The butterfly season has started earlier than expected in 2026 at Cuc Phuong National Park, attracting a large number of international tourists.

 

Located across the provinces of Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, and Phu Tho (Hoa Binh), about 120 km from Hanoi, Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam’s first national park. This destination is renowned for its lush tropical rainforest ecosystem, ancient trees, and rich biodiversity, including many rare species of flora and fauna. Among them, the most notable are butterfly species such as the white Pieridae, the swallowtail Papilionidae, and the blue Nymphalidae.

 

 

Normally, the butterfly season begins in late April and early May when the weather becomes warmer. However, in 2026, due to an earlier rise in temperatures, the season has started approximately three weeks ahead of schedule, giving visitors the chance to witness this unique natural phenomenon sooner.

 

 

The butterfly season in Cuc Phuong is considered one of the most impressive ecological spectacles in Vietnam. Millions of white, yellow, and blue butterflies flutter along forest trails, creating a vibrant and captivating landscape. This phenomenon is especially valuable as it only occurs during certain times of the year and depends on factors such as climate, humidity, and the diversity of primary forest vegetation. As a result, the park has become an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and researchers.

 

It not only attracts domestic visitors but also a significant number of international tourists. In addition to observing butterflies, travelers can go trekking through the jungle, visit the Cave of Prehistoric Man, explore the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, and discover the traditional culture of the Muong people.

 

 

Entrance fees to the park are affordable and suitable for a wide range of visitors:

• Adults: 60,000 VND (≈ 2.40 USD)
• Students: 20,000 VND (≈ 0.80 USD)
• Children: 10,000 VND (≈ 0.40 USD)

Note: Prices in USD are approximate and may vary depending on the exchange rate.

 

In addition to individual tickets, visitors can opt for combined packages that include services such as electric vehicles, tour guides, and visits to key attractions within the park, helping to optimize both time and budget.

 

Complete Wild Footprint Package

Includes: Park entrance, visits to conservation programs (Primates, Turtles, Carnivores and Pangolins, Ungulates and Birds Sanctuary, and the Cuc Phuong Museum), as well as electric vehicle service.
Prices:

• Adults: 320,000 VND (≈ 12.80 USD)
• Students: 170,000 VND (≈ 6.80 USD)
• Children: 160,000 VND (≈ 6.40 USD)

 

 

Selective Wild Footprint Package

Includes: Park entrance, visits to the Endangered Primate Rescue Center and the Turtle Conservation Center, along with electric vehicle service.
Prices:

• Adults: 220,000 VND (≈ 8.80 USD)
• Students: 100,000 VND (≈ 4.00 USD)
• Children: 90,000 VND (≈ 3.60 USD)

 

 

For greater convenience during their visit, travelers can stay at nearby hotels and resorts that offer high-quality services in peaceful natural settings:

• Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh: Located in Van Long Nature Reserve, Gia Van District, Ninh Binh Province.
• Cuc Phuong Resort & Spa: Situated in Dong Tam Village, Cuc Phuong Commune, Ninh Binh Province, near the national park entrance.
• Vedana Resort Ninh Binh: Located in Cuc Phuong Commune, Nho Quan District, surrounded by a serene natural environment.

 

 

With its unique beauty and exceptional seasonal character, the butterfly season in Cuc Phuong in 2026 is set to become one of the highlights of Vietnam’s ecotourism.