Ninh Binh: Discover the Untamed Beauty of Cuc Phuong National Park

Tucked away in Ninh Binh’s stunning countryside, Cuc Phuong National Park offers more than just a nature retreat—it is a living, breathing sanctuary for rare species, ancient trees, and untouched landscapes. As Vietnam’s first national park, Cuc Phuong has been captivating nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike since its founding in 1962. Whether you’re trekking through its misty forests, witnessing the delicate flutter of fireflies at night, or simply soaking in the rich biodiversity, Cuc Phuong promises an unforgettable escape into the heart of Vietnam’s natural world.

Cuc Phuong: An Award-Winning Ecological Treasure in Asia

Founded on July 7, 1962, Cuc Phuong National Park, located in Ninh Binh Province, is Vietnam's first national park and a landmark dedicated to preserving the country’s natural resources as well as its cultural and historical values. During the prestigious World Travel Awards ceremony held on September 3, 2024, in Manila, Philippines, Cuc Phuong was once again named Best National Park in Asia, an honor it has held for six consecutive years. Cuc Phuong is committed not only to environmental conservation but also to scientific research and the development of responsible ecotourism.

Vietnam’s First National Park

Spanning an impressive 22,408 hectares, Cuc Phuong National Park extends over 14 communes in the heart of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa provinces. This tropical sanctuary, a true "green lung," dazzles visitors with its astounding biodiversity, where rare and endangered species, listed in Vietnam’s prestigious Red Book, thrive. The forest is home to towering plant giants, such as Terminalia myriocarpa (Chò xanh), Cinnamomum balansae (vù hương), and Parashorea chinensis (Chò chỉ), whose trunks rise over 75 meters high, offering a grand spectacle of nature.

The fauna of Cuc Phuong does not disappoint either. Spotted leopards, clouded leopards, Asiatic black bears, and many other extraordinary species find refuge in this natural haven. The park is also the only place in the world where you can spot the Delacour’s langur, a rare and endemic monkey of Vietnam. With around 135 species of mammals, 336 bird species, 122 species of reptiles and amphibians, and nearly 2,000 insect species, Cuc Phuong is a paradise for nature lovers.

Thanks to its primary forests, the park enjoys a cooler climate than the surrounding areas, offering an ideal escape throughout the year. The dry season, from September to December, attracts hiking and camping enthusiasts, while from April to May, the park lights up with thousands of white butterflies and fireflies glittering in the night sky, creating a magical, almost surreal experience.

Must-See Attractions in Cuc Phuong National Park, Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Cuc Phuong Endangered Primate Rescue Center (EPRC): A Sanctuary for Rare Species

Founded in 1994 within Cuc Phuong National Park, the Endangered Primate Rescue Center(EPRC) is a key player in the conservation of Vietnam’s wildlife, particularly rare and endangered primates. Starting with modest facilities housing two langurs—a White-buttocked Langur and a Ha Tinh Langur—the EPRC has grown into one of the world’s foremost primate rescue and rehabilitation centers.

Today, the EPRC cares for about 160 individuals from 15 species and subspecies of primates, six of which are housed exclusively in this center. These include the rare White-buttocked Langur (Trachypithecus delacouri), the Ha Tinh Langur (Trachypithecus laotum hatinhensis), Black Langur (Trachypithecus laotum ebenus), Laos Langur (Trachypithecus laotum laotum), Cat Ba Langur (Trachypithecus poliocephalus), and the Grey-legged Douc (Pygathrix cinerea).

The center has also led pioneering efforts in captive breeding. Nine species have successfully bred here, with the White-buttocked Langur, Ha Tinh Langur, and Grey-legged Douc producing the first births in captivity worldwide. These successes reflect a significant breeding program, contributing to the survival of these species.

Beyond rescue operations, the center plays a vital role in species reintroduction. In 2007, Ha Tinh Langurs were reintroduced into the semi-wild areas of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a project that showed promising results as the langurs adapted to their natural behaviors.

Cuc Phuong Museum: A Treasure Trove of Knowledge

The Cuc Phuong Museum is a must-visit site for research and educational purposes, particularly attracting students and wildlife conservationists. The museum houses over 50 archaeological specimens, including a reptile fossil dating back 230-250 million years, along with 122 preserved animal specimens, 2,900 insect specimens, and over 12,000 botanical specimens.

Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden: A Living Laboratory

The Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden, one of Vietnam’s first botanical gardens to be internationally registered, is a hub for scientific research, education, and ecotourism. This garden has been designed to collect and cultivate rare plant species from Cuc Phuong, Vietnam, and around the world. The garden offers a peaceful walk along a 3-kilometer trail, perfect for nature lovers and botanical enthusiasts.

Mai Bac Peak: Panoramic Views of Cuc Phuong

Mai Bac Peak rises 648 meters above sea level, offering a stunning panoramic view of Cuc Phuong National Park, the ancient capital Hoa Lu, and Bai Dinh Pagoda. The 3-kilometer hike to the summit offers a rewarding experience, although it requires a good level of fitness and proper gear due to rocky slopes. A guide is recommended for this excursion, which lasts about 4 hours round-trip.

Ancient Man Cave: A Glimpse into Prehistory

Located 4 kilometers from the forest entrance, the Ancient Man Cave contains evidence of prehistoric life and burials, marking an important chapter in human history. The cave features stalactites that create a resonating gong-like sound when struck. Visitors can access it via a 300-meter path from the main road, and the visit lasts from 30 minutes to an hour.

The Thousand-Year-Old Parashorea Chinensis: A Giant of the Forest

One of the Cuc Phuong National Park’s most impressive treasures is the Parashorea chinensis, a monumental tree reaching 70 meters in height with a diameter of 5 meters. This centuries-old tree symbolizes the resilience and majesty of nature. Though dead for years, its trunk remains a towering natural monument. Visitors can explore this tree during a 3-hour round-trip hike, which also includes a visit to the Son Cung Cave.

Yen Quang Lake Complex and Pho Ma Cave: Tranquil Beauty

The Yen Quang Lake Complex is made up of four large bodies of water, with a small island at the center, home to a temple. This natural site is a haven for waterfowl, and the surrounding forests and cliffs reflect beautifully on the lake’s surface. Nearby, Pho Ma Cave, with an entrance adorned by a stalactite shaped like a prince consort, adds an element of wonder to this peaceful setting. Yen Quang and Mac Lakes offer kayaking activities, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Ancient Terminalia Myriocarpa: A Monumental Tree

The Terminalia myriocarpa, reaching 45 meters in height with a diameter of 5 meters, impresses with its roots extending 20 meters across the ground. This giant, accessible after a hike through the forest, is surrounded by dense and diverse vegetation, including climbing species and a variety of wildlife, including rare birds and small mammals. This trail offers a complete immersion in the unique biodiversity of Cuc Phuong.

Ancient Dracontomelon Dao: The Centuries-Old Guardian

Standing at 45 meters, the Dracontomelon dao is another legendary giant of Cuc Phuong. Its roots stretch 20 meters and emerge from the trunk at 10 meters high, creating a stunning scene for nature lovers. On the way to this majestic tree, visitors can admire a variety of vines, epiphytes, and rich birdlife, adding to the mystical aura of this preserved forest.

Fossil of the Plate-toothed Reptile

Among Cuc Phuong’s paleontological discoveries, the fossil of a plate-toothed reptile, the first of its kind found in Southeast Asia, is particularly notable. This fossil includes 12 cylindrical vertebrae, 10 ribs, and other bone fragments, offering a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life. To view this unique specimen, visitors must take a steep trail through the forest, adding a touch of adventure to this valuable scientific discovery.

Ecotourism Development in Cuc Phuong

Cuc Phuong National Park has successfully implemented a model for ecotourism, focusing on environmental education and sustainable tourism practices. The park’s development not only conserves biodiversity but also educates visitors about the importance of protecting natural ecosystems.

How to get to Cuc Phuong National Park

From Ninh Binh

To reach Cuc Phuong National Park from Ninh Binh, you can follow a route connecting Trang An World Heritage Site and Bai Dinh Temple. From Ninh Binh, it's about 15 kilometers to Bai Dinh Temple, then take a 26-kilometer path to the park’s entrance.

From Hanoi

From Hanoi, follow National Road 1A to the Gian Khau junction, then turn onto National Road 12A towards Nho Quan. After 2 kilometers, turn left to enter the park. The park also offers a 35-seat bus service from Giap Bat Station in Hanoi, departing at 3 PM and returning at 9 AM the next day.

