History of Formation

The Van Long Ecotourism Service Cooperative was established at the end of September 2019 to improve the management and operations of tourism at the Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve. Previously, since 1997, the Gia Vien District People’s Committee had set up the Van Long Tourism Station to tap into the area’s tourism potential. In 2001, the Ninh Binh Provincial People’s Committee officially established the Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, covering 2,736 hectares across seven communes of Gia Vien District.

The transformation from a Tourism Station to a Cooperative aimed to professionalize and develop sustainable ecotourism, closely linked with ecosystem conservation and environmental protection in Van Long. (Source: Ninh Binh Tourism, 30.08.2023)

Overview of Van Long Ecotourism

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, covering 2,738 ha, is thelargest wetland reserve in the Red River Delta. Just 82 km from Hanoi and 17 kmfrom Ninh Binh city, Van Long is recognized with two national records: home tothe largest population of Delacour’s Langurs in Vietnam and the country’slargest natural limestone painting – Meo Cao Mountain.

Often called the “Ha Long Bay without waves,” Van Longenchants visitors with its tranquil wetlands, towering limestone karsts, hiddencaves, and pristine beauty. The name “Van Long” means “the gathering of cloudsand dragons,” symbolizing a land where water, mountains, and sky harmonize.

Despite its modest size, Van Long is a biodiversitytreasure, hosting two main ecosystems: forest on limestone karst and freshwaterwetlands. It shelters many rare species listed in the Vietnam Red Book andIUCN, including King Cobras, Clouded Leopards, and most importantly, theendangered Delacour’s Langur—one of the 25 rarest primates on Earth. Thewetlands also provide a vital haven for migratory birds and the nearly extinctgiant water bug.

Van Long is not only rich in nature but also in culture andhistory. With 32 magnificent caves and numerous ancient temples, pagodas, andrelics—such as Hoa Lu Cave, Thung La Temple, and Dich Long Cave—this landpreserves deep spiritual and historical values of Vietnam.

A journey in Van Long is a blend of discovery andexperience:

· Glide on bamboo boats acrossserene waters to spot Delacour’s Langurs and wetland birds.

· Explore historical relics thatecho Vietnam’s heroic past.

· Join a night tour to witnessglowing fireflies and the vibrant life of nocturnal creatures.

· Immerse in local culturethrough buffalo-cart, ox cart rides, cycling tours, and hands-on activitieslike countryside painting, embroidery, or traditional crafts.

Van Long offers notjust breathtaking landscapes but also authentic cultural encounters—anunforgettable destination where nature, history, and people come together in harmony

Cultural and Historical Values

Van Long is home to 32 spectacular caves, most of which preserve their original values, such as Hang Bong, Hang Ca, Hang Rua, Hang Chanh, Kem Cham, and Hang Thui Tho. It also houses numerous historically significant sites recognized at national and provincial levels: Hoa Lu Cave, where King Dinh Bo Linh trained before unifying the country; Thung La Temple, dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang’s mother; the Temple of the Four Generals, honoring four generals of the Trung Sisters; Dich Long Cave, known as “Nam Thien De Nhi Dong”; and Thanh Son Tu Pagoda, perched 30 meters above the reserve.

Experiences at Van Long

Visitors can glide through serene waters on traditional boats, enjoying the scenic landscapes, observe and learn about Delacour’s langurs and various wetland bird species, and explore historical sites rich in Vietnam’s heroic history. Night tours offer the chance to watch fireflies and experience the nocturnal life of insects and frogs.

Cultural experiences include discovering local communities via buffalo carts, ox carts, or cycling tours through peaceful villages and vast fields, providing authentic insights into the region’s culture and landscapes. Visitors can also enjoy countryside painting, hand embroidery guided by skilled artisans, and purchase or taste local products as souvenirs from this meaningful and memorable trip.