Basic Information
Essential details for planning your visit to Cuc Phuong National Park
Introduction
Cuc Phuong National Park is the first tropical rainforest national park in Vietnam, established on July 7th, 1962. Located in the heart of the Tam Diep mountain range, the park stretches across three provinces: Hoa Binh, Ninh Binh, and Thanh Hoa.
Located just 120 km south of Hanoi, Cuc Phuong is not only a leading center for biological research and conservation, but also one of the top ecotourism destinations in northern Vietnam. With its diverse ecosystem, the park is home to thousands of rare and precious species of flora and fauna.
Visitors to Cuc Phuong can:
- • Explore ancient forests and spot unique wildlife
- • Discover cultural and historical values tied to the land
- • Enjoy eco-adventures like trekking, jungle camping, wildlife watching, and guided adventure tours
Operating hours
Opening hours: Cuc Phuong National Park is open daily from 6:00 AM.
Tourism activities & services
| Activity / Service | Operating time |
|---|---|
| Half-day tour | According to registration schedule – half-day |
| Full-day tour | According to registration schedule – full day |
| Nature appreciation tour | Starts around 10:00 AM |
| Nature experience tour for children | 1–2 days |
| Camping in the park | Dry season (September – December) |
| Night tour | Daily: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM (1.5 hours per tour) |
Please note: Some activities may have specific time slots. Advance registration is recommended to ensure availability and proper arrangements.
Explore Park Areas
Cuc Phuong National Park is divided into several main areas. Below is a guide to help you choose the most suitable destinations for your visit.
Park Entrance Area
Visitor Center
This is the first stop for visitors entering the park. Here, you'll find everything you need to get oriented, from maps and guides to engaging exhibits about the park's biodiversity and conservation work.
The center helps interpret the natural values of the environment and raises awareness about conservation, especially among students, through informative panels, models, and exhibits.
Cuc Phuong Museum
The museum houses thousands of specimens including butterflies, cicadas, stick insects, as well as various forest animals. It also preserves a fossilized jawed reptile specimen dating back approximately 230–250 million years, along with over 12,000 plant specimens and numerous archaeological artifacts.
Botanical Garden
One of the first three botanical gardens in Vietnam recognized internationally, featuring a 3km walking trail through diverse plant ecosystems in a natural forest setting.
- •Length: 3km
- •Visiting time: 1.5 – 2 hours
- •Requirement: Must be accompanied by a park guide
Observation Tower
A short mountain hike with stunning panoramic views of Cuc Phuong's majestic forests and peaceful villages scattered along the buffer zone.
- •Length: 300m
- •Visiting time: 0.5 – 1 hour
Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Programs
Endangered Primate Rescue Center
Globally renowned for rescuing and caring for primates, this is the first non-profit project on the Indochina Peninsula dedicated to primate rescue. The center houses numerous endangered species including langurs, gibbons, and lorises.
Cuc Phuong Turtle Conservation Center
The first and only specialized center in Vietnam for turtle rescue. Since its establishment, the program has rescued thousands of individuals and released hundreds back into the wild, playing a crucial role in preserving Vietnam's turtle diversity.
Carnivore and Pangolin Conservation Program
A pioneering unit in Vietnam for the conservation of Owston's civet and pangolins, and the world's leading pangolin rescue center. CPCP has successfully raised and bred two species of Asian pangolins using artificial diets in captivity. The center is also caring for other rare carnivores such as Owston's civet, jungle cats, large Indian civets, and otters.
Conservation of Other Rare Species
The park is currently caring for and breeding many rare animals including Sika deer, wild deer, Vietnamese peacocks, silver pheasants, red junglefowl, and more, contributing to biodiversity conservation efforts throughout Vietnam.
Mac Lake Area
Panoramic Mountain Hike
A challenging adventure trail with steep terrain and rewarding views over the entire Cuc Phuong landscape. Perfect for experienced hikers seeking an immersive forest experience.
- •Duration: Full day
- •Group size: Max. 5 people
- •Requirement: Accompanied by a park guide
Scenic Walk & Bird Watching
A flat and easy trail ideal for all ages, offering opportunities to watch birds and visit a local Muong village. Great for experiencing both nature and culture.
- •Duration: 2–3 hours
- •Requirement: Accompanied by a park guide
Ancient Human Cave
One of the early human dwelling sites in the park, also home to a variety of bat species. An intriguing glimpse into prehistoric life in the region.
- •Trail length: 0.3 km
- •Duration: 0.5–1 hour
- •Note: Bring a flashlight or other light source
Ancient Terminalia Tree & Fossil Reptile
A forest trek through rocky slopes leading to a fossilized reptile skeleton and chances to spot wildlife. A journey through both geological and ecological history.
- •Trail length: 9 km
- •Duration: 3–4 hours
- •Requirement: Accompanied by a park guide
Shorea Tree – Ancient Terminalia Trail
A gentle forest walk suitable for most visitors, showcasing some of the park's most impressive tree specimens.
- •Trail length: 2 km
- •Duration: 1–1.5 hours
- •Note: You may go on your own or with a park guide
Forest Center Area
Son Cung Cave & Giant Parashorea Trees
A relatively easy trail through iconic landmarks. Witness magnificent cave formations and encounter some of the park's oldest and most majestic trees.
- •Trail length: 7 km
- •Duration: 2–3 hours
- •Note: Can be done with or without a guide
700-year-old Chò Tree
A short and pleasant walk to one of the park's most iconic ancient trees. This living monument has witnessed centuries of forest history.
