Van Long contains over 30 beautiful caves, including the 'Bird Valley' (Hang Chim) which is a major nesting ground.
The reserve is one of the only places in the world where the Delacour’s langur can be observed in its natural habitat.
The water depth in the reserve fluctuates significantly with the rainy season, altering the accessibility of certain caves.
It was used as a filming location for the 2017 motion picture Kong: Skull Island.
The reserve was established as a protected area in 2001 to prevent the total loss of wetland biodiversity in the region.
The limestone formations here date back millions of years and share geological similarities with the nearby Trang An landscape.
There are over 450 species of plants and 39 species of animals documented within the reserve boundaries.
Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve is the largest inland wetland nature reserve in Northern Vietnam, covering an area of approximately 3,500 hectares. The reserve is primarily managed via small, manually rowed sampan boats that navigate through limestone karsts and submerged caves. It serves as a critical habitat for the critically endangered Delacour's langur, one of the rarest primates globally. The wetland is characterized by its high water clarity, allowing visibility to the moss-covered bottom in many areas. It is an internationally recognized Important Bird Area (IBA) due to its role as a sanctuary for migratory birds. The landscape features a mix of flat plains, limestone mountains, and cave systems like Hang Bong. Unlike other tourist spots in Ninh Binh, Van Long maintains a strict no-motorized-boat policy to preserve the ecosystem. The reserve is home to significant populations of storks and rare water birds. It acts as a natural flood-control buffer for the surrounding Gia Vien district.
From the center of the wetland, capturing the reflection of the limestone karsts in the still, clear water.
Bring binoculars for spotting the rare Delacour's langurs on the limestone cliffs.
Use a wide-brimmed hat or umbrella as the sampan boats lack overhead covering.
Respect the silence of the reserve to increase the likelihood of spotting wildlife.
Avoid visiting during the peak heat of midday, as the reflection of the sun on the water and the lack of shade can be overwhelming.
Avoid loud noises and do not feed the local wildlife; maintain a strictly non-intrusive presence.
