1. Overview of Cat Ba National Park
Located on Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong Province, Cat Ba National Park is part of the UNESCO recognized Cat Ba Archipelago Biosphere Reserve. Covering an area of over 260 km², the park encompasses both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, with lush tropical forests, karst limestone mountains, mangroves and coral reefs.
The park is home to more than 1,500 plant species and many rare animals, most notably the Cat Ba langur, one of the world’s most endangered primates. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as trekking, caving, and wildlife watching, with popular routes leading to Ngu Lam Peak and Trung Trang Cave. Blending rich biodiversity with stunning natural scenery, Cat Ba National Park is truly Vietnam’s hidden jungle gem. 2. Cat Ba National Park tour itinerary
Cat Ba National Park tours offer an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s most biodiverse island. Whether you have half a day or multiple days to explore, each tour offers a fresh way to discover the park’s lush rainforests, limestone peaks and unique wildlife.2.1. Half-day Cat Ba National Park tour
If you only have a few hours, the half-day Cat Ba National Park tour is a popular option. Starting at 8:30 AM from Cat Ba Town, you’ll head to the park entrance and tackle the Ngu Lam Peak trek, a moderate climb that rewards you with sweeping views of jungle, limestone cliffs, and the coastline.
The park is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, so this timing gives you a comfortable margin. After the Ngu Lam Peak trail, the itinerary includes a visit to Trung Trang Cave, with its dramatic stalactites and passageways, and then a quick stop at Hospital Cave, a relic of wartime history used as a hidden medical facility. This short Cat Ba trekking tour is ideal for those wanting a meaningful taste of the park’s natural and historical highlights without committing a full day. >> Read more: Viewpoint Cat Ba: A Trekking Adventure in Cat Ba National Park 2.2. Full day Cat Ba National Park tour
For those who want a full day of exploration, the Cat Ba National Park tour goes beyond jungle trails and local cultural experiences. From the entrance, you will trek through dense tropical forest towards Frog Pond, passing through tree-lined paths and admiring the rich flora and fauna that characterize the island’s ecosystem.
The trail then continues to Viet Hai Village, a residential area deep in the jungle. Here, you’ll enjoy a local lunch, explore the quiet village streets (often by bicycle) and experience the slow, rustic life on the island. In the afternoon, many full-day tours include sailing or kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, allowing you to paddle past limestone islands, hidden coves and underwater caves. This mix of trekking and sea exploration makes the full day Cat Ba National Park tour a balanced, memorable experience. 2.3. Long day Cat Ba National Park tour
If your schedule allows, consider a 2 or 3 day Cat Ba National Park tour. On day one, you might settle into the forest, reach Viet Hai, and stay overnight in a local homestay. Day two can be dedicated to kayaking, swimming, exploring remote beaches, or further cave excursions.
Staying overnight inside or near the park gives you a chance to experience dawn in the forest or the glow of fireflies at night. Throughout, the broader Cat Ba National Park tour itinerary offers flexibility to tailor activities whether more trekking, wildlife watching, or sea excursions. Regardless of how long it takes, combine your Cat Ba trekking tour with some kayaking time in Lan Ha Bay, cave visits (Trung Trang, hospital or sea caves) and relaxing moments at nearby beaches like Cat Co or Monkey Island (Cat Dua) just off the main island. 3. Exciting Activities in a Cat Ba National Park Tour
Joining a Cat Ba National Park tour offers visitors a combination of adventure and nature exploration. The most popular activity is trekking, with routes ranging from short walks to Ngu Lam peak, which offers stunning panoramic views to longer trails leading to Viet Hai village. Cat Ba trekking tours are the perfect choice for those who love to explore the wild beauty of Vietnam’s largest island. The park is also popular for wildlife watching, home to rare species such as the endangered Cat Ba langur, tropical birds and vibrant orchids. For history buffs, Military Hospital Cave and Trung Trang Cave reveal the island’s wartime past and impressive limestone formations.
Many travelers have included cycling or kayaking in Lan Ha Bay in their Cat Ba National Park tour itinerary, combining the forest and the sea. For the adventurous, rock climbing on the limestone cliffs will be more interesting.A visit to Viet Hai Village concludes the journey offering a glimpse of peaceful rural life surrounded by mountains and rice fields. All these experiences contribute to an enjoyable and unforgettable Cat Ba National Park tour. 4. Tips for visiting Cat Ba National Park
- Before joining your Cat Ba National Park tour, it’s helpful to prepare for the island’s tropical weather and diverse terrain.
- The best time to visit Cat Ba National Park is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild and rainfall is low.
- If you’re planning a Cat Ba trekking tour, wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring insect repellent, and carry plenty of water.
- Booking a guided tour of Cat Ba National Park is a great option, as local guides can help you spot rare wildlife, explain the park’s unique ecosystem, and ensure you follow safe routes.
- Most Cat Ba National Park itineraries include stops at Ngu Lam Peak, Trung Trang Cave, and Viet Hai Village, so plan enough time to explore each destination at your own pace.
- Respecting the environment is essential, avoid littering, stay on the right of way and do not disturb animals or plants.
- If you want to extend your trip, combine the Cat Ba National Park tour with a cruise or kayaking in Lan Ha Bay for the full experience.