Bidoup Nui Ba National Park

Bidoup Núi Bà National Park (Vườn quốc gia Bidoup Núi Bà) is a protected area spanning the districts of Đam Rông and Lạc Dương in northern Lâm Đồng province. Established in 2004, it covers 70,038 ha and ranks among the five largest national parks in Vietnam. The park is named after its two highest peaks: Bidoup (2,287 m) and Núi Bà (2,167 m), both part of the Langbiang plateau.

The park protects one of the most biodiverse highland ecosystems in Indochina. It hosts over 1,933 species of vascular plants, including 96 endemic species and 62 rare species listed on the IUCN Red List. It is particularly important for conifer conservation, harbouring 14 of Vietnam's 33 conifer species, including the endemic two-flat-needle pine and five-needle pine. The fauna includes 441 vertebrate species, with 32 IUCN-listed species such as the black-shanked douc, yellow-cheeked gibbon, Asiatic black bear, dhole, giant muntjac, and Owston's civet.

The climate is cool year-round due to the high elevation. The dry season (November–April) offers the best trekking conditions; the rainy season (May–October) brings lush vegetation but leeches and slippery trails.

By Plane

Lien Khuong Airport (DLI IATA) near Da Lat is about 60 km south (1.5 hr by road). Arrange a taxi or private transfer for the journey.

By Car / Road

The park is accessible from Da Lat (60 km north, 1.5 hr) via Road 723 through Lạc Dương district. From Đam Rông town there is also access. The road is paved to the park headquarters but becomes rougher inside the park. A 4WD vehicle is recommended in the wet season.

The park is best explored on foot with a local guide. The park headquarters can arrange guides for day hikes and multi-day treks. Some deeper areas require a 4WD vehicle to reach the trailheads.

• Bidoup Peak (2,287 m) — The highest peak in the park, reached via multi-day trek. Panoramic views of the Langbiang plateau.

• Núi Bà Peak (2,167 m) — The other iconic summit, with pine forests and endemic conifers along the trail.

• Ancient conifer forests — Stands of two-flat-needle pine, five-needle pine, and Himalayan yew (Taxus wallichiana).

• Đa Nhim River — A scenic river flowing through the park with waterfalls and pools.

• K'Ho ethnic villages — Communities living at the park's edge, offering cultural insight.

• Multi-day trekking — 2–4 day treks through primary forest to the peaks, with camping.

• Day hikes — Shorter walks to waterfalls, viewpoints, and conifer groves.

• Wildlife watching — Dawn and dusk wildlife spotting (gibbons, langurs, birds).

• Birdwatching — The park is a top destination in Vietnam for endemic bird species.

• Camping — Permitted in designated areas with a park guide.

The park headquarters has a basic restaurant serving Vietnamese food. Your guide can arrange meals during multi-day treks. Bring snacks and extra water for longer hikes.

Locally grown coffee is excellent. Bottled water must be carried for trekking; the park's streams should be treated before drinking.

• Budget: Camping in the park (arranged through park HQ, from 100,000 dong).
• Mid-range: Homestays in local K'Ho villages (from 250,000 dong including meals).

The park visitor centre sells maps and basic souvenirs. Local K'Ho communities sell handicrafts, coffee, and forest honey. Da Lat is the best place for more extensive shopping.

• Da Lat (60 km south, 1.5 hr) — The Central Highlands' cultural and tourism hub.
• Lac Duong (30 km south) — Gateway town at the foot of Langbiang Mountain.
• Dam Rong (within the district) — Rural highland district bordering the park.
• Nha Trang (180 km east, 4 hr) — Coastal resort city with beaches and islands.