Cuc Phuong National Park: Vietnam’s Oldest Rainforest Gem

Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam’s oldest national park, recognized for its biodiversity, rainforest, and famous historical landmarks. Just a few hours from Hanoi, it is an ideal getaway for anyone seeking nature, hiking, and wildlife experiences.

Introduction To Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park, located between the provinces of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa, is Vietnam’s first national park and one of the most important national parks anywhere. Full of biodiversity, ancient tropical rainforests also mean that there is a lot of rare wildlife. This protected area is a biodiversity hotspot, rich in flora and fauna.

Every year, thousands of visitors come to Cuc Phuong not only to see and walk among the majestic trees and tranquil scenery, but also to take eco-tours, go trekking, camp overnight, or take in the cultural history of the forest. For the last five years, Cuc Phuong has been voted Asia’s Leading National Park (2019-2023). For sure, you can get in touch with nature in Cuc Phuong, but you can also have fun exploring and experiencing the wild in Vietnam.

History Of Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park occupies an important place in Vietnam’s conservation history. Its designation as a forest reserve occurred in 1960. Just 2 years later, on 7th July 1962, it was designated as a protected area by the government under Decision 72/TTg, becoming the first protected area in Vietnam and covering an area of 20,000 hectares.

Cuc Phuong was elevated to the status of national park in 1966 under Decision 18/QD-LN on 21st December, from a forest station. This was an important step in Vietnam’s environmental protection system and paved the way for the establishment of future nature reserves in Vietnam.

Top 4 Iconic Attractions in Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is not only the first national park in Vietnam, but also a gem of natural and environmental discovery. Whether you are searching for ancient forests, rare wildlife, or just need a break in nature, the park provides a variety of recreational opportunities.

Visitor Center

This is usually the first stop for visitors. The visitor center can provide useful information, accommodation opportunities, guided tours, and cultural experiences.

Wildlife Conservation Areas

Cuc Phuong includes sites of active wildlife rescue and conservation, including Grassroots Wildlife Conservation, Endangered Primate Rescue Center, Turtle Conservation Center, and Small Carnivore Conservation Program. The wildlife conservation areas attempt to educate the public about Vietnam’s rare and endangered wildlife and promote conservation.

Natural and Cultural Landmarks

The park also has a number of iconic sites; for example, Dong Nguoi Xua (Ancient Cave), where evidence of prehistoric man was found, a legendary thousand-year-old Cho Xanh tree, and Thac Bac (Silver Cloud Waterfall). These natural features can be appreciated along with cultural and historical significance.

Biodiversity Research Areas

Protected areas in the park contribute to ongoing dedicated scientific research and biodiversity projects. These areas highlight the unique ecological value of Cuc Phuong and frequently draw students, conservationists, and researchers from across the globe to learn from Cuc Phuong’s biodiversity.

6 Cultural Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss

A trip to Cuc Phuong National Park is not only a gateway to nature, but it is also a portal to history, culture, and biodiversity in one amazing location. Here are six advanced cultural experiences you won’t want to miss on your visit.

Explore The Cuc Phuong Museum

The Cuc Phuong Museum is a wealth of information for nature lovers and academics alike. The museum contains more than 50 archaeological objects, including fossils, such as the spiny, blade-toothed reptile fossil from 230-250 million years ago.

Also, the facility offers more than 12,000 plant specimens, more than 2,900 insect samples, and over 200 specimens of animals, all serve as an engaging introduction to Vietnam’s natural history.

The museum is a special place for students, researchers, and travelers who wish to enhance their understanding of the biodiversity within the magnificent Cuc Phuong Park.

Discover The Botanical Garden

As one of the first botanical gardens in Vietnam, and recognized around the world, the Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden is important for plant conservation and research. So, the purpose of this area is to gather and propagate rare and endangered plant species indigenous to Vietnam and abroad.

The 3km trail introduces you to a host of unique and interesting medicinal plants. A great opportunity to absorb nature, science, and pure relaxation.

Climb May Bac Peak

May Bac Peak is the highest summit in Cuc Phuong National Park at 648 meters above sea level. The adventure starts with a 3km journey from the centre of the park and a moderately challenging trek through grassy, leafy terrain.

At the top, you are rewarded with incredible views of the entire park and ancient Hoa Lu and Bai Dinh Pagoda in the distance. Bring your best hiking boots and consider engaging a local guide; the trail is rocky and steep in places.

Explore The Ancient Man Cave

Called “Dong Nguoi Xua,” this mysterious cave is situated about 4 kilometers from the entrance of the park. It was once the home of prehistoric humans. Archaeological discoveries have included burial and tool sites, revealing a glimpse into the lives of early Southeast Asians.

In addition to its cultural significance, the cave’s stalactites also whistle like gongs when tapped softly. It is only a minute’s hike away from the main trail, but be sure to go during the day!

