Vietnam Birding Tour: Discover Airborne Species

Highlights of the Trip

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Tam Nong: 

• Rung Tram Forest.
• Tam Nong National Park and Wetland Reserve.

Nam Cat Tien:

• Nam Cat Tien National Park.
• Crocodile Lake.

Hoi An:

• My Son Holy Land: Here you will find abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples constructed between the 4th and the 14th century AD.

Hanoi:

• Cuc Phuong National Park.
• Van Long Nature Reserve.
• Primate Rescue Centre and Botanical Garden.
• Tam Dao.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Spot the Nightlife on Crocodile Lake: Enjoy being at one with nature after the sun has set.

Enjoy lunch at Tra Que Organic Vegetable Village.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Vietnam

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including Pho. This is perhaps the most famous Vietnamese dish, a flavourful soup made with broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat (usually beef or chicken). The broth is typically simmered for hours with bones and spices, creating a deep, aromatic flavour. You could also try Banh Mi. This is a French-inspired Vietnamese sandwich, consisting of a crispy baguette filled with a variety of ingredients like pâté, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and chilies. Different regions and vendors might offer variations with grilled meats, eggs, or tofu.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Boat to visit Rung Tram Forest: Enjoy a boat ride near Coa Lanh.

Boat Ride in Tam Nong National Park: Enjoy observing the various bird species found in this beautiful national park. This reserve is home to over 200 resident and migratory birds.

Sampan Ride: Enjoy this traditional Vietnamese style ride in Van Long Nature Reserve.

Accommodation of this Tour

Ho Chi Minh City: Sanouva hotel (central location, short walk to Ben Thanh market – Deluxe room).

Tam Nong: Local mini hotel in the town.

Nam Cat Tien: Crocodile Lake (Standard wooden room with electric fan).

Nam Cat Tien: Park’s headquarter guest house (local standard with hot water and air-conditioning – Superior room).

Hoi An: Central Boutique hotel (convenient location close to the Old town – Deluxe room).

Hanoi: Golden Lotus Luxury Hotel (boutique hotel in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, stylish furnishings and decoration art – Lotus Deluxe room).

Cuc Phuong: National Park accommodation complex on two main sites with rooms in blocks and stand-alone chalets. The latter are reasonably comfortable with air conditioning and a hot water shower, with a snack restaurant nearby. There’s also an evening meal delivery service. (We use the Brick house or Bungalow).

Tam Dao: Gia Le hotel (central location in Tam Dao area – Superior room).

Itinerary

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh Arrival

Upon arriving at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Tam Nong National Park

In the morning, you’ll travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Cao Lanh, crossing the Bassac and Upper Mekong rivers. Near Cao Lanh, you’ll take a boat to Rung Tram Forest, a former Viet Cong base hidden close to a US military base. After lunch at Rung Tram, you’ll drive to Tam Nong National Park and Wetland Reserve. In the afternoon, a boat cruise will take you through the reserve’s channels and eucalyptus woods to observe over 200 species of water birds, including endangered ones like the Sarus Crane and Oriental Darter.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day 3: Boat Ride through The Reserve

After breakfast, you’ll board a boat for a bird-watching excursion through a different route of the reserve, catching the morning activity of birds as they search for food. Between January and May, you might spot the rare red-headed cranes migrating between Tam Nong and Cambodia. In the afternoon, you’ll return to Ho Chi Minh City.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Nam Cat Tien 

Price

£2,792

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any holiday. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1 – Ho Chi Minh Arrival

Upon arrival you will be met and driven to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a ‘Welcome Dinner’ at a local restaurant.

Overnight at Sanouva hotel 3*.

Day 2 – Embrace Rural Vietnam

Travel to Cao Lanh where you will visit the Rung Tram rainforest by boat. In the afternoon, travel to Tam Nong National Park and Wetland Reserve to enjoy a boat cruise.

Overnight at a local mini hotel in the town (booked by the guide).

Day 3 – Birdwatching

Start the day with another enthralling route through the reserve, watching birds leave the nest in search of food. Later, head back to Ho Chi Minh.

Overnight at Sanouva hotel 3*.

Day 4 – Nam Cat Tien and Crocodile Lake.

Travel to Nam Cat Tien National Park, where you will ride and jeep and hike. Observe the Germaine’s Peacock Pheasant, Siamese Fireback, Green Peafowl, Wreathed Hornbill, Lesser Adjutant, Woolly-necked Stork, Blue-rumped and Bar-bellied Pittas and many other widespread species, while rowing on the lake. Enjoy the wildlife at nighttime too.

Overnight at Crocodile Lake (Standard wooden room with electric fan or a tent in Bau Sau area).

Day 5 – Guided Bird Watching Tour

Enjoy a guided bird watching tour, where you can learn about various birds and take many pictures!

Overnight at Park’s headquarter guest house (local standard with hot water and air-conditioning – Superior room).

Day 6 – Explore the National Park

With your guide, explore further afield around the national park.

Overnight at Park’s headquarter guest house (local standard with hot water and air-conditioning – Superior room).

Day 7 – Hoi An

Leave the national park for a flight to Danang, where you will be transferred to Hoi An. Enjoy free time to explore.

Overnight at Central Boutique hotel 3*.

Day 8 – Bird Watching and My Son

Travel to a Island as a wetland to spot various unique birds. After, enjoy a local Vietnamese coffee, before birdwatching at Lotus Lake. Enjoy lunch at Tra Que organic vegetable village, before visiting My Son to spot further unique birds.

Overnight at Overnight at Central Boutique hotel 3*.

