3 days Cuc Phuong National Park


Hanoi, Van Long Nature Reserve, Cuc Phuong, Kenh Ga, Ninh Xuan, Trang An, Hanoi

Explore Cuc Phuong National Park and the Red River delta by bicycle and at a pace and in a manner that brings us close to the people and the way they live.


Experience the beauty and complexity of the park that interlace the scenic landscape and the human activities of the delta.


Day 1 Hanoi / Van Long Nature Reserve / Cuc Phuong National Park
This morning we depart Hanoi between 7:30 to 8:00, the journey is through the Red River Delta on the way to Ninh Binh


On arrival at Van Long Nature Reserve we enjoy a delightful boat ride past magnificent limestone peaks. 

We journey to Cuc Phuong National Park, Cuc Phuong National Park spreads across three northern provinces of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh and Thanh Hoa, covering over 22,000 hectares.

It is the first national park in Vietnam, is rich in biodiversity and home to many endangered animals. Cuc Phuong National Park spreads across three northern provinces of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh and Thanh Hoa, covering over 22,000 hectares. It is rich in biodiversity and home to many endangered animals. 

From there, a hike along one of the designated pathways leads us past caves, fossils, ancient trees - including one incredible tree that's 1,000 years old. In addition to the vibrant flora.


The night is spent at a comfortable guest house in the park’s headquarters surrounded by spectacular mountains and lush rainforest. (Lunch and dinner are included). 

Day 2 Cuc Phuong / Kenh Ga Floating Village / Ninh Xuan / Yen Mo
In the morning we visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre and the Turtle Conservation Centre in the park to witness the conservation efforts being made to save the endangered primate species, and the rare freshwater turtles.


If we haven’t exhausted our appetite for nature, check out the park’s Botanic Garden. After this we relax on a leisurely boat ride across the Hoang Long river.


In the afternoon we discover the floating village of Kenh Ga, we stroll along the riverfront and cycle through stunning limestone scenery and a network of peaceful waterways.

 

Yen Mo, a village in the Red River delta is our next destination. This area is home to Kinh people with their rich culture. They provide us a unique opportunity to experience the pace of village life in rural Vietnam.

 

With the pagoda of Tien and its surroundings we stroll along winding tracks, further into its beautiful villages and spectacular limestone rocks.

Then we journey to the village of Xom 9 in Yen Mo district. From here we settle in with a family to make authentic Vietnamese food, such as succulent Spring Rolls, fresh rice noodles and sticky rice and zesty dipping sauce with fish sauce and chilli paste, lime juice and ginger. 

We then enjoy the family's gracious hospitality as they share dinner with us. The food is wonderful. The night is spent in a comfortable lodge. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included).


Day 3 Yen Mo / Trang An / Hanoi
After breakfast we take a stroll around open rice fields and around the village of Ninh Xuan leaves us time for learning about agriculture and its rice cultivation. This is followed by a scenic boat ride along the Ngo Dong. 


The Ngo Dong River is one of the most serene sights in Vietnam. Best experienced aboard a local rowboat, a two-hour trip along this enchanting river passes through the Thung Nang cave system - a series of several caverns, including the stalactite-studded Thung Nang cave - and incredible karst scenery all around.


Afternoon finds us cycling through Trang An, a maze of rivers and caves. Trang An is defined by the UNESCO World Centre by its craggy limestone facades and jade green water.

The surrounding area are now home to tiny villages, pretty paddy fields, temples and hiking trails. We absorb the daily life and appreciate the warmth and friendliness of the local people. 


After lunch in a local family we take an easy hike around open rice fields leaving us time for learning about agriculture and its rice cultivation.


This is followed by our journey back to Hanoi, arriving there at around 5pm. (Breakfast and lunch are included).


The facts…

Physical activities: 

Easy hiking and cycling with: 

- a 5-8 km walk on Day 1.

- a 12-15 km bicycle ride on Day 2.

- a 9-10 km bicycle ride on Day 3.


From July to September, the climate is usually humid and hot. From October to June brings cooler and more pleasant weather.


Transport: 

- bicycle.

- boat.

- vehicle. 


Tour Guides: 

Our experienced and friendly tour guides speak fluent English. They are knowledgeable about local cultures, history and the environment.

Accommodation: 

- guest house (1 night).

- lodge (1 night).

A clean and comfortable guest house with mosquito nets provided. 


Meals: 

- 2 breakfasts.

- 3 lunches.

- 2 dinners.


We choose local ingredients, typical of the way people eat in the area, at local restaurants, markets or homes. We cater for Vegetarians but please request this at time of booking.

Trip cost: 

- $156USD per person for a group of 1 to 6 people.

- $139USD per person for a group of 7 to 8 people.


The cost of the trip includes: 

- accommodation.

- tour guides.

- meals.

- entrance fees.

- permits where applicable.


The cost of the trip does not include: 

- travel insurance.

- drinks (soft drinks, alcohol, bottled water) and other personal expenses.


What to take: 

Pack essentials for 3 days away from Hanoi, including light comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, comfortable hiking shoes.

Take a small day pack for cycling and hiking.


It is essential to bring your passport on this trip.


We also recommend packing: insect repellent, sun cream, raincoat and sun hat...


Have a great journey!!!