Experiences Of Traveling In Cuc Phuong National Park

1. Overview

Established in 1962, encompassing a vast expanse of 22,408 hectares across three provinces — Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa—Cuc Phuong National Park stands as Vietnam's inaugural and largest nature reserve. This park exemplifies a typical tropical rainforest, harboring a plethora of diverse and distinctive flora and fauna.

Cuc Phuong National Park

This ancient forest serves as the natural habitat for over 2000 plant species and 2600 animal species, comprising 2000 types of insects, 135 mammal species, 122 reptile and amphibian species, 65 fish species, and an impressive 336 bird species. Some of them are listed in the Vietnamese Red Data Book and by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Cuc Phuong is instrumental in the preservation of many endangered species, including Draco, spotted deer, golden monkey, bear, leopard, fox, horse, and the renowned black and white Douc langur. This truly makes this area a place that you must see in Ninh Binh - if you’d love to explore and to become one with nature.

2. Ideal Time to Explore

Butterfly season in Cuc Phuong

The optimal time to go there is from December to April, following the end of the rainy season. This period offers a respite from pesky creatures like mosquitoes and leeches. The weather is pleasant and the heavy rains have subsided. It’s advisable to avoid visiting during cold, rainy days due to the damp conditions and mosquito infestation. If your schedule allows, a weekend trip is ideal.

3. How to get there

From Hanoi to Ninh Binh, you have the option of traveling by motorbike, bus, or private car to get there. Taking a direct bus to the park from Hanoi's Giap Bat bus station takes approximately 3 hours, departing at 3 p.m. For an earlier arrival, an alternative is to catch a bus from Giap Bat station to Nho Quan and then take a taxi to the park entrance. Buses to Nho Quan operate at 8 a.m., 9 a.m., 12 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m., costing around 100,000 dong.

Travel to Ninh Binh by bus

The direct bus back to Hanoi departs from the park at 9 a.m. (identified by a red bus). If returning via Nho Quan, take a taxi from the park to the bus station and then catch a bus to Hanoi at 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 14:00, or 15:00.

An alternative route is from Ninh Binh, which has a well-connected bus station accessible from most cities in the area. Upon reaching Ninh Binh, you can opt for a taxi or rent a scooter to reach the park.

The scenic route takes you through lush jungles and picturesque rice fields. The 20km journey from the forest entrance to its heart is a beautiful drive through towering trees. If you arrive at Cuc Phuong in the afternoon, you’ll witness the sun’s rays piercing through the mist, creating a magical atmosphere. The forest comes alive with the sounds of birds returning to their nests and insects chirping in the undergrowth.

If you have your own transportation, upon reaching Ninh Binh City, follow the road to Bai Dinh Pagoda (15km) via the Trang An World Heritage site. After visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda, proceed to the park (26km) by taking the road behind Bai Dinh's parking area, then follow the prominent concrete road leading to the park.

>> Take a look at: Top 05 Best Ways To Travel From Hanoi To Ninh Binh

4. Must-Visit Spots

In Cuc Phuong National Park, there are numerous activities for children in the forest. You can join a Cuc Phuong exploration tour to learn about the park’s eco-tourism. Teach your children about nature and introduce them to the world of living organisms, including insects, plants, and wildflowers. A small picnic in the verdant surroundings will create lasting memories for the children. Cuc Phuong boasts several attractions:

Nguoi Xua Cave (also known as Dang Cave): This cave houses remnants of prehistoric human life and is a treasured part of Cuc Phuong’s heritage.

Nguoi Xua Cave

Con Moong Cave: Named after a large animal-shaped stone outside the cave (Con Moong means animal in the Muong language), this cave was once inhabited by ancient people and is now an important archaeological site recognized as a national monument.

Con Moong Cave

May Bac Peak: Standing at a height of 648m, the peak of May Bac Mountain offers panoramic views of the national park, Hoa Lu ancient capital, and Bai Dinh Pagoda. However, the steep ascent to the peak is recommended only for those in good physical condition.

Breathtaking view from May Bac Peak

Yen Quang Lake – Pho Ma Cave: A short 7km journey from Nho Quan, Ninh Binh Vietnam, towards the Tri Phuong bridge and then heading west will lead you to Yen Quang Lake. As you traverse through Thung La valley towards the limestone mountain, you’ll find the captivating Pho Ma Cave. This natural architectural marvel is adorned with countless intriguing stalactites.

