Cat Ba National Park: A biodiversity haven in Northern Vietnam

Contents

1. Overview of Cat Ba National Park, Vietnam

1.1. Location

Cat Ba National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, is among the top destinations for nature lovers in Vietnam. It is located on Cat Ba Island, Cat Hai District, Hai Phong City. It lies about 45 kilometers east of the city center, 25 kilometers south of Ha Long City, and approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Hanoi.

The Cat Ba National Park map (Source: Collected)

Cat Ba Island borders Ha Long Bay to the east and northeast; the Bach Dang River estuary, the Cam River, and Do Son Beach to the west and southwest; and Lan Ha Bay to the east and southeast. The park covers a total natural area of 17,362.96 hectares, including 10,912.51 hectares of forested mountains and 6,450.65 hectares of marine areas.

1.2. Opening hours & entrance fees

Here is the detailed information on the Cat Ba National Park entrance fees and opening hours for visitors:

Entrance fees:

• Adults: 160,000 VND
• Children over 1.2 meters tall: 80,000 VND

Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

1.3. Sightseeing tours

There is a variety of interesting Cat Ba National Park tours:

*Note: These details are for reference purposes only. For the latest information, contact the national park at the hotline 0225 368 8975 or 0987 632 282.

There are many Cat Ba National Park tours (Source: Collected)

2. Biodiversity of Cat Ba Island National Park

Cat Ba National Park is famous as one of the most unique parks in Vietnam’s national park system. It was the first park in the country to combine both terrestrial and marine ecosystems, featuring tropical rainforests on limestone islands, mangroves, coral reefs, caves, and more.

The forests here are primarily evergreen rainforests, alongside limestone mountain forests and coastal mangrove forests. The park boasts 1,595 species of forest plants, including 70 rare species. There are 432 species of timber plants, 1,026 species of medicinal plants, 30 species of mangroves, 400 species of phytoplanktons, and 102 species of seaweeds.

The park’s fauna is also diverse, home to 362 animal species, including 63 species of mammals, 58 species of reptiles, 209 species of birds, 32 species of amphibians, and 401 species of insects. Among these, 58 species are listed in Vietnam’s and the world’s Red Books, such as civets, serows, reticulated pythons, and cobras.

Notably, Cat Ba National Park is the only place in Vietnam – and the world – where small populations of the endangered Cat Ba langur still survive, with the current population estimated at around 70. With over 6,450 hectares of marine areas, the park is also home to an exceptionally rich marine biodiversity, including 900 species of fish, 500 species of mollusks, 400 species of crustaceans, 658 species of benthic animals, and 177 species of corals.

Cat Ba National Park photos showcase its diverse fauna and flora (Source: Collected)

3. Top things to do in Cat Ba National Park, Vietnam

3.1. Trek through lush forest trails

Trekking in Cat Ba National Park across the island’s coasts and forests is an unforgettable adventure. Regarded as the most beautiful in northern Vietnam, the Cat Ba National Park trails offer a chance to walk through pristine forests, marvel at ancient trees, and spot the rare golden-headed langur. The Cat Ba National Park entrance serves as the starting point for various treks. Visitors can choose a short, easy 2-kilometer trek to Ngu Lam Peak, or take on longer treks of 6 or 10 kilometers that end at Viet Hai Village. 

In particular, the 10-kilometer Cat Ba National Park hike crosses 6 rocky slopes and several steep sections, leading trekkers deep into different landscapes. Highlights like the Frog Pond and Ang Phay Peak offer rewarding views along the way. Visitors should bring non-slip shoes, gloves, mosquito repellent, snacks, and water to enjoy the journey safely. It is recommended to move at a comfortable pace and take breaks as needed. Protecting the environment by not littering or damaging the plants is also essential.

The Cat Ba National Park treks promise breathtaking scenery of nature (Source: Collected)

3.2. Cycle through the tranquil Viet Hai Village

Viet Hai Village is a small and tranquil fishing village located deep within the park. It is often called an “island within an island” thanks to its rich ecosystem of forests, mountains, and sea. Covering just 141 hectares and home to about 300 residents, Viet Hai Village retains its rustic charm with traditional thatched houses, fields, and buffalo herds.

One of the best ways to explore the village is cycling along scenic paths surrounded by lush greenery to enjoy a relaxing yet authentic glimpse into the local life. After cycling, visitors can enjoy other activities like trying fish foot massages, joining the locals in farming or fishing, cooking with wood-fired stoves, or simply unwinding with fresh seafood dishes.