See Yen Quang Lake And Pho Ma Cave

Yen Quang Lake is a serene lake nestled between karst cliffs. Take a kayak or paddle yourself and the family on the lake. When the water is calm, the reflections of the forest and cliffs are stunning, so bring your camera.

Pho Ma Cave is nearby and is also worth visiting for the limestone formations. You’ll see what appears to be the shape of a royal figure carved out of stone as well. This area is great if you want to paddle, bird watch, or just enjoy the quiet! There is so much to “see” as a hidden area of the park!

Trek To The Ancient Trees

Cuc Phuong is well known for its legendary trees, including the Thousand-Year-Old Cho Xanh Tree, the ancient Dang Tree, and the grand Sau Tree. These forest giants grow to heights of 45-70 meters, while their roots pipe outwards beyond understanding, and the stories these trees unfold span centuries.

The hike to these trees takes you on a journey into old-growth forest, so you may encounter rare vines, orchids, and, if you are lucky, some endangered birds or langurs. It is more likely a spiritual as well as humbling journey that reemphasizes the will of nature and its unending endurance.

Entrance Fee

Visitors to Cuc Phuong National Park must purchase an entrance ticket. Ticket prices are based on age and category of ticket purchasers:

Note: The ticket prices above are for entry into the park only; they do not include any other services, including transportation, boat rentals, food, or tour guiding. Students wanting to get a discount must bring a valid student ID.

Best Time To Visit Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park has a different kind of beauty in every season, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences you’re looking for. Here are some practical recommendations about the weather in Ninh Binh, and a good time for your trip to the park:

• From late April to early May, the park is full of butterflies, with thousands of colorful butterflies fluttering throughout the forest. This is regarded as one of the most beautiful and active times to explore the park since the weather is cool, dry, and ideal for trekking.

• Spring (February-April) is another great time to visit since the forest is vibrant and green, temperatures are moderate, and you’ll likely encounter wildlife, such as squirrels and pheasants, while you hike. Summer (June to August) will be hot. However, Cuc Phuong will provide a cool location with trails under mature trees, along with the natural, cooler forest air if you’re trying to avoid the hot city temps.
• Autumn (August-October) is a calmer time for weather by reducing crowds, which is ideal for camping and nature photography. You can capture some beautiful pictures of endangered plants and animals here!

Note: Winter months (November to January) are better avoided, as the forest is damp and chilly, plus parts of the park may be soft or unsafe during the winter months.

How To Get To Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is approximately 130 km from Hanoi, and usually takes between 2.5 and 3 hours to reach. You can choose to go by private car, motorbike, or public transport.

By motorbike

If you are driving or riding a motorbike, one of the easiest ways is to take the CT01 highway, take National road 1A from Phu Ly to Provincial road DT477, which goes south to Cuc Phuong National Park. Another scenic alternative route is via the Ho Chi Minh Highway.

From Ninh Binh city, to get to Cuc Phuong, you will go by Trang An and Bai Dinh Pagoda, which are about 15 km before Cuc Phuong. After passing Bai Dinh Pagoda, you take the road behind Bai Dinh’s parking area and drive for around 25 km to the park entrance. This road is nice, wide, and not heavily trafficked, which has made for pleasant and easy driving.

By public transport

For travel via public transport, there is a 35-seat bus operated by the park, which leaves daily from Giap Bat Bus Station in Hanoi to Cuc Phuong National Park at 3:00 PM, and returns from Cuc Phuong to Hanoi at 9:00 AM.

Other buses regularly take passengers to Nho Quan District from My Dinh bus station and Giap Bat bus station, where you can take a taxi or motorbike taxi, or a local bus to the park.

Things to Know Before Traveling to Cuc Phuong National Park

Before heading off on your expedition to Cuc Phuong National Park, it is always good to be as prepared as possible for the natural environment. Here are just a few helpful tips to make sure your journey will be safe, as well as satisfying:

• Wear light-weight breathable clothes, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants will help prevent leech and insect bites.
• Wear solid footwear with a flat sole that is good and solid for trekking around in a forest.
• Bring insect repellent spray and a basic first-aid kit.
• If you stay overnight or you will be exploring for several days, pack a basic flashlight, a whistle, a pair of binoculars (for birdwatching), and any personal gear you may require.
• The park attracts many people during the butterfly season in April, so make sure to book accommodation first if you are not camping.
• When you check in, ask for the emergency contact number in case of any unexpected issues.

Final Thoughts: Is Cuc Phuong National Park Worth Visiting?

If you love nature and adventure, Cuc Phuong National Park is certainly a place to visit for you! Consisting of ancient forests, unique wildlife, and a lot of historic sightseeing, it’s a great option if you want to experience life beyond the city to escape to hustle and bustle. Are you ready to take a trip with Seni World and enjoy Vietnam to the fullest now?