By aussiematesvietnam 
Birdwatching and Nature Walks in Vietnam’s Protected Areas
G’day fellow adventurers! Aussie Mates here, coming to you from the lush landscapes of Vietnam, my home for nearly two decades now. When Tracy and I first moved here from Down Under, we had no idea we’d stumble into one of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular natural playgrounds. After almost 20 years of exploring this magnificent country with my better half, I’ve developed quite the eye for spotting the local wildlife, especially the feathered variety.
Vietnam might be famous for its bustling cities and mouth-watering pho, but crikey, the natural reserves and protected areas are absolute gems that many tourists miss out on. For my fellow Aussie boomers looking for a different kind of Vietnamese adventure, grab your binoculars and walking shoes—I’m about to share some ripper spots where nature puts on a show that’ll knock your socks off!
[IMAGE:birdwatching-binoculars]
Why Vietnam is a Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Before we dive into the specific locations, let me tell you why Vietnam deserves a spot on every twitcher’s bucket list. With over 900 bird species recorded across the country, Vietnam boasts an impressive avian diversity that would make even the most seasoned birdwatcher’s heart skip a beat. The country’s varied ecosystems—from mountainous highlands to coastal wetlands—create perfect habitats for both resident and migratory birds.
Tracy and I were absolute novices when we started birdwatching here. I remember the first time we spotted a Red-headed Trogon in Cuc Phuong National Park—Tracy nearly fell off the walking trail in excitement! Now we’ve got a list longer than my arm of species we’ve spotted over the years.
What makes Vietnam particularly special is the number of endemic species you won’t find anywhere else. The Vietnamese Pheasant, Collared Laughingthrush, and Grey-crowned Crocias are just a few of the rare beauties you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of.
[IMAGE:tropical-birds]
Cuc Phuong National Park: Vietnam’s Original Green Sanctuary
Let me start with our personal favourite. Located about 120km southwest of Hanoi, Cuc Phuong is Vietnam’s first national park and an absolute corker for nature lovers. Tracy and I have visited this treasure at least a dozen times, and each visit reveals something new.
The best time to visit is between December and April when the weather is cooler and drier. During our last trip in February, we spotted Brown Hornbills, Red-vented Barbets, and if you’re really lucky (as we were once), you might even catch sight of the elusive Limestone Wren-Babbler.
Top tip from an old hand: hire a local guide. These blokes know the forest like the back of their hand and can spot birds that would be completely invisible to untrained eyes. Our guide Minh once pointed out a Blue-rumped Pitta that was so well-camouflaged, I would’ve walked right past it even if it had been wearing a flashing neon sign!
The walking trails range from easy 1-2 hour strolls to more challenging full-day treks. The Loop Trail is perfect for beginners, while the Summit Trail offers more ambitious explorers a chance to see different bird species at varying elevations.
[IMAGE:cuc-phuong-forest]
Cat Tien National Park: Southern Vietnam’s Bird Haven
If you’re heading south, Cat Tien National Park is an absolute must-visit. About 150km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, this lowland forest reserve is home to over 350 bird species. Tracy reckons this is where we’ve had our most memorable birdwatching experiences, and I’d have to agree.
Early morning walks around Crocodile Lake have rewarded us with sightings of Great Hornbills, Siamese Firebacks, and Germain’s Peacock-Pheasants. The symphony of calls at dawn is something you have to experience to believe—it’s like nature’s own rock concert, minus the overpriced beer!
What makes Cat Tien special is the variety of habitats within a relatively compact area. You can explore wetlands, grasslands, and dense forests all in one day. We typically stay at the park’s lodging for at least three nights to properly explore the different sections.
One particular memory stands out from our countless visits: Tracy and I were sitting quietly by a stream when a Blue-winged Pitta decided to take a bath not two metres away from us. We barely dared to breathe as this spectacular bird splashed about, completely oblivious to our presence. Moments like these make all the early morning wake-ups worthwhile.
[IMAGE:cat-tien-park]
Xuan Thuy National Park: Wader Wonderland
For a completely different birdwatching experience, head to Xuan Thuy National Park in the Red River Delta. This wetland reserve is Vietnam’s first Ramsar site (wetland of international importance) and a crucial stopover for migratory birds on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway.
During the migration seasons (August-November and March-May), you can spot thousands of shorebirds including the endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper and Nordmann’s Greenshank. Tracy and I visited last October and were gobsmacked by the sheer number of birds. It reminded us a bit of Kakadu during the wet season—just teeming with life.
The park is less developed for tourism than some others, which in my book is a good thing. You’ll need to arrange transportation from Nam Dinh city, about 150km southeast of Hanoi. Pack gumboots if you’re planning to explore the mudflats, and don’t forget the insect repellent—the mozzies here are big enough to carry off small children!
[IMAGE:wetland-birds]
Bach Ma National Park: Birding with Altitude
For those who prefer their nature walks with a bit more elevation, Bach Ma National Park in central Vietnam offers spectacular mountain scenery and unique bird species. Located between Hue and Da Nang, this park rises from sea level to 1,450 metres, creating distinct ecological zones.
Tracy and I tackled the Summit Trail on our second visit, and despite the steep sections that had us puffing like steam trains, the views and bird sightings were worth every drop of sweat. The Crested Argus, Short-tailed Scimitar Babbler, and Silver Pheasant all call this mountain home.
The mist that often shrouds the peaks creates an ethereal atmosphere that’s perfect for photography. Just be prepared for quick weather changes—we’ve been caught in sudden downpours more times than I care to remember. As we say in Australia, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes!”
[IMAGE:misty-mountain]
Practical Tips for Birdwatching in Vietnam
- Timing is everything: The dry season (November-April) is generally better for birdwatching, but each region has its optimal times.
- Dress appropriately: Neutral-coloured clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and leech socks (yes, really) are essential kit.
- Gear up: A decent pair of binoculars (8×42 or 10×42) will significantly enhance your experience. Tracy uses Nikon Monarchs, while I prefer my trusty old Bushnells.
- Stay hydrated: The humidity can sneak up on you, especially if you’re focused on that rare bird. I learned this lesson the hard way after nearly fainting at Cat Tien.
- Respect the environment: Stick to established trails and practice no-trace tourism. These protected areas remain pristine only if we all do our part.