Trekking in Cuc Phuong National Park

Explore Cuc Phuong through Trekking Adventures

Cuc Phuong National Park is an ideal destination for those who love trekking, nature exploration, and immersing themselves in the pristine beauty of the forest.

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With a diverse ecosystem, the trekking routes in Cuc Phuong offer not only exciting physical activity but also opportunities to learn about the park's rich history, culture, and biodiversity—making it one of Asia's leading national parks.

Trekking Routes in Cuc Phuong

Garden Gate Area
Mac Lake Area
Forest Center Area (Bong)
Botanical Garden Trail
Garden Gate Area
Easy Difficulty

Botanical Garden Trail

3km
1.5 – 2 hours
Accompanied by a park guide
Mountain Climbing for a Panoramic View
Mac Lake Area
High Difficulty

Mountain Climbing for a Panoramic View

Full day
Accompanied by a park guide
Maximum 5 people per group
Ancient Dang Tree & Fossilized Reptile Skeleton Trail
Mac Lake Area
Medium to High Difficulty

Ancient Dang Tree & Fossilized Reptile Skeleton Trail

9km
3 – 4 hours

From the park gate, follow the main road about 2km past the Cave of Prehistoric Man. On the left is the trail to the ancient Dang tree. This tree stands 45m tall, with a trunk diameter of 1.5m and aerial roots extending over 20m - one of Cuc Phuong's rainforest giants. On the way, you'll encounter giant lianas, rare plants like the "One flower with seven leaves" and the "Quan Am Toa Lien" whose young leaves resemble the Bodhisattva Quan Am sitting on a lotus. This is also a perfect route for birdwatchers, where you might see species like the Red-headed Woodpecker and the White-crested Laughingthrush. If walking quietly in small groups, you may spot wildlife like Black Giant Squirrels, Red-bellied Squirrels, and the rare Delacour's Langur.

Accompanied by a park guide
Sau Tree and Ancient Dang Tree Trail
Mac Lake Area
Easy Difficulty

Sau Tree and Ancient Dang Tree Trail

2km
1 – 1.5 hours
Visitors may walk on their own or with a park guide
Son Cung Cave, Cluster of 5 Chò Chỉ Trees, and the Thousand-Year Chò Tree
Forest Center Area (Bong)
Easy Difficulty

Son Cung Cave, Cluster of 5 Chò Chỉ Trees, and the Thousand-Year Chò Tree

7km round-trip
2 – 3 hours
Bring a flashlight if visiting Son Cung Cave; guide optional
Ancient Sấu Tree Trail
Forest Center Area (Bong)
Easy Difficulty

Ancient Sấu Tree Trail

6km round-trip
1.5 – 2 hours
Self-guided or with a park guide
700-Year-Old Chò Chỉ Tree Trail
Forest Center Area (Bong)
Easy Difficulty

700-Year-Old Chò Chỉ Tree Trail

2km round-trip
0.5 – 1 hour
Self-guided or with a park guide
Silver Cloud Peak – Most Challenging Trail
Forest Center Area (Bong)
High Difficulty

Silver Cloud Peak – Most Challenging Trail

7km
4 – 5 hours

Conquer Silver Cloud Peak—the highest summit in Cuc Phuong at 648m. Starting from the park center, head northeast about 3km through rocky slopes. On this route, you'll encounter rare tree ferns from the Tertiary period and hardy plants like Ebony, Dracaena, and Star Anise growing on limestone cliffs. This trail offers an exhilarating challenge and a chance to witness nature's resilience.

Accompanied by a park guide
Yen Quang Lake – Pho Ma Giang Cave Trail
Forest Center Area (Bong)
Medium to High Difficulty

Yen Quang Lake – Pho Ma Giang Cave Trail

~10km
Full day

From the park gate, head 7km toward Nho Quan. Turn west at Tri Phuong Bridge to reach the scenic Yen Quang Lake. In the lake's center lies a small island with a shrine. The lake is home to thousands of waterbirds, reflecting limestone cliffs, forests, and small fishing boats, especially breathtaking at sunset. Kayaking is also available. From Yen Quang, hike through Quèn Lá pass and Thung Lá valley to reach Pho Ma Giang Cave. Outside the cave, marvel at a stone formation resembling a princely figure in ceremonial attire, as if stepping out from a historical epic. You can also visit Quèn Lá Temple nearby, where General Van Tien Dung once read President Ho Chi Minh's decree to establish the Đồng bằng Regiment (now Division 320).

Accompanied by a park guide
Jungle Crossing – Homestay in a Muong Village
Forest Center Area (Bong)
High Difficulty

Jungle Crossing – Homestay in a Muong Village

16km through primeval forest
2–3 days

Muong Village (Khanh), located in An Nghia commune, Lac Son district, Hoa Binh province, is one of the few Muong villages located entirely within Cuc Phuong. It has about 20 households and nearly 200 residents. This adventurous journey offers the chance to explore untouched nature and authentic Muong culture. Over 16km, travelers pass through valleys, mountain passes, and ancient forests. In the village, visitors stay in traditional stilt houses, join gong music festivals, and enjoy local rice wine. In the morning, you can take a relaxing walk or paddle a bamboo raft on the poetic Buoi River. Spending one or two nights in the village contributes to the local economy and supports ecotourism and conservation efforts in Cuc Phuong.

Accompanied by a park guide
Bring forest hiking shoes, socks, flashlight, camera, insect repellent, and personal items.

Trekking Tips in Cuc Phuong

Always bring water, hiking shoes, breathable clothing, and a hat.

Some trails require a park guide, especially long or difficult ones.

Stay quiet if you wish to see birds or forest animals.

Bring a flashlight when exploring caves like Son Cung or the Cave of Prehistoric Man.

Do not litter, break branches, pick flowers, or capture wildlife.

Contact the park administration in advance for guided tours and special arrangements.

Ready for Your Trekking Adventure?

Book your trekking tour at Cuc Phuong National Park and experience the beauty of Vietnam's oldest national park.