Comfortable walking shoes/trekking sandals Light, long-sleeved clothing (to protect from sun and insects) Hat and sunglasses Insect repellent (essential!) Sunscreen Rain gear (especially during the wet season, but even in dry season, a light poncho is good) Swimsuit (if your accommodation has a pool) Binoculars (for birdwatching and wildlife spotting) Camera with extra batteries/power bank Water bottle (refillable to reduce plastic waste) Basic first-aid kit Small backpack for day excursions

2-Day Cat Tien National Park Discovery

Departure from
Saigon
Transportation
Private car/van or comfortable bus
Tour type
Nature, Wildlife, Adventure
Fitness level
Easy to moderate
Accomodation
Ecolodge or guesthouse within or near the park
Language
English, Vietnamese
Group Size
Maximum 10 persons for best experience
Best season
The dry season, from December to May

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Cat Tien National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers a fantastic escape from the bustling Ho Chi Minh City. This 2-day itinerary focuses on maximizing your wildlife discovery and immersion in nature.

Highlights

Night Safari Adventure: Experience the jungle come alive as you spot elusive nocturnal wildlife by spotlight.
Crocodile Lake Trek: Embark on an exciting trek through the primary forest to observe Siamese crocodiles in their natural habitat.
Primate & Bear Rescue Centers: Learn about vital conservation efforts and see rescued endangered primates and bears up close.
Ancient Tung Tree: Witness the majesty of a centuries-old giant Tung tree, a remarkable landmark of the forest.
Lush Rainforest Immersion: Hike through diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to wetlands, surrounded by rich biodiversity.

Day 1 :

JOURNEY TO THE JUNGLE & NIGHT SAFARI

Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Cat Tien - 7:00 AM: Depart from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. The journey to Cat Tien National Park takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours (around 150-170 km). Enjoy the scenic drive through the Vietnamese countryside, passing by lush rice fields, rubber plantations, and coffee farms. - 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Arrive at the Cat Tien National Park headquarters. Cross the Dong Nai River by ferry to enter the park. - 12:00 PM: Check into your chosen accommodation (e.g., Forest Floor Lodge, Green Bamboo Lodge, or other eco-lodges/guesthouses near the park entrance). Settle in and have lunch at your lodge or a local restaurant within the park area. Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:30 PM): Primate Rescue Centers & Nature Walk - 2:00 PM: Visit the Dao Tien Endangered Primate Species Centre (also known as the Primate Rescue Center) on Dao Tien Island. A short boat ride across the river will take you there. Learn about the rehabilitation efforts for golden-cheeked gibbons, pygmy lorises, and other endangered primates. - 3:30 PM: Explore the Bear Rescue Station, where sun bears and black bears rescued from illegal wildlife trade are cared for. - 4:30 PM: Enjoy a leisurely walk around the park headquarters area, observing the diverse flora and perhaps spotting some common bird species or smaller wildlife. Evening (6:30 PM onwards): Night Safari - 6:30 PM: Have dinner at your lodge or a local eatery. - 7:30 PM: Embark on an exciting Night Safari by open-top jeep. This is a unique opportunity to witness the park's nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. With spotlights, your guide will help you spot deer, wild boars, civets, and various elusive nocturnal creatures as they come out to feed.

Day 2 :

TREK TO CROCODILE LAKE & DEPARTURE

Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Trekking to Bau Sau (Crocodile Lake) - 7:00 AM: Enjoy an early breakfast at your accommodation. - 8:00 AM: Begin your most anticipated activity: a trek to Bau Sau (Crocodile Lake). This involves a jeep ride (approx. 10 km) followed by a 5 km hike through the lush primary forest. During the trek, your guide will point out giant, centuries-old trees (like the Tung Tree), various plant species, and explain the park's rich biodiversity. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife such as colorful birds, monkeys, and maybe even a wild boar. - 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Arrive at Crocodile Lake. Take a boat ride on the lake (optional, usually requires prior arrangement and extra cost) to observe the Siamese crocodiles in their natural environment. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning scenery of this large wetland. - 11:00 AM: Begin your trek back to the jeep pick-up point. Lunch (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM): Return to the park headquarters area. Have lunch at a local restaurant or your lodge. - 2:00 PM: Departure to Ho Chi Minh City. - 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Arrive back in Ho Chi Minh City, with unforgettable memories of your Cat Tien National Park adventure.

FAQs

Expand all

What is the best time to do this tour?

The dry season, from December to May, is ideal for visiting Cat Tien National Park. Rainfall is low, paths are dry, and it’s easier to spot wildlife.

What is the fitness level required?

The Cat Tien National Park discovery tour, as described, generally requires a moderate fitness level. Trekking to Bau Sau (Crocodile Lake) is the most physically demanding part of the itinerary. It involves a 5 km hike one way after a jeep ride. While the path might be relatively flat in many sections, it’s still a significant distance (10 km round trip) through jungle terrain, which can be uneven, muddy (especially in the wet season, but even some damp spots in dry season), and potentially have roots or small obstacles.

Who is this tour suitable for?

This tour is suitable for individuals who are generally active and can comfortably walk for several hours; and people who enjoy hiking and being outdoors. Those without serious mobility issues, heart problems, or other medical conditions that would be exacerbated by physical exertion.

Who might find this tour challenging?

Individuals with very limited mobility and those who are not accustomed to walking or hiking. People with respiratory or cardiovascular issues that could be worsened by the exertion and tropical climate. Please also note it is generally not wheelchair accessible.

What to bring?

Comfortable walking shoes/trekking sandals
Light, long-sleeved clothing (to protect from sun and insects)
Hat and sunglasses
Insect repellent (essential!)
Sunscreen
Rain gear (especially during the wet season, but even in dry season, a light poncho is good)
Swimsuit (if your accommodation has a pool)
Binoculars (for birdwatching and wildlife spotting)
Camera with extra batteries/power bank
Water bottle (refillable to reduce plastic waste)
Basic first-aid kit
Small backpack for day excursions

What about park's rules?

Respect the park’s rules (no littering, no smoking, do not feed or touch animals, stay on designated paths).

2-Day Cat Tien National Park Discovery

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

FAQs

Map

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

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Overview

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Itinerary

Cost

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The Cost Excludes

FAQs

Map

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

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