2days to Cat Tien park from Dalat/ Saigon

Planning a short escape from bustling cities like Saigon or Dalat? A 2-day tour to Cat Tien National Park offers an immersive chance to step into Vietnam’s lush, untamed landscape. As someone who’s seen many tours, I can confidently say this one stands out for its combination of nature, wildlife encounters, and local culture—all wrapped up in a manageable, well-organized package.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, you get to visit iconic spots like Pongour Falls and Elephant Waterfall, where the power of nature is on full display. Second, the guided treks through the forest promise a chance to spot gibbons, crocodiles, and hundreds of years old trees—authentic wildlife encounters that are hard to beat. Lastly, the night safari offers a unique peek into the nocturnal life of the jungle, an unforgettable sensory experience.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour involves several long walks and some moderate physical activity, so it’s best suited for travelers in decent shape. If you’re craving a deep dive into Vietnam’s wilderness with expert guides and great value, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Nature Experience: Trek through dense forest, visit waterfalls, and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Expert Guides & Good Value: Knowledgeable guides share insights with humor and patience, making the experience richer.
• Variety of Stops: Mix of scenic waterfalls, cultural temples, coffee plantations, and wildlife encounters.
• Wildlife & Night Safari: Enjoy a night cruise to see animals and hear jungle sounds.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes transport, accommodation, breakfast, all entrance fees, and a guided experience.
• Moderate Activity Needed: Expect some long walks (~10 km) and physical effort, suitable for those with moderate fitness.

What to Expect from the Tour: A Detailed Breakdown

Day 1: Scenic Sights & Jungle Nightlife

Pongour Falls is the first stop, and it’s easy to see why it’s called the widest waterfall in the Central Highlands. Expect a thunderous display of water cascading down, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The admission is included, so you just get to enjoy the roar of water and the mist on your face. Reviewers mention it’s a great introduction to Vietnam’s natural beauty, with one describing it as “impressive and worth the quick stop.”

Next, at Me Linh Coffee Plantation, you get to sample the renowned weasel coffee—a unique Vietnamese specialty. The experience of tasting coffee right where it’s produced, amidst lush greenery, elevates the simple act of drinking coffee to a memorable moment. Reviewers loved the “amazing” flavor, especially for those wanting a taste of authentic Vietnamese coffee culture.

Linh An Pagoda offers a tranquil stop for appreciating Vietnam’s spiritual architecture. The temple’s large Lady Buddha statue and the Happy Buddha provide peaceful photo opportunities and a chance to wish for good luck. This visit balances the tour’s nature focus with a touch of cultural insight.

Elephant Waterfall is another highlight, with a 35-meter high cascade and a wide, thunderous flow. Adjacent to it lies Wind Cave, which sounds intimidating but inside reveals spacious, wind-filled chambers. Reviewers describe the roar of wind inside the cave as “thunderous,” adding a thrill to your exploration.

Thien An Cricket Farm might surprise many travelers. Here, you’ll see the process of rice wine making and have the chance to try some insects—an experience that’s both a challenge and a window into local customs. Feedback notes the farm’s engaging presentation and the novelty of trying crickets, which is a common local delicacy.

Finally, the day culminates in a night safari within Cat Tien Park. Traveling in a jeep, you’ll cruise through the jungle, listening for and spotting animals like rhinos, crocodiles, and various bird species. Reviewers praise the “wild feeling” of this experience, with one mentioning how it brings you closer to the jungle’s nocturnal life. It’s a magical way to end your first day.

Day 2: Trekking & Wildlife Watching

Your early morning starts at 6:30 with the cheerful sounds of jungle birds. After a simple breakfast, you’ll transfer to Bau Sau (Crocodile Lake), where a four-hour trek takes you through the forest and swamp, covering about 10 km by bike or jeep, plus 5 km on foot. The goal is to observe crocodiles, gibbons, monkeys, deer, wild boars, and a variety of ancient trees.

The trek is described as “fantastic” by those who’ve done it, with the chance to see rare animals and appreciate Vietnam’s rainforest biodiversity. The experience of spotting gibbons swinging through the trees or crocodiles basking in the sun feels genuinely rewarding, especially with guides providing insightful commentary.

