Nestled in Ninh Binh, the heart of Northern Vietnam, Cuc Phuong National Park is the country’s first and most biologically rich national park. It’s a prime destination for nature lovers, researchers, and eco-conscious travelers seeking eco tours Vietnam 2025 or a custom tour Vietnam that prioritizes sustainability and authentic experiences.
A Living Ecological Treasure
Covering over 22,000 hectares, Cuc Phuong lies within the foothills of the Annamite Mountains and features three main types of forest ecosystems: limestone forest, lowland evergreen forest, and secondary forest. This complex landscape supports an astonishing diversity of life. More than 2,200 plant species thrive here, including rare and ancient trees like the 1,000-year-old “Cho”.
Cuc Phuong is home to a wide range of wildlife. Mammals such as the Delacour’s langur, clouded leopard, and Asiatic black bear roam the forests, while over 300 species of birds—including the elusive Bar-bellied pitta—make the park a birdwatcher’s paradise. Reptiles, amphibians, and thousands of insects, many of them endemic, also contribute to the park’s dynamic ecosystem.
Several conservation centers operate inside the park, including the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, the Turtle Conservation Center, and the Carnivore and Pangolin Conservation Program, all of which can be visited as part of a private Vietnam tour or small group tours Vietnam.
Nightfall Wonders at Cuc Phuong: Wildlife, Butterflies, and Fireflies
One of the most enchanting ways to experience the biodiversity of Cuc Phuong National Park is through the Cuc Phuong Night Tour, where the forest transforms after dark into a realm of mystery and magic. Guided by experienced local experts, visitors can encounter nocturnal wildlife such as civets, slow lorises, various species of bats, and luminous insects that remain hidden during the day. This immersive tour exemplifies sustainable travel in Vietnam, balancing conservation awareness with the thrill of discovery.
Between late April and early June, the forest becomes even more spectacular with the arrival of the butterfly season. During this time, thousands of butterflies in dazzling colors and diverse shapes dance through the air, turning the trails into a dreamlike scene straight out of a fairy tale. It’s a breathtaking visual experience, especially treasured by photographers, families, and eco-tourists crafting a customized Vietnam vacation.
As twilight deepens, a second natural marvel unfolds: the glow of fireflies. These tiny bioluminescent creatures flicker gently among the trees, casting an ethereal light that enhances the tranquility of the forest. Whether you’re on a honeymoon tour Vietnam or simply seeking peaceful reflection, walking under a sky of glowing fireflies offers a rare, meditative connection to the living world.
Travel with Purpose
By booking through a local tour Vietnam operator or an eco travel agency Vietnam, you’re not just taking a trip—you’re supporting environmental education, habitat preservation, and ethical tourism. Cúc Phương offers a chance to connect with nature, guided by experts who are deeply committed to protecting Vietnam’s natural heritage.
Plan your visit now. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an educational adventure, Cuc Phuong National Park invites you to witness the depth of Vietnam’s biodiversity—day and night.
Contact us to create your ideal itinerary with a local guide, and discover the best of Vietnam.
Vietnam Responsible Tourism is a social enterprise that associates with different Community-based Tourism groups with the aim to improve living conditions in remote mountain regions of Vietnam since 2017.
