Ninh Binh
2 days / 1 night
AH-NB02
6/10
$120 USD
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WHY THIS TOUR?

This is the perfect adventure for travelers who want more than just a normal trek. Instead of following a fixed route, this journey takes you deep into the wild heart of Cuc Phuong National Park with the support of forest rangers and local guides, making every trip feel unique and unpredictable. You will visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, learn about conservation efforts for Vietnam’s rare primates, trek through the jungle on routes chosen according to weather and wildlife signs, camp overnight in the forest, and enjoy the rare experience of listening to the sounds of nature after dark. It is an ideal tour for nature lovers who want a real wilderness experience, meaningful conservation insight, and the thrill of exploring one of Vietnam’s most famous national parks. The Endangered Primate Rescue Center at Cuc Phuong describes itself as a nonprofit center dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, breeding, research, and conservation of Vietnam’s endangered primates.

Highlights

  • Trekking through the ancient forest  
  • Camping in the center of the primeval forest  
  • Exploring the rich flora and fauna of Cuc Phuong National Park  
  • Having professional and experienced tour guides

 

SUMMARY

  • Start / Finish Point: Hanoi

  • Duration: 2 days / 1 night

  • Destination: Ninh Binh

  • Group Size : 2 - 15 pax

  • Best Season: Nov - Mar

  • Difficulty level: 6/10

  • Activities: Hiking / Trekking

ITINERARY
Day 1: Hanoi - Cuc Phuong NP - Bong Centre - Campingsite

07:30 Meet your tour guide and driver at your hotel lobby to board the vehicle and begin the journey.

10:30 Upon arriving at Cuc Phuong National Park, we will complete our registration with the forest rangers and prepare our gear. Before entering the deep jungle, we will visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center to learn about the vital research and wildlife rescue efforts happening within the park.

11:30 We then head deep into the park to the Bong center, where you will enjoy a hearty local lunch at the forest restaurant to fuel up for the adventure ahead.

13:00 Step off the grid and into the primary forest. This trek follows no rigid schedule, fixed starting point, or set destination. To give you the most authentic experience, your local guide and forest rangers will dynamically choose our route based on the time of day, current weather conditions, and active signs of wildlife. Our journey won't always follow established paths—at times, we will forge our own way through the raw terrain, where incredible natural surprises await.

16:30 After several hours of navigating toward the pristine core zone of the jungle, we will arrive at our campsite for the night. Before dinner, the forest rangers will lead a short walk to observe recent signs of wildlife activity. Throughout the journey, both the rangers and local guides will share their deep knowledge of the forest’s unique flora and fauna, alongside essential wilderness survival skills.

18:30 Gather around the campfire for a rustic dinner freshly prepared by the forest rangers. Unwind, share stories, and spend the night camping deep in the heart of the wilderness.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 3hrs/ Treking 4 hours/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 2: Campsite - Bong Centre - Hanoi

07:30 Wake up to the natural symphony of birds and forest insects. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee or hot tea alongside a classic Vietnamese breakfast before breaking camp.

08:30 Set off on the trail to continue your expedition. Today's journey covers a challenging 8km trek through a different sector of the primary jungle. As you hike, your expedition leader and local guides will reveal the hidden secrets of the ecosystem—pointing out subtle animal tracks, medicinal plants, and edible wild fruits that usually go unnoticed. Drawing on their deep knowledge, they will also share an educational look into forest preservation, expertly navigating the terrain to ensure absolute safety.

12:30 Emerge from the dense jungle canopy at the forest edge. From here, enjoy a scenic 2km walk back to the Bong Center to transition back from the wild.

13:00 Reward yourself after the long trek with a well-deserved, hearty farewell lunch at the park’s forest restaurant.

14:30 Board the comfortable transport, settle into your seat, and relax as you begin the drive back to the city.

17:30 Arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi, marking the official conclusion of your immersive national park expedition.

