Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Archipelago are two of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, these two areas are renowned for their stunning natural beauty, unique geological features, and rich cultural history. In recognition of their significance, Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago is officially recognized as a world natural heritage site by UNESCO on September 16, 2023.

The UNESCO World Natural Heritage Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago

During the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee held on September 16, 2023, in Saudi Arabia, UNESCO officially declared the inclusion of Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago onto the prestigious list of World Natural Heritage sites.

About Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is celebrated for its stunning limestone karsts and tranquil emerald waters. This breathtaking destination offers a plethora of activities to immerse oneself in its natural splendor. Travelers can embark on boat cruises to navigate the bay's mesmerizing islands, delve into hidden caves and grottoes, and savor the thrill of kayaking amidst the majestic limestone formations. For those seeking relaxation, the bay's pristine waters provide the perfect backdrop for swimming, while seafood aficionados can indulge in delectable dishes made from the region's abundant marine offerings. 

Picturesque sea landscape Ha Long Bay

About Cat Ba Archipelago

Cat Ba Archipelago in the northern port city of Hai Phong is a natural gem of remarkable ecological diversity. This archipelago encompasses Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the bay, and more than 360 smaller islets. The archipelago is known for its stunning natural beauty, with towering limestone cliffs, crystal clear waters, and lush forests. It is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the endangered Cat Ba langur. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on the islands, such as hiking, kayaking, and beachcombing, as well as exploring local fishing villages and sampling delicious seafood dishes.

Beautiful scenery with an island and a wild beach in Cat Ba Archipelago

About Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago

Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago holds the distinction of being the first inter-provincial site in Vietnam to achieve UNESCO World Heritage status. Cat Ba archipelago, the largest of its kind in Vietnam, was previously designated by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. Ha Long Bay itself earned the prestigious title of a World Heritage site not once but twice, first in 1994 and then again in 2000.

This remarkable cluster of islands in the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago is celebrated for its astounding diversity of island and ocean ecosystems. Within this natural land, one can encounter various rare animal and plant species, including the largest maritime forest in Vietnam spanning over 17,000 hectares.

Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago contains heritage with outstanding global value

The inclusion of Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago on the World Heritage List is a tribute to its awe-inspiring natural landscapes. These encompass captivating limestone islands cloaked in vibrant vegetation, breathtaking limestone islets, and awe-inspiring karst formations that combine to create a visually stunning and ecologically significant marvel.

8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites recognized in Vietnam

Before the new addition, Vietnam had eight world heritage sites recognized by UNESCO including:

• The Complex of Hue Monuments - World Cultural Heritage 1993
• Ha Long Bay - World Natural Heritage 1994, 2000
• My Son Sanctuary - World Cultural Heritage 1999
• Hoi An Ancient Town - World Cultural Heritage 19990
• Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park - World Natural Heritage 2003, 2015
• The Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi - World Cultural Heritage 2010
• The Citadel of the Ho Dynasty - World Cultural Heritage 2011
• Trang An Landscape Complex - World Mixed Natural and Cultural Heritage 2014

Viet Nam is home to eight world heritage sites recognized by UNESCO

Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago, recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site, is more than just picturesque landscapes. They are a testament to the Earth's incredible geological history and the importance of preserving our planet's natural wonders. What are you waiting for? Travel to Vietnam and marvel at the beauty and ecological richness of Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago!