Explore Xuan Thuy National Park in Ninh Binh Province’s Nam Dinh region, a UNESCO-recognized wetland and birdwatching paradise. Discover activities, costs, and book eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group for an authentic nature adventure.
Capture the vibrant essence of Nam Dinh’s eco-gem (Source: Internet)Nestled in the Nam Dinh region, now a ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative merger, Xuan Thuy National Park is a globally celebrated ecological treasure and Vietnam’s first Ramsar site, recognized in 1989. Spanning 12,000 hectares, this wetland sanctuary at the Red River estuary is a UNESCO-designated core zone of the Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve (2004). Renowned for its rich biodiversity, including over 220 bird species and vibrant mangrove ecosystems, it’s a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. From migratory birds to sustainable aquaculture, Xuan Thuy offers an immersive eco-tourism experience. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, invites you to explore this pristine park through our expertly curated tours—book via links throughout this guide. Discover the wild beauty of Ninh Binh’s Nam Dinh region today
Legend Travel Group is dedicated to authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability, cultural immersion, and expert-guided tours. Our Xuan Thuy tours feature eco-conscious practices, such as low-impact transport (bicycles, electric boats) and partnerships with local communities, aligning with Ninh Binh’s “Eco-Tourism Development” initiative. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Discover our tours—book via the links on this page!
Photograph the biodiverse allure of Nam Dinh’s nature (Source: Internet)Located in Giao Thuy, Xuan Thuy National Park is a biodiversity hotspot covering 7,100 hectares of core zone and 8,000 hectares of buffer zone. It hosts 120 flora species, over 500 fauna species, and 30 reptiles and amphibians, including rare aquatic species like the vulnerable Cá Mòi Co fish and endangered birds such as the Black-faced Spoonbill. The park’s mangrove forests, tidal flats, and shrimp ponds support local livelihoods and provide critical habitats for migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Recognized as a Ramsar site and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it’s a model for sustainable eco-tourism. Entry is affordable at ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD), with additional costs for guided tours and boat trips. Combine your visit with nearby cultural sites like Tran Temple for a complete Ninh Binh experience.
Start your Nam Dinh Travel with tranquil vistas (Source: Internet)Observe over 220 bird species, including rare Black-faced Spoonbill, Spoon-billed Sandpiper, and Saunders’s Gull, especially during migration season (October–April).
Cost: Entrance: ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD); guided birdwatching: ~200,000–500,000 VND (~$8–$20 USD).
Highlights: “A birdwatcher’s paradise” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).
Tip: Bring binoculars; visit at dawn (5:00–7:00 AM) for optimal sightings; hire park guides for rare species.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Birdwatching Eco-Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD) includes expert guides and boat trips.
Navigate the park’s waterways by boat to explore mangrove forests, mudflats, and Con Lu or Con Ngan Islands, spotting birds and aquatic life.
Cost: Small boat (1–5 people): ~1,200,000 VND (~$48 USD); large boat (10–15 people): ~2,500,000–4,000,000 VND (~$100–$160 USD).
Highlights: “Stunning wetland views” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Book boats at Giao Xuan commune; high tide (check lunar calendar) ensures access to mudflats.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Mangrove Boat Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes boat rides and lunch.
Join locals in Giao Xuan or Giao Thien communes to learn about clam harvesting, fish sauce production, or shrimp farming, reflecting sustainable aquaculture.
Cost: Free with park entry; guided village tours: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).
Highlights: “Authentic rural experience” (Nhan Dân Online, 4.3/5 stars).
Tip: Visit early morning (6:00–8:00 AM) to see clam farmers; respect local customs.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Community Eco-Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes village visits and cultural activities.
Trek or cycle along Con Ngan Island’s dike system or dirt trails to explore wetlands, shrimp ponds, and mangrove forests.
Cost: Bike rental: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day); guided hikes: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).
Highlights: “A nature lover’s escape” (Foody.vn, 4.4/5 stars).
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes; cycle in autumn (September–November) for cooler weather.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Eco-Bike Adventure (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes bike rentals and guides.
Capture the park’s mangroves, bird flocks, and Con Lu Island vistas from observation towers or boat routes.
Cost: Included in entrance; professional guide: ~300,000 VND (~$12 USD).
Highlights: “Breathtaking scenery” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Visit at sunrise (5:00–6:00 AM) for golden light; use tripods for stability.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Photography Eco-Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD) includes guided photo stops.
