Discover Cat Ba National Park with stunning trekking routes, rare wildlife, and scenic viewpoints. Get travel tips and must-know info before your visit.
Introduction to Cat Ba National Park
Nestled on Cat Ba Island in northern Vietnam, Cat Ba National Park is a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve and one of the most biodiverse areas in the country. Covering more than 26,000 hectares of lush forest, limestone mountains, and coastal ecosystems, the park is a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, and eco-travelers.
Why visit? Because Cat Ba National Park is not only a green escape from the bustling town but also home to the world’s rarest primate — the endangered Cat Ba Langur. For those seeking outdoor adventure combined with ecological discovery, this is a must-visit destination.
Entrance gate to Cat Ba national park
Where is Cat Ba National Park?
The park is located at the heart of Cat Ba Island, about 15 km from Cat Ba Town and 30 km from Ha Long Bay. Travelers can reach the park within a 20–30 minute drive from the town center.
Tip: You can check the park’s exact location easily on Google Maps for navigation.
How to get to Cat Ba National Park
Getting here involves two steps: reaching Cat Ba Island first, then heading to the park.
From Hanoi:
- Bus + ferry combination: the most common option, taking 3.5–4 hours.
- Private car: faster and more comfortable, especially for groups.
Trek to the top of Ngu Lam peak
From Cat Ba Town:
- Taxi (15–20 minutes).
- Motorbike rental (most flexible).
- Cycling (ideal for sporty travelers, but roads can be hilly).
Travel tip: Foreign visitors often prefer motorbike rentals or joining a guided tour for convenience.
Entrance fee & Opening hours
- Ticket price: 80,000 VND for adults ($4), ~40,000 VND for children.
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
- Tickets are sold directly at the entrance gate.
Best time to visit: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
Check in at the swamp in Cat Ba National Park
Best time to visit Cat Ba national park
Vietnam has four distinct seasons, and each offers a different experience:
- Spring (March–May): Warm, ideal for trekking and spotting wildlife.
- Summer (June–August): Lush green scenery but hot and humid; occasional rain showers.
- Autumn (September–November): The best season — clear skies, cool weather, and perfect for hiking.
- Winter (December–February): Cooler and foggy, less ideal for long treks but still scenic.
The peak months are April–May and September–October for comfortable trekking conditions.
A beautiful sunny day in Cat Ba National Park
Top things to do in Cat Ba national park
Trekking & hiking:
Trekking is the number one activity in Cat Ba National Park, with trails suitable for all fitness levels. Short walks of 1–2 hours are perfect for casual visitors, while longer routes can take you deep into the jungle and across limestone mountains. The park’s trails lead through lush forests, limestone valleys, and small streams, offering a real sense of adventure. Whether you’re a beginner hiker or an experienced trekker, this is the best way to immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty.
Came across a spider spinning its web
Climb to Ngu Lam Peak:
For the best panoramic views of Cat Ba Island, don’t miss the hike up to Ngu Lam Peak. This short but steep trail takes about 45–60 minutes. From the summit, you can admire sweeping views of forested mountains and limestone ridges stretching out into the sea. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the park and a favorite for sunrise or sunset hikes. Bring water and good shoes, as the path can be slippery after rain.
Conquer the rocky terrain of Cat Ba national park
Birdwatching & wildlife spotting:
Cat Ba National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to more than 160 bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatching. With some luck, you might spot hornbills, kingfishers, or colorful butterflies fluttering along the trails. The real highlight is the chance — though rare — to see the critically endangered Cat Ba Langur, one of the world’s rarest primates. Hiring a guide increases your chances of spotting wildlife and learning more about the park’s unique ecosystem.
