Bù Gia Mập National Park

Bù Gia Mập Overview

Bù Gia Mập National Park, located in the northeastern part of Bình Phước Province, Vietnam, spans approximately 259 square miles (673 square kilometers). Nestled at the southern edge of the Central Highlands, this national park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, verdant landscapes, and cultural significance. Its name derives from the local ethnic groups, reflecting the deep ties between the land and its indigenous heritage.

The terrain of Bù Gia Mập National Park is a harmonious blend of rugged mountains, rolling hills, and dense tropical forests. The area features peaks such as Mount Bù Gia Mập, standing as a sentinel over the park, and meandering rivers like the Đắk Huýt, which carve through the landscape, creating dramatic waterfalls such as Đắk Huýt Falls. The park’s dense vegetation includes dipterocarp forests, evergreen trees, and a stunning array of bamboo groves. These diverse ecosystems provide both visual splendor and critical habitats for the park’s wildlife.

Wildlife enthusiasts visiting Bù Gia Mập National Park can encounter an extraordinary array of species. Mammals such as the endangered Indochinese tiger, Asian elephant, and gaur roam the forest depths, while smaller creatures like civets and flying squirrels contribute to the park’s unique ecosystem. Birdwatchers will be captivated by the park’s avian diversity, with species like the great hornbill, crested serpent eagle, and bar-bellied pitta making their homes here. Reptiles, amphibians, and a myriad of insect species further enhance the park’s biodiversity, making it a haven for researchers and nature lovers alike.

Popular features of Bù Gia Mập National Park include its cascading waterfalls, serene rivers, and challenging hiking trails that weave through its lush forests. The Đắk Huýt and Đắk Ka rivers are especially favored for their pristine beauty and opportunities for exploration. Visitors often embark on guided treks to immerse themselves in the park’s natural splendor or visit local ethnic communities, such as the S’tieng and M’nong people, to learn about their traditional ways of life and harmonious coexistence with nature.

The park offers a range of ways for visitors to engage with its wonders. Guided eco-tours, birdwatching excursions, and multi-day treks are popular among those seeking an immersive experience. Camping under the star-filled skies and exploring the intricate ecosystems further enhance the connection to nature. The park also emphasizes environmental education, hosting programs that raise awareness about conservation and sustainable practices.

Bù Gia Mập National Park faces challenges in preserving its delicate ecosystems. Deforestation, illegal logging, and poaching have historically threatened the park’s biodiversity. However, significant conservation efforts, including community involvement and enhanced patrol systems, have yielded successes in protecting its flora and fauna. Partnerships with NGOs and international conservation organizations have further bolstered the park’s efforts, ensuring its continued vitality for generations to come.

Park Map

Bù Gia Mập National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Bù Gia Mập National Park, located in Vietnam’s Bình Phước Province, is a rich and biodiverse area, home to a variety of wildlife species, including rare and endemic animals. Its tropical forests serve as a vital habitat for mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Below are some of the park’s notable species:

Indochinese Leopard (Panthera pardus delacouri)
This elusive and critically endangered subspecies of leopard is known for its adaptability to various habitats. In Bù Gia Mập, it finds refuge in dense forests, though sightings are rare due to its secretive nature.

Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus)
The smallest bear species, the sun bear is recognizable by its short black fur and a crescent-shaped patch of yellow or white on its chest. It is a skilled climber and feeds on fruits, insects, and honey.

Gaur (Bos gaurus)
The gaur, or Indian bison, is one of the largest bovines in the world. These herbivores thrive in the park’s forested areas, grazing on grasses, leaves, and shrubs.

Annamite Striped Rabbit (Nesolagus timminsi)
This rare and recently discovered species is endemic to the Annamite Mountains region. It is known for its striped coat and nocturnal habits.

Banteng (Bos javanicus)
A wild cattle species, the banteng is highly dependent on the park’s forest for grazing and shelter. Their reddish-brown coats make them strikingly distinct.

Clouded Leopard (Neofelis nebulosa)
With its beautifully patterned coat, the clouded leopard is a stealthy predator found in the park. It is an excellent climber and preys on small mammals and birds.

Asian Golden Cat (Catopuma temminckii)
This medium-sized wild cat comes in various color morphs, including golden, reddish-brown, and gray. It is solitary and primarily hunts small mammals and reptiles.

Sunda Pangolin (Manis javanica)
The Sunda pangolin is a critically endangered species covered in protective keratin scales. It is nocturnal and feeds mainly on ants and termites.

King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)
As the longest venomous snake in the world, the king cobra is a fascinating yet dangerous resident of the park. It preys on other snakes and plays a critical role in the ecosystem.

Indochinese Silvered Langur (Trachypithecus germaini)
This primate species is recognizable by its silvery-gray fur and long tail. It lives in groups and is mostly arboreal, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers.

Birds

Bù Gia Mập National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, hosting a wide array of bird species, including several endemic and migratory birds. These birds add vibrancy to the park’s ecosystem with their songs and behaviors. Below are some of the most notable bird species:

Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis)
A strikingly large bird, the great hornbill is recognized by its vibrant yellow and black casque. It thrives in forested areas, feeding on fruits and small animals.

Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus)
This stunning and endangered bird is known for its iridescent green plumage and spectacular courtship displays. It inhabits open forests and grasslands within the park.

Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus)
The wild ancestor of domesticated chickens, the red junglefowl is common in the park’s forests, with males showcasing vibrant plumage.

Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela)
This medium-sized raptor has a distinctive crest and hunts snakes and other small prey in the forest canopy.

White-rumped Shama (Copsychus malabaricus)
Known for its melodious song, this bird has a glossy black body with a white rump and chestnut belly. It thrives in dense undergrowth.

Orange-breasted Trogon (Harpactes oreskios)
This colorful bird is known for its striking orange breast and greenish back. It resides in forested areas and feeds on insects.

Blue-rumped Pitta (Hydrornis soror)
A shy and ground-dwelling bird, the blue-rumped pitta has a vibrant green body with a blue patch on its rump. It is a delight for birdwatchers.

Black-and-red Broadbill (Cymbirhynchus macrorhynchos)
This eye-catching bird features a striking black body with a crimson belly and a bright blue bill. It is often seen near water sources.

Oriental Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris)
Smaller than the great hornbill, this species has a black and white body with a casque. It is highly social and feeds on fruits, insects, and small animals.

Bar-bellied Pitta (Hydrornis elliotii)
This beautifully patterned bird has bright green and yellow plumage with striking black bars on its belly. It prefers dense forests and is often heard before seen.