How to Get to Cat Ba Park – Simple & Stress-Free

Wondering how to get to Cat Ba National Park? This guide walks you through every route—from taxis and bikes to jungle treks and full-day tours. Whether you're after comfort or a nature-packed adventure, we’ll show you how to reach the park easily and make the most of your visit.

Where Is Cat Ba National Park Located?

The lush green heart of Cat Ba Island, just minutes from town

Just 15 kilometres northwest of Cat Ba Town, Cat Ba National Park sits at the centre of the island like a hidden emerald treasure. It's close enough for a morning visit — yet wild enough to feel like you've stepped into another world.

This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve stretches across 263 square kilometres, combining both land and sea. Of that, 173 km² are forested hills, while the rest includes inshore marine zones, mangroves, and freshwater lakes.

The park is surrounded by a dramatic natural landscape — a mix of limestone mountains, deep valleys, dense tropical forest, and winding trails. The terrain ranges from gentle hills to rugged peaks that rise up to 500 metres.

It’s home to rich biodiversity, including one of the rarest primates on the planet: the critically endangered Cat Ba langur. Spotting one of these shy creatures is a rare and unforgettable moment.

Access is simple — and you’ve got options:

• A paved main road connects Cat Ba Town to the park’s entrance at Trung Trang, ideal for taxis, buses, or motorbikes.
• For adventurers, a network of jungle trekking trails offers more immersive entry points into the park’s wild interior.

Summary: Key Facts About Cat Ba National Park

So whether you’re looking for a smooth road trip or a sweaty jungle trek, getting to Cat Ba National Park is straightforward — and always worth the journey.

The Most Popular Ways to Get to Cat Ba Park

From the heart of Cat Ba Town to the heart of the wild

Before diving into the details, here’s a quick look at the four most popular ways to reach Cat Ba National Park — each with its own charm, convenience, and cost.

By Taxi – Quick and Easy

For those who prioritise comfort, convenience, and speed, taking a taxi is by far the easiest option. From Cat Ba Town, the drive to the national park takes around 20 to 30 minutes, following a peaceful road lined with trees, limestone cliffs, and the occasional glimpse of grazing water buffalo.

At roughly 600,000 VND, it’s a simple door-to-door ride with no stress, no need for navigation, and zero weather worries. Perfect for families with young children or anyone travelling with luggage, a taxi lets you sit back and enjoy the ride as the lush landscape unfolds around you.

By Motorbike – Flexible and Fun

If you're the type of traveller who loves the feel of the wind in your hair and the freedom to stop wherever your heart desires, renting a motorbike is the way to go.

For just 100,000 to 150,000 VND per day, you can zip through the scenic countryside at your own pace. The road to the park is paved, relatively quiet, and lined with photo-worthy spots that beg you to pull over. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, coffee stalls, or quiet lookout points, the motorbike gives you the flexibility to explore deeply.

It’s ideal for solo travellers or adventurous couples who want to turn the journey into an experience all on its own.

By Local Bus – Budget-Friendly and Surprisingly Authentic

Want to travel like the locals do? The public bus is an affordable, no-fuss option that lets you see a more grounded side of island life. It departs from the town’s main bus station and heads directly toward the park.

A ticket will cost you just 30,000 to 50,000 VND, making it perfect for backpackers or slow travellers. To make things easier, especially if you don’t speak Vietnamese, write down “Vuon Quoc Gia” (National Park) and show it to the driver. He’ll let you know when to get off.

Though it may lack the privacy of a taxi or the flexibility of a bike, the bus makes up for it with charm and cultural richness.

By Bicycle – For the Active and Adventurous

If you’re craving fresh air, gentle movement, and a more immersive way to explore the island, cycling to the park is a wonderful choice.

The 15-kilometre route is mostly flat and easy to navigate, with light traffic and spectacular views of Cat Ba’s countryside. Depending on your pace, the ride can take anywhere from one to one and a half hours.

It’s best to set off early in the morning or in the late afternoon when the sun is less harsh. Along the way, you’ll pass through rice fields, forests, and quiet hamlets where life moves at its own serene rhythm. For nature lovers and those who prefer slow travel, it’s a rewarding way to begin your park adventure.

Unique Option – Join a Guided Trekking Tour

An unforgettable way to get to Cat Ba National Park — one step at a time

For travellers who don’t just want to reach Cat Ba National Park, but want to live it, breathe it, and feel its stories beneath their feet, a guided trekking tour offers something far more rewarding than just transport. These tours blend nature, culture, and history into one seamless experience that gets you to the park — and deep into its soul.

