Top 5 things to do in Cat Tien National Park

Cat Tien is an important protected area in Vietnam as it is home to 41 highly endangered species. At the same time, 30 percent of all species found in Vietnam are represented in this wonderful park.
Rare bird species in Cat Tien National Park
Rare bird species in Cat Tien National Park

1st walk to the giant Tung trees

If you are short on time and only have one short hike into the Cat Tien National Park. This trail starts about 500 metres from the park office (i.e. towards Croc Lake) and offers the shortest route to explore the surrounding jungle.

The shady path will lead you to a large tung tree for a nice photo opportunity and if you want to go further, you will find a path (just behind the tung tree) back to the park HQ. To increase your chances of spotting beautiful birds, insects or animals, bring binoculars and be very quiet.

Time: 45min - 2h.
Approximate distance: 2 - 5 km (outward and return journey)

Highlights: 

  • Discover the unspoilt jungle landscape

  • Ancient, huge trees in the jungle

Giant tung tree in the national park
Giant tung tree in the national park

2. the crocodile lake

Transfer to Crocodile Lake
Transfer to Crocodile Lake

If you have time to do just one long hike and are not afraid of a 10 km round trip, then a visit to the Croc Lake recommendable. 

By bike or hired pick-up & trek

From Cat Tien National Park headquarters, you can hire a bike or jeep to make the 9km drive to the starting point of Croc Lake and from there it's another 5km walk (one way) to the lake. This
The path is paved and the moderately difficult hike on flat terrain
leads you through shady treetops until you reach the expanse of the lake.

Time: 5 - 7 hours
Approximate distance: 14 km (one way)

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Jungle trekking route

This route starts at Cat Tien National Park Headquarters and instead of a bike or car ride to the entrance of Croc Lake, you'll take a 14km trail and complete the hike to Croc
Lake under a shady jungle canopy.

This trail takes you through rocky terrain, slopes and small hills under untouched rainforest. Gibbons, wild boars, birds and insects can be observed as you move quietly along the jungle paths.

Time: 8 -10 hours
Approximate distance: 14 km (one way)

Tip:

Bring water, snacks, insect repellent and good hiking boots. The return journey with the park's own vehicle can be made on the
or the next day, if you prefer to be at home on the
at Croc Lake (basic facilities).

Highlights: 

  • Discover Croc Lake with its wild crocodiles

  • Jungle adventure  

  • Wonderful nature 

3. cycling to the ethnic village of Ta Lai & Dat Do

If cycling is your favourite mode of transport, then a bike tour to the ethnic Ta Lai village and further to Dat Do suitable for you. This ride takes you past wooded paths, open grassland, village trails and, as a challenge, there are some hilly stretches to tackle. 


Time: 5hrs.
Approximate distance: 22 km (one way)

 

Highlights: 

  • Trekking to Green Hill 

  • Visit to the cocoa and coffee garden

  • Kayaking on the river

Ta Lai Longhouse
Ta Lai Longhouse

The ethnic Ta Lai village is also known as a unique resort, with houses designed according to the original architecture of the traditional Chau Ma longhouse.

4. by boat downstream to Ta Lai village

If you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can hire a boat and head downstream to the Ta Lai village drive. This is a wonderful way to observe waterfowl and wildlife along the river. A good time to do this tour is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it is cooler and the animals are close by.

Time : 60 - 90min

Distance: approx. 12 km (one way)

Highlights: 

  • cosy river cruise

  • Observe animals

  • Tai Lai village
Sunset in Cat Tien national park
Sunset in the national park

5 Green Hill - From the ethnic village of Ta Lai

Green Hill is a rarely visited part of the park, although
it is a very beautiful hiking trail to explore.

A local guide should help you trek and climb this dormant volcanic ridge. The 6km trail starts behind the Ta Lai Longhouse and passes through Fruit plantations and rice fieldsbefore leading back into the jungle on the way to the summit. At the highest point of Green Hill, you come across a rocky outcrop that forms a protective "lid" over the hill, while the surrounding areas have eroded over time. 

Please note that Ta Lai village itself is about 12 kilometres away from the national park headquarters.

Time: 4 hours
Approximate distance: 6 km (one way)

Highlights: 

  • beautiful hiking trail

  • Pure nature and tranquillity

Dong Nai River
Dong Nai River

What is the best way to get to Cat Tien National Park?

Especially if you are traveling in small groups or with your family and have children, a Private vehicle is the best choice. This means you can book a private vehicle or simply organize your visit with a roundtrip .

Jungle trail in Cat Tien National Park
Jungle trail in the national park

Summary

A wonderful place for relaxation and adventure. Let our Experts and plan your own personalised round trip!

rsz 20200226 130930

Tip

A visit to the Cat Tien National Parks is possible all year round, recommendable is the dry season between October and May. 

Picture of Karl-Heinz Kronpass

Karl-Heinz Kronpass

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