Monkey Island is a small island located in Halong Bay, known for its diverse ecosystem and playful monkeys. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, kayaking, and trekking, while also experiencing the unique charm of the island’s natural surroundings. With its tranquil atmosphere and abundant wildlife, Monkey Island is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
How to get there
To get to Monkey Island, you first need to make your way to Cat Ba Island, which can be reached by boat from Hai Phong or Tuan Chau Island. Once on Cat Ba Island, you can book a tour that includes a stop at Monkey Island, or you can take a boat from Cai Beo port, nearby Cat Ba Town, to take you directly to Monkey Island. The journey from Cat Ba to Monkey Island typically takes around 30-45 minutes by boat.
Monkey Island Resort offers transportation to their resort. They have a daily shuttle boat service from Tuan Chau Harbor to Monkey Island. The shuttle boat departs Tuan Chau Harbor at 12:30 PM and returns from Monkey Island at 10:00 AM the following day. They also offer private speedboat transfers from Tuan Chau Harbor to Monkey Island.
In addition, some Halong Bay cruise boats include Monkey Island as a stop on their itinerary. It’s always a good idea to check with the cruise company beforehand to see if they offer this option.
Accommodation on Monkey Island
There are a few accommodations available on Monkey Island. There is a resort called Monkey Island Resort that offers beachfront bungalows, villas, and rooms with sea views. The resort also has a restaurant, bar, and various water activities, including kayaking and snorkeling. In addition, there are a few budget options such as homestays and guesthouses on the island. However, it’s worth noting that the accommodations on the island may not be as luxurious as those on the mainland.
Things to do on Monkey Island
1. Hiking: The island offers a short hiking trail that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the bay.
2. Beach activities: There are several beaches on the island where you can relax, swim, sunbathe or play beach volleyball.
3. Monkey watching: The island is home to a colony of wild monkeys that are usually friendly and curious.
4. Snorkeling: There is a small coral reef off the shore of the island that you can explore by snorkeling.
5. Kayaking: You can rent a kayak and paddle around the island to explore its beaches and rocky cliffs.
6. Cave exploration: There are several small caves on the island and nearby islands that you can explore.
7. Fishing: You can try your hand at fishing with the locals and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch.
8. Boat tour: Take a boat tour or cruise to visit Lan Ha Bay.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Monkey Island in Halong Bay is from October to April when the weather is dry and cool, with less humidity and fewer chances of rain. The temperature is mild and comfortable, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and swimming. However, it’s worth noting that the high season for tourism in Halong Bay is from June to August, so it may be more crowded and expensive during these months.
Monkeys on Monkey Island
Monkey Island is named for its inhabitants: the monkeys. The monkeys on the island are a species of macaque, which are known for their intelligence and playful behavior. When visiting the island you can observe the monkeys in their natural habitat, swinging through the trees and interacting with each other.
It’s important to note that while the monkeys can be entertaining to watch, they are still wild animals and can be unpredictable. You should follow any guidelines provided by the resort staff or tour guides, and avoid feeding or touching the monkeys. Additionally, you should not leave any food or garbage out in the open, as this can attract the monkeys and create a potentially dangerous situation.
Tips for visiting
- Remember that monkeys are wild animals and can be unpredictable. Do not feed or touch them, and be respectful of their space.
- Bring sunscreen and insect repellent, as the island can be hot and humid, and mosquitoes can be prevalent.
- Respect the environment by not littering or damaging the island’s natural beauty.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as the island can be affected by storms and rough seas.
- Consider bringing cash, as credit cards may not be accepted on the island.
- Plan your activities in advance, as some activities may require reservations or have limited availability.
- Lastly, be sure to have fun and enjoy the unique experience of visiting Monkey Island in Halong Bay.
