What is Ben En National Park like?
Location, Size & Background
Ben En National Park spans across Nhu Xuan and Nhu Thanh districts in the southwest of Thanh Hoa Province. It was officially established in 1992 and covers a total area of around 14,000 hectares, most of which is dense forest and inland water.
At the heart of the park lies Song Muc Lake, a scenic freshwater body of about 4,000 hectares, fed by mountain streams and dotted with forested islands. The park was created to protect the region’s biodiversity while offering potential for ecotourism and conservation research.
Scenery & Landscapes
Nicknamed “Halong Bay on land,” Ben En’s landscape features tree-covered islands rising from still blue waters, surrounded by hills and mountains.
While the nickname sets high expectations, the scenery is more tranquil than dramatic — no towering cliffs or limestone peaks, but rather a peaceful lake setting with occasional rocky outcrops and green ridgelines. Much of the area remains undeveloped and quiet, with little tourism infrastructure, giving it a raw and natural atmosphere. It’s a place where you’re more likely to hear birdsong and rustling leaves than tour groups.
Flora & Fauna
Ben En is one of the most biodiverse areas in north-central Vietnam, with over 1,400 plant species and more than 1,000 animal species recorded. The park is home to rare primates like langurs and red-faced monkeys, as well as civets, deer, and several species listed in Vietnam’s Red Book. Ancient hardwoods and medicinal plants grow in the forest, including some trees over 100 years old.
Despite this richness, wildlife viewing is difficult without a knowledgeable guide or ranger — there are no formal observation platforms or interpretation signs. Most visitors will enjoy the sense of being surrounded by wild nature rather than spotting animals directly.
Things to See and Do at Ben En National Park
Ben En is not a well-developed tourist destination, especially for international visitors. There are no organized tours in English, limited signage, and basic infrastructure. English is rarely spoken by park staff or boat operators. That said, if you plan ahead and come with the right expectations, you can still enjoy a peaceful, nature-focused experience.
1. Boat trips on Song Muc Lake
The main reason to visit Ben En is to take a boat trip on Song Muc Lake, a large and quiet reservoir surrounded by green hills and dotted with small forested islands.
You can join a shared boat or rent a private one, depending on availability. Some boat routes include brief stops on islands, where you can walk, rest, or have a picnic, but don’t expect facilities or staff — it’s very rustic.
- Price range: ~60,000–120,000 VND per person depending on route and boat type.
- Bring your own food and water as there are no vendors or shops on the lake.
- Be prepared for occasional delays or disorganization — service standards vary.
2. Explore Ngoc Cave
Ngoc Cave (meaning “Jade Cave”) is a small but beautiful cave accessible by boat. It’s associated with a local legend about a stream that can “wash away your sins,” and inside you’ll find glittering stalactites and a peaceful atmosphere. There’s also a short footpath and a cliffside tree marking the cave entrance.
- Whether you can visit depends on the boat route you choose — not all include it.
- Access may be limited without a guide or Vietnamese speaker to help arrange the visit.
3. Wildlife & Nature Walks
Ben En has a large and diverse ecosystem, but it’s not set up for typical wildlife tourism.
- There’s no formal trekking system, but you may find short walking routes near the park headquarters, including a basic 5 km loop.
- Wildlife like monkeys, civets, and birds exist here, but viewing them without a guide is rare.
- Independent hiking is not recommended — trails are unclear, and you’ll likely get more out of a short, ranger-led stroll if available.
4. Visit the Park Museum
Near the main entrance is a small museum displaying forest specimens, preserved animals, and some items related to ethnic cultures in the region.
- The building is simple but offers some insight into the park’s ecosystem.
- Signage is minimal, and English explanations are rare.
- It’s not always open, especially on quiet weekdays or during low season.
5. Visit Ethnic Minority Villages
Villages near the park are home to the Thai, Muong, and Tho ethnic groups. While there are no official cultural tourism programs, it may be possible to join local meals or observe village life if you have local contacts or are traveling with Vietnamese friends.
- Occasional festivals, traditional cooking, or fishing activities happen in the area.
- Without local arrangements, however, it’s hard to access or understand what’s happening.
6. Camping
Camping is allowed in parts of Ben En National Park, and some flat areas near the lake or forest edge are suitable. However, the park does not rent tents or gear, and there are no designated campsites or facilities.
- This is only a viable option if you’re traveling with your own gear — which is rare for international travelers.
- If you’re adventurous, traveling with locals, or want a truly off-grid experience, it’s possible — but don’t expect support.
- Avoid camping during the coldest months (Dec–Feb) or in peak summer heat. Always respect fire safety rules and leave no trace.
How to get to Ben En National Park
Ben En National Park is located in a remote area of southwestern Thanh Hoa Province, about 45 kilometers from Thanh Hoa City. While not difficult to reach, it does require some planning — especially if you’re relying on public transport or hoping to visit from Hanoi or Ninh Binh.
Reaching Thanh Hoa
The nearest city to Ben En is Thanh Hoa, which serves as the main gateway.
- From Hanoi, you can reach Thanh Hoa in 3 to 4 hours:
- Train: Several daily north–south trains run between Hanoi and Thanh Hoa Railway Station.
- Limousine bus: Comfortable vans operate throughout the day from various Hanoi pickup points.
- Private car: Offers the most flexibility if you’re continuing to Ben En afterward.
- From Ho Chi Minh City, take a flight to Tho Xuan Airport, which is about 1 hour by car from Thanh Hoa City. Domestic flights operate daily.
From Thanh Hoa to Ben En
Ben En is located roughly 45 km southwest of Thanh Hoa, and the journey takes about one hour.
- The most convenient option is to take a taxi or private car, which can be arranged through hotels or car services.
- Motorbike rental is another option if you’re comfortable navigating rural roads.
- Public transport is limited: While some local buses run in the direction of Nhu Xuan or Nhu Thanh districts, there are no direct buses to the park entrance, and communication may be difficult without Vietnamese.
Direct Private Options
If you’re not planning to stay in Thanh Hoa, you can also visit Ben En directly from Hanoi or Ninh Binh:
- Hire a private car with driver for a day trip or overnight visit. This is the easiest way to access the park without transfers.
- Self-driving by motorbike is possible, but only recommended for experienced riders familiar with Vietnamese road conditions.
Keep in mind that once you reach the park, services are limited and staff may not speak English — so arranging everything in advance is strongly advised.
Tips for visiting Ben En National Park
Ben En is beautiful but not built for casual tourism, especially if you’re used to well-organized national parks. A bit of preparation goes a long way.
- Bring everything you need: There are no shops or reliable food stalls near the park entrance or on the islands. Pack water, snacks or meals, sun protection, and insect repellent.
- Check boat services in advance: Boat tours are the main attraction, but they can be disorganized, especially on quiet days. If possible, have a local help you arrange the trip or confirm details with your accommodation.
- No English spoken: Park staff, boat drivers, and locals generally don’t speak English. It’s helpful to visit with a Vietnamese-speaking guide or travel companion to handle logistics and communication.
- Planning to camp? Come fully self-sufficient — bring your own tent, cooking gear, and supplies. There are no rentals or designated campsites. Choose your spot carefully and always follow leave-no-trace principles.
Is Ben En National Park worth visiting?
Honestly — not really, unless you’re already in Thanh Hoa and looking for a quiet escape into nature. Ben En does offer peaceful scenery, a large lake, and a sense of remoteness that’s hard to find elsewhere in northern Vietnam. But it’s not set up for international tourism.
The biggest drawbacks are the limited services, lack of English support, and unstructured activities. You’ll need to organize everything yourself, often through local contacts or by relying on Vietnamese-speaking friends. For most travelers, especially those with limited time, there are better and more accessible national parks elsewhere in Vietnam.
Alternative National Parks in the area to consider
If you’re looking for a better-developed nature experience with easier access, more activities, or better services for foreign visitors, here are three alternatives to Ben En worth considering.
Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Located in western Thanh Hoa, about 120–140 km northwest of Ben En, Pu Luong is a scenic mountain reserve known for its terraced rice fields, minority villages, and trekking routes. Unlike Ben En, Pu Luong has homestays, organized tours, and infrastructure that caters to foreign visitors. It’s one of the most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations in northern Vietnam.
Read the full guide to Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
Pu Mat National Park
Found in Nghe An Province, roughly 3 to 4 hours south of Ben En, Pu Mat is a more remote but richer and more impressive national park. It has deeper forest, better chances for wildlife spotting, and is one of Vietnam’s best parks for biodiversity and primates. Services are still basic, but slightly more structured than Ben En — a good fit for adventurous travelers with a strong interest in nature.
Read the full guide to Pu Mat National Park.
Cuc Phuong National Park
Located in Ninh Binh Province, around 3–4 hours north of Ben En, Cuc Phuong is Vietnam’s oldest national park and the best choice for first-time visitors. It offers marked trails, a primate rescue center, and more visitor-friendly facilities, making it far easier to explore independently. It’s a good balance between accessibility and nature, especially if you’re also visiting nearby attractions like Trang An or Tam Coc.
Read the full guide to Cuc Phuong National Park.
