If you’re looking for a nature escape from Ho Chi Minh City, Cat Tien National Park travel guide is exactly what you need. This massive rainforest is home to incredible wildlife, lush landscapes, and exciting outdoor activities. Whether you want to trek through ancient trees, spot gibbons at sunrise, or take a boat ride on Crocodile Lake, Cat Tien offers an unforgettable adventure. In this guide, we’ll show you the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and essential travel tips to help you make the most of your trip.

Cat Tien National Park at A Glance

Cat Tien National Park is one of Vietnam’s most important and biodiverse protected areas. It is located in southern Vietnam, about 150 km from Ho Chi Minh City. The park covers an area of over 720 square kilometers and stretches across Dong Nai, Lam Dong, and Binh Phuoc provinces.

This massive tropical rainforest is home to a rich ecosystem with a mix of lowland evergreen forests, wetlands, and grasslands. The biodiversity here is incredible, with over 1,600 plant species and over 1,700 animal species, including more than 100 mammal species and hundreds of bird, reptile, and amphibian species. You will find ancient trees, rare orchids, and even unknown species of fungi!

Wildlife in Cat Tien

Cat Tien is one of the best places in Vietnam to see wildlife in its natural habitat. The park is home to gaurs (wild cattle), Asian elephants, sun bears, clouded leopards, and civets. The Yellow-cheeked gibbons are the stars of the park, and their haunting morning calls echo through the forest at dawn.

Bird lovers will also love this place, as over 350 bird species have been recorded, including the Great Hornbill and the Siamese Fireback. If you are lucky, you might even spot a rare crocodile in Bau Sau (Crocodile Lake).

Fun Fact: Cat Tien National Park was once home to the last known population of Javan rhinos in Vietnam, but unfortunately, the species went extinct here in 2010 due to poaching.

Entrance Fee

To enter the park, you need to buy a boat ride ticket of 60,000 VND per person, taking you across the Dong Nai River.

Additional fees may apply for activities like boat trips, night safaris, and bicycle rentals.

Things to See and Do in Cat Tien National Park

Wild Gibbon Trek

If you want an unforgettable wildlife experience, the Wild Gibbon Trek is a must-do. This early morning trek starts before sunrise when the forest is still dark and quiet. As the first light breaks, you will hear the haunting calls of the yellow-cheeked gibbons, which travel across the treetops.

A park ranger will guide you through the forest, helping you track and spot these agile primates in their natural habitat. Watching them swing effortlessly from branch to branch is an incredible sight. The trek lasts around 2-3 hours, and while gibbons are the main highlight, you might also spot macaques, langurs, and hornbills.

Time: Early morning, around 5:00 AM

Note: The tour is limited to 4 people per day

Cost: Around 1,000,000 VND per person

Bear and Gibbon Rescue Centres

Cat Tien National Park is not just a place for spotting wildlife but also a sanctuary for rescued animals. The Bear and Gibbon Rescue Centres, managed by conservation organizations, provide a safe home for animals that have been saved from the illegal wildlife trade. The goal is to rehabilitate them and, if possible, release them back into the wild.

Opening hours: Guided tours are available at specific times during the day

Best for: Those interested in wildlife conservation and ethical tourism

Cost: 150,000 VND

Bau Sau – Crocodile Lake

Bau Sau, also known as Crocodile Lake, is one of the most stunning and remote parts of Cat Tien National Park. The lake is home to the Siamese crocodile, a critically endangered species that was once thought to be extinct in Vietnam.

To get to Bau Sau, you can hike, drive or cycle 10 km from the park headquarters to the entrance of the lake, then walk another 5 km through the forest. Along the way, you will pass ancient trees and diverse wildlife. Once you reach the lake, a ranger will take you on a small boat ride where you can spot crocodiles lurking in the water, as well as rare water birds. You can also stay overnight at a park ranger’s station for the best chance to see crocodiles

Jeep rental: Around 300,000 VND each way

Bicycle rental: Around 150,000 VND per day

Kayaks: 150,000 VND per hour

Tip: Bring binoculars to spot birds and wildlife from a distance

Giant Tung Tree

Deep inside the forest, you will find the Giant Tung Tree, one of the most impressive trees in Cat Tien National Park. This 400-year-old tree stands over 20 meters tall and 10 meters wide, with an enormous trunk and sprawling roots that stretch far across the ground. It is part of the Dipterocarp family, a group of tropical hardwood trees that dominate Southeast Asia’s forests.

