Visiting Xuan Thuy National Park will transport you to a world of breathtaking natural beauty. Immersed in the eternal clear sky and vast landscapes, you’ll witness birds soaring through the air and hunting for prey in the water. As the migratory season begins, Xuan Thuy National Park becomes a haven for birds seeking respite from the North’s chilly weather. With over 200 bird species, including endangered ones like the black-faced spoonbill and Nordmann’s greenshank, the park offers a remarkable sighting experience. Moreover, its abundant sea life, from shrimps and fish to crabs and clams, serves as a rich source of food for both birds and humans. The park’s mangrove forest, consisting of more than 120 plant species, contributes to the area’s remarkable biodiversity.
What to See
The national park is divided into three main sections: the ecotourism area, where visitors can explore wildlife and nature; the preservation area, where rare species are strictly protected with authorized entry; and the admission and service area, providing dining and accommodation services.
Things to Do
Go for a Hike
Embark on an exploration of the park by starting with a long trail. From the outset, you’ll be greeted by an incredible natural habitat, with various bird species like gulls, storks, and cranes flying overhead or perched for a meal in the shallows. For a panoramic view of the surroundings, make your way to Con Ngan Island.
Take a Boat Trip
To delve deeper into the park, opt for a boat trip along the water. Equipped with life jackets for your safety, the boats allow you to witness the park’s wildlife up close. The evening is an ideal time to immerse yourself in the park’s natural wonders and witness the mesmerizing sunset. You can choose from different routes, ranging from basic observation trips to bird-specific routes that offer opportunities to observe nature, spot birds, and admire the unique wetland landscapes.
Go Clam Digging
In Xuan Thuy, you’ll find numerous clam fields where local residents primarily collect clams. These clams are considered one of the best specialties in Nam Dinh. Experience the local way of life by joining resident fishermen and women in the early morning as the tide recedes and try your hand at gathering clams and oysters on the sandbank. If you have more time, explore the villages and discover other captivating activities such as fish drying, salt making, and rice liquor brewing.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Xuan Thuy National Park coincides with the bird’s migratory season, which typically spans from October to March-April of the following year. During this season, the park becomes a haven for birds on their stopovers, offering a breathtaking sight and a vibrant atmosphere. If you have a particular bird species in mind, research their migration details to plan your trip accordingly, as there are early and late migrants that stay during different periods.
Early summer is also a fantastic time to visit, as the sky is clear, and the surrounding scenery flourishes. The refreshing sea breeze and the shade of trees provide respite from the heat as you explore.
How to Get There
Xuan Thuy National Park is located in Giao Thuy District, Nam Dinh City, approximately 150km from Hanoi city center. The most common and convenient means of transportation is by land. From Hanoi, you can book a private car through local service providers or purchase tickets for a coach or shuttle bus to Nam Dinh.
A round trip from Hanoi to Nam Dinh costs approximately $95 – $100 for a maximum of four passengers. Opting for a coach or shuttle bus is more economical, with fares ranging from $4 to $9.
For those seeking flexibility during their trip, renting a motorbike and riding on your own is a viable option. By doing so, you can eliminate walking distances and head straight to your destination. Taking Expressway 01 from Hanoi, it takes around three hours to reach Nam Dinh. From there, follow Route 21A to Xuan Thuy National Park. The rental price varies based on your preferences, such as the number of days and types of vehicles.
Traveling by train is also a great way to enjoy the rural scenery along the way. Several trains operate between Hanoi and Nam Dinh daily, offering reasonable prices between $4 and $7. Upon reaching the city station, you can take a taxi or motorbike taxi for the remaining 50km journey to the national park.
Ticket Details
Xuan Thuy National Park allows complimentary entry for visitors, allowing you to wander and enjoy the untouched beauty of nature. However, for a more fulfilling experience, it is highly recommended to book a tour guide who possesses extensive knowledge of the area and its fauna habitats. They can guide you to specific spots with optimal chances to observe rare species. Personal guidance prices range from VND300,000 to VND500,000 ($13 – $22).
Additionally, if you wish to explore further along the water, various boat options are available for different group sizes, ranging from VND1,200,000 to VND4,000,000 ($52 – $173.6).
Useful Information
- Location: Xuan Thuy National Park
- Best For: Family, group of friends, solo travelers
- Entrance: Free
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, daily
- Distance to City Center: 44.3km (27.5 mi)
Discover the tranquility of Xuan Thuy National Park and be mesmerized by its captivating biodiversity. Plan your visit and experience the wonders of nature firsthand. Rừng Cúc Phương is ready to welcome you to this remarkable destination.
