Located approximately 120 km southwest of Hanoi, Cuc Phuong National Park lies within the Tam Diep mountain range and protects one of Vietnam’s most important areas of tropical rainforest. Established on 7 July 1962, it was the country’s first national park. The park covers approximately 22,400 hectares of forest, limestone mountains, valleys and diverse natural habitats.

The park is known for its rich biodiversity, including ancient trees, rare plants, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and hundreds of bird species. Its dense rainforest provides habitat for threatened wildlife, including the Delacour’s langur, a rare primate native to Vietnam. Visitors can explore the forest on foot along established trails, discover distinctive limestone formations and experience the atmosphere of an ancient tropical ecosystem.

One of Cuc Phuong’s most important attractions is the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, which works to rescue, rehabilitate and conserve threatened primates. The park also offers a Turtle Conservation Center, a botanical garden, prehistoric caves and routes leading to notable forest landmarks such as the Thousand-Year-Old Tree. These attractions provide opportunities to learn about wildlife conservation, forest ecology and the region’s natural history.

Cuc Phuong is particularly appealing to nature enthusiasts, hikers, photographers and travellers interested in conservation. April and May are especially popular for butterfly watching, when large numbers of butterflies can be seen along forest paths. Other periods offer opportunities for rainforest walks and wildlife-focused experiences, although sightings of wild animals are never guaranteed.

For a rewarding visit, travellers can combine forest trekking with a guided visit to the conservation centres. The park is also a good complement to Ninh Binh’s limestone landscapes and cultural sites, offering a different perspective on the region through its forests, biodiversity and conservation work.