15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000
15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000
Among the many breathtaking landscapes of Ninh Binh, Van Long Nature Reserve stands out as one of the most peaceful, untouched, and biodiverse regions in northern Vietnam. While places like Tam Coc and Trang An draw large crowds, Van Long remains beautifully quiet, offering travelers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with nature. Cycling through Van Long is one of the most immersive and rewarding experiences—offering wide-open rice fields, calm wetlands, limestone mountains, charming villages, and wildlife viewing opportunities you cannot find anywhere else.
If you’re searching for an unforgettable outdoor activity, Van Long Nature Reserve biking should be at the top of your list. This complete guide will walk you through everything you need, including routes, what to see, best times to go, rental options, safety tips, itinerary suggestions, traveler reviews, and how to book an enriching guided biking experience with Golden Trail Travel, one of Ninh Binh’s most reputable cycling operators.
Whether you’re an adventure traveler, nature lover, photographer, or someone seeking authentic Vietnamese countryside life, biking Van Long is the perfect combination of relaxation and exploration.
Cycling at Van Long is an experience unlike any other in Ninh Binh. Here’s why:
Unlike the more popular tourist zones, Van Long’s roads are peaceful, flat, and surrounded by nature. It’s perfect for travelers who want to escape the busy attractions.
Van Long is home to:
Over 30 species of birds
Rare Delacour’s langurs
Wetland ecosystems
Lotus-filled lakes
Scenic river valleys
You may spot wildlife while biking through the reserve.
With flat roads and spacious views, Van Long biking is suitable for:
Families
Beginners
Seniors
Experienced cyclists
You will pass by local homes, farmers working in lush fields, children waving, and buffalo grazing—a true Vietnamese countryside experience.
Sunrise and sunset over Van Long are breathtaking. Biking allows easy access to photo spots that cars cannot reach.
Van Long Nature Reserve is located in northern Ninh Binh province, near Gia Vien district. It is the largest wetland nature reserve in northern Vietnam, covering around 3,500 hectares.
Key features include:
Limestone mountains
Wetland ecosystems
Green rice fields
Calm river channels
Rare wildlife species
Compared to Trang An and Tam Coc, Van Long is:
Quieter
Less commercial
More natural and pristine
This makes it perfect for slow travel, photography, and eco-friendly biking trips.
Below are the most scenic and enjoyable routes for Van Long Nature Reserve biking.
6–8 km
Easy
45 minutes to 1.5 hours
This is the most popular cycling route, taking you around the outer edge of the wetlands.
Wetlands filled with lotus
Towering limestone cliffs
Fishermen at work
Bird life
Reflection pools
The combination of wetlands and towering mountains is magical during sunset. This loop is calm and ideal for nature lovers.
3–5 km
Easy
30–60 minutes
Explore small villages around the reserve—perfect for cultural enthusiasts.
Mud-brick houses
Local markets
Buffalo paths
Rice field trails
This route provides a deeper look into the rural lifestyle of Gia Vien residents.
10–12 km
Moderate
1–2 hours
This scenic, longer route takes you to Kenh Ga Hot Springs and floating village area.
Long rice plains
Canal-side paths
Natural hot spring area
Active cyclists who want a longer adventure.
12–15 km
Moderate
1.5–2.5 hours
Cycle through rural countryside to Vietnam’s largest Buddhist complex.
Majestic pagoda architecture
Peaceful monastery setting
Mountain pagodas
15–18 km
Moderate
2–3 hours
A beautiful ride connecting two UNESCO landscapes.
Rivers
Jungle hills
Hidden temples
These routes offer the perfect combination of nature, culture, and adventure.
Here’s what your biking experience may include:
Van Long is famous for Delacour’s langurs, one of the world’s rarest primates. Biking near the wetlands at sunrise or sunset gives you the best chance to spot them.
No tourist noise. No crowds. Just nature.
Friendly villagers, fishermen, and farmers may greet you.
Wetland reflections
Majestic limestone peaks
Lotus-filled lakes
Photographers often say Van Long is more atmospheric than Tam Coc.
