Birdwatching in Vietnam offers a unique experience to both amateur and seasoned birdwatchers. With its diverse geography and varied ecosystems, the country is home to over 900 bird species, including some endemic ones. Let's explore together the best birdwatching sites from North to South Vietnam.
Ba Be National Park is a hot spot for birdwatching - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Ba Be National Park: Birdwatching paradise in Northern Vietnam
Ba Be National Park, located in Bac Kan province, is a natural gem for birdwatching. This internationally recognized site is home to a wide variety of species, including the rare Edwards's pheasant.
Ba Be National Park - Practical Information
- Best time to visit: from October to April
- Entrance fee: around 60,000 VND (2.5 €)
- How to get there: Bus from Hanoi (6-7 hours) or organized tour
Peaceful Nature Reserve of Van Long - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures Team
Van Long: Hidden gem in Northern Vietnam for birdwatching
Van Long Nature Reserve, situated in Ninh Binh province, is the largest wetland area in the northern delta of Vietnam. Less touristy than other sites, it offers an authentic birdwatching experience.
Van Long - Practical Information
- Best time to visit: from November to April, especially in the late afternoon
- Entrance fee: around 80,000 VND (3.5 €) for a boat ride
- How to get there: Bus or car from Hanoi (2-3 hours)
Thung Nham Birds Reserve- Source : Collected
Trang An: Combining birdwatching and cave exploration
Trang An Landscape Complex, though more touristy, offers a unique combination of birdwatching and exploration of impressive caves.
Trang An - Practical Information
- Best time to visit: early morning or mid-afternoon
- Entrance fee: around 200,000 VND (8.5 €) for a boat tour
- How to get there: Bus or car from Hanoi (2 hours)
Cuc Phuong is the oldest Vetnam's National Park - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Cuc Phuong National Park: Ornithological hotspot in the heart of Vietnam
As the first national park in Vietnam, Cuc Phuong is home to over 300 bird species, including the rare Edwards's pheasant and Bartlett's pigeon.
Cuc Phuong - Practical Information
- Best time to visit: from November to April
- Entrance fee: around 40,000 VND (1.7 €)
- How to get there: Bus or car from Hanoi (3-4 hours)
Bach Ma National Park: Bird diversity in central Vietnam
Located in Thua Thien-Hue province, Bach Ma National Park offers hiking trails for observing a rich avian biodiversity.
Bach Ma - Practical Information
- Best time to visit: from February to July
- Entrance fee: around 40,000 VND (1.7 €)
- How to get there: Bus or taxi from Hue (1 hour)
Dalat's region is a birdwatching paradise - Source : Internet
Da Lat and its surroundings: Birdwatching paradise in the highlands
The region around Da Lat, including Ta Nung, Suoi Tia, Suoi Lanh, and Di Linh, is known for its lush forests housing numerous endemic and migratory bird species.
Da Lat and its region - Practical Information
- Best time to visit: from December to March
- Price: varies depending on the sites visited
- How to get there: Direct flight to Da Lat from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City
Birdwatching in Cat Tien National Park - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Cat Tien National Park: Biodiversity hotspot in Southern Vietnam
With over 300 recorded bird species, some of which are endangered, Cat Tien is a must-visit for birdwatchers.
Cat Tien National Park - Practical Information
- Best time to visit: from December to May
- Entrance fee: around 60,000 VND (2.5 €)
- How to get there: Bus from Ho Chi Minh City (4-5 hours) or organized tour
Mekong Delta: Waterbird watching in the South
The Mekong Delta offers two remarkable sites for birdwatching:
Tram Chim National Park
Home to around 200 bird species, including the Sarus Crane.
Tram Chim - Practical Information
- Best time to visit: from December to May
- Entrance fee: around 50,000 VND (2.1 €)
- How to get there: Bus or organized tour from Ho Chi Minh City
Unique biodiversity of Tra Su Forest - Source : Mr Linh's Adventures
Tra Su Forest
Habitat of 70 bird species, including endangered species like the Indian stork.
Tra Su - Practical Information
- Best time to visit: dry season (December to April)
- Price: varies depending on the type of visit
- How to get there: Organized tour from Can Tho or Chau Doc
Tips for Birdwatching in Vietnam
1. Equip yourself with good binoculars and a bird identification guide for Vietnam.
2. Wear neutral-colored clothes and comfortable shoes.
3. Respect the environment and natural habitats of the birds.
4. Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience.
5. Be patient and quiet to maximize your chances of bird observation.
Birdwatching in Vietnam offers a unique experience, combining biodiversity discovery and immersion in breathtaking landscapes.
Whether you are a seasoned ornithologist or a passionate beginner, Vietnam will surprise you with the richness of its avian fauna.
Ideas for birdwatching tours :