Discover Vietnam’s natural treasures

 

Vietnam has a wealth of natural beauty, as evidenced by its national parks. From the jagged mountains of the north to the gorgeous beaches of the south, these protected areas provide a wonderland for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, interested in wildlife, or simply seeking for tranquility of unspoiled landscapes, Vietnam’s national parks have something to offer everyone.

 

Hoang Lien National Park

Hoang Lien National Park is located in the northernmost reaches of Vietnam. It is home to a remarkable biodiversity and the highest mountain in Indochina, Fan Si Pan. Strategically positioned within the imposing Hoàng Lênh Son mountain range, the park is in close proximity to Sapa town, making it easily accessible for visitors to Sapa. Fan Si Pan thrones with its 3143 meters above sea level. A visit to the summit can be accomplished within a day, while the majority of the journey is completed via cable car.

It is feasible to reach the top of the peak on foot, however, this requires the assistance of a guide and a minimum of two days. The park is mainly covered by the forest has a diversified fauna system and is characterized by tropical vegetation. Some rare plant species even significant medical value for the local people. This region is also home to many ethnic minorities in Vietnam, therefore visiting here can provide you with an insight into their rich cultural heritage and traditional lifestyles.

 

 

National Park Ba Be

National Park Ba Be is renowned for its waterfalls and bat caves. Discover the rugged terrain of Ha Giang, the pristine wilderness of Cao Bang, the majestic Ban Gioc waterfall and the enchanting Ba Be National Park. You can hike, paddle and immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of nature, guided by experienced guides. Ba Be Lake is a tranquil stream makes it an ideal place to enjoy boat trip to explore the national park where you also do fishing or enjoy a small dip. On land, there are hiking trails around the lake and cycle paths along the lake shore. The park is inhabited by the Tay people, one of Vietnam’s largest ethnic minority groups, who welcome travelers with authentic homestay experiences in their elevated stilt houses by the lake.

 

 

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha is a great place for adventurers. Millions of years of flooding have created the world’s largest caves, meandering rivers and ancient karsts. The presence of jungle-clad mountains lends an otherworldly atmosphere to the area. Beyond the caves, here offers a variety of activities such as kayaking, cycling and hiking in the vicinity of the national park’s caves. You can choose a range of excursion durations, from half-day trips to more extensive four-day expeditions.

The nearby town of Phong Nha provides a charming retreat for you to return at the end of the day. Son Doong is considered to be one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Campsites are established in picturesque locations along the trail. This expedition is the most demanding and costly in the area, and is frequently fully booked months in advance.

 

 

Cuc Phuong National park

Cuc Phuong is Vietnam’s oldest national park, inaugurated by Ho Chi Minh. It is home to a densely populated forest with ancient trees, prehistoric caves, botanical gardens, and two wildlife sanctuaries. The park includes a turtle conservation centre that runs both rescue, observation and breeding programmes. You can take part in a variety of activities, including walking, kayaking, birdwatching, and staying in the stilt houses of the local Muong people.

Cuc Phuong Museum is one of the must-see places in Cuc Phuong National Park tours including exhibits of flora and mushrooms, mammals, fossils, and ancient artifacts.  A trip to the park will not be complete without a visit to the impressive caves in the forest. The rocky outcrops in Cuc Phuong are home to ancient fossils and human remains, including a petrified sea reptile that is between 200 and 230 million years old. The mountain caves also contain the remains of prehistoric people who lived in the forest around 7,500 years ago.

 

 

Pu Luong National Park

Pu Luong National Park is a microcosm of North Vietnam, combining the mountains of Sapa, the rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai, and the cultural treasures of Mai Chau. The park offers you a variety of scenic roads and mountain passes, providing panoramic views of the countryside. Hiking is available in remote ethnic mountain villages, and there are numerous waterfalls and natural rock pools for those wishing to cool down. The villages of Ban Hieu, Ban Don and Kho Muong are particularly noteworthy, and it is highly recommended to visit one of these villages.

Long-established customs in Pu Luong have been handed down through generations. Key skills such as weaving, embroidery, basket making and bamboo furniture are integral to the local community. During your stay, you will have the opportunity to participate in a craft workshop, where you can learn about these traditions. This not only provides a valuable learning experience but also supports local businesses and contributes to the preservation of these valuable customs. For a genuine Pu Luong culinary experience, savour the locally raised pork and grilled mountain snails accompanied by fish sauce.

 

 

Cat Tien National Park

Cat Tien National Park is an area of tropical rainforest boasting an amazing biodiversity. The 72,000-hectare park is one of Vietnam’s outstanding natural treasures, with a rich variety of activities to enjoy. The park is a true jungle for hiking, mountain biking and birdwatching here is unparalleled in the south of the country. You can easily spend one week or more here without getting bored.

Cat Tien is an excellent choice for those who prefer steaming jungle trails. Multi-day trips will take you deep into the park, where you will have the opportunity to observe local wildlife, including bears, crocodiles, snakes, bats and tropical birds. You will also have the chance to go on a night safari and experience extraordinary insects and colourful reptiles. It is also possible to experience the national park by bike or motorcycle on the roads that cross through the park, or you can go on a kayak or boat trip.

 

 

Bach Ma National Park

Bach Ma National Park is a site of minimal development since the early 20th century. It is strategically located between the imperial city of Hue and the UNESCO city of Hoi An. The park boasts a unique collection of French colonial villas, now transformed into guesthouses, and offers a variety of hiking paths suitable for extended exploration. Some of these paths lead through natural rock pools and waterfalls make this place more appealing. 

Vong Hai Dai, also known as the “Skywalk,” is a viewpoint that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From this elevated platform, you can gaze out over the lush, rolling hills and the distant blue waters of the East Sea. Those who are early risers are able to enjoy a spectacular sunrise from a cliff top in the national park.

 

 

From conquering challenging trails to finding tranquility in ancient forests, Vietnam’s National Parks are a mesmerizing natural wonder that beckons the adventurous spirit. If you would like to add one of the above national parks to your Vietnam trip, please feel free to chat with our travel consultant!