Exploring Vietnam’s National Parks: From Cuc Phuong to Cat Ba
Vietnam is one of the most famous spots among tourists. With beautiful natural landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich history, the country welcomes many every year, more than 17 million within the 10 months of 2025.
However, it is mostly the natural wonders of the country that attract most tourists. Vietnam has a total of 34 national parks, and all of them offer something different to the visitors. However, exploring all of the national parks isn’t possible in one trip.
This is why it is important to have a clear idea of all the national parks that you wish to visit during your visit to the country. This way, you get to guarantee a stress-free experience when traveling.
Top National Parks of Vietnam
If we start to list down all the national parks of Vietnam, then there’s a chance that you will get overwhelmed regarding which ones to visit. So, here are a few of the best ones that you can make a part of your travel itinerary.
Cuc Phuong National Park
This national park was established in 1962 and is often considered one of the best in the country. The park is located in one of the most protected areas in Vietnam, 3 hours south of Hanoi.
Taking up a space of 222 square kilometers, Cuc Phuong National Park is home to more than 300 bird species, 135 species of mammal, 122 species of reptile, 2000 plant species, and more.
The best way to get a memorable experience here is to go on a hike. You can take a short walk on a 220-step trail, which will take you to the Cave of Prehistoric Man. This place holds a lot of importance in Vietnam’s history, as this is the place where archaeologists discovered human graves and other things that date back 7500 years. Otherwise, you can also go for a 5-hour hike the Muong village of Kanh and stay there overnight.
Ba Be National Park
This national park is considered the best for anyone who enjoys trekking. To reach this place, you will have to take a detour off the regular Vietnam tourist trail and reach this national park that is located in the far north of the country.
The Ba Be National Park is a landscape that combines waterfalls, caves, and lakes. There are over 1268 different plants and hundreds of different animal and bird species that make this place a natural wonder.
If you wish to have the best experience during your visit to Ba Be National Park, then you must go for kayaking and boat trips. Other than that, the mountain-biking excursions are also ones to die for. Most important of all, you must book your accommodation at the local homestay of the Tay ethnic minorities. Living in their rustic homestay will be perfect to get a relaxing and recharging experience.
Cat Ba National Park
Cat Ba National Park is home to 4,000 species of animals, which makes this place one of the favourite spots for animal lovers. The list of animals here includes over 30 mammal species, including most of the world’s 65 remaining golden-headed langurs, which are considered the most endangered primate species.
Apart from the animals, the national park is also famous for some great hiking trails. Depending on the type of hiker you are, you can choose between either a short and strenuous hike to the top of Ngu Lam Peak for its dramatic views or a challenging 9 km hiking trail through the park and reach the village of Viet Hai.
However, if you are choosing the latter, then we would suggest that you take the help of a guide for the best experience. There are many options for lunch and homestay in Viet Hai, so you wouldn’t have anything challenging your convenience.
Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Pu Luong Nature Reserve is one of the most famous places in the country for its terraced rice fields. The field is famous among tourists from different parts of the world for its beauty and the different things that are a testament to local ethnic communities.
Pu Luong is very similar to Sapa; however, it is a little more peaceful than the latter. Pu Luong is located at a comparatively lower altitude and has a softer trail, so it is suitable for individuals with different hiking plans.
It is best to visit Pu Luong in late summer, that is between August and September. This time of the year helps you see the national reserve in full and colourful. Otherwise, you can also visit during the watering period of July and February, when the place transforms into mirror-like surfaces that reflect the sky and mountains.
Pro tip: Pick the route from Don Village to Eo Ken Village or the Ban Hieu Waterfall Trek for an easy experience. Otherwise, if you are up for a challenge, then pick Uoi Village to Lan Village or trek to Pu Luong Peak.
Bach Ma National Park
Originally established by the French as a cool mountain retreat for relaxation and to escape the heat, Bach Ma National Park now sits as a place where hikers love to spend time. The area has a cool climate, scenic beauty, and elevation, which make it the perfect hill station.
However, the development was left incomplete, and once the French left, it automatically became abandoned. Today, the area is protected as a national park where many travel from different parts of the world.
A hike to the summit is surrounded by glimpses of many original French buildings, which have now been reclaimed by nature. Plus, there is also the Five Lakes Trail that is perfect for a scenic hike and takes you past 5 interconnected pristine pools and cascades.
How to Overcome The Logistical Challenges of Vietnam National Parks
Exploring the hiking trails of the national parks of Vietnam offers a great experience. However, there are a few things that might introduce a few logistical challenges on the way. This is why it is best to keep in mind a few things when exploring the place. Here are a few things that you should remember.
Planning Your Trip in Advance
Keeping everything for the last minute might bring in a few challenges during the trip. So, it is best for you to book accommodations, transportation, and tours well ahead of time. This is more important if you are planning to explore the popular or remote parks in Vietnam.
Other than that, you must also get your tourist visa approved in advance, at least 2 weeks. This way, it will become easier for you to tackle any last-minute issues.
Research Park Rules
Each national park has its own rules. From access points to management styles, there are many ways in which each national park differs from the others. This is why it is best to check the official website or contact the park authorities before you start your exploration. This will help you get the specific information necessary for having the best experience.
On top of that, you can also try checking reviews and travel blogs online to understand what you should keep in mind.
Get Necessary Permits
Most of the national parks of Vietnam require you to get an entrance permit. Some national parks will involve you getting a pre-booked permit that is available through authorized tour operators. Other than that, there are also a few other parks that require you to obtain a permit from the national park headquarters.
Most important of all, there might be a few highly restricted areas, and there might not be any permits for these areas available to the public. So, you will have to reach out to a tour operator for that.
Familiarise Yourself with the Culture
Once you visit the national parks, you should be prepared to follow the park regulations and cultural customs. There might be a few places that will be restricted or require fees. On top of that, you must be mindful of the local environment and community. This shows your respect for the country.
Excited for Your Next Adventure in the Vietnam National Parks?
The national parks of Vietnam offer the best experience to anyone who loves nature. From Cuc Phuong National Park to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, each offers something different to tourists. So, remember to have a plan, understand what you are planning for, and learn the ways to overcome challenges. Other than that, you must also get your tourist visa in time and remember to stay at a local homestay for the best experience.