- •Trail length: 2 km (round trip)
- •Duration: 0.5–1 hour
- •Note: Self-guided or with a park guide
Ancient Dracontomelon Tree Trail
A flat trail and one of the best spots in the park for bird watching. The ancient Dracontomelon trees provide habitat for numerous bird species.
- •Trail length: 6 km (round trip)
- •Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- •Note: Self-guided or with a park guide
Jungle Trek & Homestay in Muong Village
An immersive journey through ancient forest and an overnight stay in a traditional stilt house. Experience authentic cultural exchange with local Muong people.
- •Trail length: 16 km
- •Duration: 2–3 days
- •Requirement: Accompanied by a park guide
May Bac Summit
An adventurous trek to the highest peak in Cuc Phuong National Park. Enjoy breathtaking views and the sense of accomplishment from reaching the summit.
- •Trail length: 7 km (round trip)
- •Duration: 4–5 hours
- •Requirement: Accompanied by a park guide
Weather
Cuc Phuong National Park is located in the tropical monsoon climate zone typical of Northern Vietnam, with an average annual temperature of around 24.7°C (76.5°F). Thanks to its vast primary rainforest ecosystem, the park remains cooler than surrounding areas, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities year-round.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Dry Season (September – December)
Weather:
Cool, mild sunshine, dry and pleasant
Recommended activities:
Jungle trekking, camping, mountain hiking, cave exploration
What to bring:
Non-slip hiking shoes, light jacket, sun hat
Rainy Season (April – May)
Weather:
Occasional showers, humid air
Highlights:
Peak season for white butterflies and fireflies lighting up the forest
What to bring:
Lightweight raincoat, waterproof shoes, mosquito repellent
Winter (December – February)
Weather:
Cold, misty, especially in the early mornings and evenings
Recommended activities:
Bird watching, wildlife spotting, visiting rescue and conservation centers
What to bring:
Warm clothing, scarf, gloves
Monthly weather details and seasonal natural events
Fees and Passes
Entrance Ticket Prices
| No | Item | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adults (18 years and above) | 60,000 VND/person |
| 2 | Student (with valid Student card) | 20,000 VND/person |
| 3 | Children (under 16) / Pupils | 10,000 VND/person |
Ticket Prices for Visiting the Rescue & Conservation Centers
| No | Item | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Endangered primate rescue & Conservation Program | 50,000 VND/adult 20,000 VND/children |
| 2 | Turtle conservation program | 50,000 VND/adult 20,000 VND/children |
| 3 | Carnivore & pangolin conservation program | 50,000 VND/adult 20,000 VND/children |
Package Prices
| No | Item | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Combo 1 | Entrance fee, tickets to visit the rescue, conservation centers: primate, turtle. | 160,000 VND/adult 60,000 VND/student 50,000 VND/children |
| Combo 2 | Entrance fee, tickets to visit the Ex-situ conservation area (the rescue, conservation centers: primate, turtle, carnivore & pangolin, ungulates and birds sanctuary and Cuc Phuong museum). | 240,000 VND/adult 110,000 VND/student 100,000 VND/children |
Vehicle Rental Prices
| No | Item | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Motorbike (includes full tank) | 250,000 VND per vehicle/day |
| 2 | Bicycle | 150,000 VND per vehicle/day |
Daytime Parking Fees
| No | Item | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cars with 16 seats or fewer | 20,000 VND |
| 2 | Cars from 17 to under 30 seats | 30,000 VND |
| 3 | Cars with 30 seats or more | 35,000 VND |
Overnight Parking Fees
| No | Item | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cars with 16 seats or fewer | 25,000 VND |
| 2 | Cars from 17 to under 30 seats | 35,000 VND |
| 3 | Cars with 30 seats or more | 40,000 VND |
Important Note on Ticket Purchase
Buy tickets in advance at the entrance to save time. Visitors who wish to explore the conservation centers should purchase tickets at the entrance in advance. If tickets are not bought beforehand, visitors will need to return to the entrance, which can be time-consuming due to the long distance.
Travel Tips
Expert Guidance
To better understand the ecosystem and wildlife, visitors are encouraged to hire a tour guide. Please note that visiting the conservation centers and certain trekking routes is only permitted when accompanied by an official guide from Cuc Phuong National Park.
What to Bring
Essential items to bring for a comfortable and safe visit:
- Comfortable sneakers or hiking boots
- Insect repellent
- Hat and sunscreen
- Raincoat (especially during rainy season)
- Sufficient water and snacks
Wildlife Protection Guidelines
Respect the habitat of wildlife by following these important guidelines:
Do Not Feed Wildlife
Visitors must not feed or disturb any wild animals in the conservation areas.
Maintain Safe Distance
Keep a safe distance from all animals and only walk along designated paths.
No Littering
Keep the park clean and take all trash with you when you leave.
Noise Control
Avoid loud noises that could disturb the wildlife and other visitors.
Environmental Protection
Visitors are required to follow environmental protection regulations to preserve the natural beauty of Cuc Phuong National Park for generations to come.
"Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints."
- Do not disturb or remove any plants, flowers, or natural items from the park
- Avoid using gasoline-powered vehicles in the peripheral conservation area
- Report any illegal activities or injured wildlife to park rangers
- Use eco-friendly products during your visit
Contact Us
Have questions about your visit? Our team is ready to help you plan the perfect Cuc Phuong experience.