10 Things to Do in Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam
Located in the Ninh Binh province of northern Vietnam, Cuc Phuong National Park is a biodiversity hotspot and a popular tourist destination. Established in 1962, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including endangered species such as the Delacour's langur, the Asian black bear, and the Owston's civet. It is also home to an impressive collection of ancient trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old. With its lush forests, stunning views, and diverse wildlife, Cuc Phuong National Park is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are 10 things to do in Cuc Phuong National Park.
1. Explore the Endangered Primate Rescue Center: The Endangered Primate Rescue Center (EPRC) is a world-renowned conservation center dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of endangered primates. The EPRC is home to a variety of species, including the Delacour's langur, the Cat Ba langur, and the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey. Visitors can observe the primates in their natural habitat and learn about the conservation efforts underway to save these species.
2. Take a Hike: Cuc Phuong National Park is home to a network of trails and paths, making it an ideal destination for hikers. The park is divided into three main areas: the northern area, the central area, and the southern area. The northern area is the most popular and offers the best views of the park. The central area is home to the Endangered Primate Rescue Center and is great for bird watching. The southern area is the least developed and is a great spot for trekking and exploring.
3. Visit the Ancient Trees: Cuc Phuong National Park is home to an impressive collection of ancient trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old. The oldest tree in the park is the “Thousand-Year-Old Tree”, which is believed to be more than 1,500 years old. Other ancient trees include the “Three-Hundred-Year-Old Tree” and the “Five-Hundred-Year-Old Tree”.
4. Go Bird Watching: Cuc Phuong National Park is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the endangered Grey-Crowned Crocias and the White-Rumped Vulture. Other species of birds found in the park include the Grey-Headed Fish Eagle, the Red-Headed Vulture, and the White-Bellied Sea Eagle.
5. Visit the Cave of Prehistoric Man: The Cave of Prehistoric Man is an archaeological site located within Cuc Phuong National Park. The cave contains evidence of human habitation dating back to the late Neolithic period, as well as artifacts from the Bronze Age. Visitors can explore the cave and learn about the history of the area.
6. Visit the Botanical Gardens: The Botanical Gardens at Cuc Phuong National Park are home to a variety of native plants and trees, including the endangered Hoabinhian plant. The gardens also feature a variety of educational displays, including a butterfly garden and a medicinal plant garden.
7. Go Fishing: The streams and rivers of Cuc Phuong National Park are home to a variety of fish species, including carp, catfish, and mudfish. Visitors can rent fishing equipment from the park and try their luck at catching some of the local fish.
8. Go Camping: Cuc Phuong National Park offers several camping sites for visitors to spend the night in the wilderness. Camping is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the park and its wildlife.
9. Take a Boat Ride: Visitors can take a boat ride along the Hoang Long River to explore the stunning scenery of Cuc Phuong National Park. During the ride, you can spot a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, lizards, and birds.
10. Visit the Traditional Villages: Cuc Phuong National Park is home to several traditional villages, where visitors can learn about the local culture and customs. The villages are home to a variety of traditional crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and basket making. Visitors can also sample local cuisine and purchase handmade souvenirs.
Cuc Phuong National Park is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush forests, stunning views, and diverse wildlife, the park is sure to provide visitors with an unforgettable experience.