1. Introduction to Pu Hu Thanh Hoa Nature Reserve
1.1. Geographical location and scale
Pu Hu Nature Reserve is located in the area of two districts, Quan Hoa and Muong Lat, about 130 km northwest of Thanh Hoa city. Established in 1999, the reserve has an area of over 24,200 ha of natural forest, it is one of the most important special-use forests in the North Central region.
Wild space at Pu Hu. (Source: Collected)
Pu Hu plays an important role in protecting the water source of the Ma River, regulating the climate, limiting erosion and floods, while also being the place that preserves the richest forest ecosystem in Thanh Hoa.
1.2. Unique natural landscape of the Pu Hu Thanh Hoa conservation area
The scenery of Pu Hu is a harmonious combination of soil mountains, limestone mountains, and primary forests. The overlapping mountain ranges interspersed with valleys, streams, and waterfalls create a majestic and vibrant natural picture.
Caves such as Ma cave, Co Luong cave, Duun cave, along with the system of rivers, streams, rapids, and grasslands, are highlights that make the conservation area an attractive destination for nature lovers and exploration tourists.
2. Ecosystem and biodiversity at the Pu Hu Thanh Hoa conservation area
2.1. Forest types and rare fauna and flora
According to statistics from the Conservation Area Management Board, Pu Hu currently has about 2,640 species of fauna and flora, of which over 50 plant species and 50 animal species are listed in the Vietnam Red Book (2007). Specifically, there are 1,725 plant species belonging to 696 genera, 170 families, 71 orders, 12 classes, and 6 phyla; many rare species such as green limwood, edible giổi, and jade cinnamon are being restored and conserved.
Regarding fauna, Pu Hu records 915 species, of which 49 species are listed as rare. Notably, through the scientific task "Survey, assessment of the distribution status and conservation of muntjac species for the period 2022-2024", researchers discovered two rare muntjac species: the Golden-footed Muntjac and the Laos Muntjac with approximately 5,300 individuals living in the Pu Hu forest.
Other notable species include the Big-headed Turtle, Vietnamese Pond Turtle, Grey Langur, Crested Argus, and White-eared Pheasant, contributing to affirming Pu Hu as a "precious gene bank" for the Northwest Thanh Hoa region.
2.2. Natural conservation value of the Pu Hu Thanh Hoa conservation area
Considered a precious gene bank for the region, the Pu Hu Thanh Hoa conservation area has implemented conservation activities according to the plan for the period 2021-2030, aiming to protect and develop the genetic resources of rare fauna and flora. This program focuses on management, ecological restoration, development of special-use forests, and raising community awareness about forest protection.
Image of a rare ancient tree at Pu Hu Conservation Area. (Source: Collected)
Along with that, the conservation area also implements the planting of 150 hectares of special-use forest, 2,000 hectares of production forest, raising forest coverage to 97%, and piloting a sustainable bamboo – vau forest business model.
3. Ecotourism experiences at Pu Hu Thanh Hoa Conservation Area
At Pu Hu, visitors can participate in trekking expeditions through the primary forest, explore the rich ecosystem, and camp amidst the old-growth forest.
Additionally, the buffer zone of Pu Hu is home to many ethnic groups such as Thai, Mong, and Dao, offering unique indigenous cultural experiences: drinking ruou can, Thai folk singing, playing leaf instruments, weaving brocade, and terraced farming.
This is also a potential destination for community-based ecotourism, combining environmental education, learning about forest and wildlife conservation models with forest rangers.
4. How to get to Pu Hu Thanh Hoa Conservation Area
4.1. Route from Thanh Hoa city to the conservation area
From the center of Thanh Hoa city, the journey to Pu Hu Thanh Hoa Conservation Area begins on Ham Nghi street, turn into alley 623 Ham Nghi to Nguyen Hieu street, then continue along Le Loi avenue to the West Ring Road. Continue on Nguyen Mong Tuan street connecting to National Highway 47, switch to National Highway 15A, and then follow National Highway 16 to reach the conservation area.
