Vietnam Monkey Island: Is It Worth Visiting?

Monkey Island in Vietnam is located in Halong Bay and is a well-liked destination for tourists. At first, I was hesitant to visit Monkey island because of its name (I really don’t like the mischief of monkeys). However, my family still decided to take a tour and ended up having an unexpectedly interesting experience. Looking back, I wholeheartedly recommend adding Monkey Island to your itinerary to explore Vietnam’s nature. Let me share with you my unforgettable experiences here.

Monkey Island Location

Vietnam Monkey Island: Is It Worth Visiting?

Monkey Island is a part of the Cat Ba archipelago, which is made up of a collection of nearly 400 islands in various sizes. Back in 1975, some Soviet experts brought around 20 monkeys here for scientific research, and since then, those monkeys have thrived. Now, the island is home to more than 1,200 monkeys who live together in groups.

If you’re planning a trip, Monkey Island is a fantastic choice because you can enjoy the island’s natural beauty and peacefulness as it remains mostly untouched and undeveloped.

How To Get To Monkey Island?

To set foot on Monkey Island, you’ll typically need to book a tour departing from Beo Harbour or one of the smaller neighboring islands. My journey commenced from Cat Ba Island, but overnight cruises may also include a stop here. For those seeking exclusivity, chartering a boat is an option, albeit a pricey one.

You have several options to choose from: a half-day tour, a full-day tour, or an overnight cruise. These tours typically include transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and water activities. The cost per person usually ranges from $20 to $40, depending on the type and quality of the tour.

Things to do on Monkey Island

Monkey Watching

The main attraction of Monkey Island is, of course, the monkeys. They are the reason why most people come to the island, and they are also the source of many fun and memorable experiences. Watching them perform tricks and stunts at the circus show. The monkeys are trained by the locals to do various acts, such as riding bicycles, balancing on balls, playing soccer, and jumping through hoops. The show is usually held twice a day, at 10 am and 2 pm, and it lasts for about 15 minutes

Hiking

One of the island’s highlights is a short hiking trail leading to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the bay. The hike is relatively easy and rewards you with a mesmerizing panorama of Lan Ha Bay.

Beach Activities

Monkey Island boasts several pristine beaches where you can unwind, swim, sunbathe, or engage in a friendly game of beach volleyball.

Snorkeling

For underwater enthusiasts, there’s a small coral reef just off the island’s shore, perfect for snorkeling and exploring the vibrant marine life.

Parasailing and jet skiing

The water is open and spacious, and you can soar above the island and enjoy the panoramic view of the bay. You can also speed across the water and feel the thrill and excitement of the ride.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time to visit Monkey Island in Halong Bay is during the period from October to April. This season offers dry and cool weather, reduced humidity, and fewer chances of rain. The mild and comfortable temperatures make it ideal for engaging in various outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and swimming.

However, it is worth noting that the high tourism season in Halong Bay falls between June and August. During this period, the area may be more crowded, and prices can be higher.

Tips for Visiting

To make your visit to Monkey Island enjoyable and hassle-free, here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:

Respect the Monkeys: Remember that monkeys are wild animals and deserve both respect and distance. Avoid feeding or touching them, and observe them from a safe distance.
Preserve the Environment: Uphold the island’s natural beauty by refraining from littering or damaging the surroundings. Treat the environment with care and leave nothing but footprints.
Check the Weather: Before embarking on your journey to Monkey Island, check the weather forecast. The island can be affected by storms and rough seas, so it is essential to plan accordingly.
Plan Ahead: Some activities on Monkey Island may require reservations or have limited availability. To ensure you don’t miss out on any experiences, plan your itinerary in advance.
Come Prepared: Bring your own towel, sunscreen, and water. The island does not have many facilities or services, and you may not find these items on the island. You will need them to protect yourself from the sun and to stay hydrated and comfortable. Mosquitoes can be prevalent, so taking precautions is advisable.

I hope you found it informative and helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. I would love to hear from you and your experiences on Monkey Island. Thank you for your attention and support, and I hope to see you again soon. Happy travels!