From Ninh Binh : Cuc Phuong National Park Full Day Trip

Ninh Binh’s natural wonders extend beyond the iconic karst landscapes. Just a short drive away lies Cuc Phuong National Park, a verdant oasis teeming with diverse flora and fauna. This full-day excursion whisks travelers through the park’s highlights, from the Endangered Primate Rescue Center to the botanical gardens. But the true allure lies in the opportunity to take in the park’s wilderness, venturing along its winding trails. With an experienced guide at the helm, this journey promises to unveil the hidden gems that make Cuc Phuong a natural treasure worth exploring.

Key Points

• Cuc Phuong National Park full-day excursion from Ninh Binh, including transportation, English-speaking guide, and visits to the Endangered Primate Rescue Center and botanical garden.
• Hike options ranging from the "1000 Years Old Tree" to the "Ancient Tree," providing opportunities to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
• Lunch at the park entrance or center, included in the $52.25 per person cost, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Opportunity to observe Vietnam’s rarest primate species and learn about conservation efforts at the Endangered Primate Rescue Center.
• Recommended attire includes hiking shoes and long pants for the adventure, with suggestions for other essential items to enhance the park experience.

Trip Overview

The full-day Cuc Phuong National Park excursion offers an adventurous journey to this renowned nature reserve.

The 8-hour trip departs from Ninh Binh, with pickup from hotels and homestays, and costs $52.25 per person.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s no need to pay upfront.

The itinerary includes visiting the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, exploring the botanical garden, and hiking to see ancient trees.

Lunch, transportation, and an English-speaking guide are included.

Guests are advised to wear hiking shoes and long pants for this small-group adventure amid the park’s primary forests and caves.

Itinerary Details

At 8:30 AM, the tour picks up guests from their hotels or homestays in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh.

The group arrives at Cuc Phuong National Park around 10 AM. First, they visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center for 30 minutes, then explore the botanical garden.

Lunch is served at the park entrance or center at 12:30 PM. After, the group travels 20 km through the primary forest to the center of the park, arriving at 1:30 PM.

Hikers can choose between a trek to the "1000 Years Old Tree" or the "Ancient Tree", on either mountainous or flat paths.

At 3:30 PM, the tour returns to Tam Coc village and Ninh Binh, dropping off guests at their accommodations around 4:30 PM.

Endangered Primate Rescue Center

Visitors first explore the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, a sanctuary dedicated to rehabilitating and protecting some of Vietnam’s rarest primate species.

Here, they’ll learn about the crucial conservation efforts underway to save these primates from extinction. The center houses over 150 rescued primates, including the critically endangered Delacour’s langur and the Hatinh langur.

Guests can observe the primates in their natural habitats and discover the challenges they face. This stop provides a unique opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close and understand the importance of protecting Vietnam’s biodiversity.

Botanical Garden

Exploring the botanical garden at Cuc Phuong National Park, visitors enjoy a vibrant tapestry of indigenous flora.

Meticulously curated, the garden showcases an impressive array of plant species native to the region. Towering trees, delicate flowers, and lush foliage create a serene ambiance, inviting visitors to wander and discover the park’s botanical wonders.

As they stroll through the well-maintained paths, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the park’s rich biodiversity and the importance of preserving these natural sanctuaries.

The botanical garden offers a peaceful respite from the day’s activities, allowing visitors to connect with the park’s natural heritage.

Hike Options

After exploring the botanical garden, the tour continues with hike options.

Visitors can choose between two hiking trails – the "1000 Years Old Tree" and the "Ancient Tree". The trails vary in difficulty, with the mountainous trekking being more challenging than the flat paths.

Hikers can expect to spend around 2 hours on the trails, immersed in the primary forest of Cuc Phuong National Park. The guides provide helpful information about the local flora and fauna along the way.

Regardless of the chosen trail, the hike offers a chance to connect with the park’s natural wonders and appreciate its ancient ecosystem.

Tour Highlights

This day trip to Cuc Phuong National Park offers an easy, adventurous experience for visitors.

The tour highlights include:

• Visit to the Endangered Primates Rescue Center and Turtle Conservation Program, where guests can learn about the park’s efforts to protect vulnerable species.

• Exploration of the park’s unique caves, offering a glimpse into the region’s geological wonders.

• A small group tour, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.

• Opportunity to choose between mountainous trekking or flat paths, catering to various fitness levels.

With these features, the Cuc Phuong National Park full-day trip provides an exciting and educational adventure for nature enthusiasts.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation by minivan. An English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the day.

Entry tickets to the national park and the Endangered Primates Rescue Center are included. Participants will enjoy a Vietnamese lunch and receive a bottle of water.

The tour excludes personal expenses and any additional drinks. Guests are advised to bring hiking shoes and long pants to make the most of the included hiking options in Cuc Phuong National Park.

Recommendations

To make the most of the Cuc Phuong National Park experience, guests are advised to bring proper hiking shoes and long pants. This will help protect their feet and legs during the various trekking activities.

Plus, the following items are recommended:

• A small backpack or daypack to carry personal belongings
• Sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Insect repellent to ward off mosquitos and other bugs
• Snacks or energy bars to fuel the day’s adventures

These simple preparatory steps will ensure visitors are comfortable and ready to fully enjoy the natural wonders of Cuc Phuong National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like in Cuc Phuong National Park?

Cuc Phuong National Park experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Visitors can expect high humidity and the possibility of occasional rain showers, so bringing lightweight, breathable clothing and rain protection is recommended for comfortable exploration.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the trip. The tour includes a Vietnamese lunch and a bottle of water. Any personal expenses or additional drinks must be purchased separately during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour itinerary does not mention any option to extend the duration. Travelers should check with the tour operator if an extended tour is available for an additional fee. However, the standard 8-hour trip covers the key highlights.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

The price of the tour does not include any additional fees or taxes. The quoted price covers all the listed inclusions, and there are no hidden costs for travelers to be aware of.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum or maximum group size. It’s likely a small group experience, but the exact group size isn’t mentioned in the details provided.

Recap

This captivating full-day trip from Ninh Binh to Cuc Phuong National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore Vietnam’s stunning biodiversity. Visitors can observe rare primates at the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch, and embark on an afternoon trek through the park’s lush trails. With an experienced guide and small group settings, this excursion promises an educational and immersive experience in one of Vietnam’s natural treasures.