Natural getaway

Visitors go for a swim in a stream at Bach Ma (White Horse) National Park in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue. Located in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue, Bach Ma (White Horse) National Park is a must-see for anyone with a love of nature.

Established in 1991 to protect the center of the last corridor of forest stretching from the East Sea to the Truong Son mountain range and the border of Laos, the park covers an area of about 22,000 ha. With its steep mountains and dense forests, the park is recognized for its abundant biodiversity. Bach Ma is home to over 2,100 species of flora and some 1,500 types of fauna, many of which are listed in Vietnam’s Red Book of endangered species. Seven types of pheasants make their home in Bach Ma, including the rare endemic Edward’s pheasant (Lophura edwardsi), which was thought to be extinct for more than 50 years. It was rediscovered in the park and has since become the symbol of Bach Ma. The park also offers a variety of other attractions for tourists including accommodation, conference halls, and an exhibition center detailing the many species found in Bach Ma. Most people visit during the summer to escape the heat and the park is particularly busy during weekends in June, July and August. The first torrential rainfalls in September mark the end of the high tourist season and the return of silence and serenity to the area. For those who love trekking, the national park is a wonderful choice with many trails and great views. Cars and guides are also available for hire to take visitors up to the peak of the mountains, on a village garden tour, or to go bird watching. Bach Ma National Park is relatively easy to access from Hue (40 km away), Da Nang (65 km away) and Hoi An (90 km away). The park headquarters and entrance is about three km from the small town of Cau Hai, where the park road meets the National Highway No. 1. There are frequent buses (both local and tourist) from Hue and Da Nang, as well as a railway station in Cau Hai. Private motorcycle taxis can also take tourists for a small fee.