Cat Tien National Park

Cat Tien National Park, is one of Vietnam’s most important natural reserves and is located in its southern region. The park’s tropical landscape comprises deciduous, evergreen, bamboo and swamp forests and seasonal grasslands. This diverse topography has resulted in a rich ecosystem with thriving flora and fauna.

The best way to reach the park is by taking a bus from Ho Chi Minh City, which is 150 km away. Alternatively, you can also hire a taxi or motorbike. You can overnight in one of the numerous homestays or lodges available in and around the park, or even camp here.

Flora and Fauna

The park features an impressive 1000 plus species of fauna including various flowering plants, gigantic trees, herbs, fruits and a large area of bamboo forest.

Among the hundreds of wildlife species that reside here, primate species like langurs and gibbons, sub bears, crab-eating mongoose, Asian elephant and numerous species of bats and deer are prevalent. Its bird population includes red junglefowl, bee-eaters, Siamese firebacks, green peafowl, numerous species of kingfishers, hornbills, broadbills, woodpeckers, pittas and eagles and some waterfowl species. Siamese crocodile, Vietnamese leaf turtle, spiny lizard, Indo-Chinese water dragon and snake species including the reticulated python and king cobra are the major reptile species found here.

Crocodile Lake (Bau Sau)

One of the park’s most popular trails, leads to the Crocodile lake. As the name suggests, the lake is home to a large population of Siamese crocodiles. You can also opt to drive or cycle here, but you will have to walk for the last five kilometres. On the trail, you will come across small streams, lush vegetation and numerous species of birds and reptiles. Crocodile lake is the largest wetland area of the park and you can rent a small kayak and paddle through the lake. However, be cautious while encountering the crocodiles and other animals and make sure to not disturb them.

Dao Tien Endangered Primate Species Centre

This centre is located on the Dao Tien island on the Dong Nai river and serves as a rescue and rehabilitation centre for endangered primate species. The major residents of the centre include black shanked douc, pygmy loris, silvered langurs, Southern white-cheeked gibbons and golden-cheeked gibbons. These primates are victims of illegal trafficking and were hunted on a large scale, almost leading to their extinction. The centre aims to rescue and rehabilitate them and then release them back into the wild. On your visit, you can observe the semi-wild environment created for the primates, the way they socialise and also listen to their distinct calls.

Cat Tien Bear Rescue Centre

The centre is home to Asian black bears and sun bears, which have been rescued from poachers. These bears are hunted as it is believed in this region that bear bile has medicinal properties. You can visit the centre in the morning, when the bears roam freely in a large outdoor area.

Activities

In addition to the amazing wildlife watching opportunities, the park also caters to adventurous souls with plenty of exciting activities. Trekking here is hands down the best way to explore the park and marvel at its incredible vegetation. You can also go on a night safari, boating or biking and visit villages like the Ta Lai village, and learn about the lifestyle and culture of the ethnic groups that reside here. 

Why should you visit?

Cat Tien National Park is a natural treasure of Vietnam and offers an amazing wilderness experience. The diverse ecosystem of the park and its untouched beauty make up an exciting off-beat natural retreat.