Bach Ma National Park is significantly more diversified than the other national parks since it is located in a hilly location exactly on the border between the former North and South Vietnam. The vista across the valleys and the Hai Van Pass drew the slightly wealthier French inhabitants to the area in the early twentieth century. So don't be astonished if magnificent colonial villas appear out of nowhere in the middle of these deep trees.
- Entrance: VND 40,000
- Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
General information
The park is approximately 22,000 square kilometers in size and is at a height of 1,200 meters above sea level. With a height of 1,448 meters, Mount Bach Ma is the tallest peak in the area. The temps are significantly lower and more pleasant as a result of this. Bach Ma derives its name from the white cloud that surrounds the mountain peak. The environment near the foot of the mountain is less wooded, but it's still lovely, with grasslands, bushes, and a plethora of rivers and lagoons. The woodlands become denser as you climb higher.
Unfortunately, this lovely environment suffered greatly during the Vietnam War. The Americans used the Hai Van Pass as a sort of stronghold from which to launch their helicopters. They could keep an eye on the shoreline and the entire area between Hué and Da Nang from here. In the lowest areas of the park, there was severe warfare. The park was officially designated as a protected area in 1962.
In the National Park, the Viet Minh excavated 140-meter-long tunnels that are now known as the Bach Ma tunnels. From December 1973 through April 1975, they were employed in the Vietnam War. It is not advisable to enter the tunnels because they are home to deadly insects and snakes.
How to get there
Hue and Da Nang are two popular starting sites for visiting Bach Ma National Park. Travelers can reach Hue and Da Nang via a variety of modes of transportation, including air, rail, and road, from various provinces in Vietnam. The park is halfway between Da Nang and Hue, and both routes are straightforward; so, the trip can be completed by taxi, automobile, or motorcycle.
From Hue city center, take Highway 1A in the direction of Da Nang. – Go straight to the commune of Phu Loc – Go straight to the Bach Ma National Park signpost and follow it until you reach the site (total 40 km)
From Da Nang city center, take Highway 1A in the direction of Hai Van Pass - Phu Loc Commune – Bach Ma National Park (total 65 km)
In addition, day visits to Bach Ma National Park are available from Hue and Da Nang. This is strongly recommended if you would want a round-trip transfer with a guide included.
Best time to visit
The weather in Bach Ma National Park is good. The wet season and the dry season, however, continue to define the climate. The rainy season lasts from September to December, with heavy rainfall and, on occasion, typhoons, making sightseeing, mountain trekking, and other activities difficult.
Summer or early fall is the greatest time to visit because it is the dry season, when travelers are less likely to witness rains and the forest path is dryer, making it ideal for jungle walks and outdoor activities. This is also an excellent time to get away from the city's heat and enjoy the fresh air and cold breeze of the forest.
Accommodation
Bringing or renting a tent for camping in Bach Ma National Area is the most popular choice for people on a day excursion to the park.
For an overnight stay, the area surrounding Bach Ma National Park has both affordable and luxury options. Homestays at the foot of Bach Ma Mountain are the most cost-effective option. Better-equipped guest homes or villas at a greater cost of roughly VND 600,000 – 1,200,000 per room would be more comfortable and handy if you have a larger budget. Do Quyen, Kim Giao, Phong Lan, Morin, or Bach Ma Villa are some of the recommended villas within the park.
Travel tips
- To protect yourself against leaches and insects, wear long-sleeved and long-pant clothing.
- Wear decent, comfortable hiking shoes if you plan on trekking in the national park. Paths might be slick at times.
- Bring bug repellent.
- For longer walks, bring some water and snacks.
- It is possible to go swimming in the lakes, so bring your swimwear.
- Protect yourself from the elements. Sun cream to protect against the sun and a rain jacket to protect against the rain.
- Before you go trekking, learn as much as you can about the trails and how long they will take you. There are maps to be found.
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