Cat Ba National Park, the green gem of Hai Phong, has long been a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve, it is a paradise with diverse ecosystems, majestic landscapes, and countless unique experiences awaiting you. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” to plan a detailed and memorable exploration of Cat Ba National Park from A to Z!
Discover Cat Ba National Park – Vietnam’s Premier Ecotourism Destination
General Introduction
Stretching along Xuyen Dao road, in Tran Chau town, Cat Hai district, Hai Phong city, Cat Ba National Park is like a magnificent natural painting, about 45km east of Hai Phong city center. With its prime location, just 25km south of Ha Long and 150km southeast of Hanoi, it is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and immerse themselves in pristine nature.
Recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve in 2004, Cat Ba National Park proudly stands as one of the most attractive green ecosystem exploration destinations in Vietnam. With a natural area of over 17,000 hectares, including nearly 11,000 hectares of mountains and forests and more than 6,000 hectares of sea surface, Cat Ba National Park is a convergence of the richest biodiversity.
Unique Beauty and Rich Ecosystem
Stepping into Cat Ba National Park, you will be amazed by the diversity of its ecosystem. According to statistics, the national park is home to:
- 2,120 plant species, from vast primeval forests and unique mangroves to rich seaweed and phytoplankton.
- 280 terrestrial animal species, including rare mammals, diverse birds, reptiles, and amphibians typical of the island region.
- 1,800 marine animal species, with countless fish, mollusks, crustaceans, and other fascinating marine creatures.
Moreover, Cat Ba National Park also hides long-standing historical and cultural values. Archaeological relics have proven that humans have lived here for thousands of years. The combination of majestic natural beauty and profound historical value has created a special attraction for Cat Ba National Park, making it an unmissable exploration destination.
The best time to explore Cat Ba National Park is from April to October. At this time, Cat Ba’s weather is pleasant, sunny, and very suitable for sightseeing, exploring mountains and forests, and the sea. Visiting during this time, you will fully enjoy the pristine beauty, immerse yourself in the fresh nature, and discover the diversity of unique flora and fauna.
Entrance to Cat Ba National Park
Essential Information For Your Trip
Entrance Fees:
- Adults: 80,000 VND/person
- Children: 50,000 VND/person
- Children under 1m tall: Free
Note: Ticket prices may vary depending on the time and promotional programs.
Transportation to Cat Ba National Park:
- Bicycle: Suitable for moving short distances within Cat Ba town center or areas near the national park. Bicycle rental prices range from 100,000 – 150,000 VND/bike/day.
- Motorbike: Ideal for those who want to freely explore Cat Ba. You can rent a motorbike in the town center for about 150,000 – 200,000 VND/bike/day.
- Bus: The optimal choice if you are traveling from Hanoi or neighboring provinces to Hai Phong, then continue to Cat Ba. Bus ticket prices from Hanoi – Hai Phong are about 250,000 – 420,000 VND/person.
- Private car: Suitable for large groups and families. You can drive to Hai Phong and take a ferry or cable car to Cat Ba.
Transportation options to Cat Ba National Park
Unique Exploration Experiences At Cat Ba National Park
Explore Cat Ba Primeval Forest
Cat Ba National Park opens up a world of exciting primeval forest exploration with many diverse sightseeing routes. Each route will take you deep into the heart of the forest, through trails, up steep slopes, and admire the majestic beauty of nature.
On your trekking journey, you will immerse yourself in the green space, admire the rich vegetation, and discover wild animals. Here are 3 of the most popular forest trails you can choose from:
1. Kim Giao Forest – Ngu Lam Peak Trail:
- Description: This trail is quite challenging with steep slopes and many narrow sections. You will pass through the cool Kim Giao forest, walk on slippery paths, and conquer Ngu Lam peak at an altitude of 225m.
- Experience: Standing on Ngu Lam peak, you will have a panoramic view of Cat Ba National Park from above, a breathtakingly pristine and majestic beauty.
- Distance: Approximately 3km
- Time: 2 – 3 hours
2. May Bau – Quan Y Cave Trail:
- Description: The trail starts from the park headquarters, leading you to May Bau peak, where there is a centuries-old banyan tree. Continuing deeper into the forest, you will reach Quan Y Cave, a field hospital built during the resistance war.
- Experience: This route combines nature exploration and historical discovery. You will admire the mountain scenery, see the ancient banyan tree, and explore the unique Quan Y Cave.
- Distance: 10 – 12km
- Time: 4 – 8 hours
3. Ao Ech (Frog Lake) – Viet Hai Village Trail:
- Description: The trail leads you to Ao Ech, the largest natural freshwater lake in Cat Ba, home to many frog and amphibian species. Continuing to walk through the forest, you will reach Viet Hai Village, a peaceful ancient village nestled in the mountains and forests.