The included transport options—jeep or bike—allow flexible pacing, which is handy for those with different fitness levels. The tour’s flexibility means you can choose what suits you best, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, making the long walks more enjoyable.

Practical Details & Value

Transportation: The tour provides comfortable transport—either a car or a big motorbike, depending on availability—which makes getting from city to jungle hassle-free. The start time is 8:30 am, giving you a relaxed morning before heading out.

Cost & inclusions: At $324.36 per person, the package offers a lot of value. It includes all entrance fees, one night’s accommodation, breakfast, and guided tours. The reviews highlight the quality of the accommodation, with many describing it as “pleasant,” with amenities like AC, mosquito nets, and private bathrooms. Such comfort enhances the overall experience, especially after active days.

Guides & group size: With a maximum of 50 travelers, the group remains manageable, and guides like Mr. Thai, Mr. Trang, and Jacky are praised for their knowledge and humor. The reviews mention how guides go beyond just pointing out sights—they share stories and insights that deepen your understanding of Vietnam’s forests and wildlife.

Flexibility & cancellation: The tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before start offers peace of mind, especially considering unpredictable weather in the rainforest.

Authentic Reviews & Insights

Many travelers have lauded the guides’ expertise. One review mentions “Mr. Thai and Mr. Trang gave us one hell of a good time,” emphasizing their humor and deep knowledge. Another highlighted how the guides helped spot animals like gibbons, crocodiles, and rare birds, making each moment educational and exciting.

Guests also appreciated the mix of activities—waterfalls, temples, coffee, wildlife, and night safaris—making each day diverse and engaging. The night cruise, in particular, is a highlight, with reviews describing the jungle sounds and animal sightings as “impressive” and “thrilling.”

The accommodation is often described as “comfortable,” with well-maintained facilities, which is notable given the remote setting. Some travelers, like the couple who started in Saigon, mentioned the ease of transportation and how the guides made the journey enjoyable.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers with moderate fitness levels who appreciate nature and wildlife. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural stops, and wildlife encounters without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. The guides’ expertise ensures that you’ll be both educated and entertained.

It’s also ideal for those wanting a genuine experience of Vietnam’s rainforest, staying in decent accommodations, and enjoying an authentic jungle adventure. If you’re seeking a relaxing cultural tour or luxury experience, this might not be the right fit. But for those craving immersive outdoor exploration, this tour ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day journey to Cat Tien National Park offers a well-rounded taste of Vietnam’s natural landscape. From the thunder of waterfalls to the thrill of spotting wildlife at night, it delivers authenticity and adventure. The inclusion of cultural stops like temples and coffee plantations enriches the experience, offering a glimpse into local life and traditions.

The value for money, backed by comfortable accommodations and expert guides, makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers eager to see Vietnam’s wilderness. It’s a perfect escape for those wanting to break away from city chaos and reconnect with nature.

While it involves some moderate physical effort, the rewards—breathtaking scenery, wildlife sightings, and knowledgeable guides—far outweigh the effort. Just pack your sense of adventure and maybe a mosquito net, and you’re set for an unforgettable jungle adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking approximately 10 km on Day 1 and 5 km on Day 2, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. It may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included on both days, but additional meals and soft drinks are not covered. You might want to bring snacks or plan meals accordingly.

What kind of transportation is used?
Transport is provided in a car or a big motorbike (150cc or 175cc), which makes transfers comfortable and hassle-free between attractions.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, giving you flexibility in case of weather or scheduling conflicts.

Are there opportunities to see wildlife at night?
Absolutely. The night cruise in a jeep allows you to observe wild animals like rhinoceros, and listen to jungle calls, creating a memorable nocturnal safari.

What accommodations are included?
You’ll stay in a comfortable lodge with amenities such as AC, mosquito nets, and private bathrooms, ensuring a good night’s sleep after active days.

How many travelers usually join this tour?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 50, maintaining a good balance between social atmosphere and personalized attention.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While it’s not explicitly stated, moderate physical activity and wildlife encounters suggest it’s best suited for older children and adults with decent fitness levels.

In essence, if you’re craving an authentic, adventure-filled escape into Vietnam’s jungles with expert guidance and good value, this 2-day tour to Cat Tien National Park is a fantastic choice. It balances scenic beauty, wildlife excitement, and cultural insights, making it an experience you’ll remember long after you leave the forest behind.