Cat Ba National Park
Limestone rainforest and a langur sanctuary rising straight from the Gulf of Tonkin
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- Half a day (about 4-5 hours) for the Ngu Lam Peak loop
- Summit elevation
- 331 m
Cat Ba National Park covers most of Vietnam's largest island, a UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve of limestone karst, primary rainforest and mangrove. The Ngu Lam Peak trail climbs steeply through jungle to a viewing tower over the archipelago, while longer routes reach Viet Hai fishing village on the far side of the island.
Highlights
- Panoramic archipelago views from the Ngu Lam Peak tower
- Trung Trang Cave, included in the entrance fee
- A chance to spot the critically endangered Cat Ba langur
- The remote Viet Hai fishing village on longer routes
Getting there
From Hai Phong or Ha Long, take a road-and-ferry or high-speed boat transfer to Cat Ba Town, then a taxi or motorbike (about 30 minutes) to the national park gate.
Safety tips
The Ngu Lam Peak trail is steep, humid and can be slick with limestone mud after rain; sturdy grip is more important than speed. Carry enough water, as the climate is hot and humid for most of the year.
What to bring
- Grippy trail shoes for muddy limestone paths
- Plenty of drinking water
- Cash for the entrance gate
- Insect repellent for the humid rainforest