Learn & Explore
Cuc Phuong
Discover a world where centuries-old forests, rare wildlife, and the deep cultural heritage of Vietnam come together in perfect harmony.
About Us
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Origin
Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam's very first national park, officially established on July 7, 1962, under Decision No. 72-TTg by the Prime Minister. Its founding marked a turning point in the country's efforts to protect nature and foster eco-tourism — a quiet yet powerful beginning to Vietnam's conservation story.
Location and Area
Nestled along an ancient limestone range that winds through northern Vietnam, Cuc Phuong sits at the convergence of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa provinces — just about 120 km south of Hanoi. It stretches across more than 22,000 hectares, where thousands of species call home — many of them rare and precious, their names engraved in the Red Book. More than a national park, Cuc Phuong is a living memory of Earth's prehistoric past. With mysterious caves, archaeological remnants from tens of thousands of years ago, and the deep cultural presence of the Muong people, it is a place where history breathes and nature whispers.
Climate, Soil, and Terrain
Blessed with a tropical monsoon climate, Cuc Phuong is warm and humid most of the year, with generous rainfall nurturing a rich green canopy. The annual temperature hovers between 23–25°C, dropping as low as 9°C in winter and soaring to 37°C in summer. High humidity — often over 80% — provides perfect conditions for the tropical rainforest to flourish. The park's soil, formed from limestone and shale, is fertile and varied. With a thick humus layer and a slightly acidic to neutral pH, it nurtures vibrant vegetation. Main soil types include red-yellow soil on limestone, feralit on shale, and humus on higher elevations. This rich variety supports a multilayered forest and one of the most diverse ecosystems among Vietnam's national parks. Cuc Phuong rises from an ancient limestone bed that runs from Yunnan, China to Nga Son, Thanh Hoa. The average elevation ranges between 300–600 meters, with May Bac Peak reaching up to 648 meters. The terrain is rugged and dramatic — jagged limestone mountains, hidden valleys, and cave networks that seem to whisper secrets from another time. The karst formations not only shape breathtaking landscapes but also cradle countless species that thrive in its shelter.
Cuc Phuong – A Place to Discover and to Feel
For over half a century, Cuc Phuong has quietly carried out its mission: preserving nature, educating generations, and awakening a love for the wild. Each person comes here with their own reasons, their own hopes. And Cuc Phuong welcomes them all — not with grandeur, but with the pure, unspoiled beauty of ancient times. In this forest, time feels suspended. What you see, touch, and feel seems to come from a world that existed long before us. It's as if you're standing on the edge between the wild beginnings of the Earth and the world we live in today. And in that quiet moment, surrounded by trees that have stood for centuries, something within you stirs — a memory, a question, a feeling of connection. To the land. To the past. To yourself.
Our History
The journey of Cuc Phuong National Park through time
The Idea Takes Shape
After the victory at Dien Bien Phu and the full liberation of Northern Vietnam, the Ninh Binh Department of Forestry established Cuc Phuong Forestry Enterprise, primarily tasked with logging to support national reconstruction. During forest resource surveys, scientists discovered that Cuc Phuong still preserved a high level of primal forest characteristics and had a rich, unique ecosystem. Professor Dr. Avrorin (from the Soviet Union), after conducting a field survey, stated: "Cuc Phuong forest meets all the criteria to become a major national park in Southeast Asia." Based on this, the Government decided to establish the Cuc Phuong Forest Reserve. In 1964, Prime Minister Pham Van Dong visited and remarked: "Cuc Phuong forest is a beautiful image of our country."
Building the Scientific Foundation
Despite the hardships of war, forest protection remained a priority. In 1969, the Cuc Phuong Research Sub-Institute was established, with nearly 200 staff, including more than 80 university graduates. This formed the scientific foundation for future conservation and research efforts. In 1973, the Vietnam Forest Protection Force was officially established, elevating forest protection to the national level. Consequently, the Forest Protection Unit at Cuc Phuong was upgraded to a Forest Ranger Station.