Cat Ba Langur
Visit Kim Giao forest & Trung Trang Cave:
Beyond trekking, Kim Giao Forest and Trung Trang Cave offer fascinating cultural and natural experiences. The Kim Giao forest is almost a pure stand of Kim Giao trees, tied to Vietnamese legends and valued for their durable wood. Meanwhile, Trung Trang Cave showcases impressive stalactites and stalagmites shaped over thousands of years. Both sites are easily accessible from the park entrance and can be visited in a half-day trip. They’re perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature and culture.
Foreign tourists exploring Cat Ba National Park
Trekking routes:
Short routes (4 hours - half day):
The short trekking option is ideal for those who want a manageable adventure while still experiencing the park’s highlights. This route takes you to Ngu Lam Peak, where a 360-degree panoramic view of jungle-covered mountains and limestone ridges awaits. The trail winds through lush forest, with chances to spot birds, squirrels, and butterflies along the way. It’s perfect for half-day exploration, especially if you’re short on time but still eager for a rewarding hike.
Tour package: Cat Ba National Park - Trung Trang Cave Half Day Trekking Tour
The entrance of Trung Trang Cave
Long routes (5–8 hours):
For serious adventurers, the long trek from the park to Viet Hai Village is the ultimate challenge. This full-day journey leads deep into the dense jungle, across steep limestone terrain, and through diverse ecosystems. You’ll experience untouched nature, hear the calls of exotic birds, and maybe even glimpse rare wildlife. The trek ends at the peaceful Viet Hai Village, where you can relax and interact with locals. It’s demanding but highly rewarding for those seeking an authentic wilderness experience.
Tour package: Cat Ba National Park - Viet Hai Village 1 Day Trekking & Boat Tour
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes, carry at least 1.5 liters of water, insect repellent, and a light raincoat.
Join a trekking adventure in the national park
Travel tips for foreign visitors
- Pack light but smart: Bring trekking shoes with good grip, at least 1.5 liters of water, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light raincoat. These essentials will keep you comfortable and safe on the trails.
- Prepare for insects: In summer, leeches and mosquitoes are common in the forest. Long sleeves and insect spray help prevent bites.
- Limited facilities: The park has only basic toilets, simple rest stops, and signboards. Carry your own snacks and enough drinking water.
- Unstable mobile signal: Don’t rely on 4G inside the jungle. Download offline maps in advance or use GPS-enabled apps.
- Consider booking a guided tour: A local guide not only helps with navigation but also enriches your experience with knowledge about the park’s biodiversity, legends, and hidden trails. It’s highly recommended for first-time visitors.
Check in at Frog Pond in the national park
Nearby attractions to combine with Cat Ba national park
Viet Hai Village is a peaceful community surrounded by mountains and lush jungle. You can reach it by trekking through the park or by boat across Lan Ha Bay, making the journey an adventure in itself. The village offers a glimpse of traditional Vietnamese rural life, with stilt houses, friendly locals, and organic farms. Staying overnight here is a great way to experience eco-tourism and authentic local culture.
Trung Trang Cave & Hospital Cave – Both Trung Trang Cave and Hospital Cave are fascinating stops near the national park. Trung Trang impresses with hundreds of stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years, creating a natural masterpiece underground. Meanwhile, Hospital Cave has a unique history — it served as a secret, bomb-proof hospital during the Vietnam War.
Cannon Fort – For the best sunset view on Cat Ba Island, head to Cannon Fort. This former military site overlooks Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Town, offering spectacular panoramic views of limestone islands glowing in the golden light. Besides the scenery, visitors can also explore old bunkers and cannons that tell stories of Vietnam’s past.
FAQs about Cat Ba national park
Q: How long does it take to explore?
A: At least half a day; a full-day trek is recommended.
Q: Is it family-friendly?
A: Yes, short routes are suitable for kids and families.
Q: Can I camp inside the park?
A: Camping is not common, but homestays in Viet Hai Village are a good option.
Q: Do I need a guide to trek?
A: Not mandatory, but guides help with navigation and wildlife knowledge.
Q: Can I see the Cat Ba Langur?
A: Sightings are rare; spotting them is more likely with a guide.
