A Land of Quietness That Is Never Truly Silent

Located about 82km from Hanoi, the Vân Long Nature Reserve spans over 2,736 hectares, making it the largest wetland area in the Northern Delta. Vân Long has no noisy engines or bustling crowds. Here, you only hear the gentle sound of oars, the calls of birds in the air, and the rustling of leaves echoing from the majestic limestone mountains.

This very quietness has made the area a safe haven for many rare animal species, especially the Delacour's Langur—a critically endangered primate with only a few hundred individuals remaining worldwide.

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Meet the 'Living Treasure' of the Stone Forest

The Delacour's Langur (scientific name: Trachypithecus delacouri) is considered the biological symbol of Vân Long. Its common name in Vietnamese, "white-rumped langur," comes from the patch of white fur on its rump, making it look as though it's wearing shorts. This langur species only lives in limestone mountain areas, which are increasingly shrinking due to tourism development and rock quarrying.

At Vân Long, thanks to its isolated terrain, quiet environment, and strict protection, the langur population here is not just surviving—it's thriving. Vân Long is currently home to the world's largest population of Delacour's Langurs, a living testament to the potential for conservation when humans respect the boundaries of nature.

In addition to the langurs, the area is also home to over 700 species of flora and fauna, many of which are listed in the Red Book. These include the banded civet, otter, Burmese python, and Sarus crane, among others. For scientists, this is a "biological treasure trove" that has yet to be fully explored.

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Nature Needs Time – and Respect

Visitors come to Vân Long not just to take photos or check in. This is a place to learn to slow down, listen, observe, and respect. Each passing oar not only takes you through a picturesque landscape but also offers an opportunity to see a langur swinging through the branches or a flock of white storks gliding down to the water's edge.

And it is at that very moment that you might realize: your presence should not interrupt the fragile rhythm of life that exists here.

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Conservation Isn't Just for Experts

Preserving the Vân Long ecosystem is not solely the job of scientists or park rangers. It's the responsibility of every person who visits. From not littering, not making loud noises, and not getting too close to the animals, to supporting sustainable eco-tours—these are all small actions that create a big change.

If it weren't for the quiet efforts of the local community and authorities, the Delacour's Langur would probably now be just a memory in books.

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A Journey of Connection – Between People and Nature

Vân Long doesn't try to overwhelm you. It simply and quietly opens a door—leading you into a world where nature remains pristine and where people can relearn how to live in harmony.

If you are looking for a destination that is not only beautiful but also meaningful, choose Vân Long. And when you return, take with you not just photos—but a small commitment: to live more slowly, understand nature more, and act for a sustainable life for today and tomorrow.