May Waterfall in Cuc Phuong National Park

The Cuc Phuong National Park is famous for its old forests, and May Waterfall brings a misty water aspect to it. Its quiet streams, green landscapes around, and deep culture have put it up as a rising place for eco-tourists and nature lovers.

1. How to get May to Waterfall

   
   

If starting from Hanoi, one can ride a motorbike or go by car following National Highway 1A, and then take provincial roads to Thach Thanh district (around 3.5 to 4 hours).

On the other hand, there are public buses as well as mini buses from Hanoi up to Thanh Hoa or Ninh Binh from where local transfers can bring you closer to the waterfall.

More convenient to have a guided day trip booked to Cuc Phuong National Park Waterfall for first-timers.

👉 Check out our tour packages: Ninh Binh Tour 2 days

2. Where is May Waterfall located?

   
   

May Waterfall is situated in the Thanh Hoa province, close to the Ninh Binh border, along the western edge of Cuc Phuong National Park. This makes it a perfect destination en route to explore more of Western Cuc Phuong and the other destinations along North Vietnam’s ecotourism trail.

The beauty of May Waterfall further enhances the lush natural charm of Cuc Phuong National Park. It is located approximately 130 kilometers from Hanoi and just a short drive from Tam Coc and Trang An.The area is part of a growing green corridor that connects conservation to community-based tourism.

3. The Cascades: The Beauty of May Waterfall in Cuc Phuong National Park

   
   

May Waterfall is situated in the quiet woods of Cuc Phuong. It runs smoothly over the wide, flat rocks with the surrounding lush green plants. Its flow appears very calm and one would feel that it is asking the visitors to just lie back, take a deep breath, and enjoy the calmness. To many nature lovers, this place gives them not just something to look at but a calm retreat for the soul: a place where time slips by slowly and thoughts may settle into stillness.

The water falls over nine limestone steps more naturally called the “nine steps of love” creating a romantic and wonderous feeling. Between each of its sections, it makes one pure note that is contented with bird song and the noises of the forest. The finest vapors which arise in the whirlpool spread onto your skin and cool you off, whereas by your nose you are going to smell the scent of wet dust mixed up with moss. It is a sensory experience that grounds visitors to the inevitable force of nature’s ambushed beauty.

Surrounding cliffs covered with deep green layers of foliage curve gently around the falls like an amphitheater of trees. It feels sheltered yet open, perfect for those who would look to be with themselves while connecting with the surrounding nature. Sitting still and listening to the falls or gazing through the mist to the dance of light there, May Waterfall provides the kind of tranquility that remains with you long after you've left — quiet highlight to any journey ‘into Cuc Phuong National Park.

4. Tranquil Activities and Indigenous Culture at May Waterfall

   
   

Trekking through serene woodlands

Take a soft walk through the calm hardwoods that wrap May Waterfall. This will allow you to walk along shaded footpaths with the cool canopy overhead, and renew your acquaintance with nature. The trail is calm and serene, taking you further into the interior of the woods, taking on a feeling of meditation with each step, and each moment is filled with the calming whispers of the trees.

It’s much more than a simple hike is an opportunity to find that inner peace and calm. Ideal for people who are tense up due to work or exams.

Refreshing natural pool 

Just at the foot of the fall, there are nice crystal-clear natural pools where the spring water gathers and one just wants to stay there and drink it all in. You can have a body-wash in this natural, freshly cool spring water to get chilled, or just drink it; it’s pretty refreshing when the day’s been hot. The soft murmur of the water along with the calm surroundings causes it to be an ideal spot to relax, giving travelers an opportunity to avail themselves of the cool comfort of nature while being subjected to the sight of the great cascade.

Many people come as visitors to this silent place, sit by the side of the rivulet, and feel the cool waters take away all their heat and all their stress from all their days.

Cultural exploration in nearby villages

After you have enjoyed the enchanting views of May Waterfall, you can go on short trips to the surrounding villages to take in their varied local cultures. Visit the stilt houses where people live to see a bit of how their forefathers would have lived in this remote corner of Vietnam. Learn how to prepare and taste the traditional bamboo-cooked sticky rice wine that they have inherited from their forefathers.

During special seasons, if there is a way visitors can witness local people dance, they mostly have such events as part of their harvest or at any other cultural festivals. This does not only add more immersing cultural links to the area, but it also makes the whole trip more authentic embodying perfect nature and tradition.

5. Best Time to Visit

   April to October: best time to enjoy vibrant greenery and strong waterfall flow.

   During light rains: the sound of falling water softens, and the forest feels fresher.

   Early autumn: cool air and golden sunlight create a peaceful atmosphere.

   
   

6. Helpful Tips to Enjoy Your Peaceful Day

   
   

   Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the trail; do not forget about your swimming costumes in case you would love to enjoy the natural pools.

   Drinks, light refreshments, and a 100% fully-charged camera to take pictures of its scenery are a must-have.

   Keep the environment: say no to littering, walk on designated paths, and keep silent so that serenity is maintained.

   
   

The May Waterfall, or the Cuc Phuong National Park waterfall, is a breather from the hustle and bustle of contemporary life. As a combination of virgin nature and running water with cultural strings, it offers the sort of beauty and moments that people desire. Whether you’re walking under tree cover or dipping your feet in cool streams, the memory of the experience stays with you well after you’ve returned. It’s one way to make sure this serene gesture stays timeless so others can relish it, perhaps including you.