The entire route is about 130 km long, mostly winding mountainous roads, so it is advisable to avoid traveling on days with heavy rain and prepare a suitable vehicle to ensure safety.
4.2. Suitable transportation and tour booking suggestions
Bus: Route to Quan Hoa or Muong Lat, price around 250,000 - 300,000 VND/trip.
Self-driving car: Suitable for groups of friends or families, requires a driver experienced with mountain passes.
Motorbike: For those who love adventure travel, check the vehicle carefully and bring repair tools.
In addition, visitors can book Pu Hu ecotourism tours at reputable local travel agencies. If you want to combine a visit to Sun World Sam Son, you should arrange the itinerary in advance as the two locations are quite far apart.
5. Tips for exploring Pu Hu Thanh Hoa Conservation Area
- Ideal season to visit
The best time to visit Pu Hu Thanh Hoa Conservation Area is usually from September to November or from February to April annually. The weather during these months is pleasant, cool, with little rain, ideal for trekking and exploration activities. This is also when the mountain and forest landscape is full of life with fresh green colors and a very pleasant atmosphere.
In summer, the weather here can be hot and humid with sudden rain, making the forest paths slippery. Winters in the mountainous region can be cold at night. Therefore, you should prepare suitable clothing, trekking shoes, a lightweight rain jacket, insect repellent, sufficient drinking water, and some snacks, especially if you plan to trek deep into the forest.
- Notes on safety and environmental protection
The most beautiful time to visit Pu Hu is from September to November or February to April, when the weather is cool and rainy, suitable for trekking and camping.
Summers can be hot and humid with sudden rain, while winter nights are quite cold. Visitors should prepare jackets, trekking shoes, light raincoats, insect repellent, and light snacks for long journeys.
When visiting the conservation area, visitors must not hunt animals, exploit plants, and absolutely must not litter in the forest. Please follow the forest ranger's instructions and travel in groups to ensure safety. In case of an incident, immediately contact the forest ranger's phone number posted at the control stations.
Every visitor is a green ambassador contributing to spreading the message of nature protection and preserving the pristine beauty of the Pu Hu Thanh Hoa Conservation Area for future generations.
- Suggestions for combining experiences at nearby Thanh Hoa tourist attractions
After exploring the pristine forest beauty at Pu Hu Thanh Hoa Conservation Area , you can continue your journey with a visit to Sam Son Sea Square - a vibrant meeting point by the blue sea. This place is notable for its symbolic statue, bustling pedestrian street, colorful fountain, and winding green trees, creating a fresh and clean atmosphere. The blend of the wildness of the mountains and forests with the youthful life of the coastal city will make your trip more complete.
Don't forget to visit Ho Citadel in Vinh Loc - a world cultural heritage site famous for its unique ancient stone architecture, or Cam Luong fish stream, where thousands of sacred fish swim in clear water.
Considered the green lung of the Northwest Thanh Hoa region, Pu Hu not only preserves rare biological gene sources but also boasts a pristine natural landscape, not yet heavily shaped by human hands.
Additionally, if you want to enjoy a space harmonizing tradition and modernity, Sun World Sam Son is the perfect destination. It is adjacent to Sam Son Sea Square - the largest center for entertainment, recreation, and events in the coastal city. Visitors can experience a magnificent water park, exciting thrill rides, and a safe play area for children. At night, the Sea Square area is brilliant with light and vibrant festivals, offering an exciting festive atmosphere and a premium resort experience.
Sun World Sam Son - where tradition and modernity harmonize. (Source: Collected)
Pu Hu Thanh Hoa Nature Reserve is an ideal stop for those who want to return to pristine nature, enjoy the fresh air, and discover the wild beauty of Thanh Hoa's mountains and forests. Once you visit Pu Hu, you will fully feel the breath of nature, where every forest canopy, every stream holds its own story, making the journey more memorable than ever.
