Plizio Visual Lab
Cát Tiên National Park
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
national-park
Weather…
Water temperature…
Cat Tien National Park is a major natural reserve in southern Vietnam, situated approximately 150 kilometers north of Ho Chi Minh City. Spanning around 72,000 hectares across three provinces, it was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2001 due to its immense ecological value. The park consists primarily of lowland tropical rainforest and vital wetlands, providing a corridor for diverse wildlife. One of its most famous features is Bau Sau (Crocodile Lake), which is home to a re-established population of the rare Siamese crocodile. Historically, the park was the last mainland refuge for the Javan rhinoceros until it was declared extinct in Vietnam in 2010. Today, it remains a premier destination for birdwatching and wildlife trekking, offering sightings of Asian elephants, yellow-cheeked gibbons, and more than 350 bird species in their natural habitat.
- Location: Vietnam
- Top sights: Heaven's Rapids · Bàu Sấu Nam Cát Tiên · The Giant Ancient Tung
- Nearby: Hồ Tràm (33 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 27 | 29 | 29 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 3 | 9 | 32 | 138 | 168 | 173 | 174 | 170 | 164 | 85 | 29 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Cát Tiên National Park is typically accessed via a bus or private transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to the park headquarters, followed by a short ferry ride across the Dong Nai River. The main entrance is well-established for receiving tourists.
Best season
The dry season, running roughly from December to April, is generally considered the best time for wildlife viewing and hiking on solid trails. The wet season brings frequent heavy downpours which can cause leeches to proliferate and make paths extremely muddy.
Terrain & paths
The terrain primarily consists of dense lowland tropical rainforest with mostly flat dirt paths, though some sections involve thick undergrowth and minor elevation changes. Heavy rains can swiftly transform straightforward trails into slippery, challenging routes.
What to bring
Sturdy closed walking shoes and lightweight, breathable clothing are essential for the humid jungle environment. High-quality leech socks and robust mosquito repellent are absolutely critical, along with a waterproof bag for sensitive electronics.
Parking
Parking facilities are readily available at the park headquarters on the mainland side of the river before taking the ferry. Most organized tours handle the transportation entirely, eliminating the need to search for personal vehicle spaces.
Safety
While exploring, always follow the guidance of local rangers and avoid venturing off the designated tracks due to the complex forest layout. Be vigilant against malaria and dengue mosquitoes, and do not attempt to interact with wild animals directly.
Time needed
A minimum stay of two to three days is highly recommended to participate in guided night safaris, early morning bird watching, and deeper forest treks. Shorter visits are possible but limit the chances of spotting elusive endangered wildlife.
Geography
Facts
- Total area: Protects approximately 71,920 hectares of forest
- UNESCO Status: Recognized as a Biosphere Reserve in 2001
- Ornithology: Home to over 350 identified bird species
- Wildlife: Contains a breeding population of Siamese crocodiles
- Geography: Spans across Dong Nai, Lam Dong, and Binh Phuoc
- Conservation: Designated a Ramsar wetland site in 2005
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cát Tiên National Park (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Cat-Tiên?
It is one of Vietnam's largest and most biodiverse national parks.
Can we do night safaris?
Yes, guided night safaris for wildlife watching are very popular.
Do I need a visa for the park?
The visa for Vietnam is sufficient for entry.
What is the infection risk?
As in all tropical areas, mosquito protection is very important.
Can birds be seen there?
Yes, the park is a paradise for birdwatchers.
Cát Tiên National Park: where is it located?
Cát Tiên National Park is located in Vietnam.
Cát Tiên National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Heaven's Rapids, Bàu Sấu Nam Cát Tiên, The Giant Ancient Tung.
Cát Tiên National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Cát Tiên National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Cat Tien National Park is a major natural reserve in southern Vietnam, situated approximately 150 kilometers north of Ho Chi Minh City.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Vietnam →
Nearby cities
Phan Thiet
A vibrant coastal city famous for its bustling fishing harbor and its proximity to the iconic red and white sand dunes of Mui Ne.
Bảo Lộc
A city in the Central Highlands, renowned for its tea industry, silk production, and cooler climate.
Hồ Tràm
An upscale seaside destination featuring luxury resorts and pristine coastal stretches.
Gia Nghĩa
The young capital of Đắk Nông province in the Central Highlands, surrounded by coffee plantations and waterfalls.
Phước Hải
A historic fishing village in southern Vietnam, famous for its salted fish production and pristine beaches.
Long Hai
An authentic coastal town with golden sands and significant historical heritage.
Sen Monorom
Set in the rolling hills of Mondulkiri, this cool highland town is famous for elephant sanctuaries and vast pine forests.
Vung Tau
Coastal city and a major hub of Vietnam's offshore oil industry.
Đồng Xoài
The capital of Bình Phước province, known for its rubber and cashew plantations.
Nature
More places
Langbiang Mountain
A prominent mountain near Đà Lạt, consisting of two peaks and playing an important role in the culture of the local Koho ethnic group.
Dalat Flower Gardens
An expansive park in Đà Lạt showcasing an impressive variety of native and exotic flowers and plants.
Đà Lạt Plateau
A plateau in the Central Highlands on which the city of Đà Lạt is located, known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' for its cool climate.
Long Tan Cross
A memorial commemorating the Battle of Long Tan, one of the most well-known engagements involving Australian troops in the Vietnam War.
Elephant Valley Project
This ecotourism project in Mondulkiri allows visitors to watch elephants roam freely through the jungle.
Mondulkiri Plateau
A hilly plateau in the east, known for its grassy landscapes and waterfalls.
Jahoo Gibbon Camp
A unique conservation project where visitors take guided treks to see the rare yellow-cheeked crested gibbons.
🗺️
Central Highlands Bauxite Mine
A region with significant bauxite deposits, the mining of which is an important but controversial part of Vietnam's industrial strategy.