Establishing Structured Management
After the country's reunification, the Government approved the Economic and Technical Justification Report for Cuc Phuong National Park, marking a new phase of comprehensive and structured development. Conservation, research, education, and infrastructure efforts were systematically implemented.
Expanding International Cooperation and Ecotourism
The park's organizational structure was strengthened. Various international cooperation projects were carried out effectively in wildlife rescue, environmental education, and conservation research. Ecotourism began to develop steadily. The Master Plan for Conservation and Sustainable Development of Cuc Phuong (2010–2020) was approved, laying the groundwork for the next phase.
Strengthening and Defining the Strategic Vision
During this period, three key areas—forest protection, scientific research, and ecotourism—became the foundation for the park's sustainable development. Management and conservation approaches shifted toward modern, practical directions. Notably, the Management and Sustainable Development Plan for 2021–2030 was approved, paving the way for financial autonomy and more efficient operations.
A New Direction for Conservation and Ecotourism
In response to challenges from climate change and social shifts, Cuc Phuong introduced reforms based on three pillars: technology application, community engagement, and sustainable development. We promoted digital transformation, enhanced education and communication effectiveness, and expanded Cuc Phuong's presence through digital platforms. At the same time, we maintained close partnerships with local communities—especially the Muong people—to develop conservation-based livelihoods.
Cuc Phuong – A Hidden Gem in Vietnam's Ecotourism Map
Entering a new development phase, Cuc Phuong positions itself as an "untouched gem" – a pristine green treasure in the heart of Ninh Binh, preserving the raw beauty of Vietnam's ancient forests and one of the country's most diverse ecosystems. Currently, Cuc Phuong is actively consulting and implementing the Ecotourism Development Plan for 2023–2030, with a focus on innovation and diversification of tourism products linked to nature conservation. The core goal is to raise public awareness on environmental protection and promote collective action in preserving natural values. Since its designation in 1962, Cuc Phuong has undergone over 60 years of development and is now recognized as one of Vietnam's leading models for nature conservation. Entering a new era, the park continues to fulfill its role in biodiversity preservation while adapting to sustainable ecotourism trends. With a balanced approach between conservation and visitor experience, Cuc Phuong is gradually establishing itself as a top-of-mind destination—not just for exploration, but also for learning how to live in harmony with nature.
Our Mission
Wildlife Rescue – Nature Conservation
Located in the heart of the fertile Red River Delta, Cuc Phuong National Park is the green lung of Northern Vietnam – a place that marks over 60 years of dedication to nature conservation, forest protection, and wildlife rescue.
Why is Cuc Phuong known as Vietnam's "Conservation Capital"?
Cuc Phuong National Park currently safeguards nearly 5,000 individuals of rare and endangered animals and plants, including primates, small carnivores, pangolins, turtles, ungulates, and forest birds. Over the past 10 years, our programs have:
Rescued over 6,800 individuals
Successfully bred more than 2,400 animals
Reintroduced over 1,000 individuals back into the wild
Conservation Programs at Cuc Phuong National Park
Dedicated initiatives that form the backbone of our conservation mission
Botanical Garden
Spanning 167 hectares, the garden preserves over 800 native plant species, including medicinal plants, wild orchids, bamboo, fruit trees, and endemic flora.
Endangered Primate Rescue Center
Home to nearly 200 individuals from 15 primate species. The center has:
- Bred 400 individuals
- Released 154 primates into the wild
- Transferred 6 individuals to other conservation units
Carnivore and Pangolin Conservation Program
This program has:
- Rescued over 2,000 individuals (85% are pangolins)
- Bred 71 pangolins
- Released around 1,200 animals
- Currently caring for 58 individuals across 8 species
Turtle Conservation Center
Currently housing nearly 2,000 turtles from 35 species. The center has:
- Rescued 2,592 individuals
- Bred 1,600 turtles
- Released over 800 turtles into the wild
Ungulate and Avian Conservation Area
Currently caring for 297 individuals from 7 species. The team has:
- Rescued 84 animals
- Bred 410 individuals
- Released 91 back into nature
These remarkable numbers reflect Cuc Phuong's unwavering dedication to restoring biodiversity and laying the foundation for environmental education and sustainable development.
