With the value of natural landscapes and the diversity of ecosystem, Cuc Phuong National park is the largest national park and one of the most important sites for biodiversity in Vietnam. Long ago, this sight has been well known for ecological tourism.
Cuc Phuong National Park is located in Nho Quan District, Ninh Binh Province. It belongs to the administrative boundary of three provinces including Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, and Hoa Binh. The national park is approximately 100 kilometers to the northwest of Hanoi. This is the first Vietnamese National Park which was established in July 7th, 1962 with the total area of 22,408 hectares. Climate in Cuc Phuong National Park belongs to the tropical monsoon climate. The annual average temperature in the park is around 24.7oC.
Characterized by the tropical rain forest, the flora and fauna in Cuc Phuong National Park is extremely abundant and diverse. According to recent survey data, Cuc Phuong is home of around 2,234 species of vascular plants and mosses including 433 species of medicinal plants, 229 kinds of edible plants, and many listed in Vietnam Red Book. Regarding to animals, the national park has 122 species of reptiles and amphibians, 66 species of fish, nearly 2,000 kinds of insects, and 135 species of mammals. In addition to the diverse flora and fauna, Cuc Phuong has many beautiful caves, for example, Son Cung Cave, Thuy Tien Cave, San Ho Cave, etc. Especially, some caves have been well kept the traces of prehistoric people dating back from 7,500 to 12,000 years ago.
The best time to visit Cuc Phuong National Park is in dry seasons, from December to April, when heavy rains disappear. From Hanoi, it is easy and convenient to get to the park. In details, travelers can catch bus in Giap Bat Bus Terminal to arrive in Nho Quan District. From Nho Quan, you can catch a taxi or motorcycle taxi to the park. However, the most highly recommended way is to book the transferring service via a travel agent because it is safer and more convenient.
Visiting Cuc Phuong National park, tourists will have a wonderful opportunity to take part in a variety of activities such as trekking through thick forests, exploring limestone caves, and hiking up and down karst mountains. Having more than 300 species of birds, the park is also an ideal site for bird watching. Besides, travelers can visit Endangered Primate Rescue Center, Cuc Phuong Turtle Conservation Center, and Carnivore and Pangolin Conservation Center to understand more about Vietnam’s nature and wildlife.
Other attactions in Ninh Binh: Trang An Scenic landscape complex, Tam Coc Bich Dong, Hoa Lu Ancient capital, Phat Diem stone cathedral, Van Long Nature reserve – Kenh Ga Hot Spring
