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That was also the first feeling shared by photographer HaiLeCao – who is deeply connected to wild natural landscapes – upon returning to Lan Ha Bay, a place he had visited many times but never ceased to amaze. “Freedom is the feeling I get every time I set foot on Cat Ba Island. The nature here is so diverse, the scenery so wild and dramatic that it makes you feel like you’re stepping into another world,” he said.
Bizarre limestone formations rise majestically amidst the cool blue waters of Lan Ha Bay.
Cat Ba – the gateway to Lan Ha Bay, famous for its rugged terrain and many undeveloped areas. This makes it a destination for discerning travelers, but an ideal choice for those who love exploration and the absolute tranquility of nature. “The fewer human footprints, the more free I feel to immerse myself in nature,” shared photographer HaiLeCao.
Amidst pristine nature, people can be more free and unrestrained.
For those who don't like to plan meticulously or create detailed itineraries, Lan Ha Bay is the ideal place to relax and enjoy. "I don't have high expectations before each trip, especially when it comes to wild nature. Because I know for sure: nature always holds countless surprises; you can't predict or expect anything except to open your heart and let yourself be immersed in each moment," he expressed.
The unique natural landscape that Lan Ha Bay paints
Lan Ha Bay is a small bay located south of Ha Long Bay, part of the Cat Ba archipelago (Hai Phong), surrounded by nearly 400 islands of varying sizes and unique shapes. Unlike the magnificent beauty of Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay possesses a tranquil and distinct charm with its year-round clear blue waters, pristine white sand beaches nestled at the foot of mountains, and, notably, its "skylights"—rare landforms found only in certain special bays.
Boats take tourists deep into Lan Ha Bay.
I was impressed by the unique skylights here.
“I was particularly impressed by the skylights standing majestically in the middle of the ocean, which are home to many species of seabirds. The strangely shaped, undulating rock formations enclose the arches, inside which lies a pool of crystal-clear, cool, and refreshing water. Believe me, you'll be amazed when you stand in the heart of these skylights,” photographer HaiLeCao recounted.
Besides its unique scenery, Lan Ha Bay is also captivating because of the peaceful lives of its fishermen, deeply connected to the sea. Sharing with Travellive, the young photographer added: “The people here live in harmony with nature, relying on the sea. They are very kind, friendly, and the seafood here is so delicious that you'll forget your way home after eating it.”
Besides its unique scenery, Lan Ha Bay is also captivating because of the peaceful lives of its fishermen, who are deeply connected to the sea.
During his trips, photographer HaiLeCao regularly experiences a variety of activities: swimming, SUP paddling, kayaking, mountain climbing, fishing with local fishermen, or observing bioluminescence at night – a rare phenomenon where the sea glows brightly under the moonlight. But for him, the most exhilarating feeling is climbing high cliffs and jumping freely into the cool water below. "A breathtaking feeling of freedom," he describes. However, he also emphasizes: "This is an extreme sport, requiring skill, physical fitness, and experience... you shouldn't try it if you're not fully prepared."
Relax and immerse yourself in the deep blue water.
Small and simple amidst the vastness of nature.
Experiencing Lan Ha Bay through the lens and emotions of a photographer like HaiLeCao not only reveals the natural beauty of this bay but also awakens in each person a yearning for exploration and to fully immerse themselves in the vastness of nature. Perhaps it is this unspoiled, tranquil, and surprising nature that makes Lan Ha Bay not just a tourist destination, but also a place to rediscover the connection between humanity and the earth.
Here are some stunning images of Lan Ha Bay:
