Cuc Phuong National Park
Located about 100 km South of Hanoi, Cuc Phuong is the first and one of the most impressive national parks in Vietnam.
Home to a diverse ecosystem characteristic of tropical rainforests and housing numerous endangered species, Cuc Phuong National Park is a conservation area spanning 25,000 hectares across three northern provinces: Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa. As Vietnam's first national park, established in 1962, Cuc Phuong remains one of the most significant natural reserves globally, boasting a wealth of historical treasures such as the fossil-rich Con Moong Cave, ancient trees, and signs of prehistoric human habitation.
Location
Located 120 kilometers south of Hanoi and nestled in the Tam Diep Mountain range, Cuc Phuong National Park is bordered by the provinces of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa. If you're looking to escape the urban hustle, consider a trip to this stunning national park to enjoy its majestic landscapes, fresh air, and rejuvenating tranquility.
Best time to visit
The ideal time to visit Cuc Phuong National Park is between December and May, when the weather is cool, dry, and pleasant. It's advisable to avoid the rainy season from June to August, which can pose risks for trekking in the area.
Visitors during May can partake in the mesmerizing butterfly season, where millions of butterflies transform the landscape into a vibrant, kaleidoscopic wonderland.
Best things to see
“Dong Nguoi Xua” - Cave of prehistoric man
Also known as Dang Cave, “Dong Nguoi Xua” is a significant heritage site that provides insight into the lives and customs of prehistoric humans who once inhabited the area. This cave helps visitors gain a deeper understanding of human cultural evolution.
Con Moong Cave
Known for its striking rock formations resembling animals, Con Moong Cave served as a home for ancient peoples due to its abundant natural resources. Featuring a complex inner structure, the cave is marked by a blend of clay, mollusk shells, and coal ash layers.
May Bac Peak
As the highest point in the park at an elevation of 648 meters, May Bac Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and Bai Dinh Pagoda. The trek to the peak is challenging and is best suited for those in good physical condition.
Yen Quang Lake
Also referred to as Nho Quan Lake, Yen Quang Lake is a notable tourist destination where various bird species gather. A small island in the lake houses a temple, offering visitors a postcard-perfect setting immersed in nature's tranquility.
Conservation centers
Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden: This botanical garden is home to rare plant species native to Cuc Phuong and worldwide. It has been recognized as one of Vietnam's world-class botanical gardens since its establishment. Organism Rescue, Conservation and Development Center: This center is dedicated to the rescue and conservation of endangered wildlife in Vietnam, including the research and propagation of rare plant species.
Cuc Phuong Museum: Housing over 50 archaeological findings, 122 preserved specimens, 82 animal samples, 2,900 insect samples, and 12,000 plant specimens, this museum serves both as a conservation facility and a place for research and public education.
Typical ancient trees
Dang ancient tree: Standing at 45 meters high with a five-meter trunk diameter, this magnificent tree is a testament to nature's endurance and will leave visitors in awe of its grand stature.
Thousand-year-old tree (Parashorea Stellata): One of the oldest trees in Cuc Phuong, reaching 50 meters high with a five-meter diameter, this tree is so massive that it would require at least 20 adults to wrap their arms around its trunk. Sau ancient tree (Dracontomelum): Boasting a unique shape reminiscent of a sturdy fortress, this impressive tree, with a height of 45 meters and roots that separate from its trunk 10 meters above the ground, provides ample shade for visitors to enjoy.
Activities at Cuc Phuong National Park
Trekking
With numerous walking trails and diverse ecosystem experiences, Cuc Phuong National Park is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. Explore the trails independently or join guided tours to enhance your understanding of the park's flora and fauna, ensuring unforgettable memories.
Kayaking
Keen kayakers can experience the beauty of Mac Lake and Yen Quang Lake. With rental prices starting at 50,000 VND per person per hour, this adventure allows you to float through stunning natural scenery. Group races add excitement to the kayaking experience!
Butterfly watching
Cuc Phuong National Park is famed for its butterflies, with more than 400 species in vibrant colors fluttering around in late spring and early summer. For the best chance to see these magnificent creatures, plan your visit in late April and early May.
Cycling in the forest
Cycling through the forest is a popular activity in Cuc Phuong, providing a unique perspective on the park's diverse ecosystems while bringing a sense of peace after the hustle of daily life. This activity also offers a chance to encounter the local wildlife.
In addition to these activities, Cuc Phuong National Park is excellent for bird watching and observing reptiles and amphibians. Visitors can also engage in community activities and explore local ethnic cultural events.
Food to try in Ninh Binh
After a day of exploration, numerous restaurants within and near Cuc Phuong National Park offer delicious local specialties, such as mountain goat, wild boar, and hill chicken. Be sure to also sample Ninh Binh's renowned delicacies like mountain crab, mountain snail, and grasshopper.
Ninh Binh goat meat
Due to the mountainous terrain, Ninh Binh goats develop firm, low-fat meat with a distinct aroma. Goat dishes are a must-try when visiting, including rare-goat salad, grilled goat, stir-fried goat, and goat hot pot.
Ninh Binh burnt rice
The popular dish of burnt rice is synonymous with Ninh Binh and has become a favorite for visitors exploring Cuc Phuong. This simple yet flavorful dish showcases the culinary skills and creativity of the local people.
Cuc Phuong bantam
Another unique culinary offering is the Cuc Phuong bantam, a specialty chicken breed from Nho Quan District. Raised in the mountainous Cuc Phuong area, these chickens are known for their rich flavor. Popular preparations include grilled, boiled, shredded, and chicken salad.
Cuc Phuong mountain snail
Available only from March to July during the lunar calendar, Cuc Phuong mountain snail has a crisp texture and a sweet flavor derived from their natural diet of algae and plants. They can be prepared in various dishes, including steamed with ginger, grilled, boiled, or stir-fried.
Accommodation
Entrance Area
The entrance area of the park serves as a convenient starting point, offering accommodations starting at 200,000 VND along with essential services such as equipment rentals, bike rentals, guided tours, and cultural performances.
Mac Lake Area
Located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the park entrance, Mac Lake Area provides a serene environment with various accommodations and stilt houses, ideal for large groups to host campfires and cultural exchanges.
Park Center
The Park Center, at the endpoint of several trekking routes, offers separate stilt houses and apartments. Note that electricity is limited, with a generator available for only four hours each night.
Accommodation beyond the national park
If you prefer staying outside the park due to concerns over insects or solitude, consider nearby homestays, hotels, and resorts. Recommendations include Cuc Phuong Resort, Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu Shack Homestay, and Ninh Binh Family Homestay.
How to get there
Cuc Phuong National Park, located about 140 kilometers from central Hanoi, is easily accessible to tourists. You have two main options: public transportation or private vehicles.
By public transport
From Hanoi, you can catch a bus to Cuc Phuong at the Giap Bat bus station. Recommended bus operators include Duc Hanh (Tel: 091 260 7066) and Phu Duyen (Tel: 098 811 8215). These buses travel directly to the national park.
If those buses are unavailable, you can take a bus to Nho Quan and then continue for another 10 kilometers by taxi or motorcycle taxi.
By private transport
Driving your own vehicle, whether car or motorbike, is the most convenient way to reach the park. You can choose either the route via Trang An - Hoa Lu - Bai Dinh - Dong Chuong or take National Highway 1A through Gian Khau to reach Cuc Phuong National Park.
Related Articles
If you're interested in trekking and related attractions like Cuc Phuong National Park, check out the following:
5 most famous national parks in Vietnam
Cuc Phuong considered for world heritage site
9 Best places for trekking in Vietnam
Useful Information
- Location: Cuc Phuong Park, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
- Best for: Family, couple
- Entrance: VND 60,000
- Hours: All hours
- Distance to city center: 38.9km (24.2 mi)
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