Day 9 – Hanoi

Enjoy free time before your flight to Hanoi.

Overnight at Golden Lotus Luxury Hotel 3*.

Day 10 – Van Long Nature Reserve

Enjoy a Sampan ride at Van Long Nature Reserve to observe water birds. Then continue your drive to Cuc Phuong Forest National Park, where you will find the primate rescue centre and Botanical Garden.

Overnight at National Park accommodation complex.

Day 11 – Cuc Phuong Forest National Park

Explore Cuc Phuong Forest National Park further. Optional Night Spotting Mini Safari.

Overnight at National Park accommodation complex.

Day 12 – Tam Dao

Drive to Tam Dao and spend some time exploring the forest.

Overnight at Gia Le hotel (3*)

Day 13 – Tam Dao’s Trails

Today you can explore the beautiful trails, such as the Water Tank Trail and the Radio Transmitter Trail. In the afternoon, head back to Hanoi.

Overnight at Golden Lotus Luxury Hotel 3*.

Day 14 – Hanoi Departure

Enjoy free time before being transferred to the airport.

Tour FAQs

What is the best time to take this birdwatching tour?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to late May. During this period, you are most likely to spot the rare migratory species, like the red-headed cranes at Tam Nong National Park, and enjoy better weather conditions for birdwatching.

What should I pack for the trip?

For this tour, we recommend packing lightweight, comfortable clothing for warm weather, sturdy hiking shoes for exploring national parks, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget binoculars, a camera, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. If you’re joining the night safari or boat trips, consider bringing a flashlight or headlamp.

Is this tour suitable for beginners in birdwatching?

Yes, this tour is suitable for both beginners and experienced birdwatchers. Expert bird guides will accompany the group, offering insight and assistance, and ensuring that even those new to birdwatching can enjoy the experience

How physically demanding is the tour?

The tour involves moderate physical activity, including boat rides, light hiking, and walking through national parks. While the hikes are not strenuous, participants should be comfortable with walking on uneven terrain for a few hours. Some hikes in Nam Cat Tien and Tam Dao require stamina but are manageable for those in average physical condition.

Are meals included in the tour?

Yes, all meals are included as outlined in the itinerary daily. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided on most days, offering an opportunity to sample local Vietnamese cuisine. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.

What are the accommodation standards?

The accommodation on this tour are mid-range hotels, eco-lodges, and resorts, carefully selected for their proximity to nature reserves and national parks. They provide comfortable amenities and a good balance of relaxation and immersion in the natural surroundings.

Who is the tour suited for?

This birdwatching and nature-focused tour is ideally suited for those with a strong interest in nature, wildlife, and birdwatching. This tour offers an incredible opportunity to observe diverse species in their natural habitats. You’ll visit national parks and reserves, where you can spot rare and endangered birds and other wildlife. This can include solo, couples, friends, families and colleagues. This tour is currently offered as a private tailored made tour.

What currency does Vietnam have?

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese đong, symbolised as VND. It is used for all financial transactions across the country. Banknotes are available in denominations ranging from 1,000 to 500,000 VND, though coins are seldom used. While US dollars and other foreign currencies may be accepted in larger cities and tourist spots, it’s recommended to exchange them for đong for better rates, especially in less urban areas.

Do I need Travel Insurance for this trip?

Travel insurance is not included in this trip, so will have to be arranged separately. When purchasing your travel insurance, we recommend for this to include medical care and emergency evacuation.

Do I need a visa for Vietnam (travelling from the UK)?

For this specific tour, you will not require a visa. You can visit Vietnam without a visa up to 45 days for tourism or business. If you would like to stay for longer than 45 days, you will need to arrange a visa. Please be sure to check your country’s relevant website or contact us directly for up to date information.

What are the Passport Requirements for entering Vietnam (travelling from the UK)?

To enter Vietnam, you must ensure your passport has the following:

• An expiry date of at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Vietnam.
• At least 2 blank pages.
• No damage to your passport.

When entering Vietnam, ensure that your passport is stamped and that the correct visa expiry date is written in your passport. Please be sure to check your country’s relevant website or contact us directly for up to date information.

Which airlines fly from London to Ho Chi Minh City?

Common Airlines include Vietnam Airlines, British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Air France, and Cathay Pacific.

Which airlines fly from Hanoi to London?

Common Airlines include Vietnam Airlines, British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Air France, and Cathay Pacific.

Will I be able to see rare species of birds?

This tour is specifically designed for birdwatching, and the national parks and reserves you will visit are home to numerous bird species, including rare and endangered ones like the Sarus Crane, the Red-headed Crane, and the Pied Falconet. Your expert guides will help spot and identify the birds for you. Bird sightings are season and weather dependent, so we cannot guarantee which bird sightings you may experience.

What types of birds can I expect to see?

Depending on the season and location, you can expect to see a wide range of bird species. These include the endangered Sarus Crane, Red-headed Crane, and Pied Falconet, as well as common species like Kingfishers and Peafowls. Your expert guides will help identify each species and provide interesting facts.

Are there any opportunities for cultural experiences during the tour?

Yes, the tour includes cultural activities, such as visiting historical temples in My Son, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An, and learning about local traditions. You can also enjoy local Vietnamese coffee and experience the way of life in the rural areas of Vietnam.

How can I stay connected during the tour?

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and on some cruise boats, but coverage may vary, especially in more remote areas like the Mekong Delta and Ha Long Bay. It’s a good idea to have a local SIM card for better connectivity if needed. In Vietnam, the most used power socket types are Type A, Type C, and Type D.