Tours in Cuc Phuong National Park: A Vietnamese Nature Adventure

Half-Day Excursion: Nature Immersion and Discovery

Explore the Cuc Phuong Museum, the Primate Conservation Center, the Turtle, Carnivore, and Pangolin centers, and visit the Ancient Man Cave. The trip also includes a chance to admire towering trees like the oak andTerminalia myriocarpa.

Prices:

Adults: 130,000 to 250,000 VND

Children: 50,000 to 110,000 VND

Full-Day Excursion: An Immersive Experience

This tour includes a visit to the Indochinese Primate Conservation Center, turtle preservation efforts, and the Son Cung Cave. A hike to the five oak trees completes this full-day experience.

Price:

Adults: 160,000 VND

Children: 50,000 VND

Nature Discovery Tour for Children

Designed for young adventurers, this tour combines exploration with educational activitieson conservation and species protection, concluding with dinner by Mac Lake.

Price:

Children: 710,000 VND

Accompanying Adults: 690,000 VND

Camping and Wildlife Observation: Dry Season Experience

Between September and December, campers can enjoy the park’s wildlife, with excellent opportunities to spot rare species in their natural habitats.

Night Excursion: The Magic of Fireflies

From 7 PM to 10 PM, discover Cuc Phuong's firefly-filled forest and rare nocturnal creatures like slow lorises, chevrotains, and deer.

Price:

Adults and Children over 10: 100,000 VND

Children under 10: 50,000 VND

Accommodation in Cuc Phuong National Park

The park offers a variety of accommodation options, including places near the entrance, Mac Lake, and the park center.

Entrance Area

Rooms range from 350,000 to 1 million VND per night, depending on the day of the week and holidays.

Mac Lake

Dormitory-style stilt houses and rooms for rent are available, with prices ranging from 400,000 to 800,000 VND.

Bong Center

Located 20 km from the entrance, with rooms between350,000 to 400,000 VND and dorms from 1.2 million to 1.4 million VND.

Accommodation Outside the Park

Nearby hotels include Cuc Phuong Hotel, Cuc Phuong Resort and Spa, and Wyndham Grand Vedana Ninh Binh, with prices ranging from 500,000 to 2 million VND per night.

Cuisine in Cuc Phuong National Park 

Enjoy local specialties such as mountain goat, Muong pork, and hill chicken at the park’s restaurants. All park accommodations have restaurants serving basic dishes, and visitors can also choose from nearby restaurants like Cuc Phuong, Cao Son, Quy Hiep, Vuon Bia Lau Nuong, and Thao Linh.

Practical Tips for trip to Cuc Phuong National Park in Ninh Binh

• Tickets can be purchased online at: https://dulichcucphuong.com.vn
• For hikes, wear appropriate light clothing, flat shoes, and bring insect protection.
• During the butterfly season in April, book your accommodation in advance.
• Bring insect repellent and basic first-aid supplies.
• For multi-day stays, bring binoculars, a whistle, and a flashlight.
• It’s recommended to note emergency service numbers upon registration.

Cuc Phuong: Leading National Park in Asia 2024

For the sixth consecutive year since 2019, Cuc Phuong National Park has been honored with the title of Leading National Park in Asia at the World Travel Awards. This prestigious award, presented in 2024, highlights the growing appeal of ecotourism, which is increasingly popular in Vietnam’s national parks and nature reserves. This recognition serves as a strong motivation for Vietnam’s forestry sector authorities, encouraging them to continue the development and multi-functional use of forests. It is also seen as a golden opportunity to promote the natural beauty and tourism potential of Vietnam on a global scale.

At the same ceremony, Ha Giang Province was recognized as the Cultural Destination of the Year in Asia, and Quang Nam Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism won the award for Leading Local Tourism Management Organization in Asia for 2024. Additionally, Hoi An won the title of Leading Urban Cultural Destination in Asia for the fifth time.

The World Travel Awards (WTA), created in 1993, are globally recognized as one of the most prestigious distinctions in the tourism industry, often compared to the "Oscars of Tourism." Held annually, these awards honor the most remarkable destinations, tourism management organizations, and high-quality travel service providers across various categories, including aviation, hospitality, resorts, travel agencies, and tourist destinations.

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