8:30 AM – Hotel Pickup:
- Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Ninh Binh, Tam Coc, or Trang An. Our experienced local guide and driver will greet you and transport you to Nho Quan District, located approximately 45-60 minutes away from your hotel.
- During the drive, enjoy scenic views of limestone mountains, lush rice fields, and the charming rural landscape of the region. This is a perfect opportunity to admire Vietnam’s natural beauty as you journey through the countryside.
9:30 AM – Arrival at Bear Sanctuary Vietnam:
- Upon arrival at the Bear Sanctuary, proceed to the reception desk for a quick check-in.
- You will then embark on a 30-minute walk along a bridge, where you will have a chance to observe the bears in their playground.
- You’ll be greeted by a volunteer guide, who will accompany you throughout your visit. They will share fascinating stories about the bears’ lives in Vietnam, explaining how many of these bears were exploited for bile farming and the illegal wildlife trade, and how they were rescued and rehabilitated.
- You’ll visit the “bear houses” and the “bear kitchen”, where the bears are cared for and rehabilitated. During this insightful tour, you’ll learn about the sanctuary’s important conservation work.
11:30 AM – Lunch at the Sanctuary:
- After a 2-hour visit at the Bear Sanctuary, head back to the reception area where we’ve arranged a vegetarian meal at the sanctuary’s restaurant. The meals served here help raise funds for the sanctuary’s ongoing efforts to protect bears.
- Optional: If you prefer a non-vegetarian meal, let us know, and our guide and driver will take you to Cuc Phuong National Park for a lunch stop in the park.
1:00 PM – Arrival at Cuc Phuong National Park:
- After lunch, continue your journey to the renowned Cuc Phuong National Park.
- Upon arrival, visit the Visitor Center, where you can explore exhibits, models, and photographs that provide information about the park’s diverse ecosystem, history, and conservation efforts.
1:30 PM – Explore Cuc Phuong’s Conservation Centers:
- Option 1: The Endangered Primate Rescue Center (EPRC):
One of the park’s highlights, the EPRC is home to some of the rarest and most endangered primates in the world. You will have the opportunity to see langurs, gibbons, and other species that are being rescued and rehabilitated at the center.
- Option 2: The Turtle Conservation Center:
Alternatively, visit the Turtle Conservation Center, where over 20 species of turtles and tortoises are cared for and protected. The center plays a crucial role in rescuing and breeding endangered species to help prevent their extinction.
3:00 PM – Hike to the 1000-Year-Old Tree:
- Next, you’ll drive deeper into the park and begin a 3-5 km loop trail leading you to the 1000-year-old tree, an ancient giant that has stood the test of time.
- During your hike, you’ll discover the secrets of the forest, including unique plant and animal species, while enjoying the peaceful beauty of the natural environment.
4:30 PM – Visit the Cave of Prehistoric Man:
- Conclude your visit with a stop at the Cave of Prehistoric Man. This site is famous for its archaeological importance, as human skeletons and stone tools dating back more than 7,500 years have been discovered here, providing fascinating insights into the lives of early humans in the region.
- The cave is just a short 0.3 km walk from the trailhead.
5:30 PM – Return to Hotel:
- After an enriching day of exploration, your guide and driver will take you back to your hotel in Ninh Binh, Tam Coc, or Trang An.
This immersive Cuc Phuong National Park & Bear Sanctuary Tour offers a perfect blend of wildlife conservation, stunning natural landscapes, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or a history buff, this tour will provide you with unforgettable experiences.
- End of the tour.