Viet Hai Village offers a truly memorable escape with its untouched beauty (Source: Collected)

3.3. Discover hidden caves and underground wonders

Located about 7 kilometers away from Cat Ba Town, Hospital Cave stands out as one of the most special caves in Cat Ba National Park. Built between 1963 and 1965, this hidden field hospital was designed to provide shelter and medical care during air raids. The cave covers around 2,000 square meters, 3 levels, and 17 rooms. Despite the passage of time, much of the hospital’s original structure remains intact.

Meanwhile, Trung Trang Cave represents one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Cat Ba. It is situated about 1 kilometer south of the park’s center. Formed tens of millions of years ago, this 300-meter-long cave amazes visitors with countless stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Hospital Cave – a remarkable historical site (Source: Collected)

3.4. Visit the colorful Cat Ba Flower Valley

Cat Ba Flower Valley spans 2 hectares within Cat Ba National Park. Here, visitors will be enchanted by a vibrant collection of flowers from across Vietnam, including pink buckwheat blossoms from Ha Giang, golden and white mustard flowers from the lowlands, purple spiny spider flowers from Cat Ba, and even Russian cosmos flowers. The gardens are beautifully decorated with winding pathways and charming miniatures. These include flower-hung wooden houses, vintage bicycles, and ceramic jars, offering dreamy photo opportunities. 

Taking photos at Cat Ba Flower Valley is a must-do (Source: Collected)

More on: Things to do in Cat Ba: Top 15+ experiences not to be missed

4. Useful tips for visiting Cat Ba National Park, Hai Phong

4.1. How to get to Cat Ba National Park?

The journey from the city center of Hai Phong to Cat Ba National Park involves three stages: traveling by motorbike or car to Dong Bai Ferry Terminal, taking the Cat Ba ferry from to Cai Vieng Pier, and heading to the national park by road.

• From the city center, cross Tan Vu Bridge. At the intersection opposite VinFast Automobile Factory, follow the signs to Dong Bai Ferry Terminal.
• At Dong Bai, buy a ferry ticket to Cai Vieng Pier on Cat Ba Island. The ferries operate daily from 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM, with departures every 30 minutes or 1 hour.
• After reaching Cai Vieng, you can rent a motorbike or car to get to the national park. Follow Provincial Road 356, continue straight onto Vu Trong Tien Street, turn right onto Cat Ba Cross-Island Road, and you will find the Cat Ba National Park entrance on your left.

Explore: How to get to Cat Ba Island? All you need to know

4.2. When is the best time to visit?

The best times to visit Cat Ba National Park, Vietnam are autumn (September – November) when the skies are clear, the weather is cool, and there is little rain – ideal for sightseeing and exploring. Spring (February – April) is another great time, when peach blossoms in the forests are in full bloom.

Discover: Weather in Cat Ba: The best experiences to try

4.3. Where to stay?

Two popular accommodation options in Cat Ba National Park are the homestays in Viet Hai Village or Ho Hoi Farmstay. In Viet Hai Village, there are stilt houses, wooden cottages, bungalows, etc. Each offers a rustic style, with opportunities to join leisure activities with the locals. Ho Hoi Farmstay, on the other hand, is set beside a serene lake surrounded by forests and mountains. It offers modern, well-equipped rooms and a peaceful atmosphere, along with sightseeing tours.

4.4. What to note?

If you are planning a trip to Cat Ba National Park, don’t forget these handy tips to make your journey even more memorable:

• Bring essentials like sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and insect bite cream.
• Check the weather forecast to choose suitable clothes.
• Always carry safety equipment and follow your guide’s instructions during treks.
• Protect the environment by not littering.
• Pack enough drinking water and snacks to recharge during your adventure.

Follow the guide during your trek in Cat Ba National Park (Source: Collected)

Cat Ba National Park is a true gem for those seeking adventure, natural beauty, and rich biodiversity. With its diverse ecosystems, fascinating wildlife, and stunning landscapes, this national park offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. It is a perfect destination to connect with nature and explore Vietnam’s wild side.

Beyond Cat Ba, Vietnam boasts many incredible tourist destinations such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Hoi An. In these vibrant cities, don’t miss VinWonders – a collection of exhilarating entertainment complexes that feature thrilling games, safaris, colorful live shows, and more.

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