Explore Vietnam’s Best National Parks

You can’t visit Vietnam without going a little wild. Though its two powerhouse cities – Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City – draw plaudits for their awe-striking museums and enlightening historical monuments, the country truly sparkles when you step into one of its national parks.

These vast green spaces (there are 33 of them in total) are home to gargantuan caves, dramatic limestone mountains, golden coastlines, and dense thickets of jungle where gibbons dangle from vines and the promise of adventure lurks behind every mangrove tree. Here’s our pick of the best national parks to visit in Vietnam.

Cat Tien National Park is the Best Park for Bird-Watchers

One of the outstanding natural treasures of southern Vietnam, the 72,000-hectare Cat Tien National Park comprises an amazingly biodiverse region of lowland tropical rainforest, while hiking, mountain-biking, and bird-watching here are among the best in the country.

Bear in mind that visitors rarely see the park’s larger animals (like elephants and leopards), which live deep in the jungle; however, you have a good chance of spotting primates such as pygmy lorises and langurs, as well as gibbons (which are the focus of early-morning guided tours). Birdlife includes rare species such as the orange-necked partridge and Siamese fireback. Cat Tien tends to get busy during weekends and public holidays; thus, visiting during the week for a more serene experience is recommended.

Explore Underground at Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

With jagged hills shrouded in rainforest and mountain rivers coursing through impressive ravines, the Phong Nha-Ke Bang region is one of Vietnam’s most spectacular national parks.

For those fortunate enough, experiencing the cathedral-like chambers of Hang Son Doong, one of the world’s largest caves, on a four-day expedition is possible. More affordable multi-day tours include other caves for a fraction of the cost, such as Hang En, which boasts its own beach.

Cuc Phuong National Park is a Top Place to Go Hiking

Established in 1962, this national park, located three hours south of Hanoi, is one of Vietnam’s most important protected areas. Though wildlife has suffered a precipitous decline in Vietnam in recent decades, the park’s 222 sq km (86 sq mile) of primary tropical forest remains home to an amazing variety of animal and plant life, including 336 species of birds, 135 species of mammals, and over 2000 plant species.

Hiking is the name of the game here; short walks include a 220-step trail up to the Cave of Prehistoric Man, where human graves and tools dating back 7500 years were found. For the more adventurous, a strenuous 15km (9 mile, approximately five-hour) hike to Kanh, a Muong village, is available, where you can stay overnight with local families.

Phu Quoc National Park Features Stunning Beaches

Despite ongoing development on the island, nearly three-quarters of Phu Quoc is forested, and the trees and adjoining marine ecosystem have official protection as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve.

Arguably the biggest draw here are the park’s picturesque beaches, ranking among the best beaches in Vietnam, where visitors can laze on golden sands or snorkel above stunning coral reefs. However, there are also pagodas, temples, and waterfalls to explore, all entangled in the thick jungle. Therefore, the best way to discover this rich environment is by motorbike or mountain bike.

Take an Overnight Cruise Around Bai Tu Long National Park

The spectacular islands of Bai Tu Long Bay form Bai Tu Long National Park, a protected area that is utterly beautiful yet manages to fly somewhat under the radar, remaining far quieter compared to its glamorous neighbor to the south.

The best way to experience the full limestone-scattered seascape is on an overnight cruise, allowing you to sunbathe on one of the island beaches, kayak in calm blue waters, or simply relax on deck with a cold drink while watching the sun slip beneath the bay.

Trekking and Biking in Ba Be National Park for Adventurous Visitors

Detour off the regular tourist trail in Ba Be National Park. Located in the far north of the country, it’s an essential destination for those seeking adventure, featuring towering limestone mountains, plunging valleys, and evergreen forests.

With waterfalls, caves, and lakes, this landscape sustains over 550 different plants and hundreds of bird and animal species. Therefore, exploring Ba Be’s natural spectacle by boat or through trekking excursions is highly recommended, followed by a relaxing stay in rustic homestays of the local Tay ethnic minority.

Short Hikes in Cat Ba National Park Lead to Dramatic Jungle Views

Cat Ba Island’s beautiful national park is home to 32 species of mammals, including the critically endangered golden-headed langurs. The park boasts several good hiking trails, including a short but strenuous hike to Ngu Lam peak, which offers striking views over the surrounding jungle.

Furthermore, a challenging 9km (5.5 mile) trail through the park to the village of Viet Hai, best done with a guide, provides additional hiking opportunities. Local homestays offer lunch and memorable experiences in the village.

Bach Ma National Park is Full of Wildlife

This national park reaches a peak of 1450m (4757ft) at Bach Ma mountain, only 18km (11 miles) from the coast. The cool climate attracted the French, who built over a hundred villas here.

Today, the park stretches from the coast to the Annamite mountain range at the Laos border, making it easily explored as a day trip from popular tourist towns like Hue or Danang. An impressive 1400 species of plants, including rare ferns and orchids, have been discovered here, representing a significant portion of Vietnam’s flora.

Wildlife abounds, with 132 kinds of mammals and numerous bird species. Hiking to scenic viewpoints and swimming in waterfalls are also highlights of this beautiful park. However, be cautious of unexploded ordnance still present, so it’s vital to stick to the designated trails.