Walking through the jungle to reach the Giant Tung Tree is an adventure in itself. The trail is surrounded by dense greenery, and along the way, you might see some animals. When you finally reach the tree, its massive size makes you realize just how small you are in nature.

Hiking distance: Around 3 km (one way) from the park headquarters

Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the path can be muddy after rain

Cat Tien Archaeological Site

Cat Tien Archaeological Site, also known as the Cat Tien Sanctuary, is located near the National Park, spanning across Dong Nai, Binh Phuoc, and Lam Dong provinces. This extensive site stretches approximately 15 kilometers along the Dong Nai River, encompassing alluvial plains and rolling hills surrounded by the Annamite Range.

Excavations conducted between 1994 and 2003 unearthed a series of temple structures and artifacts, shedding light on a previously unknown Hindu civilization that thrived between the 4th and 9th centuries AD. The findings include remnants of Shivaite temples, suggesting the inhabitants practiced Shaivism, a sect of Hinduism that worships Shiva as the supreme deity.

Artifacts recovered from the site are diverse and include gold, bronze, ceramic items, as well as colored stones and glass objects. These items are currently displayed in the Da Lat Museum.

Best for: History enthusiasts, archaeology buffs, and cultural travelers.

Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to Cat Tien National Park to experience both natural beauty and historical intrigue.

Bird Watching

If you love birdwatching, Cat Tien is a fantastic spot to visit. Some of the most common birds you can see here include kingfishers, Black-and-Red Broadbills, owls, hornbills, and the rare Germain’s peacock-pheasant.

You can take a guided birdwatching tour, where an expert will help you identify different species. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit, as birds are most active during these hours.

Best time to visit: December to April

Tip: Bring a good camera or binoculars for better bird-spotting

Ta Lai Ethnic Village

If you want to learn about Vietnam’s ethnic minorities, visiting Ta Lai Village is a great way to connect with local culture. This small village is home to the Ma, S’tieng, and Tay ethnic groups, who have lived in the region for centuries.

At Ta Lai, you can:

• See traditional stilt houses made from wood and bamboo
• Join a handicraft workshop, where locals teach you about natural fabric dyeing.
• Explore the nearby river by kayaking or taking a boat ride
• It is also a good spot to buy handmade souvenirs.

Distance from Cat Tien National Park: Around 12 km

Tip: If you want an immersive experience, consider staying overnight at the Ta Lai Longhouse, an eco-lodge run by the community

Night Safari

One of the most exciting activities in Cat Tien National Park is the Night Safari, where you can see the forest come alive after dark. Many of the park’s animals are nocturnal, meaning they only become active at night.

During the safari, you ride in an open-air truck with a ranger who uses a spotlight to scan the trees and grasslands for wildlife. You might spot:

• Sambar deer grazing near the trails
• Porcupines shuffling through the undergrowth
• Gaurs and weasels in search of food
• Owls and nightjars flying through the night sky

The jungle sounds—chirping insects, hooting owls, and rustling leaves—make the experience even more thrilling.

Time: Starts at 7:00 and ends at 9:00 PM

Duration: Around 1 hour

Cost: 200,000 - 300,000 VND per person

Tip: Wear long sleeves and mosquito repellent, as bugs are active at night

How Many Days in Cat Tien National Park?

The ideal period to explore Cat Tien National Park is during the dry season, from December to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, trails are accessible, and wildlife sightings are more frequent. Conversely, the wet season, spanning June to November, brings heavy rainfall, leading to muddy paths and limited accessibility.

To fully appreciate the park's offerings, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows ample time for activities such as trekking, wildlife observation, and cultural experiences without feeling rushed. Given the park's location, a day trip isn't feasible; an overnight stay is essential.

How Do I Go to Cat Tien National Park?