Half-Day Trekking Tour – Compact, Immersive, and Powerful

If you're short on time but craving an adventure with meaning, the Cat Ba Half-Day Trekking Tour is the perfect choice. Running from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, this tour is ideal for early risers who want to make the most of their morning before lunch.

You’ll begin with a hotel pick-up in Cat Ba Town, then drive a short distance to the national park entrance. From there, your journey unfolds on foot — through emerald forests, across stone stairways, and into the heart of the island’s wilderness.

Here’s a closer look at the experience:

Ngu Lam Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views over Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay — a reward for your uphill effort. Along the way, you’ll pass through the fragrant Kim Giao Forest, rich in biodiversity.

Next, step into the dark wonder of Trung Trang Cave, filled with hauntingly beautiful stalactites. Finally, visit the Military Hospital Cave, a hidden remnant of wartime ingenuity carved deep into limestone — powerful and humbling.

All of this is yours for just $25 per person, including hotel transfers, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable local guide. It’s a quick yet deeply enriching way to explore the park, ideal for those seeking a meaningful half-day escape.

Full-Day Trekking & Lan Ha Bay Tour – For the Nature Lover Who Wants It All

If you're wondering how to get to Cat Ba National Park and squeeze in everything the island has to offer in one day, this full-day tour is made for you.

Running from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the Cat Ba Trekking & Lan Ha Bay Adventure takes you beyond the trails — into local villages and out onto the open water. It’s a day of motion, immersion, and moments you won’t forget.

Here’s how the day unfolds:

You’ll trek through lush rainforests, explore tranquil Viet Hai Village, and meet friendly locals living a life in harmony with nature. After a traditional lunch, the pace changes — now you’re paddling a kayak through the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and peaceful coves.

At $34 per person, this tour includes land and sea transport, entrance tickets, kayaking equipment, lunch, and a local guide — making it an exceptional value for an entire day of exploration.

Whether you choose the half-day trek for a taste of the wild or go all in with the full-day trekking and kayaking combo, this is hands down one of the most unforgettable ways to get to Cat Ba National Park — and truly experience its essence along the way.

FAQs – Cat Ba Park Travel Made Easy

A local guide’s answers to your most common questions

Whether you’re planning your route or just ironing out the details, these frequently asked questions will help you feel more confident about how to get to Cat Ba National Park — and how to make the most of your visit.

Can I walk to Cat Ba Park from the town?

Technically, yes — it’s about 15 kilometres from Cat Ba Town to the park entrance. But unless you’re a seasoned walker looking for a challenge, biking or joining a half-day tour is usually a far better (and more enjoyable) choice.

Cycling gives you flexibility and scenic views, while a guided tour lets you skip the logistics and focus on the experience.

Are the roads to the park safe for scooters?

Yes, absolutely. The main road leading to the park is smooth, well-maintained, and generally lightly trafficked.

That said, always drive cautiously — especially during or after rain, when certain curves or shaded sections can become a bit slippery. Most visitors find riding a scooter one of the most scenic and convenient ways to reach the park.

Do I need to buy a ticket before arriving?

No advance booking is necessary. Tickets are available at the park gate, and you can simply purchase one on arrival.

The current entry fee is around 80,000 to 120,000 VND per person, depending on the season and the type of tour you’re joining.

What’s the best time of day to visit?

Without a doubt, mornings are ideal.

You’ll enjoy cooler temperatures, softer sunlight, and fewer crowds — perfect for photography, trekking, or cycling. By midday, the heat and humidity can become quite intense, especially in summer.

Can I combine a visit with other attractions nearby?

Yes, and it’s highly recommended.

Cat Ba National Park is surrounded by natural gems. Two of the easiest to pair with your visit are:

• Trung Trang Cave: A stunning karst cave just minutes from the park entrance
  
• Frog Lake: A peaceful freshwater lake tucked inside the forest, great for a short break or birdwatching
  

These spots make the perfect addition to your Cat Ba National Park itinerary, turning a half-day outing into a rich and rewarding island adventure.

Final Thoughts – Your Cat Ba Journey Starts Here

Now that you know exactly how to get to Cat Ba National Park, all that’s left is to pick your path — whether it’s a breezy ride from town, a scenic trek through the jungle, or a full-day adventure blending forest and sea. Whichever way you choose, this park is more than just a destination; it’s a doorway to the wild, vibrant soul of Cat Ba Island.

For help booking tours, transport, or custom itineraries, visit Quang Thắng Cát Bà — your local expert for exploring Cat Ba the easy, enjoyable way.