1. Before You Go: Essential Information for Visiting Cuc Phuong National Park

1.1. A Quick Overview of Cuc Phuong National Park Vietnam

Located in Nho Quan District, Ninh Binh Province, Cuc Phuong is Vietnam’s first national park, established in 1962. It stands as a testament to the country’s steadfast commitment to biodiversity conservation and the preservation of its ancient green forests.

Covering over 22,000 hectares, Cuc Phuong encompasses a precious limestone tropical forest ecosystem, home to 2,200 plant species, 135 mammals, and more than 330 bird species - including the critically endangered Delacour’s langur, a primate found only in Vietnam.

Far from being flashy or crowded, Cuc Phuong wins hearts with its pristine, tranquil, and vibrant beauty, characteristic of Southeast Asia’s ancient rainforests. More than a place to admire nature, it offers a living, breathing space where visitors can truly connect with the forest’s rhythm and immerse themselves in local culture. Nestled at the foot of the mountains, Muong ethnic villages preserve a way of life closely tied to the forest and age-old traditions—an essential part of any meaningful journey through Cuc Phuong.

Cuc Phuong National Park - the oldest national park in Vietnam

1.2. Cuc Phuong National Park Climate And Best Time to Visit

Cuc Phuong National Park boasts a pleasant climate that makes it an inviting destination year-round. With average temperatures ranging from 21°C to 28°C, the park offers a comfortable environment for exploring its rich biodiversity and lush landscapes. The mild climate enhances the experience for visitors, ensuring enjoyable adventures whether trekking, wildlife spotting, or simply soaking in the serene surroundings.

Timing your visit is key to making the most of what the park has to offer. For those who enjoy trekking and spotting wildlife, the dry season from September to December is ideal, as trails are easier to navigate and animals are more active. Meanwhile, the rainy season between April and May unveils a magical spectacle: butterfly season, when thousands of fluttering white butterflies create an enchanting atmosphere. Each period brings its own charm, making Cuc Phuong a captivating destination throughout the year.

Cuc Phuong National Park –the oldest national park in Vietnam

Visiting Cuc Phuong National Park between April and May is the best way to admire the natural beauty

1.3. How to Get to Cuc Phuong National Park

Traveling to Cuc Phuong National Park from Hanoi is both convenient and enjoyable, offering visitors different transportation options.

• By motorbike: The approximately 120-kilometer route from Hanoi typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, allowing for flexible stops at picturesque villages and roadside attractions along the way with rental fees ranging from 50,000 VND to 100,000 VND (USD 2 - USD 4)
• By car: Traveling by car to Cuc Phuong National Park takes approximately 2.5 hours, covering a distance of 120 kilometers. The route follows National Highway 1A to Ninh Binh, then continues to the park entrance. Car rental fees range from approximately 1,000,000 to 2,200,000 VND per day (from about USD 43 to USD 95) depending on the vehicle type.
• By bus: Daily departures from Giap Bat Station to Cuc Phuong are available at 3:00 PM or 10:00 AM, with ticket prices ranging from approximately 90,000 to 120,000 VND per person (from roughly USD 4 to USD 5), offering a comfortable and economical travel option.

From Ninh Binh City, visitors can opt for a scenic route by car or motorbike to Cuc Phuong National Park, passing through Trang An and Bai Dinh Pagoda, which is about 25 kilometers away. The road leading from Bai Dinh's parking area is quite wide with light traffic, making for a pleasant and easy drive.

This route not only ensures easy access to the park but also provides an opportunity to explore some of Ninh Binh’s other captivating landmarks along the way. Whether you're traveling from Hanoi or Ninh Binh, the journey itself is part of the adventure.

Tourists can get to Cuc Phuong National Park from Hanoi by bus, car, or motorbike

1.4. Cuc Phuong National Park Entrance Fees And Opening Hours

To ensure a complete and convenient exploration, visitors are kindly requested to note the park's daily opening hours, which provide ample time to enjoy and discover the beauty of the lush natural surroundings. In addition, entrance fees are required for full access to the national park, with different rates applicable to adults and children, aimed at maintaining and preserving the area.

• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Cuc Phuong National Park tickets:
• Adults: 60,000 VND (approximately USD 2.60).
• Students: 20,000 VND (approximately USD 0.87).
• Children: 10,000 VND (approximately USD 0.43).

When you come to Cuc Phuong National Park, you will be immersed in a poetic natural space

1.5. Accommodations near Cuc Phuong National Park

To cater to the diverse needs and budgets of visitors exploring Cuc Phuong National Park, the area offers a wide array of accommodation options, ranging from comfortable bungalows nestled in nature and cozy guesthouses with local charm to high-end resorts with full modern amenities:

• Cuc Phuong National Park Guest House: The house is located right near the entrance, making it convenient for travelers to visit nearby places. The rooms here are often simple in style, close to nature. The length of stay is flexible according to the needs of guests, with prices ranging from 300,000 VND to 500,000 VND per night (from USD 13 to USD 22).
• Mac Lake bungalows: The bungalows at Mac Lake are set beside a picturesque lake, providing a serene and scenic environment perfect for nature enthusiasts. Prices range from 500,000 VND to 800,000 VND per night (from USD 22 to USD 35), catering to mid-range budgets.
• Bong Center area: Situated at the heart of Cuc Phuong National Park, this area offers convenient access to other key areas and is well-equipped with various amenities. Accommodation ranges from traditional communal stilt houses to private rooms, with nightly rates between 800,000 and 1,000,000 VND (around USD 35 and USD 38.45), reflecting the comfort, accessibility, and immersive experience it provides.

Family homestay in Cuc Phuong National Park surrounded by forest, immersed in nature

1.6. Where to Eat near Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong is famous for its unique local cuisine, imbued with the flavors of the mountains and forests, such as mountain goat, Muong pork, and hill chicken. To savor local cuisine during your Cuc Phuong exploration, you can often find restaurants located near the accommodations of the national park or in some of the best places to eat Ninh Binh, known for combining authenticity with great atmosphere or extend your culinary adventure to the Ninh Binh night market, where local flavors truly come alive after dark.

• Cuc Phuong Restaurant: Dong Tam Commune, Nho Quan District, Ninh Binh Province
• Cao Son Restaurant: 340 Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh Province
• Bai Dinh Bamboo Cafe & Restaurant: Gia Sinh District, Ninh Binh Province
• Vuon Bia Lau Nuong Restaurant: National Highway 12B, Van Phuong Commune, Nho Quan District, Ninh Binh Province
• Thao Linh restaurant: Cuc Phuong Commune, Nho Quan District, Ninh Binh Province

2. While You’re There: What to See and Do in Cuc Phuong

To ensure a complete and memorable exploration of Cuc Phuong National Park, be sure to save this list of must-see destinations before you embark on your adventure into this fascinating natural wonderland.

2.1. Visitor Center

Located right near the Yen Quang Lake area, the Visitor Center is where visitors can collect detailed maps and useful park information to effectively plan their visit. Specifically, the center provides a comprehensive overview of Cuc Phuong's formation and development history, rich biodiversity, attractive sightseeing routes, and important regulations.

The center also features a diverse array of vivid visual aids. You can view the breathtaking moments of Cuc Phuong's landscapes captured in photographs, from the vast primeval forests to the majestic mountain peaks and the mysterious cave systems. In particular, the biodiversity exhibition area also introduces you to images of many rare flora and fauna species inhabiting Cuc Phuong, such as the White-rumped Langur, the Clouded Leopard that surely sparks your interest before you truly immerse yourself in the nature of Cuc Phuong.

Travelers can view detailed Cuc Phuong National Park map at the Visitor Center to plan their journey to explore the Cuc Phuong National Park

2.2. Wildlife Rescue And Conservation Exhibition

Established in 1985, the Cuc Phuong Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Exhibition Area is known for showcasing rare animals being rescued and preserved, and introducing the tireless efforts of scientists and rangers in protecting endangered species. Here, visitors can observe rescued animals such as Cat Ba langur, Delacour’s langur, and grey-shark langur and better understand the importance of survival maintenance work.

