Cuc Phuong National Park: Ultimate Travel Guide

Cuc Phuong National Park, nestled in the heart of Ninh Binh, is Vietnam’s oldest national park and a natural treasure waiting to be discovered. Known for its thousand-year-old trees, mysterious caves, and endangered species, this lush forest is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a place steeped in prehistoric stories and ecological wonder. Whether you’re an adventurer, a wildlife lover, or simply in need of tranquility, Cuc Phuong National Park promises an unforgettable escape into Vietnam’s ancient wilderness.

Where is Cuc Phuong National Park and Why is It Worth Visiting?

Located in the Ninh Binh province’s deep valleys, southwest 120km from Hanoi, is Cuc Phuong National Park. It is the pride of Vietnam for being the first national park that takes pride in an immense role in the history of conservation and safeguarding biodiversity in the country. This place hosts some primitive primates, some gigantic ancient trees, and prehistoric caves; people here give visitors, probably, their only opportunity to walk through such old and rich forests of Vietnam. Coming to Cuc Phuong is not sightseeing; it is a trip to the deepest roots of nature.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Entrance Fees (as of 2025):

Adults: 60,000 VND/person
Students: 20,000 VND/person
Children: 10,000 VND/person
Bicycle rental: 30,000 VND
Electric car service (optional): starting from 100,000 VND

What Awaits Inside Cuc Phuong National Park?

2.1. The Ethnobotanical Museum – A Glimpse into Vietnam’s Rich Forest History

The Ancient Cave is more like a time capsule, an opportunity to step back in time and try to imagine the lives of the humans who were here long before us. This fascinating corner of Cuc Phuong National Park was once a shelter to prehistoric people, and you can still see very ‘’modern’’ remnants of their existence.

2.2. May Bac Peak – Reach for the Clouds atop the Forest’s Highest Point

If you want the challenge, May Bac Peak is the site for you. It would be quite challenging to hike to the top, but the views make it very rewarding. At this summit, one gets a breathtaking view of green expansive land below a thick mist usually covers it. Such a panaromic view actually reminds people of the reasons for popularity of Cuc Phuong National Park among trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

2.3. Thousand-Year-Old Tree: A Timeless Sentinel in the Heart of the Forest

Within the thick woods of Cuc Phuong National Park lies one of its most well-known features—the Thousand-Year-Old Tree. Growing very tall above the floor of the forest, with a large trunk and roots spreading out, this old tree is thought to be over a thousand years old. It is not just a marvel of nature but also a sign of strength, as it has for many years held up against storms, time, and change.

To reach the Thousand-Year-Old Tree, hikers take a 3-kilometer walk through the woods under tall canopies, overgrown with lush bushes, and alive with the sounds of nature. This path would, in fact, be the showstopper of any trek at Cuc Phuong National Park, as it offers peeks at strange flora where one can be lucky enough to find fowls and bugs just by walking.

Thousand-Year-Old Tree cuc phuong national park

2.4. Rescue and Conservation Centers – where Endangered Species Find Hope

The Cuc Phuong National Park’s Endangered Primate Rescue Center works to save some several langur and gibbon species, which are the rarest in Vietnam. A visit to the center lets one have an idea of the endless efforts helping save these awesome animals from disappearing forever.

2.4.1. Endangered Primate Rescue Center – A Safe Haven for Langurs, Gibbons, and More

The Endangered Primate Rescue Center indeed does concern those primate species that are nearing the edge of existence in Vietnam, for instance, langurs and gibbons. A visit to this center will give you a fair idea of the Herculean endeavor being made for saving these lovely creatures from slipping into oblivion.

2.4.2. Turtle Conservation Center – Sheltering Vietnam’s Rarest Shelled Species

You will see all the awesome things that Vietnam is doing to secure its unique turtle species – most of which are critically endangered. It’s pretty cool to see the work happening to make sure these ancient critters don’t just fade out.

2.4.3. Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden – A Forest Within a Forest

Cuc Phuong Botanical Garden is an aesthetic atrocity of native plants, allowing one to channel a retreat to the serenity within the park itself. You can lose yourself here amid Vietnam’s plant life and really hammer in just how vital plants are for the sustainability of the forest ecosystem.

2.4.5. May Waterfall

May Waterfall, also known as Cuc Phuong National Park Waterfall, offers a serene escape for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a hint of rural charm. Nestled within the renowned ancient forests of Cuc Phuong National Park, this waterfall adds a mystical water element to the lush surroundings. Its gentle streams, verdant landscapes, and rich cultural backdrop make it an emerging destination for eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Most Exciting Things to Do in Cuc Phuong National Park

3.1. Hike Deep into the Heart of the Ancient Jungle

Exploring on foot is one of the best ways to take in Cuc Phuong National Park. It caters to just about everyone—seasoned trekkers, first-timers. The trails come in different levels of difficulty, so you can opt for either an easy amble or embark on a whole-day adventure. Along the way, you’ll bump into astonishing fauna, verdant sceneries, and hear the hushed rustle of the forest.

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3.2. Go Wildlife Watching – Night Safaris and Rare Animal Encounters

Cuc Phuong National Park is full of life and watching wildlife is one of the main attractions in the park. Every rustle in the leaves or animal call from far off becomes part of a living orchestra.

Get to know more about Cuc Phuong National Park Animals

3.3. Butterfly Hunting (with Your Camera!) – A Seasonal Spectacle

One of the great sights in Cuc Phuong during spring is the fluttering paradise for butterfly lovers. Tens of thousands of butterflies take to the wing, and the photo opportunities are just mind-blowing-it has to be a vision, you think you are dreaming.

Butterfly Hunting cuc phuong national park

3.4. Camp Under a Canopy of Stars

In the forest, the ultimate experience is to spend a night star camping. Evening time in Cuc Phuong National Park sounds of the forest along with serenity make a memory never to forget.

3.5. Kayaking Through Hidden Forest Waterways

Kayaking in Cuc Phuong is an extremely calm and close-to-nature kind of affair. You would paddle your way through hidden rivers and lakes of the park, with no sounds except the soft splash of your paddle, and whispers of wind passing by the trees.

Best Time to Go – When Nature Comes Alive
Late April to early May: Butterfly season magic
Dry season (Dec–April): Best for trekking and wildlife viewing
Avoiding the rainy season: Trails can get slippery, and the weather can be unpredictable

Best Way to Get to Cuc Phuong National Park – Make the Most of Your Journey

5.1. Travel by Local Bus – Affordable but Adventurous

An alternative cheap and moderately adventurous way is to take the local bus; it certainly allows you to get a taste of the local cultures and to rub shoulders with fellow travelers.

5.2. Self-Drive Car Rentals for Flexible Forest Timing

Renting a car offers more flexibility. So, you can amble through the park at your leisure and stop whenever something catches your eye.

5.3. Motorbike Rides for Thrill-Seekers

For the adventurous Cuc Phuong-bound traveler, there’s nothing quite like renting a motorbike to lead you on a scenic journey through the beautiful countryside of Vietnam

5.4. Join a Guided Tour – Worry-Free Travel with Curated Experiences

For a complete, smooth experience, booking a guided tour would be the best option. You’ll have expert guides, comfortable transport, and pre-prepared activities that will help you get the most out of your visit. Great for first-time visitors or time-pressed travelers, guided tours allow a closer insight into Cuc Phuong’s marvels.