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Bai Tu Long National Park

Bai Tu Long National Park: A hidden gem of Vietnam

20/08/2024 652 views

Bai Tu Long National Park is a gem known for its natural beauty and biodiversity. Designated as an ASEAN Heritage Park in 2016, this attraction is celebrated for its combination of ecosystems, including lush mangrove forests, rugged limestone karsts, and vibrant marine environments.

Bai Tu Long National Park Quang Ninh

Bai Tu Long National Park is an ASEAN Heritage Park (Source: Collected)

1. Location of Bai Tu Long National Park

Bai Tu Long National Park is located within Van Don District, in Bai Tu Long Bay. The park covers a total area of 15,783 hectares, with 9,658 hectares of sea area and 6,125 hectares of land area. It features over 80 islands and islets, divided into three main groups: Ba Mun, Tra Ngo, and Sau. The buffer zone spans 16,534 hectares.

2. What makes Bai Tu Long National Park a must-see?

  • Diverse ecosystems: The park encompasses a combination of three distinct ecosystems: land-based forests, limestone karst formations with caves, and marine environments. This diversity provides a unique opportunity for tourists to explore varied landscapes in one location.
  • Biodiversity: Bai Tu Long National Park is home to 2,415 species, including 1,195 terrestrial species and 1,220 marine species. Its coral reefs are among the most diverse in the world, often described as “rainforests of the sea,” hosting a wide range of marine life such as fish, sea cucumbers, sea urchins, and turtles.
  • Forests and beaches: The park’s mangrove forests on Cai Lim Island are considered some of the most unique in Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, its unspoiled beaches, such as Cai Lim Beach or Minh Chau Beach, are perfect places for tourists to relax amidst the scenic coastal beauty.

This national park in Vietnam is particularly ideal for nature enthusiasts and diving aficionados. It offers exciting opportunities for exploring forests, engaging in underwater activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving, and enjoying the beaches. 

Bai Tu Long National Park

Visit Bai Tu Long National Park on your Bai Tu Long Bay tour (Source: Collected)

3. Exceptional experiences in Bai Tu Long National Park

3.1. Go fishing

Fishing offers an exceptional experience that combines relaxation with the thrill of the catch. The park’s calm waters are home to a variety of fish, making it a prime spot for both amateur and seasoned anglers. The best time to go fishing is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the fish are most active. Avoid the midday heat for a more comfortable experience. 

You can also consider joining a guided fishing tour. The local guides know the best spots and can provide all the necessary equipment, ensuring a hassle-free trip.

3.2. Discover the ancient black plum forest on Minh Chau Island

This unique forest is home to a rare collection of ancient black plum trees that have been preserved for generations. Located in Ninh Hai Village, with an area of ​​13 hectares, the forest runs along the white sand dunes next to Minh Chau Beach. With about 270 trees aged over 150 years and over 2,000 trees aged under 150 years, it offers a sense of awe at the resilience of nature.

The best time to visit this forest is during early morning or late afternoon, when the light filters through the trees and creates a magical atmosphere. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring some water, as the exploration can take a couple of hours. 

The black plum forest in Bai Tu Long Bay Vietnam

The black plum forest in Bai Tu Long Bay Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.3. Explore the unique ecosystem of Ba Mun Island

Ba Mun Island, the largest and most beautiful island in Bai Tu Long National Park, is a biodiversity hotspot with a forest covering approximately 1,800 hectares. It is home to a thriving population of golden deer, the only one of its kind in Northeast Vietnam. In addition, the island hosts a variety of other wildlife, including monkeys, langurs, and birds.

For those eager to explore this unique ecosystem, designated hiking trails traverse the island, offering different levels of difficulty. If you are up for a challenge, begin your journey from Van Lau Ranger Station. This route takes you through the pristine forest, covering about 8 kilometers with an estimated duration of 3-4 hours. 

For a more relaxed adventure, try the 5-kilometer trail from La Che to Cai Cong. Freshwater streams along the way are favorite habitats for creatures like softshell turtles and otters, and you might even spot traces of monkeys, squirrels, or porcupines. This trail takes about 2-3 hours to complete.