- Experience: You will discover the beauty of Ao Ech, immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of Viet Hai Village, and learn about the life of local people.
- Distance: 9 – 10km
- Time: 4 – 8 hours
In addition, you can choose other sightseeing routes such as Kim Giao – Me Con – Tung Di trail, Trung Trang cave – Uy Ban cave trail, depending on your preferences and time.
Ngu Lam Peak view from above in Cat Ba National Park
Explore The Diverse Marine Ecosystem
Exploring Cat Ba National Park is not only limited to mountains and forests but also opens up a colorful marine world. Cat Ba sea area is home to thousands of marine species, including:
- 102 seaweed species
- 6 seagrass species
- 165 species of phytoplankton and zooplankton
- Over 230 fish species
- 500 species of invertebrates on the seabed
- 115 species of floating animals
To explore this unique marine ecosystem, you can participate in activities such as kayaking on Lan Ha Bay, snorkeling to see coral reefs in limestone caves, or try adventurous water sports.
Admire The World of Rare Animals
Cat Ba National Park is one of the ideal wildlife exploration destinations in Vietnam. It is home to many rare and endangered animal species, such as:
- 53 mammal species, including the White-headed Langur, Golden Monkey, Weasel, Serow, Monitor Lizard, Black Squirrel, etc.
- 160 bird species, with many beautiful and unique birds.
- 46 reptile species
- 21 amphibian species
If you are an animal lover and want to learn about the natural world, do not miss the opportunity to admire these rare animals at Cat Ba National Park.
Explore Mysterious Caves
Cat Ba National Park is also famous for its majestic limestone cave system. Trung Trang Cave is one of the largest and most beautiful caves here. With a length of over 300m through the mountainside, Trung Trang Cave is decorated with countless stalactites and stalagmites with unique shapes.
In addition to Trung Trang Cave, you can explore other caves such as Da Hoa Cave, Quan Y Cave, Uy Ban Cave, Thien Long Cave, etc. Each cave has its own beauty, promising to bring you exciting and impressive cave exploration experiences.
Trung Trang Cave with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites
Check-in Cat Ba Flower Valley
Right near Cat Ba National Park, Cat Ba Flower Valley is a must-visit destination for flower lovers and photography enthusiasts. With a large area of 2 hectares, the flower valley is home to countless vibrant flowers such as yellow mustard flowers, buckwheat flowers, cosmos flowers, etc.
Coming here, you will be lost in a colorful sea of flowers, enjoy the fresh air, and capture memorable moments during your exploration of Cat Ba National Park.
Unique Cuisine When Traveling To Cat Ba National Park
Cat Ba is not only famous for its natural beauty but also a seafood culinary paradise. Coming here, you cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy fresh and delicious seafood specialties at restaurants, eateries, and Cat Ba market. Here are some dishes you must try:
- Tuhai (Geoduck clam): Rare seafood with chewy, sweet, and fragrant meat. Tuhai can be processed into many dishes such as grilled, salad, porridge, etc.
- Sam bien (Horseshoe crab): A unique specialty of Cat Ba, can be processed into soup, salad, stir-fried with lemongrass and chili, etc. Horseshoe crab meat is nutritious, and horseshoe crab roe is fatty.
- Grilled Mantis Shrimp with Salt: A familiar dish but with a distinctive flavor of Cat Ba sea. Grilled mantis shrimp with salt has a rich, irresistible flavor.
- Lobster: Cat Ba lobster is famous for its sweet, firm, and nutritious meat. You can enjoy steamed, grilled lobster, or processed into attractive sauce dishes.
Grilled Tuhai (clam), a Cat Ba specialty
Important Notes For A Safe and Complete Trip To Cat Ba National Park
To ensure your exploration of Cat Ba National Park goes smoothly and safely, you need to note the following:
- Choose the right time: You should go in the dry season (April – October) to avoid slipping when moving in the forest.
- Choose suitable means of transport: If traveling long distances, you should choose a bus or car to ensure your health.
- Prepare enough personal items: Bring protective gear, hiking shoes, hats, walking sticks, insect repellent, drinking water, personal medical supplies, etc.
- Plan in detail: Find out in advance about sightseeing routes, travel times, and attractions to have a reasonable itinerary.
- Comply with the regulations of the national park: Maintain environmental hygiene, do not litter, do not make noise, and follow the instructions of forest rangers.
With the detailed Cat Ba National Park exploration experiences above, “Du lịch khắp thế gian” hopes you will have a truly memorable and joyful trip. If you want to have a complete trip and don’t need to worry about anything, please contact HoaBinh Tourist – the leading prestigious and professional travel company today for the best advice and support!