When it comes to spelunking in the World Heritage Site Halong Bay, it’s not all about a world of sparkling caves inside the limestone mountains but also about unique caverns you see nowhere else. In this guide, we will introduce one for you: Luon Cave, which will surely make your Halong Bay trip more memorable and enjoyable.
1. Luon Cave Location
Luon Cave is a peculiar cave in Halong Bay's extensive cave system in the southern section of the bay, Quang Ninh Province. The cave is located on the northeast side of Bo Hon Island, about a kilometer from Sung Sot Cave and 14 kilometers from Bai Chay City. Its name derives from its circular form, which encloses a tranquil, turquoise lagoon. It is connected to the sea via a tunnel with a water-flooding bottom.
2. Outstanding Features of Luon Cave
Unlike the common caves in the heritage bay, Luon Cave has been formed by the effects of the tide and water flow eroding the foot of the limestone karsts, leaving a large natural tunnel. We can still see the ocean's traces, like fossil shells of oysters, snails, and crabs on the steep cliffs of Luon Cave, which provide proof of life that lived millions of years ago.
Most travelers describe Luon Cave as an arch-shaped entrance to another world of serene water and limestone mountains in Halong Bay. It resembles a tunnel that is 100 meters long, 4 meters wide, and 3 meters high. Crossing Luon Cave, you will find a peaceful lake of around one square kilometer, where you can relax and connect your soul with nature on a deeper level. Enclosed by towering cliffs covered in green vegetation, this lake is shielded from the ocean's waves and winds, and the water surface is relatively calm. It’s like a hidden gem that has been meticulously protected by the mountains of Bo Hon Island.
3. How to visit Luon Cave
The only way to reach Luon Cave is to take a boat tour in Halong Bay. You can choose either a day cruise tour (6-8 hours of cruising) or an overnight cruise trip (2 days, 1 night, or 3 days, 2 nights), which includes Luon Cave as part of their sailing itinerary.
Please note that Luon Cave is included in the cruising program of most Halong Bay Cruises, not Lan Ha Bay Cruises or Bai Tu Long Cruises, so check carefully with your travel consultant to ensure your cruise offers a visit to this attraction.
4. Things to Do at Luon Cave
Kayaking through Luon Cave
Due to the effect of the tide, the ceiling of Luon Cave is rather low, and all cruise ships cannot reach the lake on the opposite side, making a kayak or local boat the only means of transportation to enter. The cruise ship will transport you to the pier on Bo Hon Island, where the cruise staff will provide you with a life jacket and get you on a kayak to begin your adventure exploring Luon Cave. Kayaking allows visitors to make leisurely stops to observe the seascape, get closer to the cliffs, and even touch them with their hands.
During the high season, Luon Cave is often crowded with tourists from boat tours coming to experience this spot. Many suppose that Luon Cave is the best place in Halong Bay to enjoy kayaking and sightseeing.
Sightseeing by bamboo boat
For those preferring relaxation to adventure, you can still visit Luon Cave with your hands free. The cruise ship will offer a bamboo boat ride by a local and take you through the cave. As the boat softly glides on the green water, visitors can immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay, touch the stunning limestone stalactites on the cave ceiling, and marvel at the soaring cliffs submerged in the pristine lake. The serene natural surroundings are incredibly fresh and cool, definitely bringing moments of great relaxation.
Taking photos of monkeys
Mountain monkeys, a common species in Halong Bay, call Bo Hon Island and Luon Cave home. If you're lucky, you may spot a cheeky monkey clambering on the steep rocks. It’s nice to take photos of these playful creatures; just don’t tease them and disrupt the lake's peaceful vibe.
Visiting nearby attractions
Just one kilometer from Luon Cave is Sung Sot Cave, or Surprise Cave, the largest and most beautiful caverns in Halong Bay, covering over 12,200 square meters. After climbing a number of stone stairs, visitors will be amazed by the cave's sparkling stalactites, which mimic a variety of distinctive shapes such as elephants, flowers, etc. Also, you can explore Trong Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, and Dong Tien Cave, all of which are gorgeous and magnificent caverns on Bo Hon Island.
Another highlight of Halong Bay near Luon Cave is Titov Island, which is famous for its nice sandy beach and a hike to its mountain top for spectacular panoramic views of the heritage bay.
5. Best Halong Bay Cruises visiting Luon Cave
Luon Cave is one of the most popular attractions in Halong Bay, so it is easy to find a cruise ship embarking from Tuan Chau Marina or Halong International Cruise Port.
The best cruise lines visiting Luon Cave and offering a free kayak are Grand Pioneers Cruise, Ambassador Cruise, Hermes Cruise, Paradise Elegance Cruise, Athena Luxury Cruises, Alisa Cruise, etc.
6. Top Tips to Visit Luon Cave
For a wonderful visit to Luon Cave, here are some notes for your tour:
- Check the weather forecast to choose a pleasant day trip, and recheck before embarking on your Halong Bay cruise to prepare yourself. Rain might keep you from enjoying outdoor activities, but some find another charm in exploring Luon Cave in drizzle
- Bring necessary personal items to protect your skin on hot and sunny days, such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and water bottles
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for water activities in Luon Cave
- Book your cruise in advance to avoid any booked up during the high tourist season and check carefully if the cruise visits Luon Cave and offers a free kayak
- Always wear a life jacket when boating or kayaking, and follow the crew’s guidelines
- Protect the bay environment and don’t litter
Whether you discover Luon Cave by kayak or a local boat, you will get close to the beauty of this marvel and the Natural Wonder of Halong Bay as well. Pack your luggage and start your exciting adventure. Feel free to visit our website or contact our travel consultants for detailed information on the best Halong Bay cruise and great deals each season.
