3-Day Cat Tien National Park Discovery

Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Travel from Saigon to Cat Tien - 7:00 AM: Your private car/van will pick you up from your hotel in Saigon. Begin the journey north towards Cat Tien National Park (approx. 3.5 - 4 hours drive, 150-170 km). Enjoy the changing scenery from urban sprawl to rural landscapes, including rubber and coffee plantations. - 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Arrive at the Cat Tien National Park headquarters. Cross the Dong Nai River by ferry, which takes you directly into the park's core area. - 12:00 PM: Check into your chosen eco-lodge or guesthouse. Settle in and enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at your accommodation or a nearby park restaurant. Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:30 PM): Conservation & Ancient Trees - 2:00 PM: Start your exploration by visiting the Dao Tien Endangered Primate Species Centre (also known as the Primate Rescue Center), located on a small island accessible by a short boat ride. Learn about the rehabilitation efforts for golden-cheeked gibbons, pygmy lorises, and other rescued primates. This is a chance to see these intelligent creatures up close and understand the threats they face. - 3:30 PM: Continue to the Bear Rescue Station, where sun bears and moon bears rescued from illegal wildlife trade are given a second chance at life. Observe their recovery and learn about the efforts to combat poaching. - 4:30 PM: Take a leisurely walk through the forest near the park headquarters to see some of the park's famous ancient trees, such as the towering Tung Tree (Cay Tung) and Bang Lang Tree, known for their immense size and unique root systems. Your guide will provide insights into the local flora. Evening (6:30 PM onwards): Thrilling Night Safari - 6:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at your lodge or a local restaurant. - 7:30 PM: Get ready for the highlight of the day: an exhilarating Night Safari. Board an open-top jeep that drives deep into the park. With the aid of spotlights, your experienced guide will scan the jungle for nocturnal animals. You might spot civets, wild boars, deer (sambar and barking deer), porcupines, and various nocturnal birds. The sounds of the jungle at night create a truly immersive experience. - 9:00 PM: Return to your accommodation for a restful night.

Morning (7:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Bau Sau (Crocodile Lake) Adventure - 7:00 AM: Have an early breakfast at your lodge. - 8:00 AM: Depart for Bau Sau (Crocodile Lake), one of the park's most iconic destinations. The journey involves a jeep ride (approximately 10 km) into the heart of the forest, followed by a challenging but rewarding 5 km trek (one way) through dense primary jungle. Your guide will lead the way, pointing out diverse plant life, insects, and potentially larger wildlife like monkeys or exotic birds. The trail can be muddy, especially in the rainy season, adding to the adventure. - 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Arrive at Crocodile Lake. Take a serene boat ride on the lake to observe the critically endangered Siamese crocodiles in their natural habitat. This peaceful wetland is also a haven for many bird species. Enjoy the tranquility and stunning natural beauty. - 11:30 AM: Begin your trek back to the jeep pick-up point. - 1:00 PM: Return to the park headquarters area for a well-deserved lunch. Afternoon (2:30 PM - 5:30 PM): Ta Lai Ethnic Village & Cycling - 2:30 PM: Take a journey to the nearby Ta Lai ethnic minority village, home to the Ma and Stieng people. This offers a glimpse into the traditional lives and cultures of the local communities living harmoniously near the park. You can explore the village, interact with locals, and perhaps see traditional crafts. - 4:00 PM: Enjoy a leisurely bicycle ride through the quieter trails around the park headquarters or towards the botanical garden. This allows you to explore at your own pace, enjoy the fresh air, and perhaps spot some more birds or smaller mammals. Evening (6:30 PM onwards): Farewell Dinner & Stargazing - 6:30 PM: Enjoy a relaxed dinner, perhaps trying different local dishes. - Post-dinner: Spend some time stargazing; away from city lights, the night sky over Cat Tien can be remarkably clear. Reflect on your jungle adventures.

Morning (5:00 AM - 11:30 AM): Early Morning Gibbon Trek & Park Exploration - 5:00 AM: (Optional, but highly recommended for wildlife enthusiasts): Wake up early for the Wild Gibbon Trek. This exclusive experience starts before dawn with a boat ride across the river, followed by a trek deep into the forest to observe wild yellow-cheeked gibbons in their natural habitat. Hearing their haunting calls echoing through the jungle as the sun rises is an unforgettable moment. Note: This trek is limited to a small number of participants daily and requires advance booking, often incurring an additional cost. - 8:00 AM: Return to your lodge for breakfast. - 9:00 AM: Depending on your interest and energy levels, you can choose from the following: 1. Botanical Garden: Explore the park's botanical garden, home to a wide variety of plant species, some endemic to the region. 2. Ben Cu Rapids: Take a walk to the picturesque Ben Cu Rapids on the Dong Nai River, a tranquil spot for relaxation and photography. 3. Birdwatching: For keen birdwatchers, spend more time birding around the park headquarters or specific trails known for diverse avian life. Late Morning (11:30 AM - 12:30 PM): Check-out and Last Lunch - 11:30 AM: Return to your accommodation, pack your belongings, and check out. - 12:00 PM: Enjoy a final lunch at the park before beginning your journey back. Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Return to Saigon - 1:00 PM: Depart from Cat Tien National Park for your return transfer to Saigon. - 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM: Arrive back at your hotel in Saigon, concluding your immersive Cat Tien National Park adventure.