• Cuc Phuong Primate Rescue Center: This facility is home to rescued rare primate species from confiscation. The center prepares these animals for eventual release back into their natural habitat by giving them semi-wild environments to thrive first.
• Carnivore and Pangolin Conservation Program: This initiative focuses on rescuing trafficked individuals, helping them enhance conservation skills, and conducting research on their distribution and ecological roles in the wild.
• Turtle Conservation Program: This program manages the care of over 600 individuals of 19 species, supports captive breeding and coordinates training initiatives to strengthen turtle conservation practices.

Explore the incredibly rich biodiversity of Cuc Phuong at the Rescue Center, Turtle Conservation Program

2.3. Cuc Phuong Museum

Located just to the left of the Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Exhibition area, the Cuc Phuong Museum features over 13,000 exhibits of flora and mushrooms, 450 specimens of mammals, 4,000 insect specimens, and 300 exhibits of minerals, fossils as well as a vast array of other ancient artifacts. This diverse collection highlights the rich biodiversity and historical significance of the region, offering visitors a deeper understanding of Cuc Phuong’s natural and cultural heritage.

Cuc Phuong Museum currently preserves and displays about 450 specimens of animals, birds, reptiles

2.4. Botanical Garden

Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden is located right behind Cuc Phuong Museum. The Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden is a center for the collection and conservation of many rare and characteristic plant species of the Indochinese region. The vegetation in Cuc Phuong is extremely rich, including types of evergreen tropical rainforest, semi-deciduous forest, and forest on limestone mountains.

It is home to thousands of species of higher vascular plants, including many precious timber species such as Dalbergia bariensis, Burretiodendron hsienmu, and Parashorea chinensis. In particular, Cuc Phuong is also famous for its beautiful and diverse wild orchid species and various valuable medicinal plants. Visitors can stroll along the trails, admire the diversity of plant species, and learn about their biological characteristics and values.

Cuc Phuong National Park attracts tourists by its rich and diverse vegetation

2.5. Silver Cloud Peak

Located about 14km northeast of Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden, Silver Cloud Peak stands as one of the highest elevations within Cuc Phuong National Park, rewarding those who reach its summit with sweeping panoramic vistas of the majestic mountains and verdant forests. Visitors planning to trek to the mountaintop should ensure to check the weather forecast beforehand, in case of rain, to fully enjoy the stunning natural scenery, including the possibility of witnessing a breathtaking sea of clouds in the early morning.

Standing from the top of Silver Cloud, you can see the whole view of Cuc Phuong forest

2.6. Ancient Caves

Silver Cloud Peak is located about 66km from Cuc Phuong National Park. The ancient caves are also located in Cuc Phuong National Park. The limestone karsts of Cuc Phuong not only boast magnificent natural beauty with unique stalactite and stalagmite systems but also preserve invaluable paleontological and anthropological relics. This area contains fossils of ancient reptiles dating back 200 to 230 million years ago and served as a settlement for prehistoric people approximately 7,500 years ago.

• Prehistoric Man Cave: Once a habitation site for primitive humans living in Ninh Binh between 7,000 and 12,500 years ago. Here, archaeologists have also discovered two recently found ancient tombs, Neolithic bones, and evidence of stone tools.
• Con Moong Cave: In the Muong ethnic language, "Con Moong" means animals as the distinctive feature of the cave entrance is a large, animal-shaped stone. This cave is a significant archaeological site, offering historical insights into ancient people who were once inhabited here.
• Trang Khuyet Cave (Crescent Cave): This cave name stems from the fact that its entrance, nestled deep within the forest, is shaped like a waning moon when viewed from afar.

When exploring these magnificent caves, visitors should note that there may be a small additional cost, specifically around 10,000 VND (USD 0.38) if you need to rent a flashlight to explore the beauty inside the cave. For a more enriched visit, hiring a local guide is also an option to gain in-depth information and enhance the overall experience.