3.4. Take a boat ride through Cai De Cave

As your boat glides through the serene waters, you will be surrounded by impressive limestone karsts, stalactites, and stalagmites that adorn the cave’s interior. The quiet, echoing atmosphere inside the cave adds a sense of mystery. Remember to bring a waterproof bag for your belongings, as there might be some splashes during the boat ride. 

After exploring Cai De Cave, consider visiting the nearby Doi Cave to make the most of your trip. Doi Cave is renowned for its former population of bats that reside within. It also offers a unique experience for nature lovers, with its intricate stalactites and stalagmites, and an eerie yet fascinating ambiance that showcases the wonders of the natural world.

3.5. Pay a visit to sacred sites

Bai Tu Long National Park is not only a haven for ecosystems but also a repository of heritage. Notable sites include Cua Ong Temple, Cap Tien Temple, Cai Bau Pagoda, and Quan Lan Communal House. Each of these sites holds deep cultural significance and attracts numerous visitors seeking spiritual solace. The best time to visit these sacred sites is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the sites are less crowded. Remember to dress modestly, wearing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.

Sacred sites within Bai Tu Long National Park

Sacred sites within Bai Tu Long National Park (Source: Collected)

4. Travel tips for a visit to Bai Tu Long National Park

4.1. Getting to the park

To reach Bai Tu Long National Park, you can take a tourist boat from either Ha Long City or Van Don District. The boat ride takes approximately 40-120 minutes, depending on the point of departure. If you are in Hanoi or other cities in northern Vietnam, you can take a limousine bus to get to Ha Long with ease. If you are in Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or other cities in central or southern Vietnam, you can take a flight to Van Don Airport.

4.2. Best time to visit

While summer (June – September) might be the popular season for beach trips, Bai Tu Long Bay often experiences storms, intense heat, or heavy rains during this time. Thus, the best months to visit the park are from February to May and from October to November. During these periods, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. These times are also the low tourist seasons, allowing for a more peaceful trip.

best time to visit Bai Tu Long National Park

The best time to visit Bai Tu Long National Park is February – May and October – November (Source: Collected)

4.3. Culinary specialties

After exploring Bai Tu Long National Park, visitors can enjoy delicious meals either on the tourist boat or in Minh Chau Island, Quan Lan Island, and Cai Rong Town, where local eateries offer a variety of fresh seafood dishes unique to Van Don District. You can enjoy grilled squid, which is freshly caught and cooked to perfection with a smoky flavor that enhances its natural sweetness. Another must-try is geoduck clams, known for their tender texture and delicate taste, often steamed with garlic and herbs. 

For souvenirs, consider bringing home dried peanut worm, which is appreciated for its umami flavor. Dried sea cucumber is another great option, often used in gourmet cooking. In addition, Cai Rong fish sauce provides a taste of Van Don that you can recreate in your own kitchen.

For a deeper understanding of the park’s ecosystems, consider visiting Bai Tu Long National Park Museum in Van Don District. This museum offers a comprehensive overview of the park’s diverse flora and fauna. The exhibits include a variety of specimens and displays that highlight its biodiversity.

Quang Ninh specialties

Van Don has many local specialties (Source: Collected)

Bai Tu Long National Park is a must-see attraction for those seeking an extraordinary blend of natural beauty and ecological richness. Its designation as an ASEAN Heritage Park highlights its unparalleled value in biodiversity, scientific research, and environmental education. From ancient mangrove forests to pristine beaches, the park offers a range of experiences for nature lovers.

To enhance your visit to Bai Tu Long National Park, consider combining it with an exploration of Ha Long Bay and a stay at Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long. This combination offers a well-rounded experience of northern Vietnam’s stunning landscapes. The resort’s elegant accommodation, fine dining options, and relaxing spa service ensure a comfortable stay.

 

Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long now

 

To make the most of your trip to Vietnam, consider exploring other remarkable destinations like Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. Each offers unique experiences that will enrich your Vietnam travel. In these destinations, you can check out the entertainment complexes of VinWonders for a fun-filled day, then stay the night at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl for world-class hospitality. 

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