Cuc Phuong National Park - Vietnam’s first national park - is located at the intersection of three provinces: Ninh Binh, Phu Tho, and Thanh Hoa. The main entrance is in Cuc Phuong commune, Ninh Binh province.

The park is known for its rich biodiversity, characteristic of tropical rainforest ecosystems. Numerous rare and endangered species are protected and studied here.

To reach May Bac Peak, travelers must trek roughly 6 kilometers through dense primary forest. The journey takes around five hours and includes crossing streams, navigating multi-layered vegetation, and walking beneath towering ancient trees.

Over the past decades, Cuc Phuong has become a top eco-tourism destination in northern Vietnam, attracting visitors with its diverse wildlife, majestic landscapes, and opportunities for scientific exploration and adventure.

The trek to May Bac is considered one of the park’s most challenging routes. It requires stamina, determination, and a deep love for nature.

Before the hike, visitors receive an introduction to the park’s conservation efforts and key attractions. From there, they are transported about 20 kilometers to the core zone (Bong area), where the journey begins.

At the base, tourists are given safety instructions and prepare their personal gear for the climb - essentials include water, insect repellent, long-sleeved clothing, and hiking shoes. The adventure then unfolds deep into the heart of the rainforest.

As they ascend, trekkers are immersed in a mystical setting where emerald-green forests merge with drifting white clouds. It’s a world untouched by urban noise - serene, wild, and invigorating.

Once atop May Bac, visitors can check in at the highest point, take panoramic photos, and marvel at a landscape blanketed in fog and floating mist.

The silence above the treetops, punctuated only by birdsong and rustling leaves, offers a rare sense of peace. Many choose to enjoy a picnic-style lunch here, basking in the pure mountain air and sublime views.

According to Cuc Phuong Park representatives, the May Bac trek is suitable for visitors who are physically fit and have basic hiking experience. It’s especially appealing to those who love off-the-beaten-path adventures and immersive contact with nature.

Foreign and local visitors alike have been captivated by the trail’s cinematic scenery. The route itself resembles an ink wash painting - twisting paths, moss-covered trees, and waterfalls glistening in the filtered sunlight.

To ensure safety and environmental protection, all trekkers must be accompanied by official guides from the park and comply with the park’s rules at all times.

Recommended items include hiking boots, long-sleeved clothing, hats, headlamps, insect repellent, and optional gear such as binoculars or cameras.

The reward for this effort is not just the view, but the transformative experience of walking through an ancient forest - one of Vietnam’s most pristine ecological treasures.