Is Halong Bay safe for solo female travelers?

Halong Bay is generally considered fairly safe for solo female travelers. The locals are typically friendly and helpful, and most areas of the Bay are popular tourist destinations, meaning they are regularly patrolled and monitored. However, like any tourist location, it's important to stay alert and cautious. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas. Furthermore, you may face minor challenges if you don't speak or understand Vietnamese, as not all locals are well-versed in English. It's also recommended to book tours and accommodations through reliable, reputable companies to ensure your safety during your visit.

Safety rating

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

How safe is Halong Bay?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Halong Bay is a relatively safe place for solo female travelers even during night times. However, like in every other place, caution is advised. Avoid isolated areas and stick to well lit and tourist-friendly locales. Try to reduce unnecessary risks by not flashing expensive items and always keeping an eye on your belongings. As a common rule, respecting local customs and traditions will often prevent any unwanted attention. It's always recommended to hire a taxi or use a reputable ride-hailing service when traveling at night rather than walking alone. If you decide to walk, always stick to well-lit and crowded areas.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Halong Bay is generally considered safe and reliable. Buses and minibuses are often used by visitors to travel around the area. Although quite crowded at times, they are frequently monitored and operators usually maintain good standards. However, take note of pickpocketing in crowded places and always keep your belongings secure. Also, make sure you understand the route and avoid traveling late at night if possible.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Halong Bay is generally a safe place with low street harassment. As in any other tourist destination, it's possible you might encounter minor instances of vendors trying to sell their products insistently, but cases of verbal or physical harassment are rare. Vietnamese people are generally respectful and considerate towards travelers. Normal safety precautions should be practiced, but overall, things are calm in this part of Vietnam.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Halong Bay is generally safe with relatively low petty crime rate. Like any popular tourist destination, it's not completely devoid of petty crime such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, particularly in crowded areas. However, if precautions are taken, such as keeping belongings close and being aware of surroundings, tourists are unlikely to encounter these issues.
Tap water:

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Halong Bay is generally not recommended for drinking directly from the faucet. While it is fine for cleaning and showering, there are concerns over its safety and cleanliness for consumption due to potential contamination.

Is Halong Bay safe to travel?

Is Halong Bay safe right now?

Before your visit to Halong Bay, it's essential to check travel advisories for Vietnam, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

United States Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The United States government advises to exercise normal precautions in Vietnam. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 24, 2023
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Vietnam due to a high rate of petty crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 18, 2024
πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Australian Government advises to exercise normal safety precautions in Vietnam. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 26, 2024

Safety in Vietnam