**Introduction to Nam Cat Tien Forest**
Located in Tân Phú district, Đồng Nai province, Nam Cat Tien National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life. Accessible by motorbike or car from Ho Chi Minh City, the journey takes approximately 3 hours. One of the park’s highlights is Bau Sau, a marshy area in the southern region, home to the Siamese crocodile, a freshwater crocodile species native to Southeast Asia.
**Meet Hoang Minh: The Nature Lover**
Hoang Minh, a 25-year-old nature enthusiast from Ho Chi Minh City, recently embarked on a journey to explore Bau Sau in Nam Cat Tien National Park. Despite his busy schedule as an office worker, Minh always finds time to escape to green spaces whenever he needs to unwind. Nam Cat Tien, with its proximity to the city and natural beauty, was the perfect choice for his weekend getaway.
**Itinerary**
Minh and his group of 5 friends departed from Ho Chi Minh City at 11:30 AM on Saturday, after finishing work, and arrived at their accommodation around 3 PM. In the evening, they organized a BBQ party and strolled around the homestay area, anticipating the adventure that awaited them the next day.
On Sunday morning, the group set out at 8 AM, starting with a ferry ride to the forest. The round-trip ferry ticket costs 20,000 VND per person, while the entrance fee to Bau Sau is 140,000 VND per person. To conserve their energy for the jungle trek, Minh opted for a Jeep ride from the ticket booth to the entrance of Bau Sau, which cost 600,000 VND for the group of 5. Alternatively, visitors can choose to explore the area by bicycle, stopping along the way to admire the beautiful scenery.
The trek to Bau Sau, covering over 10 km round trip, commenced at 9 AM. Minh admitted, “Initially, I felt excited, but then I became nervous as the jungle path disconnected us from the outside world, with no phone signal.” However, accompanied by his friends and fellow travelers, his fear subsided, replaced by a sense of awe and appreciation for nature. The cool breeze and lush greenery of the forest made Minh feel small yet deeply connected to the natural world.
**Immersing in Nature’s Splendor**
Amidst the tranquil beauty of the forest, Minh and his companions marveled at the vibrant ecosystem that Nam Cat Tien preserves. Especially during the dry season, the forest comes alive with colorful butterflies fluttering through the air, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Guided by detailed signage and informative plaques identifying various plant species, Minh explored the forest trail, encountering impressive trees such as the 400-year-old “Snake God” pine tree, a renowned attraction that draws many visitors to Nam Cat Tien.
**Encounter with Bau Sau**
Upon reaching Bau Sau around 11 AM, Minh and his friends enjoyed a hearty lunch prepared by the park rangers. Despite its simplicity, the meal tasted delicious after their long trek. They then rested in the ranger’s lodge, a small wooden house nestled amidst the lush greenery, offering a serene retreat from the urban hustle and bustle.
**Boating Adventure**
After lunch, the group embarked on a boat tour led by the park rangers, observing crocodiles and other wildlife in their natural habitat. As they glided through the tranquil waters of Bau Sau, Minh and his friends felt a deep sense of tranquility and appreciation for the pristine wilderness surrounding them.
Nestled in Tân Phú district of Đồng Nai province, Nam Cat Tien National Park stands as a sanctuary of natural beauty, beckoning weary souls from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Accessible within a three-hour drive by either motorbike or car, this pristine wilderness boasts an array of flora and fauna, including the elusive Siamese crocodile that inhabits the tranquil marshes of Bau Sau.
Meet Hoang Minh: A City Dweller Seeking Solace in Nature
Hoang Minh, a 25-year-old office worker hailing from Ho Chi Minh City, embodies a deep reverence for nature. Whenever the urban grind becomes overwhelming, Minh finds solace amidst verdant landscapes. Despite his demanding schedule, Minh prioritizes short getaways to nearby natural havens, making Nam Cat Tien an ideal retreat for his weekend escapade.
Itinerary
Setting off from Ho Chi Minh City at 11:30 AM on a balmy Saturday afternoon, Minh and his band of five friends reached their accommodation by 3 PM. Eager to commence their adventure, they indulged in a hearty BBQ feast before meandering through the rustic charm of their homestay, eagerly anticipating the journey that awaited them the next day.
**Conclusion**
Minh’s journey to Nam Cat Tien Forest left a lasting impression, thanks to its diverse ecosystems and pristine wilderness. For travelers seeking an escape into nature’s embrace, Nam Cat Tien offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the natural world and create unforgettable memories amidst the lush greenery of the forest.
**Travel Tips**
– Dress comfortably in sportswear and closed shoes to avoid insect bites during the jungle trek.
– Carry essential items such as water, insect repellent, and personal hygiene products.
– Prepare for varying weather conditions and check the forecast before embarking on your journey.
– Visit the forest between November and April to avoid the rainy season.
– Plan your itinerary carefully to ensure you catch the ferry back in time.