Cuc Phuong National Park: Vietnam’s Oldest and Most Celebrated Nature Reserve
Hidden in Ninh Binh’s lush countryside, Cuc Phuong National Park is not just Vietnam’s first national park—it’s a living museum of biodiversity and a sanctuary for endangered species. Since its establishment in 1962, it has offered travelers and researchers an immersive experience in one of Southeast Asia’s most biologically rich areas.
Whether you're trekking through misty trails, watching fireflies glow in the twilight, or marveling at century-old trees, Cuc Phuong offers an unforgettable journey into Vietnam’s wild side.
Asia’s Best National Park—Six Years in a Row
Cuc Phuong was officially established on July 7, 1962, making it the first national park in Vietnam. It spans across 22,408 hectares in Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa provinces. In 2024, the park once again earned the Best National Park in Asia title at the World Travel Awards, marking its sixth consecutive win.
Biodiversity of Cuc Phuong: A Living Sanctuary
Flora Highlights
The park features over 2,000 species of plants, including towering giants like:
- Terminalia myriocarpa (Chò xanh)
- Cinnamomum balansae (Vù hương)
- Parashorea chinensis (Chò chỉ)
Fauna Treasures
Cuc Phuong is home to:
- 135 mammal species, including clouded leopards and black bears
- 336 bird species
- 122 reptiles and amphibians
- Nearly 2,000 insects
Most notably, it's the only place in the world where you can spot the Delacour’s langur, an extremely rare primate endemic to Vietnam.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (Sept–Dec): Ideal for trekking and camping.
- Butterfly Season (Apr–May): Thousands of butterflies and fireflies create a magical ambiance.
Top Attractions in Cuc Phuong National Park
1. Endangered Primate Rescue Center (EPRC)
This world-class center protects and rehabilitates 15 primate species and plays a global role in captive breeding and reintroduction programs.
2. Cuc Phuong Museum
Home to over 12,000 botanical specimens and prehistoric fossils including a 250-million-year-old reptile.
3. Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden
This internationally recognized garden offers a serene 3km walking path and hosts rare plant collections.
4. Mai Bac Peak
Enjoy panoramic views of Cuc Phuong and Bai Dinh Pagoda from this 648-meter peak after a 3-hour round-trip hike.
5. Ancient Man Cave
Visit this cave featuring stalactites and prehistoric remains, accessible via a short forest trail.
6. Thousand-Year-Old Parashorea Chinensis
A 70-meter-tall natural wonder with a 5-meter diameter, reachable by a 3-hour hike.
7. Yen Quang Lake & Pho Ma Cave
Perfect for kayaking and bird-watching, this tranquil area is known for its peaceful scenery and unique cave formations.
8. Ancient Terminalia Myriocarpa
This giant tree with expansive roots offers a striking glimpse into the park’s botanical diversity.
9. Ancient Dracontomelon Dao
Another forest titan, this 45-meter tree captivates with its unusual root structure and surrounding biodiversity.
10. Fossil of the Plate-toothed Reptile
This Southeast Asia-exclusive fossil includes ribs, vertebrae, and bone fragments—accessible via a steep trail.
Sustainable Ecotourism Model
Cuc Phuong is a national model for responsible travel with eco-lodges, guided treks, and wildlife education programs. It balances tourism with conservation.
How to Get There
- From Ninh Binh: Travel via Bai Dinh Temple, then follow the 26km road to the park.
- From Hanoi: Take National Road 1A to Gian Khau junction, then follow Road 12A. A bus departs daily at 3 PM from Giap Bat Station.
Local Cuisine
Try local favorites like grilled goat, Muong pork, and hill chicken. Dining options include Cuc Phuong Restaurant, Cao Son, Quy Hiep, and Thao Linh.
Visitor Tips
- Buy tickets online: dulichcucphuong.com.vn
- Wear light clothing, sturdy shoes, and bring insect repellent
- Book early for April’s butterfly season
- Bring binoculars, flashlight, and a whistle for long treks
- Keep emergency numbers on hand
Recognition at the 2024 World Travel Awards
Cuc Phuong was honored as Asia’s Leading National Park for the sixth consecutive time in 2024. Other winners included Ha Giang (Cultural Destination of the Year), Quang Nam (Best Tourism Management), and Hoi An (Urban Cultural Destination of the Year).
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We hope this information about Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s first and most celebrated nature reserve, enhances your journey and helps you create unforgettable memories during your authentic experience in Vietnam. For an unforgettable adventure, contact World Mate Travel, your trusted Vietnam travel agency!
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