Bach Ma National Park is one of Vietnam’s most captivating natural sanctuaries. Located between Hue and Da Nang, the park rises sharply from the coastline into cool, mist-covered peaks wrapped in ancient rainforest. Visitors often describe it as stepping into another world — one filled with cloud-kissed mountains, tumbling waterfalls, mossy colonial ruins, and wildlife found nowhere else.

But Bach Ma is more than just scenery. It is a living museum of biodiversity, a historical landmark shaped by colonial influences and wartime scars, and today, one of Central Vietnam’s most important eco-tourism destinations.

This guide brings you deep into its story: where it came from, why it matters, what to see, and how to plan the perfect visit.

History of Bach Ma National Park

The French Era: A Mountain Escape

In the 1930s, the French discovered Bach Ma’s cool climate and scenic ridges. They built a mountain retreat here — villas, roads, guesthouses — similar to Da Lat’s hill station concept. Some of these moss-covered ruins still stand today, creating a hauntingly beautiful blend of culture and nature along trekking routes.

War, Damage, and Rediscovery

During the Vietnam War, the surrounding region faced heavy activity, and parts of the forest suffered damage. However, the mountain’s remote geography allowed large swaths of jungle to survive.

Becoming a Bach Ma National Park

Recognizing its ecological value, the Vietnamese government officially established Bach Ma National Park in the late 20th century. Conservation expanded over the years, bringing forest protection, wildlife monitoring, and responsible tourism initiatives.

Today, Bach Ma stands as one of the country’s most significant protected cloud-forest ecosystems.

Biodiversity — Why Scientists Love Bach Ma

Bach Ma sits at a unique crossroads: the meeting point of northern and southern Vietnam’s ecological zones. This creates a rare biodiversity “transition zone” with multiple habitats packed into one mountain.

What You Can Find Here

• Over 1,400 plant species, including orchids, ferns, and towering hardwoods
• Hundreds of animal species, some endangered
• Exceptional birdlife, making it a top birdwatching destination
• Rare amphibians & reptiles, especially in wet forest layers
• Cloud-forest orchids, peeking from tree trunks and mossy branches

Experienced guides can spot species that casual visitors would easily miss — tiny frogs, rare birds, or unique plants tucked between rocks and roots.

What to See & Do in Bach Ma National Park

If you’re planning to visit Bach Ma National Park in Vietnam, you’ll naturally want to know what you can do and discover in this beautiful place.

Waterfall Trails

Bach Ma’s waterfalls are a highlight — refreshing, dramatic, and surrounded by dense forest.

Must-visit spots:

• Five Lakes Trail (Hờ Năm Hồ): a series of natural pools
• Do Quyen Waterfall: the park’s most famous 300-meter cascade
• Short nature-walk falls: great for beginners or families

Summit Trails

At the summit viewpoint, panoramic views stretch across the coastline, lagoons, valleys, and forests below. Sunrises are unforgettable.

Along the trail, you’ll find:

• Old French villas
• Moss-covered steps
• Cloud-forest views that shift every minute

Birdwatching & Wildlife Photography

Bach Ma is a goldmine for photographers:

• Misty ridges
• Waterfalls framed by jungle
• Macro shots of orchids, insects, moss, and mushrooms
• Dramatic long-exposure waterfall scenes

Guided Tours

Local guides can enrich your experience with:

• Animal spotting
• Botanical facts
• Safer navigation on longer trails

Practical Information for Bach Ma National Park Visitors

Before you visit Bach Ma National Park, we would like to provide some practical information that may be useful for you later.

How to Get There

• From Hue: 1–1.5 hours by car or motorbike
• From Da Nang / Hoi An: 2–2.5 hours
• Best access is via private car, motorbike, or organized tour.

Best Time to Visit Bach Ma National Park

• February–June: Best weather, clear views
• July–October: Wetter, atmospheric cloud forest
• Cool all year: Bring layers

Entrance Fees & Rules

• Standard entrance fee applies
• Some trails require a guide
• Stay on marked paths
• No collecting plants or disturbing wildlife

What to Pack

• Hiking shoes
• Rain jacket
• Drinking water & snacks
• Camera or phone lens kit
• Bug repellent
• Extra socks & quick-dry clothing

Responsible Travel — Protecting Bach Ma for the Future

Bach Ma is fragile. Visitors play a huge role in preserving it.

Travel responsibly by:

• Staying on established trails
• Avoiding single-use plastics
• Packing out all trash
• Supporting local guides and services
• Respecting wildlife and restricting flash photography at night

Small decisions contribute to the long-term health of this rainforest.

One Day Itinerary Suggestion In Bach Ma National Park

If you’re interested in visiting Bach Ma National Park, we’ve prepared a one-day itinerary that will allow you to experience one of Vietnam’s most beautiful paradises.

7:30 AM — Depart Hue
9:00 AM — Arrive, check-in, start waterfall trails
11:30 AM — Picnic lunch near rest area
1:00 PM — Summit hike & French colonial ruins
3:30 PM — Return to base
5:00 PM — Back to Hue/Da Nang

Perfect for:

• Solo travelers
• Couples
• Nature lovers
• Photographers
• Families with active kids