Bach Ma National Park: Your Ultimate Visitor’s Guide

Are you thinking about a trip to Central Vietnam? This region is full of amazing sights, and I have a great list of things to do in Central Vietnam to get you started. I want to tell you about a place that holds a special spot in my heart, Bach Ma National Park. It is a fantastic destination with cool mountain air, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls. It offers a perfect escape from the busy cities and a chance to connect with nature. I believe you will have an amazing time discovering its beauty.

The Overview of Bach Ma National Park

General Information

Bach Ma National Park sits conveniently between two of Vietnam’s most popular cities. It is located just 40 kilometers south of Hue and 65 kilometers north of Da Nang.

Hue is a city rich with history and culture, and there are so many fascinating things to do in Hue. Da Nang is famous for its sandy beaches and modern bridges, so be sure to check out all the amazing things to do in Da Nang while you’re there.

The park has a unique history that adds to its charm. In the 1930s, a hill station was established here to escape the summer heat, and you can still see the atmospheric ruins of old villas scattered throughout the forest. In 1991, the area was officially named a national park to protect its incredibly rich and diverse ecosystems. This designation helps preserve its natural beauty for everyone to enjoy.

How to Get to Bach Ma National Park

Getting to and around the park is straightforward.

• From Hue/Da Nang/Hoi An: You can hire a private car, rent a motorbike for a scenic ride, or book an all-inclusive guided tour.
  
• Inside the Park: Private vehicles are left at the entrance. To get to the summit, you’ll need to use the park’s shuttle service or hire a guide with a vehicle for the steep 16km road.

Renting motorbikes together for a scenic ride is a popular activity. For more great experiences with your group, see my list of things to do in Vietnam with friends.

Best Time to Visit Bach Ma National Park

• December to April (Dry Season): This is the best time to visit. The weather is cool and dry, making it perfect for hiking and enjoying clear panoramic views.
  
• February to April (Peak Bloom): I suggest this period if you want to see the vibrant rhododendron flowers, especially around Do Quyen Waterfall.

Top Things to Do in Bach Ma National Park

Summit at Vong Hai Dai Peak (Sea Observation Post)

Your first stop should be Vong Hai Dai, the highest point in the park at 1,448 meters. The name translates to “Sea Observation Post,” and it certainly lives up to its name. From here, you get a spectacular 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape.

On a clear day, you can see the entire region unfold below you. The view includes the lush green mountains, the sparkling coastline, the vast Cau Hai Lagoon, and the beautiful Lang Co Bay. It’s a breathtaking sight and a perfect spot for photos.

Marvel at Do Quyen Waterfall

Do Quyen Waterfall is one of Bach Ma’s most famous attractions, and for good reason. This impressive Vietnam’s waterfall cascades down a staggering 300 meters, making it a powerful and beautiful sight. The trek to the top of the falls is a rewarding experience with great views.

For a different and more dramatic perspective, you can take on the 689-step climb down to the base of the waterfall. The climb is challenging, but feeling the cool mist and hearing the roar of the water up close is an unforgettable experience.

Swim in Ngu Ho (The Five Lakes)

After a bit of hiking, Ngu Ho, or The Five Lakes, is the perfect place to cool off and relax. This is a fantastic activity for families, and if you’re looking for more ideas, I have a whole guide on things to do in Vietnam with kids. This spot features a series of five small, interconnected lakes, each with its own gentle waterfall.

The clear, cool water is very inviting for a refreshing swim on a warm day. It’s also an ideal location for a picnic. You can find a nice spot by one of the lakes, enjoy a meal, and just soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the forest.

Look at the Old French Villas

Walking among the old villas gives you a unique glimpse into the park’s past. You can find the moss-covered ruins of 139 villas scattered throughout the forest, remnants of the 1930s hill station. They create a mysterious and slightly haunting atmosphere.

Seeing these structures is a fascinating contrast to the wild nature surrounding them. It feels like stepping back in time as you imagine what life was like here nearly a century ago. It adds a layer of history to your nature walk.

Fauna and Flora in Bach Ma National Park

Red-shanked Douc Langur

Bach Ma is a sanctuary for some amazing Vietnam’s wildlife, including the red-shanked douc langur. This critically endangered primate is often called the “queen of primates” because of its striking, colorful appearance. They have a truly unique and beautiful look.

Seeing one is a rare and special treat. They are shy creatures, but spotting a family moving through the trees is an incredible highlight for any wildlife enthusiast. It’s a reminder of the park’s importance in protecting such vulnerable species.

Crested Argus

Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the chance to see a crested argus. This large, spectacular pheasant is known for its elaborate plumage and distinctive calls that echo through the forest. It is one of the key species that draws bird lovers to the park.

While they can be elusive, hearing their calls or catching a glimpse of their long tail feathers is a magical moment. It’s another example of the rich biodiversity that Bach Ma is home to. Have you ever seen a bird that magnificent in the wild?

Owston’s Civet

The park is also a crucial habitat for the Owston’s civet, an elusive and endangered nocturnal mammal. Its secretive nature means sightings are very uncommon, but its presence highlights the park’s role as a vital sanctuary for rare creatures.

Knowing that animals like this have a safe place to live adds to the wonder of the park. It shows how important conservation efforts are in protecting species that few people ever get the chance to see.

Rhododendrons

The flora in Bach Ma is just as impressive as its fauna, with the rhododendrons being a major highlight. Vietnam is home to a stunning variety of plants, and you can learn more about the beautiful flowers of Vietnam in my other post. These beautiful flowering shrubs are directly connected to the Do Quyen Waterfall, which is named after them.

Their vibrant blooms are a major seasonal attraction, painting the forest with bright colors from February to April. The sight of these flowers against the backdrop of the green mountains and cascading waterfalls is absolutely stunning.

Conclusion

Bach Ma National Park is a truly special place that offers a perfect mix of nature, adventure, and history. Whether you’re taking in the views from the summit, swimming in the cool lakes, or spotting rare wildlife, you’re sure to have a memorable time. I hope you get the chance to visit and see its beauty for yourself.

Planning a trip can be a lot of work, and sometimes you just want the perfect itinerary without the stress. If that sounds like you, let me help you custom your trip to Vietnam for a personalized adventure.

FAQs about Bach Ma National Park