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As the first nature conservation unit in Vietnam, Cuc Phuong National Park boasts unique natural landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural-historical values. It has emerged as one of the most famous and captivating ecotourism destinations in the country.
The green pathway leading into Cuc Phuong National Park.
1. Overview of Cuc Phuong National Park
Situated 120km south of the capital Hanoi, nestled deep within the Tam Diep mountain range, Cuc Phuong National Park spans across three provinces - Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa, covering an expansive 22,408 hectares. Established on July 7, 1962, by the Prime Minister's decision 72-TTg, Cuc Phuong became Vietnam's first National Park and the pioneer in nature conservation.
The enchanting morning scene of Ho Mac.
A lush and diverse plant ecosystem that stays green throughout the year.
Cuc Phuong Forest boasts a distinctive tropical rainforest character, remaining verdant year-round. Despite its slightly smaller size compared to the national average, it houses an impressive 2,234 plant species, constituting 17.27% of Vietnam's total flora.
The verdant path ahead.
Entering the ancient primeval forest of Cuc Phuong, we feel awe-inspired and humbled, stepping into a pristine world painted in the majestic green hues of survival. Dozens of individuals can barely encompass the circumference of these millennia-old giants, towering from 45m to 75m, standing silently against the onslaught of storms and the rhythm of rain, like the 45m tall ancient Đăng tree with a 5m diameter, the 45m tall fragrant wood tree with a 2.5m diameter, and the towering 70m tall millennium-old Chò tree...
The millennium-old Chò tree stands as one of the oldest majestic trees within Cuc Phuong National Park.
A diverse animal ecosystem featuring numerous rare and precious species.
Matching the richness of the plant kingdom, the animal ecosystem in Cuc Phuong is equally diverse and abundant. According to the latest survey, Cuc Phuong is home to 135 mammal species, 336 bird species, 122 reptile and amphibian species, 66 fish species, and nearly 2000 insect species. Among the wildlife, many are classified as rare, such as leopards, clouded leopards, sun bears, and several unique species like the red-bellied squirrel, primates like the red-faced monkey, golden monkey, and langurs.
With its abundant animal diversity, Cuc Phuong National Park is renowned as a shared home for many rare and unique species, including the red-bellied squirrel, primates like the red-faced monkey, golden monkey, and langurs.
Notably, Cuc Phuong is home to a rare and unique primate, no longer found anywhere else in the world outside of Vietnam - the Delacour's langur. Hence, this langur has been chosen as the symbol of Cuc Phuong National Park.
The insect world in Cuc Phuong is also diverse and fascinating. Faced with adversaries, the small and fragile insects resort to clever tactics, with some possessing natural camouflage abilities. For instance, the leaf beetle resembles a fresh leaf when it blends seamlessly into the grass, making it nearly impossible for keen eyes to detect. Or the stick insect, mirroring the appearance of a small twig, adding a touch of whimsy.
Witnessing the enchanting season of white butterflies filling the sky is a unique experience found only in the park.
Especially during the butterfly season, the ancient forest rejuvenates, vibrant with a golden sparkle, countless butterflies of various shapes and colors creating a surreal painting. This is why Cuc Phuong is chosen as a destination by many travelers during the summer holidays.
Traditional Culture
Moreover, when visiting Cuc Phuong National Park, you also have the opportunity to experience the traditional culture of ethnic minorities such as the Muong people in villages like Khanh, Nga, Sam. Engage in traditional dances and songs around the lively campfire, where tourists dance and sing with beautiful Muong girls, enjoying traditional ethnic dishes like sticky rice, grilled meat, and the warm aroma of traditional rice wine, ensuring you'll be captivated by the people here.
2. Best Time to Travel to Cuc Phuong National Park
Cuc Phuong, being a tropical rainforest, is best visited from February to May. During this period, the weather is cool, fresh, and free from rain, making your exploration of the National Park much more convenient.
3. How to Get to Cuc Phuong National Park
Cuc Phuong National Park is located 120km from Hanoi. You can easily travel by car from Nuoc Ngam Bus Station (Hanoi) to Nho Quan, and then take a taxi to the park's entrance, approximately a 20-minute drive.
Additionally, there are Limousine services running directly from the city center to the entrance of Cuc Phuong National Park, such as Quang Anh Car Rental, priced at 250,000 VND per trip.
4. Admission Prices for Cuc Phuong National Park
Admission Prices for Cuc Phuong National Park
Conservation Program Admission Prices
5. Unmissable Experiential Activities When Traveling to Cuc Phuong National Park
Hiking in the primeval forest
Cuc Phuong has established various hiking trails with different themes and durations. Visitors can choose suitable routes, such as the full-day trek to Ngoc Son Conservation Area or the Puluong Conservation Area.
Community Tourism
The nature of Cuc Phuong holds immense importance as a livelihood source for the local community. Community tourism offers an intriguing experience for travelers to explore the cultures of ethnic groups like the Muong, who have lived in the Cuc Phuong National Park area for generations.
Wildlife Watching at Night
Depending on weather conditions, the National Park may organize nighttime wildlife watching programs. Participants have the opportunity to observe wild animals such as black squirrels, flying squirrels, civets, and small carnivores.
Cycling in the Forest
One of the mysterious ways to explore Cuc Phuong's nature is cycling in the forest. Cycling amidst the forest not only brings tranquility to travelers, allowing them to truly connect with nature, but also provides opportunities to encounter rare species that inhabit Cuc Phuong.
Visit the Carnivore and Pangolin Conservation Education Center, the First in Vietnam
Located 500m from the National Park Headquarters, visitors can easily schedule a visit to the Carnivore and Pangolin Conservation Education Center to explore and understand the beauty of endangered wild animals in Vietnam. With the center's creatively interactive space, visitors can:
Above are some travel experiences in Cuc Phuong National Park. We hope you'll have interesting and memorable moments on your journey reconnecting with nature and wildlife here.
Author: Ngô Việt Anh
This article is a collaboration between Mytour and the Center for Nature Conservation and Community Development to contribute to the development of sustainable tourism at Cuc Phuong National Park.
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