National Parks in Vietnam: Top choices to explore nature conservation
Welcome to national parks in Vietnam – where adventures are filled with joy, knowledge, and connection with Mother Nature! Among 168 ecological reserves across our country, we’ve curated the TOP 8 Vietnam’s National Parks suitable for nature lovers of all ages – including families with children! Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking deep immersion in nature or looking to spend quality time with loved ones, let’s explore our eco-friendly destinations now!
This is a way for you to support vital conservation efforts in Vietnam – so we truly appreciate your visit!
Top 8 national parks in Vietnam for your adventure
Cat Ba National Park (Cat Ba)
Nestled in the Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago – a UNESCO World Heritage site, Cat Ba National Park is a must-visit after your beach trip! Just a 3-hour drive from Hanoi, you can easily, it is an ideal “coolcation” during summer for you. Plus, well-maintained trails and guided tours are designed for everyone, also friendly to families and kids!
This park hosts over 1,500 plant species and more than 160 animal species, including the critically endangered Cat Ba langur – one of the world’s rarest primates, besides diverse ecosystems such as limestone karsts, lush tropical forests, vibrant coral reefs, and vital mangroves.
How to enjoy Cat Ba national park?
• Flexible trekking (4km – 11km), suitable to various physical ability. The densely wooded trails take you to some milestones like Dawn Slope, Cloud Peak, Ang Phay summit, Frog Pond, ancient trees, Ngu Lam Peak, and Trung Trang Cave. You’ll understand diverse flora and fauna with expert guide;
• Kayaking and swimming at small, secluded beaches with crystal-clear waters;
• Cycling through the ancient Viet Hai village with charming retreat;
• Getting closer to local life in traditional fishing villages: visit fish markets, cook and enjoy fresh seafood.
Let’s explore amazing itineraries in Cat Ba National Park right here!
Cuc Phuong National Park (Ninh Binh)
Cuc Phuong is nature conservation capital in Vietnam! The perfect window to explore Cuc Phuong stretches from March through November, with summer months unveiling a spectacular canvas of emerald greenery and bustling wildlife activity.
As Vietnam’s first national park, Cuc Phuong National Park boasts an biodiversity treasure trove: over 2,000 plant species, 380 animal species, and world-renowned endangered wildlife conservation centers. So, connect to wild nature there is so sttractive with all travelers – even families and kids.
Let’s see what you can do there:
• Immerse in a rich biodiversity with Vietnam’s most significant conservation initiatives;
• Trek and hike (flexible 2-4 hour journeys) beneath centuries-old trees, fascinating wildlife, colorful insects, and mysterious caves such as Ancient Human Cave, Crescent Moon Cave.
• Join night tours to witness lives of nocturnal creatures;
• Marvel at magical displays of butterflies and fireflies (during April-May);
• Take a bike through family-friendly cycling routes;
Recently receiving significant investment and attention, this national park is top choice for comfortable on-site accommodation and restaurants serving both Vietnamese and Western cuisine. Don’t hesitate to add it to your Ninh Binh trip!
Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve (Ninh Binh)
Wanna see pristine nature while sitting on a traditional wooden boat? – Come to Van Long Nature Reserve in Vietnam – the largest wetland nature reserve in North.
Spanning over 3,000 hectares, Van Long has earned its reputation as a sanctuary for more than 100 bird species. This breathtaking nature reserve is embraced by majestic limestone mountains, cave systems and lakes, all nurturing a ecosystem of plants. Whether you’re a solo nature enthusiast, traveling with friends, or bringing the whole family – let it captivate your senses:
• Birdwatch and take photos of a world of birds: white storks, spotted ducks, moorhens, pheasants, and fragrant herons;
• Take a sampan through serene waters to witness spectacular sunrises or sunsets;
• Glimpse into the fascinating world of the Delacour’s langur – an endangered species globally prioritized for conservation;
• Admire lotus blooming if you visit between May and July.
Contact us then we will make your Ninh Binh trip more special with Van Long!
Bach Ma National Park (Hue)
Conveniently located between Hue and Da Nang, Bach Ma offers a cool mountain retreat. Summer visitors (May-August) enjoy refreshing temperatures and waterfalls at peak flow. Five distinct vegetation zones support over 1,400 plant species and 330 bird species – creating a perfect lands for you to acquire fascinating knowledge of local nature!
• Summit hike with panoramic views (suitable for older children) and enjoy waterfalls among jungle;
• Vietnam birdwatching spots with expert guides – ready for an attractive photography trip!
