Outdoor Adventures: A Guide to Rock Climbing and Parasailing in Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island

Overview

If organized tours, cruises, and trips aren't your preferred methods of exploration, you can opt to discover Halong Bay at your own pace. The region boasts numerous caves, jungles, lagoons, and islands, offering a wealth of opportunities for independent adventurers. While this approach requires a bit more planning, it allows for a unique and personal experience. Halong Bay features a variety of activities such as scuba diving and parasailing, but the highlight for thrill-seekers is undoubtedly rock climbing. Typically, rock climbing in Halong Bay is paired with kayaking, as many climbing routes are accessible only via kayak.

Before embarking on a rock climbing adventure in Vietnam, it's essential to conduct thorough research. A great resource for understanding rock climbing in Vietnam is Vietclimb, the local climbing organization. You can reach them at their updated website: www.vietclimb.vn.

Rock Climbing in Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island

Halong Bay, renowned for its thousands of limestone islands, presents an exceptional venue for climbers of all levels. This exhilarating pastime is increasingly gaining traction, and several organizations based in Hanoi now offer rock climbing excursions in Halong Bay. Although some operators do supply equipment, it is highly recommended that visitors bring their own gear when embarking on a climbing adventure in this stunning location.

Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island continue to rank among the finest climbing spots in Vietnam. 

A myriad of climbing routes is available throughout Halong Bay, offering over 100 routes across 10 different cliffs (crags). The climbing grades vary from 4a to 8a+, making it suitable for a wide range of climbers in both Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island.

In addition, there are more than 230 deep water solo (DWS) lines divided across 24 different cliffs, with grades ranging from 4a to 7c+.

DWS at its finest! 

Where are the Best Places to Climb?

Some of the most picturesque and sought-after climbing locations in Halong Bay include:

• Luy Tam Biet (4 routes, grades: 6b+ to 7b)
• Cerro Torre (13 routes, grades: 6a to 8a+)
• Laughing Dog Wall (22 routes, grades: 6a to 7c+)
• La Plage des Pirates (15 routes, grades: 6a to 8a+)

Cat Ba Island boasts over 300 climbing routes. Here are some recommendations:

• You Enjoy Myself (6b, 20m)
• Test Pilot (7a, 22m)
• Big Brown B-Hole (7b, 19m)
• Quinn (6b, 20m)
• Eternal Squanch (6c, 35m)

While there are many climbing spots available, these locations are commonly praised by both locals and visitors. One must-visit site is ‘The Face.’ Though accessing it might be challenging, this adds to the thrill of the experience. A private boat is necessary to reach it, and depending on your starting point in Halong Bay, the journey can take between 90 and 120 minutes.

Experiencing the joy of solo climbing with the refreshing ocean beneath serves as a unique safety net. Check out the best DWS locations that Halong Bay has to offer:

• Streak of Lightning (7c+, 12m)
• Hawaii 5-0 (7b)
• Dinner at Sea (6a+)
• Leap Frog (5c+)
• Loco Mexican (4c, 14m)

Climbing Tours And Prices

Some 3-day cruises include rock climbing in their itinerary, so it's advisable to verify whether climbing is part of your package. As mentioned, bringing your own equipment is highly recommended for organized tours. The cost for cruises that incorporate climbing can range from $170 to $350 USD as of early 2025.

If you choose to go rock climbing independently, expect to pay around $60 USD for a full day and approximately $35 USD for a half-day session. A full day of deep water soloing training typically costs about $50 USD.

Best Time To Go Rock Climbing

The optimal time for climbing in Halong Bay is influenced significantly by weather conditions. Generally, late spring from May to June and the latter months of the year (September to December) are the most favorable for rock climbing, as they offer minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures.

The summer months (July and August) often come with increased rainfall and unpredictable weather. Despite this, some climbing areas do provide adequate shelter, allowing for climbing activities even in adverse conditions.

Winter months (January to April) can be quite chilly, so it's essential to dress warmly for winter climbing sessions!

Top Tips:

• Before climbing independently, you may need to acquire an access permit from Asia Outdoors. Ensure you thoroughly research this requirement before your visit.
• Solo climbing should only be undertaken by experienced and confident climbers.

Stay vigilant regarding weather conditions before your adventure. Consult our “The Best Time to Visit Halong Bay” article for helpful guidance as you plan your trip.

Parasailing

Halong Bay has much more to offer than just rock climbing. As of recent years, tourists can enjoy parasailing, an exhilarating experience where you're harnessed in a parachute and towed behind a speedboat. You'll soar high above the water, gaining a breathtaking view of Halong Bay from a bird’s-eye perspective.

Parasailing allows you to appreciate the stunning beauty of Halong Bay from the sky. 

You can experience parasailing on Tuan Chau Island, which is approximately 30 minutes from Halong Bay by boat.

Summary: This activity is a must for adventure seekers. It is not included in most standard tours, so you will need to inquire separately about availability and bookings. Current pricing for parasailing typically ranges from $50 to $80 per person, depending on the provider and time of year. Make sure to check for recent local services and options, as they may vary.