Vũ Quang National Park

Vũ Quang Overview

Vũ Quang National Park, or Vườn Quốc gia Vũ Quang in Vietnamese, is located in Hà Tĩnh Province in north-central Vietnam. Spanning an area of approximately 213 square miles (550 square kilometers), this park is a treasure trove of biodiversity nestled along the Annamite Mountain Range.

The park is characterized by rugged mountainous terrain, with elevations ranging from 50 to over 1,800 meters (164 to 5,906 feet) above sea level, providing diverse habitats and a scenic backdrop for exploration. The park’s landscape features lush tropical forests, winding rivers, and picturesque waterfalls, such as the awe-inspiring Tràn Châu waterfall, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

The forests of Vũ Quang National Park are dense and predominantly evergreen, with a canopy dominated by towering dipterocarp trees and a rich understory of ferns, orchids, and other native flora. Bamboo groves and patches of secondary forest add to the ecological diversity of the area. This verdant expanse also serves as a critical watershed, supplying water to surrounding communities and supporting the park’s intricate ecosystems.

Wildlife enthusiasts visiting Vũ Quang are in for a treat. The park is home to an array of rare and endangered species, including some globally significant finds. Among the most notable is the discovery of the saola, or Vu Quang ox (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis), a rare antelope-like species first identified in the park in 1992. Other iconic mammals include the Indochinese tiger, Asiatic black bear, and the critically endangered white-cheeked gibbon.

Birdwatchers can marvel at a variety of avian species, such as the crested argus, grey-crowned crocias, and the striking silver pheasant. The park’s rivers and streams are teeming with aquatic life, providing further evidence of its ecological importance.

Visitors to Vũ Quang National Park can explore its beauty through trekking routes that weave through its forests and hills. Guided hikes offer opportunities to learn about the park’s unique flora and fauna while soaking in its tranquil atmosphere. The park is also a popular destination for birdwatching and nature photography, thanks to its rich biodiversity and stunning vistas. Local villages surrounding the park often provide cultural experiences, giving visitors a chance to engage with the traditions and lifestyles of the region’s ethnic communities.

Conservation efforts at Vũ Quang have met both challenges and successes. Habitat loss due to illegal logging and agricultural encroachment poses ongoing threats, while poaching continues to endanger the park’s rare wildlife. However, collaborative efforts between the Vietnamese government, local communities, and international conservation organizations have yielded positive results, such as increased awareness and habitat restoration projects. The designation of Vũ Quang as a national park in 2002 marked a significant milestone in protecting its biodiversity and natural resources.

Park Map

Vũ Quang National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Vũ Quang National Park, located in central Vietnam, is renowned for its biodiversity, especially its rare and endangered species. The park’s dense forests, rivers, and unique climate create the perfect habitat for a variety of wildlife. Below are some of the more popular species that inhabit this remarkable park:

Saola (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis)
Known as the “Asian Unicorn,” the Saola is one of the most elusive and endangered animals in the world. Discovered in 1992, it is characterized by its slender body, long horns, and white facial markings.

Large-antlered Muntjac (Muntiacus vuquangensis)
This rare deer species, discovered in the same region as the Saola, is notable for its strikingly large antlers and reddish-brown coat. It primarily inhabits dense forest areas.

Annamite Striped Rabbit (Nesolagus timminsi)
This small, nocturnal rabbit features a striking pattern of dark stripes on its fur and is endemic to the Annamite Mountains region.

Bengal Slow Loris (Nycticebus bengalensis)
This nocturnal primate is recognized for its big, round eyes and slow movements. It is an arboreal species and primarily feeds on tree sap, insects, and fruit.

Indochinese Tiger (Panthera tigris corbetti)
Though critically endangered, the Indochinese tiger is a top predator in the park, symbolizing the need for continued conservation efforts.

Clouded Leopard (Neofelis nebulosa)
This medium-sized wild cat is known for its cloud-like patterned fur. It is an elusive and arboreal predator found in dense forests.

Asian Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus)
Also called the moon bear for its crescent-shaped chest patch, this bear is known for its climbing abilities and preference for forested habitats.

Yellow-cheeked Gibbon (Nomascus gabriellae)
This primate is notable for its long limbs, dexterous movements through trees, and its melodious calls during dawn.

Asian Small-clawed Otter (Aonyx cinereus)
The smallest of all otters, this species is playful and social, often found near streams and rivers within the park.

King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)
The world’s longest venomous snake, the King Cobra is a significant predator in the ecosystem, preying on other snakes and small vertebrates.

Birds

The avian diversity in Vũ Quang National Park is equally remarkable, with the park being home to many rare and colorful bird species. Its pristine forests and wetlands provide habitats for these extraordinary birds.

Siamese Fireback (Lophura diardi)
This pheasant species is striking with its metallic gray plumage and vivid red facial wattles. It is often found in dense forest undergrowth.

Crested Argus (Rheinardia ocellata)
A magnificent bird with long tail feathers covered in intricate patterns, the Crested Argus is a rare sight in the park.

Bar-bellied Pitta (Hydrornis elliotii)
Known for its vibrant green, blue, and yellow plumage, this ground-dwelling bird prefers dense forest floors.

Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis)
One of the largest hornbill species, it is easily recognized by its large yellow beak and casque, as well as its loud, whooshing flight sound.

Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus)
This spectacular bird has iridescent green and gold plumage, with males boasting long, eye-spotted tail feathers used in courtship displays.

Blue-rumped Pitta (Hydrornis soror)
A shy, ground-dwelling bird, the Blue-rumped Pitta is noted for its vibrant blue and green plumage and elusive nature.

Red-headed Trogon (Harpactes erythrocephalus)
With its bright red body and contrasting green wings, this bird is often spotted perched quietly in the forest canopy.

White-winged Duck (Asarcornis scutulata)
Critically endangered, this large duck species inhabits forested wetlands and is known for its striking black-and-white markings.

Silver-breasted Broadbill (Serilophus lunatus)
This small bird is admired for its colorful plumage, which includes shades of silver, black, orange, and blue.

Mountain Imperial Pigeon (Ducula badia)
A large pigeon species with soft gray and pink plumage, it often flies in flocks over the forest canopy.