Cat Tien National Park is approximately 150 kilometers north of Ho Chi Minh City. Travelers have several options to reach the park:

By Bus: From Ho Chi Minh City, buses head towards Dalat along National Highway 20. Passengers should alight at the Ta Lai intersection and then take a taxi or motorbike for the remaining 24 kilometers to the park's entrance. 

By Private Vehicle: Driving offers flexibility. From Ho Chi Minh City, follow National Highway 1A to Dau Giay intersection, turn onto Highway 20 towards Dalat, and then proceed to the Ta Lai crossroads leading to the park.

By Train and Taxi: An alternative route involves taking a train from Ho Chi Minh City to Long Khánh and then hiring a taxi to the park. This journey typically takes around 2 hours and 57 minutes.

Cat Tien National Park Accommodation

Cat Tien National Park offers a range of accommodations to suit various preferences:

Inside the Park: Staying within the park provides immersive nature experiences. Options include guesthouses and lodges managed by the park authorities. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons. Option: Forest Floors Lodge.

Outside the Park: Several hotels and lodges are located near the park's entrance, offering comfortable stays with amenities like pools and river views. One such option is the Cat Tien Jungle Lodge, known for its proximity to the park and scenic surroundings. 

Homestays: For cultural immersion, consider staying in nearby villages where locals offer homestay experiences, providing insights into traditional Vietnamese life. Option: Ta Lai Longhouse.

FAQs and Tips

Are There Tigers in Cat Tien National Park?

No, there are no tigers in Cat Tien National Park. In the past, tigers roamed this area, but due to habitat loss and poaching, they have disappeared. However, you can still find other large mammals like gaurs (wild cattle), sun bears, and leopards, along with rare primates like gibbons and langurs. The park remains an important wildlife sanctuary in Vietnam.

Where to Eat in Cat Tien National Park?

There aren’t many dining options inside the park, but you can still find a few places to eat:

Cay Dau Restaurant: Located near the park headquarters, this establishment can accommodate up to 100 guests and serves both European and Asian dishes upon request. Specialties include lam rice, can wine, rattan, tweezer leaves, and fresh bamboo shoots, offering a taste of local cuisine.

Cat Tien Jungle Lodge Restaurant: Situated just outside the park along the riverbank, this lodge provides a scenic dining experience with a river view. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes, and the lodge also features amenities such as a lounge bar, swimming pool, and sauna.

If you have dietary restrictions or prefer specific foods, consider bringing snacks or instant meals with you.

What to Bring to Cat Tien National Park

• Bug spray—Mosquitoes and leeches are common, especially in the wet season.
• Hiking shoes—Trails can be muddy and uneven.
• Long pants and sleeves – Protect yourself from insects and sunburn.
• Flashlight or headlamp – Useful for night safaris and power outages in some areas.
• Binoculars – If you love birdwatching or wildlife spotting.
• Reusable water bottle – To stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
• Raincoat or poncho – Essential during the rainy season.
• Dry bag – To keep electronics and valuables safe from rain or river splashes.

How Much Does It Cost to Go to Cat Tien National Park?

Visiting Cat Tien National Park involves several costs, depending on the activities you choose to participate in.

Entrance Fee: 60,000 VND per person. This fee grants access to the park and includes the ferry ride across the Dong Nai River to the park's entrance.

Bear Sanctuary: 150,000 VND. 

Night Safari: Approximately 230,000 VND per person. 

Accommodation: Budget stays start from 250,000 VND (~$10) per night, while eco-lodges can cost 1,000,000 VND (~$40-$50) per night.

Transportation: Bus tickets cost about 190,000 VND (approximately $8), with additional taxi fees around 300,000 VND for a car or 180,000 VND for a motorbike taxi.

In summary, a visit to Cat Tien National Park can be tailored to various budgets. On average, a 2-day trip, including entrance fees, activities, accommodation, and transportation, may cost between 1,500,000 to 2,500,000 VND (approximately $60 to $100) per person.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the details from this Cat Tien National Park travel guide, it’s time to experience this beautiful jungle for yourself! Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Cat Tien has something for everyone. Book a tour with us to make your trip stress-free and filled with adventure. Let’s explore the wild heart of Vietnam together!