Challenges in Conservation Work
Behind each successful rescue lies a tough battle against illegal wildlife trade. Not all rescued animals can return to the wild—some carry severe injuries, like the pangolin found with 13 bullets lodged in its body, while others have lost their natural instincts. These animals will live out their lives in Cuc Phuong, becoming "conservation ambassadors", raising awareness and inspiring action to protect their wild counterparts.
Our conservation team also faces major challenges such as climate change, deforestation, lack of specialized medical equipment, and the difficulty of finding suitable habitats for release. Despite these hardships, our team remains dedicated, striving every day to protect each wild life.
Silent heroes: The Nameless Work of Forest Rangers
Cuc Phuong's forest rangers are the frontline defenders of nature. Their work goes far beyond patrolling—they brave cold, rainy nights in the forest, confront poachers head-on, and endure months away from family, living in remote ranger stations with no electricity, no cell signal, and no internet.
"Once, we had to lie in water the entire night to track a group of illegal hunters," shared a ranger.
Behind every night shift is a pair of determined eyes. Behind every rescue is a pair of scarred hands. And behind every research paper are countless days spent deep in the jungle by young scientists. They have given much of their lives to the forest—living, breathing, and evolving with Cuc Phuong.
3. Scientific Research and International Cooperation
With its unique ecosystems and extraordinary biodiversity, Cuc Phuong is a natural laboratory — a destination for scientists and conservationists from across Vietnam and around the world. Hundreds of studies in zoology, botany, ecology, and habitat restoration have taken root here, contributing valuable insights to science and conservation. Cuc Phuong also pioneered Vietnam's first wildlife rescue centers — including the Carnivore and Pangolin Conservation Program, the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, and the Turtle Conservation Center. Through international partnerships with organizations like Frankfurt Zoological Society (Germany) and Fauna & Flora International (UK), we've rescued, rehabilitated, and released thousands of wild animals — helping preserve rare genes and restore balance to nature.
A Hub of Science and International Cooperation
Research in zoology, botany, ecology, and habitat restoration
Wildlife rescue centers for endangered species
International partnerships with conservation organizations
4. Ecotourism and Environmental Education
At Cuc Phuong, tourism is not just about exploration — it's also a powerful tool for education and conservation. The park has developed a model of ecotourism that raises awareness, protects natural resources, and preserves local culture.
Ecotourism and Environmental Education
Key activities include:
Expanding ecological trails and installing interpretive signage to guide visitors in exploring nature responsibly.
Establishing the Visitor Center – a space to showcase natural values through models, images, and educational games.
Organizing visits to specialized rescue and conservation centers for primates, pangolins, small carnivores, turtles, and more.
Developing unique tours such as animal release experiences, tree planting, night wildlife watching, and forest treks with homestays in Muong villages.
Promoting community-based tourism in Khanh village to preserve Muong culture and support sustainable livelihoods for buffer zone residents.
Hosting creative educational events — such as puppet shows, traditional games, and night-time forest programs — through the CAP group and Youth Union.
Preserving the forest – Preserving life
In the face of modern challenges, Cuc Phuong continues to serve silently but steadfastly as a fortress of life.
Come visit Cuc Phuong—not just to admire nature, but to feel the heartbeat of the forest and witness the beauty of wildlife in its purest form.
Visual Journey
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cuc Phuong National Park through our stunning collection of photographs.
Lush forest canopy in Cuc Phuong National Park
Misty morning trail through the ancient forest
Wildlife observation tower overlooking the forest
Local bird species in natural habitat
Rare flower species found in Cuc Phuong
Cave entrance in the limestone mountains
Panoramic view of the forest canopy
Conservation center for endangered species
Conservation center for endangered species
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Contact Us
Get In Touch
Location
Cuc Phuong National Park, Nho Quan District, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam
info@cucphuongtourism.com
Phone
+84 229 3848 006
Opening Hours
Daily: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM