Cat Ba National Park - Things to know

Discover the hidden gem of Cat Ba Island, besides its stunning beaches adorning Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba National Park stands as a serene sanctuary, inviting visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you're a passionate nature enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil escape, embark on a journey to explore the captivating beauty of Cat Ba National Park with  Ama Journey  in this article!

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Cat Ba national park, a hidden gem in the island

Nestled at the heart of the island bearing the same name, Cat Ba National Park sprawls across one of the largest landmasses in Lan Ha Bay, situated within the town of Hai Phong. The island's moniker, Cat Ba, translates to "Ladies Island."

This ecological haven earned its prestigious status as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2005, following its recognition as Vietnam's 3rd Biosphere Reserve in 2003. Established in 1986, the park encompasses a vast expanse of 15,200 hectares, boasting an extensive 18-kilometer hiking trail.

Cat Ba National Park flourishes with a diverse tapestry of flora and fauna, harboring over 741 species of plants, 282 avian species, and 53 varieties of animals, among which thrives the elusive golden-headed Langur, a critically endangered primate species with only around sixty individuals inhabiting the island.

Cat Ba Langur in the national park

A rare encounter with these primates during your visit holds the promise of a truly remarkable experience. Moreover, beyond its natural splendors, the park reveals a trove of cultural marvels, including archaeological sites dating back between 6,000 and 7,000 years, offering poignant insights into mankind's ancient history.

From serene freshwater lakes to labyrinthine mangrove forests and towering karst mountains, Cat Ba National Park beckons adventurers to uncover one of Vietnam's greatest natural treasures.

How to get to Cat Ba National Park?

Getting Cat Ba National Park from Hanoi to Cat Ba town center:
From Cat Ba town, you can take taxi, private car or motorbike, bicyle to the gate of Cat Ba National Park. It is 15km in distance.

Getting to Cat Ba National Park from Tuan Chau, Halong:
You can get ferry from Tuan Chau pier to Gia Luan pier in Cat Ba then take taxi, tourist bus or motorbike taxi to the gate of Cat Ba National Park (about 10km).

Cat Ba national park is located between Cat Ba town and Gia Luan Pier

Cat Ba National Park location

Tuan Chau ferry time table:

From May to August:
Tuan Chau – Gia Luan: 7.30 – 9.00 – 11.30 – 13.30 – 15.00
Gia Luan – Tuan Chau: 9.00 – 11.30 – 13.00 – 15.00 – 16.00

From September to April:
Tuan Chau – Gia Luan: 8.00 – 11.30  – 15.00
Gia Luan – Tuan Chau: 9.00 – 13.00 – 16.00

Ticket price: 30 000 VND

The Bus connecting: Cat Ba town – Cat Ba national Park – Gia Luân pier
Depart from 5.30 AM – and the latest at 16.15. Every 20 minutes. Bus ticket is 30 000 VND.
Traveling time: 40 minutes from Cat Ba town to Gia Luan pier.

Best time to visit Cat Ba National Park?

The optimal time to explore Cat Ba National Park spans from April to October when the weather is mild, and the sun graces the landscape, offering ideal conditions for a variety of outdoor activities.

Cat Ba Island shares Vietnam's characteristic hot, humid, and occasionally oppressive climate, characterized by its subtropical climate. Yet, owing to its offshore positioning, Cat Ba experiences occasional bouts of fog and wind.

Similar to other regions of the country, Cat Ba Island adheres to two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The primary rainy period typically occurs in summer, from June to August, with temperatures often soaring to 30°C.

In contrast, winter, spanning from December to February, sees milder temperatures ranging between 15°C and 20°C, although they can plummet to as low as 10°C during the influence of the northeast monsoon. Cat Ba maintains an average annual temperature of 23.4°C, offering a temperate climate throughout the year.

Things to do in Cat Ba National Park

If you crave tranquility and a respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life, Cat Ba National Park is the ultimate sanctuary. Lace up your hiking boots and grab your water bottle as nature eagerly awaits your exploration!
Following our weather tips for Cat Ba, hiking emerges as the quintessential short-term activity.

Trekking in the Cat Ba National Park ( Photo Cong Dat - VNP)

The park boasts a network of trails catering to various skill levels, with options ranging from leisurely 2 to 3-hour strolls to more challenging treks spanning 5 to 8 hours.

Trekking in the Cat Ba National park
For 2-3 hour trekking:
From The gate of Cat Ba National park to Kim Giao forest and then Ngu Lam Peak. This is a light trekking which is suitable for every tourist.

Long Trek from Ao Ech to Viet Hai village
For 6-8 hour trekking:
This is an adventurous activities and need a local guide. Trekking through the national park to Ao Ech then from Ao Ech to Viet Hai Village.
This itineary will take 2 day/1night as you will stay 1 night in Vietnam after treking and the next day, return to Cat Ba town by a boat from Viet Hai pier. On the way, we will enjoy water activities in Lan Ha bay.

Travel Tips

Note when traveling on weekend and Summer holidays.
Rent motorbike or bikes to discover around this island and easy to go to Cat Ba National Park.
Bring repellent and water when trekking in Cat Ba National Park.

Related articles:

Viet Hai and Cai Beo fishing village in Cat Ba island

Cat Ba island 3 days, what to do?

Lan Ha Bay, a paradise in Cat Ba island