Ho Chi Minh to Cat Tien National Park Dalat (3 days)

Ho Chi Minh to Cat Tien National Park & Dalat (3 days)

Traveling through Vietnam often means enjoying vibrant cities, historic sites, or stunning coastlines. But if you’re craving a taste of Vietnam’s wilderness and mountain scenery, this 3-day tour from Ho Chi Minh offers just that—wildlife encounters, lush jungles, and breathtaking waterfalls. For $477 per person, you’ll experience some of the country’s most natural treasures, led by knowledgeable guides in a private group setting.

What we love about this tour is how it combines adventure with education—from biking through tropical forests to night safaris in a UNESCO-listed park. The second highlight is the chance to visit Crocodile Lake, a peaceful spot where you might catch sight of basking crocs and exotic animals. The winding mountain roads leading to Dalat add a scenic charm that’s perfect for photo opportunities and relaxed sightseeing.

One consideration is that this trip involves about six hours of riding each day, whether by motorbike or private car. So, if you’re sensitive to long travel times or motion sickness, plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who love wildlife, authentic natural landscapes, and a bit of adventure—especially those looking to see Vietnam’s lesser-visited natural corners.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Night safaris and visits to Crocodile Lake offer chances to see animals in their natural habitat.
• Active Exploration: Biking and trekking provide immersive ways to experience the jungle and waterfalls.
• Local Culture & Food: Visits to plantations, rice paper making, and local fruits add cultural flavor.
• Stunning Scenery: From lush forests to majestic waterfalls and mountain vistas, nature takes center stage.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Hoan are praised for their knowledge and storytelling.
• Value for Money: The tour includes accommodation, entry fees, and transportation, turning it into a hassle-free way to explore.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Ho Chi Minh to Cat Tien National Park

The adventure kicks off with a six-hour journey from Ho Chi Minh City, but the drive is part of the experience. We loved the way the trip begins with visits to rubber and cashew plantations, giving us a window into local agriculture. Sampling fresh tropical fruits and watching villagers craft rice paper added an authentic touch that set the tone for the trip.

Once in the park, the experience truly begins—an evening night safari with the help of spotlights is a highlight. As darkness falls, you’ll be looking out for owls, civets, and other nocturnal creatures that are rarely seen during the day. Our guide Hoan was praised for his storytelling and insight, making the wildlife come alive. The warm, cozy bungalow we stayed in at the park provided a peaceful setting after a day of exploration.

This first day is about setting the scene—diving into the biodiversity of the park and feeling the thrill of discovering unseen animals in their natural surroundings.

Day 2: Active Day at Crocodile Lake

After a hearty breakfast, the day is filled with biking and trekking. We loved how the cycling route took us through tropical forests, where the serene sounds of birdcalls and the sight of gibbons and monkeys made every pedal stroke worthwhile. The 10 km bike ride is manageable and offers a chance to see the park from a different perspective—up close and personal with nature.

Later, a 5 km hike leads to Crocodile Lake, a tranquil spot with a fascinating mix of wildlife. The guide’s insights into local flora and fauna enriched the experience, making the scenery more meaningful. Reaching the lake, you can relax by the water, watch crocodiles sunbathing, and enjoy a picnic lunch with ingredients sourced locally—fish from the lake, fresh fruits, and traditional dishes.

In the late afternoon, we wandered around the lake shores and took in panoramic views. The evening wraps up with a delicious dinner under the stars, a perfect way to process the day’s adventures.

Day 3: Journey to Dalat with Scenic Stops

The final day starts with a 5 km walk back to the bike parking, then another 10 km ride to the main park gate. From here, the journey continues towards Dalat, about six hours away. The scenic drive is a highlight itself, with stops at coffee plantations, the majestic Pongour Waterfall, and mushroom farms—each offering a glimpse into rural life and Vietnam’s lush landscapes.

As we approached Dalat, the landscape shifted to cooler mountain vistas, with views of Paradise Lake providing a fitting farewell to nature before arriving in the charming highland town. The tour concludes with a guide escorting you to your hotel, leaving you with memories of waterfalls, wildlife, and mountain roads.

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What’s Included & What to Consider

This tour covers a lot of ground—transportation, accommodation, entry fees, and guides are included, which streamlines your experience. The English-speaking guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner, making the trip both informative and enjoyable.

However, the tour does not include food and drinks, so budget around $15 a day for meals, which are easily found in rural areas and often delicious. If you prefer to travel by motorbike, your luggage is packed securely in waterproof bags, making for a relaxed ride.

The private group setting offers personalized attention, and the flexible cancellation policy (full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance) adds peace of mind.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

If you enjoy active vacations—biking, trekking, and night safaris—this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in Vietnam’s wildlife and natural beauty over urban sightseeing. The detailed insights from guides like Hoan and the chance to see animals in their natural habitat are big pluses.

Travelers who love authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences will appreciate the visits to plantations and the quiet, scenic mountain roads. It’s also a good fit for those who value value for money because everything from accommodation to entry fees is covered, making it a smooth, hassle-free experience.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day adventure from Ho Chi Minh to Cat Tien National Park and Dalat combines wildlife, stunning waterfalls, and mountain scenery into a manageable trip that’s packed with memorable moments. You’ll love the chance to witness animals in the wild, explore lush forests by bike and foot, and relax amidst some of Vietnam’s most beautiful natural landscapes.

The tour’s real strength lies in its balance—active exploration paired with comfortable accommodations and expert guidance. It’s perfect for travelers who are curious about Vietnam’s natural environment and don’t mind a bit of travel time to reach these peaceful, wildlife-rich spots.

While it’s not suitable for pregnant women or very young children, it offers something special for adventurous, nature-loving travelers eager to see a different side of Vietnam—far from the bustling cities, into the heart of its wild spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts for 3 days, with each day packed with activities, transportation, and sightseeing.

What is the average group size?
This is a private group experience, so you’ll receive personalized attention from your guide.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included. You should budget about $15 per day for food and drinks, and you’ll have plenty of local options to choose from.

How do I get to the starting point?
The tour includes hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh City, making it convenient to begin your adventure.

What should I bring?
Long pants, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes are recommended. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, the tour offers suitable options.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years or pregnant women due to physical activity and travel demands.

Can I choose to travel by motorbike or car?
Yes, you can opt for motorbike rides, with luggage packed into waterproof bags, or travel by private car—both options are available.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Vietnam’s natural beauty, perfect for those eager to experience wildlife, waterfalls, and mountain scenery in a manageable timeframe.

You can check availability for your dates here: