Cat Ba National Park is a protected area located in Cat Ba Island. It covers an area of over 100 square kilometers and is home to diverse ecosystems including tropical forests, limestone karsts, and mangrove swamps. You can explore the park through hiking trails, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
About Cat Ba National Park
Cat Ba Island played a strategic role during the Vietnam War, serving as a base for Vietnamese soldiers. Despite the island’s tumultuous past, it has managed to preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity.
Cat Ba National Park, which covers over 15,000 hectares, is the largest national park in the region. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to the area. The golden-headed langur, a critically endangered primate, is one of the most famous species that lives in the park.
The landscapes of Cat Ba National Park are truly breathtaking. The park is characterized by limestone karsts, tropical forests, and coastal wetlands. Its rugged coastline is dotted with several beautiful beaches. The karsts are riddled with caves and caverns, many of which are open to visitors. The most famous of these is Hospital Cave, which served as a secret hospital and command center during the Vietnam War.
How to get to Cat Ba National Park
Getting to Cat Ba National Park from Hanoi is relatively easy, and there are a few different options depending on your preferences and budget.
By tour
By joining a tour, you don’t have to worry about arranging transportation from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island, or from the main town to Cat Ba National Park. We will take care of all transportation logistics, making your trip much more convenient. From pick-up and drop-off times to the activities you’ll be doing in the park. We also provide knowledgeable and experienced guides who can provide insights about the history, culture, and ecology of the park. They can also help you navigate the trails and point out interesting plants and animals.
Check all our Cat Ba tours here.
By Bus and Ferry
This is the most common way to get to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi. First, take a bus or minivan from Hanoi to the port town of Hai Phong. From there, you can catch a ferry to Cat Ba Island. The bus ride from Hanoi to Hai Phong takes around two hours, and the ferry journey to Cat Ba Island takes about 45 minutes. You can purchase combined bus and ferry tickets at travel agencies in Hanoi or directly at the bus station.
By Private Transfer
If you prefer a more comfortable and convenient option, you can arrange a private transfer from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island. This option can be more expensive than taking a bus and ferry, but it allows you to avoid the hassle of changing transportation modes and waiting for connections.
By Seaplane
For a truly unique and breathtaking experience, you can take a seaplane from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island. This option is more expensive than other modes of transportation, but it offers stunning aerial views of the landscape. The flight takes about 45 minutes and lands at the island’s airport.
Once you arrive on Cat Ba Island, you can hire a taxi or motorbike to take you to Cat Ba National Park. It’s located about 20 kilometers from Cat Ba town, and there are several trails and attractions within the park that you can explore.
Things to do in Cat Ba National Park
Cat Ba National Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities and natural beauty. Here are some of the best things to do in Cat Ba National Park:
1. Hiking
Hiking through Cat Ba National Park is the best way to discover the national park with several trail options to explore. Among them, the most popular trail is the Ngu Lam Peak hike, which rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the island and its surrounding beauty. This trail offers a challenging yet fulfilling experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the park and capture stunning vistas from the peak.
2. Wildlife spotting
Cat Ba National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species. With luck, you can spot animals such as macaques, civets, and langurs, as well as a variety of bird species.
3. Cycling
Cycling through Cat Ba National Park offers a scenic and adventurous experience, with a well-maintained road and the option to rent bikes in Cat Ba Town. Another exciting choice is to explore the picturesque Viet Hai Village, where cycling allows you to immerse yourself in the rural beauty and charm of the area.
4. Visit Viet Hai Village
Viet Hai Village is a remote gem nestled deep within Cat Ba National Park. This picturesque village offers a glimpse into traditional rural life, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination if you are looking for an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.
5. Caving
Cat Ba National Park is home to two notable caves: Trung Trang Cave and Hospital Cave. While they may not be the most breathtaking caves in Vietnam, they are still worth visiting, particularly due to their unique location within the jungle. Both caves showcase nice stalactites and stalagmites.
Trung Trang Cave features a small viewing platform that offers a glimpse of the surrounding lush trees, enhancing the jungle experience. On the other hand, Hospital Cave holds historical significance as it served as a shelter and medical facility for Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War. The cave’s name originates from its use as a makeshift hospital during that period.
Tips for visiting
Best time to visit Cat Ba National Park
The best time to visit Cat Ba National Park is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. The weather is mild and dry during this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, be aware that the park can get crowded during peak tourist season, so plan your trip accordingly.
How much does it cost
Entrance to Cat Ba National Park costs 80,000 VND (about $3.50 USD) per person.
Where to eat
When it comes to dining within Cat Ba National Park, options are limited as there are not many restaurants available. However, Cat Ba Town offers a diverse selection of eateries where you can find a wide range of food options to suit your preferences.
Getting around
The best way to explore the park is by hiking through its designated trails. Another option is to traverse the park via the road, either by bicycle or motorbike, both of which can be rented in Cat Ba Town. Some hotels even offer complimentary bicycles to their guests. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi or hire a car with a driver for convenient transportation.
To make the most of your visit and ensure you discover the park’s highlights, it is great to join a tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. These tours often also include activities such as kayaking around Cat Ba Island.
Where to stay
When it comes to accommodation near Cat Ba National Park, you have several options to choose from. The most popular area to stay is Cat Ba Town, where you can find a range of hotels, hostels, and homestays. In the town, you also have the choice of staying at one of the few beachfront resorts, offering direct access to the beach. Alternatively, there are also more local accommodations available outside the town