• Night walks to observe nocturnal creatures;
• Marvel at structures from the French colonial resort once built here – especially Hai Vong observation tower atop Bach Ma mountain with breathtaking panoramic view.
It’s will be an impressive journey to you with all nature, culture and history stories of Vietnam!
Yok Don National Park (Dak Lak)
Yok Don National Park is Vietnam’s largest national park and offers something truly magical – the chance to see elephants in their natural habitat. Here, we especially encourage you to participate in wildlife-friendly activities – no riding or attempting to touch the animals!
The ancient forest cradles one of the Central Highlands’ most magnificent waterways – the mighty Serepok River – which flows into Cambodia and offers perfect relief from the summer heat. Check out these joyful and family-friendly activities:
• Visit elephants while understand each elephant’s unique personality, their individual histories, and why they now call Yok Don home;
• Embark on half-day or full-day treks through the dipterocarp forest, discovering precious medicinal herbs or learning to identify birds by their different songs;
• Refresh in crystal-clear streams and waterfalls;
• Take a road or kayak along the Serepok River;
• Early start a day for extraordinary birdwatching – spot woodpeckers, drongos and kingfishers, green pigeons, and even peacocks.
Find a sample itinerary here and write us your special desire!
Tram Chim National Park (Dong Thap)
Located in the Mekong Delta, Tram Chim National Park is home to over 100 species of vertebrates, 40 species of fish, and 147 species of water birds — including 13 rare and endangered bird species of the world like Sarus Crane. Hop on a wooden boat with a local guide and float through a landscape filled with birds, endless green grasslands and rice fields, and the iconic pink and white lotus ponds of Vietnam. From the observation tower, this land will surely feast your eyes and fill your camera!
Flat terrain and boat-based exploration make it accessible and one of the most safe and fun outdoor activities for kids in Vietnam.
• Boat tours through seasonally flooded Melaleuca forests;
• Bird observation towers with provided binoculars – don’t forget to prepare your camera;
• Cycling on flat trails around the park perimeter;
• Seasonal lotus harvesting experiences.
Nam Cat Tien National Park (Dong Nai)
Located 150km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, Nam Cat Tien is accessible year-round, with the dry season (December-May) offering easier trail conditions. One of Vietnam’s largest remaining lowland tropical forests with 1,700 plant species, 300 bird species, and large mammals including elephants and gibbons.
The well-developed infrastructure and various accommodation options make it ideal for Vietnam nature getaway with family. Let’s see some activities you can do in Nam Cat Tien National Park from 1-3 days:
• Trekking to see gibbon at dawn;
• Night safari to spot nocturnal creatures;
• Cycling on forest roads;
• Crocodile lake excursions;
• Bear and wildlife rescue center visits.
Con Dao National Park (Ba Ria - Vung Tau)
It’s easy to reach Con Dao from Sai Gon or Vung Tau by speedboat – let’s plan your marine exploration now! Protecting both marine and forest ecosystems, Con Dao National Park features 1,300+ marine species and nesting sites for endangered sea turtles. From April to August is the breeding season of turtles – actually one of the top Vietnam wildlife experiences for children (Con Dao is the most successful center for conserving sea turtles in Vietnam).
Let’s see what you can experience here and don’t wait more to contact us for your own trip:
• Guided night walks to watch sea turtle nesting and releasing baby turtle to sea (April-Augest);
• Swimming, snorkeling and diving at untouched beaches;
• Island hopping boat tours;
• Historical tours of the former prison (appropriate for older children).
Tips to leave positive impacts on Vietnam's national parks
• Stay and enjoy meals at park-managed facilities, so your money directly supports conservation funds;
• Choose zero-emission options as walking or cycling while exploring national parks in Vietnam;
• Purchase handmade souvenirs created by local communities around the park;
• Bring your own reusable water bottle – we believe you need lots of water during exploration;
• Avoid single-use toiletries;
• Take all trash with you – leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but photographs.
Making your adventure memorable and sustainable
National parks in Vietnam offer extraordinary opportunities connect with nature while fostering environmental awareness and hand-on experiences. Moreover, these protected areas not only provide safe and fun outdoor activities but also support conservation efforts that preserve these ecosystems for future generations.
Ready to plan your family’s Vietnam nature adventure? Contact our experienced team to design a customized itinerary perfect for your family’s interests and children’s ages – perfect balance of adventure, education, and relaxation!
Now – which of these amazing national parks will your family explore first?