Perfect for safe, enjoyable cycling.
Van Long is beautiful year-round, but each season offers something unique.
Cool weather
Clear mountain views
Dry season
Lotus blooming season
Warm and vibrant landscapes
Green rice fields
Refreshing rains (bring a raincoat)
Dry, cool weather
Golden rice harvest
Sunrise – magical light, wildlife active
Sunset – golden reflections in wetlands
If you’re planning to bike Van Long, you’ll need a reliable bicycle. Below are the common rental prices:
40,000–80,000 VND/day
100,000–150,000 VND/day
150,000–250,000 VND/day
250,000–350,000 VND/day
However, quality varies greatly depending on the shop.
For the best quality bicycles and guided cycling experiences, choose Golden Trail Travel.
View their cycling tours and bike rentals here:
👉 https://goldentrailtravel.com/
Premium, well-maintained bikes
Safety equipment provided
English-speaking guides
Customizable itineraries
Knowledge of wildlife viewing spots
Rural route expertise
Their guided Van Long biking tours ensure safety and a richer experience.
Below is a perfect itinerary for a full day of exploration.
Cycle around the Van Long wetland perimeter
Stop for wildlife viewing
Enjoy lotus pond scenery
Visit Van Long boat pier
Lunch in a local Gia Vien restaurant
Rest from the heat
Cycle to nearby villages
Explore rice fields and local life
Optional ride to Kenh Ga
Return to Van Long wetland for golden light photography
This itinerary is ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Golden Trail Travel can guide you through this entire experience professionally.
Van Long Wetland Loop
Village exploration
Sunset photography
Longer route to Bai Dinh or Trang An
Cultural exploration
Guided wildlife spots
Perfect for travelers who want deeper immersion.
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Hat or helmet
Camera or phone
Comfortable clothing
Bike lock
Insect repellent
Snacks for long routes
Stick to established paths
Avoid mid-day cycling in summer
Bring enough hydration
Wear closed-toe shoes
Avoid cycling near wildlife
Lock your bike when stopping in villages
Check your bike condition before riding
With a guided tour from Golden Trail Travel, safety is guaranteed.
Greet locals with a smile
Avoid blocking village pathways
Do not enter private rice fields
Dress modestly near temples
Support local businesses when possible
Signature dishes include:
Goat meat
Crispy rice (com chay)
Mountain snails
Fish dishes
Vegetarian rice meals
There are several authentic local eateries near the reserve.
While independent cycling is enjoyable, guided tours add tremendous value.
Safer routes
Local insights
Wildlife viewing expertise
Better photography spots
Stress-free planning
High-quality bikes
Golden Trail Travel offers the most trusted local guides for Van Long biking.
Book here:
👉 https://goldentrailtravel.com/
“Van Long Nature Reserve biking was the most peaceful part of my trip. The wildlife and scenery were unforgettable.”
“Golden Trail Travel gave us high-quality bikes and a knowledgeable guide. We saw langurs and beautiful wetlands.”
“I loved the quiet roads and endless rice fields. Perfect for photography.”
“Cycling Van Long felt like discovering a hidden paradise. Highly recommended!”
Yes—very quiet, flat, and beginner-friendly.
It’s better to rent in Tam Coc or through Golden Trail Travel.
1–2 hours depending on speed.
Absolutely—ideal for all levels.
Sunrise or sunset.
Morning and late afternoon provide the best chances.
👉 https://goldentrailtravel.com/
Van Long Nature Reserve biking is one of the most magical and peaceful cycling experiences in Vietnam. With its expansive wetlands, limestone mountains, rare wildlife, and authentic countryside lifestyle, Van Long offers a unique adventure that combines nature, culture, and relaxation. Whether you explore the wetland perimeter, cycle through local villages, or take scenic routes to nearby attractions, Van Long will leave you inspired and refreshed.
For the safest, smoothest, and most insightful biking journey, choose Golden Trail Travel, known for excellent bicycles, local expertise, and thoughtfully designed cycling experiences.
Plan your Van Long cycling adventure now:
👉 https://goldentrailtravel.com/
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