Beauty of Yen Quang Lake

Ancient Trees: The Cuc Phuong forest is home to numerous ancient trees, including the towering Dang tree, which stands at 45m with a diameter of 5m, the thousand-year-old Cho Xanh, which has a circumference large enough for over 20 people to embrace, and the Sau tree, which stands at a towering height of 45 meters with a root system reaching 10 meters in height, it serves as an inviting destination for relaxation.

The ancient Tree "Sau"

Muong Villages: Cuc Phuong also serves as a habitat for the Muong community, known for their unique cultural elements such as stilt houses, terraced fields, and brocade weaving.

Muong Village

Primate Rescue Center: This center is dedicated to the preservation and care of numerous rare primate species. Visitors can not only appreciate the beauty of these primates but also gain insights into their species.

Endangered Animals at Primate Rescue Center

Conservation Centers: Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden: This area is dedicated to the cultivation and preservation of rare plant species from Cuc Phuong, Vietnam, and around the world. It is recognized as one of the three world-class botanical gardens as per the 1997 listing. The garden is easily accessible via a three-kilometer walk.

Way to Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden

All of the above are the best tourist places that you should not miss when traveling to Cuc Phuong. Besides, there are many interesting activities below worth engaging in:

5. Engaging activities

Forest Walks: Cuc Phuong offers a variety of walking trails in the forest, each with different themes and durations. Whether you prefer to explore independently or under the guidance of a tour guide, these trails promise an enriching and memorable experience. Popular routes include camping and overnight stays in the forest, and long walks to the Ngoc Son and Pu Luong conservation areas.

Trekking in Cuc Phuong

Community Ecotourism: The natural environment of Cuc Phuong National Park plays a crucial role in sustaining local communities. Participating in ecotourism activities not only contributes to the local economy but also supports conservation efforts in Cuc Phuong Forest. Staying in a Muong village for a night or two offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in indigenous cultures.

Ecotourism in Cuc Phuong

Wildlife Viewing: Weather permitting, the National Park organizes nighttime wildlife viewing programs, offering a chance to spot creatures like Black Squirrels, Flying squirrels, barking deer, lorisids, and some small carnivores.

Barking deers in Cuc Phuong

Bird Watching: Home to 308 identified species, including many rare ones like the red-collared woodpecker, Silver pheasant, Austen’s brown hornbill, Bar-bellied pitta, etc., Cuc Phuong is a haven for bird watchers. The best times for bird watching are early morning and evening.

Austen’s brown hornbill in Cuc Phuong

Forest Cycling: Cycling through the forest not only offers a sense of tranquility and a deep connection with nature but also increases your chances of encountering elusive wildlife in Cuc Phuong.

Cycling through Cuc Phuong

Kayaking: Cuc Phuong offers a range of recreational activities, including kayaking on Mac Lake and Yen Quang Lake.

Kayaking in Cuc Phuong

6. Relaxation and Entertainment Destination

Fireflies at night in Cuc Phuong

Immersing yourself in the forest overnight, you’ll find tranquility in the ancient woodland air, filled with the scent of damp earth, fresh grass, timber, and mist. As dawn breaks, the forest comes alive with the melodious chirping of birds, offering a truly enchanting experience. Cuc Phuong National Park features three distinct areas for accommodation, dining, and entertainment: the Garden Gate, the Lake area, and the Center area. You can select the most suitable accommodation based on your requirements.

7. Helpful Tips

In your Ninh Binh day trip, here’re some pieces of advice you should take a look at:

Firstly, it’s advisable to dress in sweaters and raincoats to protect against the cold and mist, as the forest tends to be chilly at night and in the early morning. Secondly, the best time to visit Cuc Phuong is during sunny days, once the rainy season has passed, as this will minimize encounters with mosquitoes and other insects. Next, given the abundance of insects in the forest, it’s recommended to carry insect repellent, especially if you’re traveling with young children. Finally, the food options in the forest are somewhat limited, so it’s a good idea to pack enough food to last for 1.5 days, particularly if you’re on a trip with young children.

The diverse and abundant ecosystem positions Cuc Phuong as a must-visit ecological destination for tourists who appreciate immersing themselves in the wonders of the wild.

Experiences Of Traveling In Cuc Phuong National Park

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