1. Overview of Phu Quoc National Park
Rich vegetation of Phu Quoc National Park. (Source: Collected)
Phu Quoc National Park is located in the northeast of Pearl Island, belonging to Phu Quoc special administrative region, An Giang province. With an area of over 31,400 ha, accounting for about 70% of the island's area, this place is a precious "green lung" of the Southwestern coast of the homeland.
The forest area stretches across many districts such as Bai Thom, Ganh Dau, Cua Can, part of Cua Duong, Ham Ninh, Duong To, and Duong Dong, covering areas such as Ham Rong mountain and the northern Phu Quoc island nature reserve.
The natural landscape of Phu Quoc National Park is extremely diverse, converging forest, sea, hills, mountains, and streams. The park has over 1,397 plant species and 490 animal species, including many rare species listed in the Vietnam Red Book. In addition, the area boasts over 60 km of coastline with a rich marine ecosystem and vibrant coral reefs.
2. Suitable time to visit Phu Quoc National Park
Phu Quoc has a near-equatorial tropical monsoon climate, with mild weather and year-round sunshine. Therefore, visitors can visit Phu Quoc National Park at any time of the year, each season this forest has its own unique beauty.
However, the most ideal time to explore Phu Quoc National Park is the dry season (from November to April next year). At this time, the weather is lightly sunny, with little rain, the forest paths are dry, convenient for trekking, camping, and sightseeing activities.
3. How to get there and explore Phu Quoc National Park
3.1. From Duong Dong center
The route to Phu Quoc National Park is shaded by green trees. (Source: Collection)
Phu Quoc National Park is located about 13 to 21 km from the center of Duong Dong. Visitors can choose to travel by motorbike, car, taxi, or join a tour with a package service.
From the center, follow Cach Mang Thang 8 street for about 1.6 km, then turn into provincial road 973 (DT973), continue straight north for about 13 km to reach the Xom Moi forest ranger station – the entrance to Phu Quoc National Park.
3.2. Moving within the forest
Visitors should follow a tour with a local guide who understands the terrain and forest paths to ensure safety. The most popular trekking route is the Suoi Da Ngon – Nui Chua trail, with scenery of primeval forest, rocky streams, and picturesque waterfalls. The ideal time to start is early morning, when sunlight filters through the canopy, creating a magical scene.
4. Outstanding experiences at Phu Quoc National Park
4.1. Trekking and exploring wild nature
One of the most beloved experiences for visitors to Phu Quoc National Park is trekking through the forest. The winding path amidst dense foliage, sunlight filtering through the leaves, the babbling sound of streams mixed with the chirping of forest birds create a symphony of nature.
Trekking through the forest is an experience loved by many tourists when visiting Phu Quoc National Park. (Source: Collected)
You will witness firsthand ancient trees hundreds of years old, with trunks too large for several people to embrace; encounter strange fungi, lichens, and vines; or occasionally see monkeys swinging through branches and birds singing merrily in the forest. Each step is a journey to explore the majestic nature of the Pearl Island.
4.2. Learn about rare animal and plant species
Phu Quoc National Park is home to hundreds of rare animal and plant species. According to surveys, this place has over 1,397 plant species and 490 animal species, including 5 mammal species, 9 reptile species, and 4 bird species listed in the Vietnam Red Book, such as forest wolves, Pile gibbons, white-faced monkeys…
Tourists can encounter blooming wild orchids, towering Dipterocarpus trees, or flying foxes, flying squirrels, and land pythons in the deep forest canopy. If lucky, you might even hear the singing of the blue-faced bird, a rare bird species that only appears in the early morning.
Visitors can easily encounter wild animals when visiting the forest. (Source: Collection)
4.3. Conquering Nui Chua Peak
With a height of 603 m above sea level, Nui Chua is known as the “roof” of Phu Quoc, and is a favorite trekking spot for many tourists. The journey to conquer the peak lasts a few hours, passing through bamboo forests, wooden bridges, rocky streams, and trails covered with dry leaves.
Upon reaching the summit, the scene that unfolds before your eyes is a miniature panorama of Phu Quoc Island – where blue seas, green forests, and white clouds blend into a majestic picture. This is also a great spot to watch the sunrise or sunset, capturing impressive souvenir photos.
4.4. Stream bathing
Amidst the cool green forest space of Phu Quoc National Park, streams like Tranh stream, Da Ngot stream, or Da Ban stream meander gently, with crystal-clear water reflecting the forest canopy. On summer days, there's nothing better than immersing yourself in the cool water, washing away all fatigue and stress.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the cool waters of Da Ban stream. (Source: Collected)
The sound of water, birdsong, and the scent of plants blend together to create a "symphony" of nature, helping visitors fully appreciate the peace and pristine beauty of Phu Quoc National Park.
5. Notes when visiting Phu Quoc National Park
5.1. Prepare necessary clothing and items
Before setting off, you should choose long-sleeved clothing made of breathable material, combined with sports shoes or hiking boots for convenient movement. Don't forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, along with water and snacks to ensure your health throughout the journey.
