Núi Chúa National Park

Núi Chúa Overview

Núi Chúa National Park, located in Ninh Thuận Province in southern Vietnam, is a unique ecological treasure. Known locally as Vườn quốc gia Núi Chúa, this remarkable park spans an area of approximately 296 square miles (768 square kilometers). Nestled along the southeastern coastline of the country, Núi Chúa is renowned for its striking arid landscapes, rare biodiversity, and proximity to the South China Sea.

The park is bordered by the rugged coastline on one side and the imposing Núi Chúa mountain range on the other, offering a spectacular combination of ecosystems that sets it apart from other national parks in Vietnam.

The terrain of Núi Chúa National Park is characterized by its dry, rocky mountains and undulating hills, with the highest peak, Núi Chúa, rising to an elevation of 3,373 feet (1,028 meters). Unlike Vietnam’s more tropical parks, Núi Chúa features a semi-arid climate, which has shaped its distinctive environment.

The vegetation primarily consists of drought-tolerant plants such as cacti, thorny shrubs, and dry deciduous forests, alongside pockets of evergreen forest in higher elevations. This variety in flora is complemented by striking geographical features like Hang Rái, a breathtaking coastal area known for its coral reef fossil formations and photogenic rock structures. Waterfalls like Suối Lồ Ô add a touch of greenery and vibrancy to the otherwise arid landscape.

Wildlife in Núi Chúa is equally impressive and diverse, reflecting the park’s unique climatic and geographic conditions. The park is home to over 200 bird species and 60 mammal species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Key mammals include the sun bear, the leopard, and the endangered gaur, while birdwatchers might catch sight of the rare oriental pied hornbill or the beautiful black-headed woodpecker. The park also supports a variety of reptiles and amphibians, as well as marine species in its coastal and coral reef areas, including sea turtles that use the beaches as nesting grounds.

Visitors to Núi Chúa National Park often flock to Hang Rái for its picturesque views and opportunities for snorkeling and diving in nearby waters. Hiking and trekking are popular ways to explore the rugged terrain, with trails offering panoramic views of the mountains and sea. For those interested in local culture, visits to nearby Cham villages provide insights into the region’s traditional ways of life. Additionally, Núi Chúa’s pristine beaches, such as Bình Tiên, attract sunseekers and those looking for peaceful coastal retreats.

Despite its natural beauty, the park faces conservation challenges, particularly from climate change, overfishing, and human encroachment. However, Núi Chúa has been a success story in marine turtle conservation, with dedicated programs that protect nesting areas and promote awareness. Its designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve underscores its global ecological importance and ensures ongoing conservation efforts.

Park Map

Núi Chúa National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Núi Chúa National Park in Vietnam is a unique ecosystem known for its arid climate and diverse species. The park is home to fascinating wildlife, including rare mammals, reptiles, and marine life, making it a hotspot for biodiversity. Below are some of the popular species found in Núi Chúa National Park:

Leopard (Panthera pardus)
This elusive predator thrives in the park’s dry forest habitat. Known for its agility and strength, the leopard is a skilled hunter and plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance.

Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus)
One of the smallest bear species, the sun bear is recognizable by its short black coat and orange crescent-shaped chest patch. It is primarily arboreal and feeds on fruits, honey, and insects.

Asiatic Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus)
Also called the moon bear, this species has a distinctive white chest marking. It is known for its adaptability and is found in forested areas of the park.

Bengal Monitor (Varanus bengalensis)
A large lizard species, the Bengal monitor is an apex reptile in the park’s ecosystem. It feeds on insects, small mammals, and eggs.

King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)
The world’s longest venomous snake, the king cobra, inhabits the park’s dense forests. Despite its fearsome reputation, it avoids humans unless provoked.

Indochinese Silvered Langur (Trachypithecus germaini)
This leaf-eating monkey is known for its silvery fur and long tail. It moves in groups and contributes to seed dispersal in the forest.

Pangolin (Manis javanica)
This critically endangered mammal is known for its protective keratin scales and its diet of ants and termites. It is highly elusive and threatened by illegal poaching.

Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Núi Chúa’s coastline provides important nesting grounds for this endangered species. Green sea turtles play a vital role in maintaining marine ecosystems by grazing on seagrass.

Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
Another critically endangered turtle species found along the park’s shores, the hawksbill turtle is essential for coral reef health as it controls sponge populations.

Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)
Although rare, this apex predator can be found in the park’s estuarine areas. It is vital for maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems.

Birds

The birdlife in Núi Chúa National Park is equally spectacular, featuring a range of species that thrive in its diverse habitats. Below are some of the notable bird species found in the park:

Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis)
This large bird is known for its impressive casque and vibrant plumage. It is crucial for seed dispersal and the health of the park’s forests.

Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela)
A majestic raptor, the crested serpent eagle patrols the skies in search of snakes and other small prey, contributing to predator-prey dynamics.

Rufous Treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda)
With its striking rufous and black plumage, this bird is often seen in mixed flocks, playing a role in insect control.

Asian Fairy Bluebird (Irena puella)
This bird is admired for its iridescent blue feathers and melodious calls, often found in the park’s forest canopy.

Scarlet Minivet (Pericrocotus speciosus)
The bright red and black colors of the scarlet minivet make it a standout in the treetops, where it forages for insects.

Blue-winged Leafbird (Chloropsis cochinchinensis)
This vibrant green bird with blue accents is a frequent visitor to flowering trees, aiding in pollination.

Oriental Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris)
Smaller than the great hornbill, this species is known for its social behavior and importance in seed dispersal.

White-rumped Shama (Copsychus malabaricus)
Renowned for its melodious song, this bird is often seen in the undergrowth and is a favorite among birdwatchers.

Green-billed Malkoha (Phaenicophaeus tristis)
This shy bird has a long tail and is often spotted foraging for insects in the forest canopy.

Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis)
With its striking yellow body and black markings, this oriole adds a splash of color to the park’s avian diversity.