All about Cuc Phuong Butterfly Season: A Must-See Phenomenon for Travelers

Overview of Butterfly Season in Cuc Phuong 

Cuc Phuong National Park, located roughly 120 kilometres southwest of Hanoi, transforms into a butterfly wonderland every year from late April to mid-May. This period, known as the Cuc Phuong Butterfly Season, is a breathtaking sight that attracts tourists from all over the world.

During this time, hundreds of different butterfly species, estimated at around 400, emerge from their slumber and take flight, filling the air with a vibrant display of colour. These butterflies come in all shapes and sizes, with some boasting wingspans as wide as a dinner plate!

Some of the most popular butterfly species you can expect to see during Cuc Phuong Butterfly Season include:

• The majestic Atlas Moth, the largest moth in the world, with a wingspan reaching up to 30 centimeters.
• The vibrant Tailed Swallowtail, is known for its long, elegant tails.
• The Common Mormon, a beautiful black and white butterfly with a distinctive white spot on each wing.

The best time to witness this spectacular phenomenon is on a sunny day following a light rain shower. The dampness draws the butterflies out, making them more active and easier to spot. They can be seen flitting amongst the flowers, basking in the sunlight, or even congregating in large groups on the forest floor.

Cuc Phuong Entrance Fees

There is an entrance fee to visit Cuc Phuong National Park. The fee is currently 40,000 VND for adults and 20,000 VND for children.

Cuc Phuong National Park From Ninh Binh

It will take approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes to drive from Ninh Binh to Cuc Phuong National Park, covering a distance of 53.3 km. The route will take you along QL12B and through the Cuc Phuong Forest Road.

You can see the directions here.

Activities in Cuc Phuong National Park During Butterfly Season

Besides the main event of witnessing the vibrant butterfly spectacle, Cuc Phuong National Park offers a variety of activities to immerse yourself in nature during the Butterfly Season:

Hiking in Cuc Phuong National Park 

The park offers a variety of hiking trails that wind through the lush rainforests. These trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging, so there's something for everyone. As you hike, keep an eye out for the park's many other inhabitants, such as birds, squirrels, and monkeys.

Wildlife Viewing

Cuc Phuong National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, deer, wild boars, and primates. While spotting these larger animals can be more challenging, there are night tours offered by park rangers that increase your chances.

Birdwatching 

The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of birds recorded here. Some of the birds you might see include pheasants, hornbills, and babblers.

Cycling around the Park 

Rent a bicycle and explore the park at your own pace. This is a great way to see the scenery and get some exercise.

Visiting the Endangered Primate Rescue Center

Learn about the important work being done to save Vietnam's endangered primates at this rescue centre.

Exploring Caves

The park has some caves that you can explore, including the Cathedral Cave and the Prehistoric Cave.

Cuc Phuong National Park Day Tour

How long in Cuc Phuong National Park is enough? With a spacious area and many activities to choose from, you should spend at least a day in Cuc Phuong National Park. See the suggested itinerary for one day in Cuc Phuong:

• Depart Hanoi for Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam's first national park and largest nature reserve.
• Arrive at Cuc Phuong Park and visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center to observe rare primate species.
• Enjoy lunch at the National Park.
• Visit The Cave of Prehistoric Man, one of the earliest human habitation sites discovered in Vietnam.
• Leave Cuc Phuong for Hanoi.
• Come back to Hanoi

Check our detailed activities and price here: Ninh Binh Full Day Tour: Cuc Phuong National Park 

You can also combine your visit to Cuc Phuong with other attractions in Ninh Binh by taking 2 days 1 night in Ninh Binh as below: 

Check our detailed activities and prices here:

Cuc Phuong National Park: Highlights, Detailed Guide And Suggested Itinerary

Important Note for visiting Cuc Phuong Butterfly Season

With a little planning and preparation, you can experience the magic of Cuc Phuong 

• The peak season for the Cuc Phuong Butterfly Season is usually in early May. However, the exact dates can vary depending on the weather conditions. It's best to check with the park authorities or a local tour operator before you make your trip.
• The butterfly season is a popular time to visit Cuc Phuong National Park, so it's important to book your accommodation and transportation in advance. There are a number of guesthouses and resorts located near Cuc Phuong National Park. However, these can be booked up quickly during the butterfly season, so it's important to make your reservations well in advance. Another important point is that accommodation inside Cuc Phuong National Park is not as good as other areas in Ninh Binh. You can stay in the Tam Coc area and then move to Cuc Phuong for a day trip if you prefer more comfortable rooms. 
• You'll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure you're dressed comfortably.
• There will be other insects besides butterflies, so it's a good idea to bring insect repellent with you.
• Butterflies are delicate creatures, so be patient when trying to get a good look at them and avoid disturbing them.

Overall, Cuc Phuong in butterfly season become more attractive. If you are a natural lover, don’t miss a chance to witness this great phenomenon. It’s easy to take a trip to Cuc Phuong now. However, remember to check the exact time to go, Cuc Phuong weather, and pack essential things with you because Cuc Phuong is a large forest and limited tourism service here. Our best advice is to combine a trip to Cuc Phuong with other activities in Ninh Binh like boat tours, mountain climbing or cycling to maximize your experience. 

Combining Halong Bay and Ninh Binh: The Perfect 2 Day 1 Night Itinerary

Night Travel in Ninh Binh: Points of Interest and Considerations