Discover the ultimate birdwatching adventure in Vietnam and Thailand! Explore top sanctuaries, rare species, cultural etiquette, and book eco-friendly Vietnam Tours or Thailand Tours with Legend Travel Group for a seamless Vietnam Travel or Thailand Travel experience.
Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. By Legend Travel Group.
Vietnam and Thailand are two of Southeast Asia’s premier birdwatching destinations, boasting over 1,800 combined bird species across diverse ecosystems—from misty highlands and lush wetlands to coastal mangroves and tropical rainforests. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, guided Vietnam Tours or Thailand Tours offer unparalleled access to rare and endemic species like the Orange-breasted Trogon, Giant Ibis, and Sarus Crane. With Legend Travel Group, enjoy Vietnam Travel and Thailand Travel experiences that combine expert-led birding, cultural immersion, and sustainable practices—all with a flexible 10% deposit and final payment due just 30 days before departure for complete peace of mind.
This guide highlights top birdwatching hotspots, essential tips, cultural etiquette, and exclusive eco-tours designed to maximize sightings while minimizing environmental impact.
Witness the world’s tallest flying bird in flight (Source: Internet)Cuc Phuong National Park (Ninh Binh): Vietnam’s oldest national park, home to over 300 bird species including the endangered White-winged Magpie and Pied Falconet. Best visited during the dry season for clear trails and active feeders.
Cat Tien National Park (Dong Nai): A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with 350+ species, including the rare Orange-necked Partridge and Germain’s Peacock-Pheasant. Dawn chorus walks reveal vibrant avian activity.
Bach Ma National Park (Hue): High-altitude cloud forest hosting the Annam Partridge and Short-tailed Scimitar Babbler. Cool mornings offer excellent visibility.
Tram Chim National Park (Dong Thap): A Ramsar wetland site famous for the Sarus Crane—the world’s tallest flying bird—especially during the flooding season.
Doi Inthanon National Park (Chiang Mai): Thailand’s highest peak, supporting over 400 species including the Green Cochoa, Rufous-throated Partridge, and spectacular sunbirds.
Khao Yai National Park (Nakhon Ratchasima): A UNESCO World Heritage Site with Great Hornbills, Siamese Firebacks, and Coral-billed Ground Cuckoos. Early morning drives yield frequent sightings.
Kaeng Krachan National Park (Phetchaburi): Thailand’s largest national park, known for the Ratchet-tailed Treepie and over 420 recorded species.
Bang Pu & Pak Thale (Gulf of Thailand): Coastal mudflats attracting migratory shorebirds like the Spoon-billed Sandpiper and Nordmann’s Greenshank during winter.
Birdwatching in Vietnam and Thailand is not just about spotting rare species—it’s about respecting sacred lands and local traditions.
Greetings: Use “xin chào” in Vietnam and “sawasdee” in Thailand with a slight nod or wai to rangers and guides.
Dress: Wear earth-toned, lightweight clothing covering shoulders and knees when near villages or temples. A breathable long-sleeve shirt and quick-dry pants are ideal.
Behaviour: Maintain silence near nesting sites; avoid flash photography; follow “leave no trace” principles. Ask permission before entering private lands or ethnic minority areas.
Customs: Support local communities by purchasing handmade crafts or dining at family-run eateries. Tipping guides 100,000 VND or 100 THB per day is appreciated but not mandatory.
Tip: Travel with reusable binoculars, water bottles, and notebooks to reduce waste. Tony Bùi notes: “Respectful birders create lasting connections with nature and locals alike.”
High-altitude magic with expert guidance (Source: Internet)Legend Travel Group offers expertly crafted birdwatching itineraries across Vietnam and Thailand, led by certified naturalists and local experts. Book with just a 10% deposit—final payment due 30 days before departure.
Highlights: Cuc Phuong, Cat Tien, and Tram Chim; target 200+ species including the Giant Ibis and Sarus Crane.
Inclusions: Expert guide, 4x4 transfers, park fees, eco-lodges, all meals.
Best Time: November–April (dry season).
Price: From $1,299/person (twin share).
Book Now: Vietnam Tours
Highlights: Doi Inthanon, Doi Ang Khang, and Mae Ping; focus on highland endemics like the Mrs. Hume’s Pheasant.
Inclusions: Naturalist guide, private van, entrance fees, boutique hotels.