Ancient Cave – Natural beauty bearing the mark of prehistoric times

2.7. Yen Quang Lake - Pho Ma Cave

Located about 56.1km away from the Ancient Cave, Yen Quang Lake, also a system of four freshwater lakes near Cuc Phuong, is renowned for its serene beauty and picturesque landscapes.

On the way to the enchanting Pho Ma Cave, visitors can enjoy a boat trip across Yen Quang Lake, taking in the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. The adventure continues as you navigate through valleys and limestone peaks, ultimately reaching the cave to witness its stunning natural stalactites.

Yen Quang Lake has clear blue water and poetic rippling waves

2.8. Thousand-Year-Old Parashorea Tree

The Thousand-Year Tree is about 7km from the Pho Ma Cave by forest road. The Parashorea Tree, one of the giant trees of Cuc Phuong forest, with a height of about 45 meters and an impressive diameter of 5 meters (circumference of more than 20 people hugging), visitors will have a walking journey through the old forest, taking about 2 to 3 hours to go and return.

This ancient tree is approximately 5,000 years old. Visitors here can admire its majestic beauty and feel the ancient presence of this millennial tree.

Visitors not only admire the majestic beauty but also feel the ancient presence of this thousand-year-old tree

2.9. Ancient Crocodile Tree

The thousand-year-old Parashorea Tree is about 920 meters away from the ancient Sau tree. The ancient Sau tree – one of the three giant trees of Cuc Phuong forest stands out for its incredible height of 45 meters. The tree's unique buttress root system branches from a height of about 10 meters and extends up to 20 meters above the ground.

On the way to admire the Sau tree, visitors can also see woody vines, strangler fig species, epiphytes such as mistletoe, kite nest, orchids, as well as many species of birds including, but not limited to red-headed woodpeckers and striped-bellied pitta.

​The ancient crocodile tree stands out with its giant root system stretching across the forest floor

2.10. Fossilized Skeleton of Scutellaria

This is a fossil of the skeletal structure of an ancient Scutellaria plant, dating back millions of years, discovered during geological research in Cuc Phuong National Park. It serves as evidence of a distinct flora in the past and contributes to the understanding of Earth's evolutionary process.

Here, visitors can directly observe the rare fossil, learn about Cuc Phuong's geological history, and understand the evolution of ancient plant species through the information displayed at the museum.

230 million year old fossil skeleton of a "Sea Monster" in the middle of Cuc Phuong forest

3. After Your Trip: Reflect, Share, and Support Conservation

Your journey through Cuc Phuong doesn't end when you leave the forest. Take time to reflect on the rare moments you experienced—whether it was spotting an endangered langur, walking beneath thousand-year-old trees, or hearing the forest come alive at night.

Share your stories, photos, and impressions with others. By spreading the word, you help raise awareness about Vietnam’s natural treasures and inspire more responsible travel choices.

If Cuc Phuong left a mark on you, consider giving back. Support local conservation projects, donate to wildlife rescue centers, or simply choose to travel sustainably in the future. Every small action helps preserve the beauty you just witnessed—for generations to come.

4. Cuc Phuong National Park Tours: Best Options for An Eco-Adventure

To fully explore the beauty and biodiversity of Cuc Phuong National Park, tailor-made eco-tours are the ideal choice, providing you with memorable adventure experiences. From half-day excursions to full-day and multi-day tours, there are plenty of options to suit your schedule and interests as below.

4.1. Half-Day Tour

The half-day tour typically includes a visit to the Visitor Centre, a guided walk through the Botanical Gardens and an exploration of the Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Exhibition. Suitable for families, couples and casual nature enthusiasts looking for an introductory experience, this tour is priced as following:

• Adults: 250,000 VND (approximately USD 11).
• Children: 110,000 VND/person (approximately USD 5).

