Nam Cat Tien National Park is known as the green lung of the Southeast region, located in three provinces of Dong Nai, Lam Dong and Binh Phuoc. With a large area of more than 70,000 hectares, this place is home to more than 4,000 species of plants and 1,500 species of animals, including many rare and endemic species. Nam Cat Tien Forest was recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site in 2001, famous for its rich and diverse tropical forest ecosystem. The wild and majestic natural scenery, with dense forests, winding rivers and majestic waterfalls, has attracted a large number of tourists to visit and experience.
1. Outstanding destination at Nam Cat Tien forest
1.1 Wild animals
Nam Cat Tien Forest is home to the richest and most diverse ecosystem in the country, with more than 1,500 species of animals and nearly 600 species of birds. Here, visitors can find the largest crocodiles in Vietnam, wild elephants, giraffes, leopards and tigers. In addition, this reserve is also home to many other species such as antelopes, pythons, snakes, purple gorillas, flying squirrels, gibbons and herbivores.
1.2 Visit Damb’ri waterfall
Damb’ri Waterfall is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Nam Cat Tien forest. The waterfall has a height of more than 60m, the water flows fast and forms small streams. To reach Damb’ri waterfall, visitors must go through lurking forests and steep passes.
1.3 Visit Ta Lai ancient villageTa Lai Village is one of the places that attracts a large number of tourists to Nam Cat Tien forest. This is where the Ma people, an ethnic minority living in this area, live. Visitors can learn about the traditional culture of the Ma ethnic group, participate in traditional activities and shop for local products such as clothes, bags and shoes.
2. Tourism activities in Nam Cat Tien forest
2.1 Trekking
Trekking is a popular activity in Nam Cat Tien forest. Visitors can walk through jungle paths to learn about the wild nature of this reserve. Experience the path through dense forests, hear the birds singing and admire the rich animal species.
2.2 Rowing on Dong Nai river
Dong Nai River is the most important river in the area, flowing through Nam Cat Tien forest and creating a kilometer long white sand bank. Visitors can rent canoes to row on the river to enjoy the quiet space, admire the natural scenery and learn about the lives of indigenous people.
2.3 Watching wildlife at night
Nam Cat Tien forest at night becomes very different from the day. The cool air, sounds of nature and the mystery of the forest give visitors a new feeling. Visitors can walk through the forest at night in search of wild animals such as leopards and deer.
3. How to get to Nam Cat Tien forest
3.1 Cars
Nam Cat Tien forest destination can be reached by car via Highway 20, about 150km from Ho Chi Minh City. Tourists should choose cars that can overcome rough and muddy roads.
3.2 Motorcycles
If tourists want to experience a challenging and exciting journey, a motorbike is not a bad choice. However, this reserve has many difficult and dangerous roads, so driving experience is required to ensure safety.
3.3 Bus
Visitors can take a bus from Saigon to neighboring cities such as Dong Nai, Lam Dong and Binh Phuoc. Then, continue taking a taxi or motorbike to reach Nam Cat Tien forest.
4. Notes when visiting Nam Cat Tien forest
- Prepare appropriate clothing and shoes: This reserve has many different terrains, from hills, forests to river banks. Therefore, visitors need to prepare appropriate clothing and shoes to visit comfortably.
- Bring food and drinks: There are no shops or restaurants in the reserve, so visitors need to bring enough food and water to use during the trip.
- Implementing the principle of “no trash left behind”: Nam Cat Tien Forest is an important nature reserve, so visitors need to follow the principle of “no trash left behind”, keep the area clean and beautiful and protect the environment.
5. Places to stay in Nam Cat Tien forest
Tent camp
Tent camps are one of the most popular options for adventure travel lovers. Nam Cat Tien Forest has many convenient campsites for staying and exploring the reserve.
Homestay
Homestay is a suitable choice for tourists who want to learn about the lives of local people. Here, visitors can chat with the host family and enjoy local dishes.
Resort
If visitors want to enjoy moments of comfort and luxury, the resort is the best choice. Here, visitors can enjoy convenient services such as swimming pool, spa and restaurant.
Nam Cat Tien Forest is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Southern Vietnam, with pristine natural landscapes and rich wildlife. To fully experience the values of the protected area
Hopefully the above information and travel experiences will help you understand more about Nam Cat Tien Forest and if you need any supports or difficulty finding transportation get to this place, don’t hesitate to contact us, we are happy to help and be a part of your journey.