Preparing adequate luggage will make your trip to Phu Quoc National Park more complete. (Source: Collected)
5.2. Safety precautions when trekking
When participating in trekking routes in the forest, visitors should go in groups or with a local guide, as they understand the terrain and safe resting spots. During the rainy season, avoid bathing in streams or climbing slippery slopes, as strong currents can be dangerous.
Additionally, always stay in contact with group members, do not split up, and prepare adequate navigation equipment or maps if exploring independently.
5.3. Rules for protecting the primeval forest environment
Phu Quoc National Park is not only a tourist destination but also a 'green home' for thousands of species. Therefore, let's join hands to protect the forest and the living environment of hundreds of species through small actions such as: not littering, and not cooking in the forest as it poses a risk of forest fires.
A small bag to carry personal trash, or a simple action like picking up a forgotten bottle, is enough to help keep the forest clean and beautiful.
6. Suggestions for combining tours with famous tourist attractions in Phu Quoc
6.1. Sun World Hon Thom
Sun World Hon Thom is located in the south of Pearl Island, on Hon Thom island. To travel to this entertainment complex, visitors can experience the cable car route recognized by Guinness as the longest 3-wire cable car in the world, stretching from An Duong station to Hon Thom station.
Hon Thom Cable Car takes tourists across the majestic An Thoi archipelago. (Source: Collection)
After arriving at Hon Thom island, you can freely enjoy playing at Aquatopia Water Park, covering up to 8 hectares, with 20 exciting games, suitable for all ages. In 2023, Aquatopia Water Park was recognized by the World Travel Awards as Asias leading water park.
Aquatopia Water Park with many exciting attractions. (Source: Compilation)
Additionally, visitors should not miss the opportunity to play and check-in at the Exotica Village theme park with its thrilling adventure games, bringing exciting and suspenseful experiences.
6.2. Sunset Town
Sunset Town is located on the southwest coast of Pearl Island – a beautiful spot to watch the sunset over the sea. It is designed with inspiration from the Mediterranean region, featuring colorful buildings facing the sea.
Sunset Town shines brightly with fireworks at night. (Source: Collected)
Visiting Sunset Town, visitors should not miss the opportunity to stroll on Kiss Bridge – the iconic bridge of Phu Quoc. In the evening, visitors can watch the multimedia art show Kiss of The Sea - Kiss of the Sea with brilliant fireworks illuminating the entire southern island sky. This visually stunning sensory experience will conclude your perfect day exploring the Jade Island.
6.3. Tranh Stream
Tranh Stream is located about 9 km south of Duong Dong center, is one of the favorite stops for many tourists when visiting Phu Quoc. The stream originates from the Ham Ninh mountain range, winding through lush green forests, creating a peaceful and poetic landscape.
Tranh Stream is a famous ecological tourist area of Pearl Island. (Source: Collected)
When you come to Tranh Stream, you can stroll along the tree-shaded path, listen to the babbling water mixed with birdsong, or relax by the stream in the cool water. This is an ideal spot for those who want to immerse themselves in nature, temporarily leaving behind the bustling city life.
6.4. Phu Quoc Fish Sauce Barrel Houses
Phu Quoc has long been famous for its traditional fish sauce making – one of the prides of the Pearl Island people. Visiting fish sauce barrel houses like Khai Hoan, Thinh Phat, or Hung Thinh, visitors will witness firsthand the elaborate fermentation process in large wooden barrels that are decades old.
The rich aroma fills the air, signaling that each drop of pure, shimmering fish sauce is carefully filtered from fresh anchovies and sea salt. Besides visiting, you can buy bottles of authentic Phu Quoc fish sauce as gifts for relatives and friends.
Phu Quoc preserves the long-standing traditional fish sauce making craft. (Source: Collected)
6.5. Dinh Cau Phu Quoc
Dinh Cau is located right at the mouth of the Duong Dong river, it is a cultural and spiritual symbol of the local people. This place worships the Dragon King deity and deities who protect fishermen going out to sea, symbolizing prayers for peace and smooth sailing.
The special feature of Dinh Cau is its location on a rocky outcrop extending into the sea, amidst a vast expanse of water and waves. In the afternoon, visitors can watch the sunset cast a golden hue over the sea. Annually, the Dinh Cau festival is held on the 15th-16th day of the 10th lunar month, attracting a large number of tourists and fishermen.
6.6. Phu Quoc Pepper Garden
Visiting the Phu Quoc Pepper Garden, visitors can learn about the process of growing, caring for, and harvesting pepper. Phu Quoc pepper has a characteristic pungent spiciness and a stronger aroma than peppers from other regions, and is often processed into many products such as black pepper, red pepper, or candied pepper.
Here, you can not only take photos amidst the lush green space but also choose to buy authentic pepper products as gifts for your loved ones.
Phu Quoc National Park is not only a destination for nature lovers but also a place that preserves the pristine beauty of the Pearl Island. Trekking through the forest, watching birds, and listening to the babbling streams amidst the vast wilderness will bring you a sense of relaxation and peace. Phu Quoc is an island that converges both "golden forests and silver seas", where nature and people blend, creating a special charm. Each tourist spot will become a memorable experience in your travel journey.
