Nam Cat Tien, a green gem of Southeast Vietnam, is not only a familiar destination for backpackers but also a paradise for those who crave unique resort experiences. If you’ve heard of Nam Cat Tien, get ready for a truly different adventure: experiencing camping in the national forest, immersing yourself in the sounds of nature, and discovering unspoiled beauty found nowhere else.
Discovering Nam Cat Tien: More Than Just a Trip
Nam Cat Tien is more than just a forest; it’s a miniature world with a diverse and rich ecosystem. Here, you won’t find lavish tourist services, wild game specialties, or door-to-door transportation. Instead, Nam Cat Tien offers a form of sustainable tourism where you can explore by bicycle or on foot, immerse yourself in nature, and feel the wonder of the old-growth forest.
Preparing for Your Nam Cat Tien Forest Camping Trip
To have a complete trip, you need to prepare carefully. Here is some useful information:
Estimated Costs
- Bus ticket: Approximately VND 80,000/one-way from Ho Chi Minh City.
- National park entrance fee: VND 60,000/adult.
- Food costs: Approximately VND 100,000/person/day (may vary depending on the group).
- Tent rental: Ranges from VND 220,000 – 300,000/tent/day (depending on time and tent type).
- Campsite rental fee: Approximately VND 20,000/person.
- Bike rental (optional): VND 100,000 – 150,000/bike.
Transportation
- Bus:
- Morning trips: 0984.693.172 – 0984.693.875 – 0918.327.578.
- Afternoon trips: 0917.853.383 – 0913.873.557 – 0979.309.283.
- You can also buy Kim Hoàn bus tickets to Nam Cat Tien at the Eastern Bus Station (Bến xe miền Đông).
- Motorbike:
- Follow National Highway 1A to Dau Giay intersection, then turn left onto National Highway 20 to Ta Lai intersection (kilometer 125). Remember to ask for directions to Cat Tien National Park to avoid confusion with Cat Tien in Lam Dong province.
- Transportation within the National Park:
- Walking: Suitable for those in good health who want to explore deep into the forest.
- Bicycle: A popular choice, especially with foreign tourists. Rent a bike and cycle on the main roads, then park your bike and walk into the trails.
- Car: Cars can be hired for around VND 500,000/round trip.
Camping in Nam Cat Tien National Park offers an immersive nature experience, enjoying tranquility and exploring unspoiled beauty.
Forest Camping: An Unforgettable Experience
After purchasing tickets and arriving at the campsite, you can rent and set up your tent. The national park has designated camping areas, ensuring safety and convenience. Tent rental prices vary depending on size and time, but often include tent setup service. While there might be a slight regret of not setting up the tent yourself, having a comfortable resting place in the old-growth forest is wonderful.
Discovering the Pristine Beauty of Nam Cat Tien Forest
Trekking the Ancient Tung Tree – Bac Dong Gõ Tree Route
This is one of the most popular activities in Nam Cat Tien. You will admire centuries-old ancient trees with magnificent shapes and massive root systems. In particular, the ancient Tung tree, nearly 1,000 years old, is a must-visit destination. With its enormous roots rising from the ground, the Tung tree is also known as the “Thunder Lizard of Nam Cat Tien Forest.”
Ancient Tung tree in Nam Cat Tien
The ancient Tung tree, a symbol of Nam Cat Tien forest with massive roots and nearly 1000 years old, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Heaven Waterfall and Upright Waterfall (Thác Trời and Thác Dựng)
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the unspoiled beauty of Heaven Waterfall and Upright Waterfall. The white streams flow through rocky cliffs, amidst lush green forests, creating a magnificent and unique landscape. Although the waterfalls in Nam Cat Tien are not as high as those in the Central Highlands, they have many rapids surrounded by forests, creating a poetic and mysterious setting.
Night Safari
Another unique experience in Nam Cat Tien is the night safari. You will go through the forest at night to observe wild animals in their natural habitat. This is a great opportunity to learn about the diverse ecosystem of Nam Cat Tien forest.
Exploring Bau Sau (Crocodile Lake)
Bau Sau is a vast wetland area, home to many rare animals, including freshwater crocodiles. You can take a boat trip on Bau Sau to enjoy the scenery and observe wildlife.
Exploring Nam Cat Tien forest by bicycle
Cycling in Nam Cat Tien forest is a great experience to enjoy the fresh air, explore the natural landscape, and have memorable moments.
Cycling Around the Forest
The cycling paths in Nam Cat Tien forest are mostly concrete roads, making them easy to ride. On both sides of the road are shady green trees and romantic reed meadows. You will have the opportunity to see rare plants, butterflies playing in the air, or birds flying freely.
Exploring Nam Cat Tien forest by bicycle brings a sense of relaxation, closeness to nature, and the opportunity to admire the pristine beauty.
Concluding Your Nam Cat Tien Forest Camping Trip
Although the trip may end, the experiences and memories in Nam Cat Tien will remain in your heart forever. From camping in the old-growth forest, exploring ancient trees, admiring majestic waterfalls to immersing yourself in unspoiled nature, all create a memorable and meaningful journey.
If you are looking for a unique and nature-immersive travel experience, come to Nam Cat Tien and try forest camping. You certainly won’t be disappointed!
Nam Cat Tien National Park Contact Information:
- Address: Hamlet 5, Nam Cat Tien Commune, Tan Phu District, Dong Nai Province.
- Phone number: 02513 669 985
- Hotline: 0917 40 44 44
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://orchardresort.vn/
Pack your backpack and explore Nam Cat Tien now!