Wildlife rescue center, a place to preserve rare animals from the risk of extinction or hunting

4.2. One-Day Tour

This tour is designed for visitors who want to explore a full day of Cuc Phuong’s national and historical treasures. It includes guided hikes through lush jungle trails, visits to ancient caves and the chance to spot rare wildlife such as the Delacour’s langur. Visitors can also explore iconic sites such as the Thousand-Year-Old Golden Tree and Yen Quang Lake. The one-day tour starts at 1,000,000 VND (USD 60), offering incredible value for a full day of exploration.

4.3. Nature Appreciation Tour

This 1-day tour, which includes lunch meals, offers participants an in-depth exploration of the park’s rich biodiversity. Arriving in Cuc Phuong at around 9:00 AM, the tour features activities such as birdwatching, flora identification walks, and insights into local conservation initiatives from knowledgeable guides. Designed for botany enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a slower pace of exploration, this tour starts at approximately 800,000 VND (USD 35).

4.4. Camping & Wildlife Watching

For those craving a truly immersive outdoor experience, this 2-day-and-1-night camping and wildlife watching tour offers lunch, dinner, and overnight stay within the national park, where you’ll camp under a canopy of stars and venture into the forest to observe nocturnal wildlife. Activities may also include spotting rare animals, hiking remote trails and enjoying the serenity of nature after dark. Starting at 1,500,000 VND (USD 65), this tour promises an unforgettable experience under the moonlight.

Immerse yourself in the wild nature of Cuc Phuong with the Camping & Wildlife Watching tour

4.5. Firefly And Night Wildlife Tour

A magical experience awaits on this evening tour where visitors can witness the mesmerizing glow of fireflies and encounter wildlife active at night. This enchanting adventure is perfect for families, couples and individuals looking for something extraordinary. This enchanting adventure lasts approximately 3 hours, usually starting around 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Priced at 700,000 VND (USD 30), the Night Wildlife and Fireflies Tour combines the mystery of darkness with the beauty of the Cuc Phuong ecosystem.

Admire the beauty of the night sky and the sparkling lights of fireflies with the Firefly and Night Wildlife Tour

5. Cuc Phuong Travel Tips: Regulations and Pro Tips

When venturing into Cuc Phuong National Park, preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are detailed and practical travel tips to guide your visit:

• Dress appropriately: Wear light and breathable clothing, such as long pants and long-sleeved shirts, to protect yourself from leeches and insects commonly found in the forest. Comfortable, flat-soled shoes are essential for trekking the park’s trails.
• Plan ahead for butterfly season: April marks the park’s famed white butterfly season, when thousands of butterflies create a mesmerizing spectacle. This unique phenomenon attracts a large number of visitors, therefore, scheduling your visit around this time is highly recommended so you don't miss this marvelous spectacle.
• Carry essentials: Pack insect repellent to ward off bugs and simple first aid supplies for minor cuts or scrapes during your adventures. If staying overnight or for multiple days, ensure you bring personal equipment like binoculars for birdwatching, a whistle for signaling, and a flashlight for nighttime visibility.
• Prepare for emergencies: Familiarize yourself with the park’s emergency contact number and keep it handy while checking in. It’s always better to be cautious and have a quick response plan in case of unforeseen circumstances.
• Bring food and hydration: There are a few restaurants inside Cuc Phuong National Park, but you might not always find them easily, especially when venturing deeper into the exploration areas. Visitors are strongly advised to bring water and light meals to keep themselves hydrated and energized throughout the trip. Pack non-perishable snacks that are easy to carry and consume during your excursions.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy the natural wonders and biodiversity of Cuc Phuong National Park to the fullest. Preparation is the key to unlocking an unforgettable adventure in Vietnam’s oldest national park.

Cuc Phuong National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers, ecotourists and cultural explorers. As the first national park in Vietnam, it has spectacular biodiversity, rare wildlife and tranquil landscapes. Hopefully, the above article will help you plan interesting destinations and things to note when participating in the experience of exploring Cuc Phuong National Park.

While Cuc Phuong offers an incredible nature escape, don’t miss the chance to explore other things to do in Ninh Binh, from boat tours in Trang An to ancient temples in Hoa Lu. Your journey through this region will be as diverse as it is memorable.

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