* Approx. Duration: Driving 3hrs / Treking 4 hours/ Lunch break 1 hr

* Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch

 

INCLUSION/EXCLUSION

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Inclusion:

  • Round-trip private vehicle: Ha Noi – Cuc Phuong – Ha Noi
  • Camping equipment (tent, mattress, sleeping bag)
  • Trekking gear  
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Tour guide & Forest ranger
  • Drinking water & snack provided daily during the tour 
  • Entrance fees & tickets
  • Domestic travel insurance 

Exclusion:

  • Additional food and beverages not stated in the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Transportation fee before and after the trip.
  • Tips
THE EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

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Equipment provided by VAH:

  • Trekking pole
  • Gloves
  • Double tent, air mattress, sleeping bag
  • Tarp
  • Flashlight
  • First-aid kit 

What to bring: 

  • 20L trekking backpack 
  • Trekking shoes or boots
  • A pair of sandals to use at campsite at night.
  • Clothing by season:
  • + Summer: Lightweight, breathable long-sleeved clothing, sun hat/cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, and trekking gloves. 
  • + Winter: Warm layers (thermal base layers, fleece jacket, down jacket), a beanie/warm hat, and insulated gloves.
  • Raincoat or poncho.
  • Spare clothes
  • Electronics: Mobile phone, camera, power bank, ...
  • Personal medications
  • Reusable water bottle
  • ID or Passport

Also recommended:

  • Toiletries
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Pocket knife / multi-tool
TOUR EQUIPMENT
IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Trekking Notes

  • Distance: The trekking route is approximately 7 to 8 km in total.
  • Terrain: You will trek through dense tropical rainforest terrain. The trail is primarily flat to gently undulating, characterized by natural dirt paths, exposed tree roots, and occasional slippery limestone rocks under the forest canopy. While it avoids the steep, technical climbs of the peaks, the route remains beautifully raw and wild, requiring basic balance and mindfulness as we navigate the lush jungle floor.
  • Suitability: Due to the steep incline and technical terrain, this route is best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level and above. It is not recommended for complete beginners. Children from 10 years old are eligible to participate, provided they are active and used to outdoor activities.

2. Camping.

  • Toilet Use: This is a primitive wilderness experience with no standard restroom facilities at the campsite or along the trail. Sanitation strictly follows "Leave No Trace" principles using the "cathole style" (digging a small hole in the ground away from water sources and covering it completely afterward)
  • Washing:Traditional showers are unavailable; washing depends entirely on natural stream water along the route. Please bring a small towel and strictly biodegradable, eco-friendly toiletries.

3. Food & Water

  • Meals: All meals feature authentic, hearty local cuisine designed to replenish your energy after a demanding trek. The culinary journey includes both lunches (Day 1 and Day 2) served at the restaurant in the Bong Centre, while Day 1 dinner and Day 2 breakfast will be deep inside the forest at the campsite.
  • Water & Energy: Clean, safe drinking water and energy-boosting snacks (such as fresh fruits or local treats) are supplied during the tour.
  • Hot Beverages: Complimentary hot tea or coffee will be available at the campsite during breakfast and around the campfire in the evening to keep you warm in the jungle night.

4. Responsible Travel & Environmental Protection

  • Leave No Trace: We strictly follow and promote the Leave No Trace principles in all our outdoor programs. We encourage our guests and partners to apply these ethics to minimize our impact on the natural environment. [See details about Leave No Trace here]
  • Reduce Plastic Waste: To limit single-use plastics, we encourage everyone to bring a reusable bottle (minimum 1L capacity). You can refill it throughout the day from our large water jugs.
  • Local Regulations: We kindly ask all guests to comply with the specific environmental regulations and instructions provided by our guides at the destination.

5. Health & Safety

  • Medical Considerations: Your safety is our priority. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions or chronic joint issues (knees, ankles, shoulders, etc.), please consult with your doctor before booking this trip.
  • Physical Fitness: Please maintain a regular walking routine of approximately 5–7 km per day in the weeks leading up to the tour to ensure you are adequately prepared for the trek.
  • Transparency: Please inform our tour guide of any existing health conditions or allergies at the start of the journey so we can support you best.