Cat Ba National Park has an area of 152 km2 and is located at an average altitude of 150m above sea level, 14km from Cat Ba town center.

This area hosts over 3,860 species of fauna and flora, including 130 classified as rare, 67 as extremely rare by the IUCN, and 21 among the rarest in the world.

What does Cat Ba National Park have?

The Cat Ba National Park is a UNESCO biosphere reserve with 741 plants and 282 animal species, notably the endangered Cat Ba Langur.

Wildlife in Cat Ba National Park

One of the biggest highlights of Cat Ba National Park is the endangered Cat Ba Langur (Trachypithecus poliocephalus) - one of the world’s rarest primates, found only on Cat Ba Island. Currently, only about 63 individuals are known to survive in the wild.

Baby langurs are born with bright orange fur that gradually darkens as they mature. These intelligent primates are often seen moving gracefully among the limestone cliffs, symbolizing the resilience and beauty of Cat Ba’s ecosystem.

Aside from langurs, the park is also home to numerous species of birds, reptiles, and mammals, as well as rare plants such as Kim Giao trees and endemic orchids.

With age, they take more risks and travel widely, while experienced adults know where to find seasonal foods.

Famous Caves

Besides its lush forests, Cat Ba National Park is also dotted with a system of spectacular caves, including:

Trung Trang Cave – the largest and most famous cave in the park
Roi Cave – known for its impressive stalactite formations
Hoa Cuong Cave – a stunning crystal-like cave offering a magical atmosphere

Each cave tells a different story about the island’s geological history and natural beauty.

Book a bus & tour

Best Time to Visit Cat Ba National Park

The ideal time to explore Cat Ba National Park is from April to November, when the weather is warm, dry, and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife spotting.

Travel Tips

Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water.
Use insect repellent — the forest can be full of life!
Always go with a local guide for safety and to learn more about the ecosystem.
Respect wildlife and avoid making loud noises in the forest.

Experiences at Cat Ba National Park

Trekking in Cat Ba National Park offers adventurous souls an unforgettable experience, with stunning landscapes awaiting at the trail's end.

The ideal time to visit Cat Ba National Park is from April to November. Because at this time, the weather in Cat Ba is very beautiful and pleasant.

This place is a Trekking (walking and climbing) destination loved by young people because:

Beautiful natural landscape.
Moderate difficulty but still gives visitors surprise and the feeling of conquering the peak.
Rocky mountains and forests intertwine with each other, giving a strong sense of discovery.
The most wonderful thing is when you "Climb to the Top" you can see all the "Happiness" in the majestic scene.

Trekking to Viet Hai Village

Long tour routes with 4 - 8 hours for walking and climbing activities include Ao Ech - Viet Hai route, May Bau - Quan Y Cave route, Kim Giao - Me Con - Tung route Di.

Book full-day trekking → Here

If you start from Hanoi at 7:30 AM by bus, you might be able to get to Cat Ba National Park at around 11:00 AM.

The trail is about 8 km through the forest with big tropical trees with curiously weird-shaped roots and branches along the way.

The first 100 meters can be very dangerous and challenging, with some streams suddenly crossing the path.

The trail will get smaller and craggier when you go deeper into the woods.

Sometimes the trail can be so mysterious, like what you were dreaming of as a child. You'll have friend requests from many beautiful creatures along the way.

Around 1 PM, you can arrive at Frog Pond to relax, chat with friends, and enjoy snacks while taking in the serene water and lush green trees.

Keep going for 4 more kilometers; you will see Viet Hai village.

If you go here in late winter or mid-summer, you can see the locals busy preparing the age-old paddy fields for the new planting.

Domesticated water buffaloes still plow the rice terraces.

Besides cultivation, the locals also go fishing, thanks to the rich water circling the village.

From Viet Hai village, you can board a boat to go back to the center of town and enjoy the busy nightlife there.

Trekking to Ngu Lam Peak - Trung Trang Cave

Book a half-day trek to Ngu Lam Peak and Trung Trang Cave → Here

Tour routes of 2 to 3 hours for motorbikes, bicycles, cars, walking, and climbing include Kim Giao Forest - Ngu Lam Peak, Environmental education, and Dong Trung – Committee Cave.

Ngu Lam peak

Trung Trang Cave

FAQs

1. Where is Cat Ba National Park located?

Cat Ba National Park is located on Cat Ba Island, part of Hai Phong City in northern Vietnam. The park lies about 14 kilometers from Cat Ba Town center and roughly 150 kilometers from Hanoi.

Stretching across both land and marine areas, this park is part of the Cat Ba Archipelago Biosphere Reserve, recognized by UNESCO for its exceptional biodiversity.

Visitors can reach the park by bus, ferry, or speedboat from Hanoi, Hai Phong, or Halong Bay, making it easily accessible for day trips or multi-day adventures.

2. What makes Cat Ba National Park special?

What sets Cat Ba National Park apart is its incredible diversity of ecosystems. Covering tropical rainforests, limestone mountains, mangrove forests, and coral reefs, it’s home to over 3,800 species of fauna and flora.

The park shelters the endangered Cat Ba Langur, one of the rarest primates in the world, along with numerous birds, reptiles, and plants found nowhere else.

Its combination of ecological richness and dramatic landscapes makes it a perfect destination for eco-tourism, scientific research, and outdoor adventure.

Every corner of the park reveals a new wonder - from ancient caves to lush canopies filled with the sounds of nature.

3. What are the best things to do in Cat Ba National Park?

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Cat Ba National Park for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike.

The most popular activity is trekking, with trails ranging from easy forest walks to challenging hikes across rugged mountains.

You can trek to Ngu Lam Peak for panoramic views of the island, or follow the Ao Ech – Viet Hai route through dense jungle and peaceful ponds.

Besides trekking, visitors can explore Trung Trang Cave and Hoa Cuong Cave, go birdwatching, or join an eco-tour to learn about conservation efforts.

The park is also an excellent spot for photography, camping, and connecting with local communities living in harmony with the forest.

4. What should I bring when trekking?

When trekking in Cat Ba National Park, preparation is key. You should wear light, breathable clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and carry a small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a raincoat.

If you plan to trek longer routes like Ao Ech – Viet Hai, bring extra water and energy bars, as food stalls are rare inside the park.

Don’t forget your camera - the trails are filled with scenic viewpoints, rare plants, and animals you’ll want to capture. Always respect nature by not littering and staying on marked paths.

5. Can I see Cat Ba Langur in the wild?

Yes, but sightings of the Cat Ba Langur (Trachypithecus poliocephalus) are extremely rare and special. Fewer than 70 individuals remain in the wild, living mainly on limestone cliffs and secluded forest areas of the park.

They are known for their golden fur at birth, which turns black and white as they mature.

While it’s not guaranteed you’ll spot one during your visit, guided eco-tours offer the best chance, as local rangers know the langur’s preferred habitats.

Even if you don’t see them, visiting Cat Ba National Park supports conservation efforts that protect this critically endangered species and their natural environment.

6. How long does it take to explore Cat Ba National Park?

The time needed depends on what you want to experience. A half-day visit lets you trek to Ngu Lam Peak or explore Trung Trang Cave, while a full-day tour combines trekking, cave exploration, and relaxation at Frog Pond.

For a deeper adventure, a two-day trek through the Ao Ech – Viet Hai Village route is ideal - you’ll hike through dense forest, cross streams, and experience authentic local life.

Each option offers a unique way to appreciate the park’s incredible biodiversity and landscapes.

7. Is Cat Ba National Park suitable for families?

Absolutely. Cat Ba National Park offers activities for all ages. Families can enjoy easy walking trails, visit caves, and learn about wildlife through educational tours. There are also picnic spots and rest areas along the main routes.

However, if traveling with young children or elderly members, it’s best to avoid the longer or more challenging treks. Hiring a local guide ensures safety and helps everyone enjoy the natural beauty of the park comfortably.

8. Why should I visit Cat Ba National Park?

Visiting Cat Ba National Park is not just about sightseeing - it’s about experiencing nature in its purest form.

It’s a place where you can disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the wilderness.

The park represents the heart and soul of Cat Ba Island, where biodiversity, culture, and adventure coexist in harmony.

Whether you come for trekking, photography, or simply breathing in the forest air, every step through Cat Ba National Park leaves you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s natural heritage.

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Cat Ba National Park Hai Phong Vietnam