Cat Tien National Park
A vital sanctuary of ancient lowland forest.
π₯ Highly Recommended
4.3 β (5.2K)
Introduction
Cat Tien National Park (VΖ°α»n quα»c gia CΓ‘t TiΓͺn) is a vast expanse of lowland tropical forest located about 150 kilometers north of Ho Chi Minh City, spanning the provinces of Dong Nai, Lam Dong, and Binh Phuoc. Recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, it serves as a critical conservation site for a high diversity of flora and fauna, including many endangered species. The park's core function is the protection of one of Vietnam's largest remaining blocks of this unique ecosystem.
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Dao Tien Endangered Primate Species Centre
Located on an island just across from the park headquarters, this rescue center focuses on rehabilitating primates like golden-cheeked gibbons and pygmy loris that have been rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. Visits are by guided tour only, offering a chance to see these animals and learn about conservation efforts before their potential release back into the wild.
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Bau Sau (Crocodile Lake)
Bau Sau is a large wetland area deep within the park that is home to a thriving population of Siamese crocodiles, a critically endangered species. Reaching the lake requires a 9 km drive or cycle followed by a 5 km trek through the forest. The reward is a serene landscape, best experienced by boat or from the viewing tower, especially at sunrise or sunset.
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Night Safari
After dark, an open-air jeep takes visitors along a set route to spot the park's nocturnal creatures. With a guide using a spotlight, you have the chance to see sambar deer, civets, wild boar, and a variety of sleeping birds. While sightings of larger predators are extremely rare, it provides a completely different perspective on the forest.
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Giant Tung Tree (CΓ’y TΓΉng Cα» Thα»₯)
A short trek from the main road leads to a colossal, 400-year-old Tung Tree. Its massive, buttress roots are a popular subject for photography and demonstrate the scale and age of the forest. The trail to the tree is a good opportunity for birdwatching and spotting smaller forest creatures.
Getting there
From Ho Chi Minh City's District 1 to Cat Tien National Park (approx. 150 km):
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π Private Car/Taxi: 3 - 4 hours | 1,500,000 - 2,000,000 VND ~ $60 - $80 USD one way.
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π Public Bus: 3.5 - 4.5 hours | ~150,000 - 200,000 VND ~ $6 - $8 USD. Several bus companies run routes from Mien Dong Bus Station to Tan Phu. From the Tan Phu bus station, you will need to take a motorbike taxi (xe Γ΄m) for the remaining 24 km to the park entrance.
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π΅ Motorbike: 4 - 5 hours. This option offers the most flexibility but is recommended only for experienced riders due to highway traffic conditions leaving Ho Chi Minh City.
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β οΈ All transport will drop you off at the entrance gate on the mainland. From there, you purchase your park ticket and take a short ferry (5 minutes) across the Dong Nai River to the park headquarters, where accommodation and tour services are located.
Hours & Admission
π Opening hours:
- The park itself is accessible 24/7 for guests staying overnight.
- Ticket Office: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Monday - Sunday.
- Activities & Tours: Most scheduled activities run between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Night safaris typically start around 7:00 PM.
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π« Ticket prices:
- The entrance fee contributes directly to conservation and forest protection programs.
- Adult: 60,000 VND ~ $2.40 USD
- Child (under 16): 10,000 VND ~ $0.40 USD
- Notes: This fee covers entry to the park headquarters area. Tours, guides, and transport within the park are separate costs. Tickets are purchased at the main entrance gate before you cross the river.
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πΆ Best time to visit:
- The dry season, from December to May, is the most comfortable time to visit. Trails are less muddy, and the risk of encountering leeches is significantly lower. The weather is hot but more manageable for trekking and cycling.
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β Recommended duration:
- A minimum of two days and one night is recommended to experience a trek, a night safari, and an early morning visit to the gibbon center without feeling rushed.
Tips from locals
Local tips
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π¦ Be prepared for insects and leeches, especially during the rainy season (June to November). Wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers tucked into your socks, and closed-toe shoes. Leech socks are highly recommended for any jungle trek and can be purchased at the park headquarters.
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π² The main attractions are spread out. Renting a bicycle or hiring an electric car from the park headquarters is essential for getting around. Walking between major points like the trailhead for Crocodile Lake is not practical for most visitors.
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π° Bring sufficient cash (VND) for your entire stay. There are no ATMs within the park, and credit card payments may not always be possible for all services, including local food stalls or smaller tour arrangements.
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π‘ Book your accommodation and any specialized tours, like the gibbon tour or a private guide, well in advance, particularly on weekends and public holidays. These services have limited capacity and are in high demand.
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Be aware
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β οΈ Manage your wildlife expectations. Cat Tien is a wild national park, not a zoo. While sightings of deer, birds, and reptiles are common, seeing larger, shyer mammals requires considerable luck, patience, and often a knowledgeable local guide.
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π Trails can be challenging. Even on marked paths, you may encounter slippery mud, uneven ground, and dense vegetation. Choose treks that match your fitness level and always carry more water than you think you will need.
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π² Food and drink options inside the park are limited to a couple of basic restaurants near the headquarters. If you have specific dietary needs or want snacks for your treks, it is best to bring them with you from outside the park.
FAQs
What is the best way to get to Cat Tien from Ho Chi Minh City?
The most common methods are by public bus to Tan Phu followed by a motorbike taxi, or by hiring a private car for a more direct journey. Motorbikes are an option for experienced riders.
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How much does it cost to enter Cat Tien National Park?
The standard entrance fee is 60,000 VND (about $2.40 USD) for an adult. This does not include tours, guides, or transportation inside the park.
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Do I need to book accommodation inside the park in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend or public holiday, as options can fill up quickly.
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What kind of wildlife can I realistically expect to see?
You have a good chance of seeing various birds, butterflies, reptiles, sambar deer (especially on the night safari), and primates at the Dao Tien rescue center. Seeing wild gibbons, langurs, or other large mammals requires luck and quiet observation.
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Is the night safari worth it?
Most visitors find it to be a worthwhile experience. It provides a unique opportunity to see the forest's nocturnal animals, such as deer, civets, and owls, which you would otherwise miss.
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Are leeches a big problem in Cat Tien?
During the rainy season (June-November), leeches can be very common on the trails. In the dry season (December-May), they are much less of an issue. Leech socks and insect repellent are effective precautions.
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Can I explore the park without a guide?
Yes, you can independently explore the main trails near the park headquarters by bicycle or on foot, such as the trail to the Giant Tung Tree. However, for deeper jungle treks or specialized wildlife spotting, a local guide is essential for both safety and success.
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What is the best time of year to visit Cat Tien National Park?
The dry season, from December to May, is ideal. The weather is more pleasant for hiking, and the trails are in better condition with fewer leeches.
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What should I pack for a trip to Cat Tien?
Pack lightweight, quick-drying clothes in neutral colors, long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, powerful insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, a small first-aid kit, and any necessary personal snacks.
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Are there ATMs in the park?
No, there are no ATMs inside the park headquarters. You should bring enough Vietnamese Dong in cash to cover all your expenses, including accommodation, food, and tours.
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