Kon Ka Kinh National Park

Kon Ka Kinh Overview

Kon Ka Kinh National Park, known locally as Vườn quốc gia Kon Ka Kinh, is a biodiverse gem located in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Spanning approximately 159 square miles (412 square kilometers), this protected area is situated in Gia Lai Province, about 31 miles (50 kilometers) from the city of Pleiku. It is part of the Annamite Mountain Range, a globally recognized hotspot of biodiversity and an integral component of Vietnam’s protected areas.

The park’s terrain is characterized by rugged mountains, rolling hills, and deep valleys, with elevations ranging from 400 to over 1,748 meters (1,312 to 5,735 feet) at its highest point, Kon Ka Kinh Peak. Lush, dense forests dominate the landscape, with primary evergreen forests and tropical montane rainforests as the most prominent vegetation types.

Towering dipterocarp trees, lush ferns, and mosses thrive in the humid environment, alongside unique floral species such as orchids and medicinal plants. The park is interspersed with cascading waterfalls, clear streams, and serene lakes that add to its pristine beauty.

Wildlife enthusiasts are drawn to Kon Ka Kinh for its remarkable biodiversity. The park is home to over 428 animal species, including several that are critically endangered. Iconic mammals such as the rare gray-shanked douc langur, black-shanked douc langur, and Indochinese leopard roam the forests.

Birdwatchers will find the area a paradise, with more than 160 bird species recorded, including the endemic and colorful Vietnamese greenfinch and the white-winged magpie. Reptiles, amphibians, and a myriad of insect species also contribute to the park’s ecological diversity.

One of the park’s most popular features is its hiking trails, offering visitors an immersive experience in the heart of its lush ecosystems. Trekking routes lead adventurers through the park’s dense jungles, alongside gurgling streams, and to scenic viewpoints atop Kon Ka Kinh Peak, where panoramic views of the surrounding highlands await.

Birdwatching tours are increasingly popular, as are guided nature walks that provide insights into the park’s unique flora and fauna. For a tranquil experience, visitors can enjoy the serene ambiance of the streams and waterfalls, such as Dak Pooc Waterfall, which is a favorite spot.

Kon Ka Kinh National Park faces significant conservation challenges, including illegal logging, poaching, and habitat encroachment from agricultural expansion. However, efforts to mitigate these threats have seen success. The park is recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park, highlighting its ecological importance, and collaborative projects with international conservation organizations have led to strengthened protection for its unique species. Community involvement in sustainable practices and ecotourism has also provided economic incentives to preserve this natural treasure.

Park Map

Kon Ka Kinh National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Kon Ka Kinh National Park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with its diverse avian population. Here are some of the notable bird species:

Grey-crowned crocias
An endangered bird endemic to Vietnam, it has striking plumage with grey on its crown, white underparts, and rufous on its wings.

Chestnut-eared laughingthrush
This bird has a melodious call and distinctive chestnut-colored ear patches. It is often found in dense undergrowth.

Green peafowl
This large, colorful bird is known for its iridescent green plumage and impressive courtship displays. It is a species of conservation concern.

White-winged duck
A rare waterfowl with striking white wings and a dark body, it prefers secluded wetlands and forest streams.

Great hornbill
An iconic bird with a massive, curved bill and vibrant black and yellow plumage. It is a frugivore and plays a key role in seed dispersal.

Red-collared woodpecker
A colorful bird with a red collar and strong bill adapted for drilling into trees. It is rare and considered near-threatened.

Crested argus
A pheasant-like bird with exceptionally long tail feathers and a striking appearance, often found in dense forest habitats.

Bar-bellied pitta
A ground-dwelling bird with vivid green, blue, and yellow plumage. It is a shy species often seen foraging on the forest floor.

Blue-rumped pitta
This bird has a bright blue rump and a green body. It is elusive and well-camouflaged in its forest habitat.

Black-hooded laughingthrush
A social and vocal bird with a black head and contrasting body colors. It is often seen in flocks, foraging for insects and fruits.