Best Time: November–March (cool season).
Price: From $999/person (twin share).
Book Now: Thailand Tours
Highlights: Cat Tien, Bach Ma, Doi Inthanon, and Khao Yai; over 400 species possible.
Inclusions: Cross-border flights, all transfers, expert guides, eco-accommodation.
Best Time: December–March.
Price: From $2,499/person (twin share).
Book Now: Contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com
Details: Tailor your itinerary—choose sanctuaries, pace, and luxury level.
Inclusions: Personal naturalist, private vehicle, flexible dates.
Price: From $200/day/person.
Book Now: WhatsApp +84 825 862 222
Expert Naturalists: Certified guides with 10+ years of field experience.
Eco-Commitment: Carbon-offset programs, zero single-use plastic, and community support.
Flexible Payments: Only 10% deposit; balance due 30 days before departure.
24/7 Support: Dedicated team ensures seamless Vietnam Travel and Thailand Travel.
Small Groups: Max 8 guests for intimate, low-impact birding.
Start your day with Vietnam’s endemic symphony (Source: Internet)Vietnam: November–April (dry season) for clear skies and active birds; July–September for wetland species during flooding.
Thailand: November–March (cool season) for highland species; April–June for breeding displays.
Migration Peaks: October and March for shorebirds along the Gulf of Thailand and Mekong Delta.
Optics: 8x42 or 10x42 binoculars, spotting scope with tripod.
Field Guide: “Birds of Vietnam” (Lynx Edicions) or “Birds of Thailand” (Princeton).
Clothing: Neutral-colored, moisture-wicking layers; waterproof jacket; sturdy hiking boots.
Essentials: Reusable water bottle, insect repellent (DEET-free), sunscreen, notebook, power bank.
Tech: Camera with telephoto lens (300mm+), eBird app for real-time checklists.
Eco Items: Biodegradable soap, reusable straw, compact binoculars strap. Tip: Pack light—max 7 kg daypack for mobility in the field.
Thailand’s coastal migrants up close (Source: Internet)Daily Cost Estimate (Per Person)
Budget: $80–$120 (shared tours, local meals, public transport).
Mid-range: $150–$250 (private guide, eco-lodges, all meals).
Luxury: $300+ (private naturalist, boutique resorts, premium optics). Inclusions with Legend Travel Group:
All park fees, expert guide, meals, eco-accommodation, internal transfers.
10% Deposit Policy: Secure your spot today; pay the rest 30 days before departure.
Timing: Start at dawn (5:00–7:00 AM) for peak activity; avoid midday heat.
Ethics: Keep 10m distance from nests; never play recordings near breeding sites.
Recording: Use eBird or Merlin apps to log sightings and contribute to conservation.
Health: Stay hydrated; use DEET-free repellent; carry a basic first aid kit.
Sustainability: Support reserves through entry fees; choose carbon-neutral operators like Legend Travel Group.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for remote parks.
Safety: Travel with a guide in dense forests; inform hotels of early departures.
How many bird species are in Vietnam and Thailand? Over 1,100 in Vietnam; 1,000+ in Thailand; 400+ possible on a single tour.
Do I need a guide? Highly recommended for rare species and ethical access to protected areas.
What’s the best season? November–April for both countries; July–September for Vietnam’s wetlands.
Can beginners join? Yes—tours cater to all levels with patient naturalists.
Is photography allowed? Yes, with telephoto lenses and respect for wildlife.
How do I book? Contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84 825 862 222.
Legend Travel Group is committed to responsible tourism:
Carbon Offset: Every tour plants 10 trees per guest.
Community Support: 5% of profits fund local conservation and education.
Zero Plastic: Reusable bottles and bamboo straws provided.
Certified Guides: Trained in avian ecology and first aid.
Book your Vietnam Tours or Thailand Tours today and experience the thrill of birdwatching with the region’s leading eco-tour operator.
Vietnam and Thailand offer some of the world’s most rewarding birdwatching experiences—from misty mountain endemics to wetland giants. With Legend Travel Group, enjoy expertly guided Vietnam Travel and Thailand Traveladventures that prioritize conservation, comfort, and discovery. Secure your spot with just a 10% deposit and pay the balance 30 days before departure—travel with peace of mind. Contact us today to craft your ultimate birding journey.
By Legend Travel Group
www.legendtravelgroup.com