can start from the Cat Ba National Park entrance, purchasing a ticket for VND 80,000/person, and trek the 12-kilometer trail to the village. Hiring a tour guide is recommended to avoid getting lost.
There are two ideal times to visit Viet Hai Fishing Village:
- February to March: This period marks the end of spring, with cool weather. The village often shrouded in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere.
- June: Early summer brings mild sunshine, with less rain and storms. It’s a great time for beach activities and exploring local life.
History of Viet Hai Fishing Village
Viet Hai Fishing Village boasts a history of over 100 years. It originated when fishermen, caught in a storm while fishing in Lan Ha Bay, discovered a freshwater source in the village. Over time, they settled here, establishing Viet Hai Village.
The villagers primarily engaged in fishing and agriculture. As tourism in Viet Hai Fishing Village developed, locals gradually shifted to providing services like homestays, guided tours, and bicycle rentals.
Activities in Viet Hai Fishing Village
- Enjoy the Tranquil Beauty: Visitors to Viet Hai Fishing Village can immerse themselves in its peaceful and poetic scenery. The village is surrounded by majestic limestone mountains, golden rice fields, and clear beaches. You can stroll or rent a bicycle to explore the area, allowing your mind to relax in this idyllic environment. It’s also a perfect spot for those seeking Instagram-worthy photos.
- Experience Local Life: Exploring the daily life of the villagers is a must-do. You can become a fisherman for a day, helping to harvest fish and shrimp. For international visitors, there’s also the opportunity to cook with traditional wood stoves, plant vegetables, and harvest rice.
- Hike to Hai Quan Peak: Hai Quan Peak is a historical site tied to Vietnam’s resistance wars. Here, you can hear stories of the nation’s heroic past and enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful Cat Ba coastline.
- Savor Local Cuisine: Dining options in Viet Hai are limited, with meals often prepared at homestays. Local specialties like grilled sea urchin, steamed mantis shrimp, squid cakes, and Cat Ba grouper will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
Viet Hai Fishing Village offers an escape from the bustling world, allowing you to reconnect with nature and the simple life. We hope this guide helps you plan a memorable visit!