Learn Nam Dinh’s ecological heritage with expert insights (Source: Internet)October–April (Migration Season): Ideal for birdwatching, with thousands of migratory birds (e.g., Black-faced Spoonbill) creating a lively atmosphere. Mild weather (15–25°C) with occasional rain.
May–August (Summer): Hot and humid (25–35°C), rainy season; fewer birds but vibrant mangroves and aquatic life. Budget-friendly with 10–15% tour discounts.
September: Early migrants arrive; cooler (18–28°C), good for photography.
December–January: Dry, cool (10–20°C), busy with holiday visitors; book early.
Tip: Visit October–November for peak bird activity; avoid August due to heavy rains.
Bus: From Giap Bat/My Dinh to Nam Dinh City (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD, 2 hours), then taxi to Giao Thuy (~200,000 VND, ~$8 USD, 30 minutes).
Train: Reunification Express to Nam Dinh Station (~75,000–150,000 VND, ~$3–$6 USD, 1.5–2 hours), then taxi (~200,000 VND, ~$8 USD, 30 minutes).
Private Car: ~1,200,000 VND (~$48 USD) one-way, ~2.5 hours via Expressway 01 and Route 21A.
Motorbike: Rental ~100,000–250,000 VND (~$4–$10 USD/day), fuel ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD), ~3 hours.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Park Transport Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes eco-transfers.
Flight + Road: Fly to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport (~750,000–1,750,000 VND, ~$30–$70 USD, 2 hours), then bus/taxi to Giao Thuy (~300,000–1,200,000 VND, ~$12–$48 USD, 2.5–3 hours).
Train + Road: Reunification Express to Nam Dinh (~750,000–2,000,000 VND, ~$30–$80 USD, 32–35 hours), then taxi (~200,000 VND, ~$8 USD).
Bus + Road: Sleeper bus to Hanoi (~850,000–1,200,000 VND, ~$34–$48 USD, 39 hours), then bus/taxi to Nam Dinh (~300,000 VND, ~$12 USD).
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Flight & Eco-Tour (~3,500,000 VND, ~$140 USD) includes flights and transfers.
Motorbike: Via Route 21A (~120,000–200,000 VND, ~$5–$8 USD/day; fuel ~30,000 VND, ~$1.20 USD).
Taxi/Grab: ~150,000–250,000 VND (~$6–$10 USD/trip).
Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day), ~1.5–2 hours.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Local Eco-Tour (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) includes transfers.
Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day).
Motorbike: Rental ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day); fuel ~10,000 VND (~$0.40 USD).
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Park Shuttle Tour (~750,000 VND, ~$30 USD) includes eco-transfers.
Route Tip: From Ninh Binh City, take Route 21A to Giao Thuy; from Hanoi, use Expressway 01 and Route 21A. Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD/motorbike).
Entrance Fee: ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD/person).
Activities:
Guided birdwatching: ~200,000–500,000 VND (~$8–$20 USD).
Boat tours: ~1,200,000–4,000,000 VND (~$48–$160 USD).
Bike rental: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day).
Village tours: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).
Dining: Local eateries (phở, seafood): ~50,000–150,000 VND (~$2–$6 USD/meal); drinks: ~10,000–30,000 VND (~$0.40–$1.20 USD).
Accommodation: Homestays in Giao Xuan (~300,000–600,000 VND, ~$12–$24 USD/night); hotels in Nam Dinh City (~800,000–1,500,000 VND, ~$32–$60 USD).
Transport:
From Hanoi: Bus + taxi: ~300,000 VND (~$12 USD); train + taxi: ~175,000–350,000 VND (~$7–$14 USD); private car: ~1,200,000 VND (~$48 USD).
From Ho Chi Minh City: Flight + road: ~1,050,000–2,950,000 VND (~$42–$118 USD); train + road: ~950,000–2,200,000 VND (~$38–$88 USD).
From Ninh Binh City: Motorbike: ~140,000–230,000 VND (~$5–$9 USD); taxi: ~150,000–250,000 VND (~$6–$10 USD).
Within Nam Dinh: Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD); motorbike: ~130,000–210,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD).
Total Daily Cost: ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD) (budget: ~$20–$35 USD; mid-range: ~$35–$50 USD; luxury: ~$50–$70 USD).
Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Nam Dinh City (Vietcombank, Agribank); book tours for savings and eco-transfers.
Plan Ahead: Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456), especially October–April. Park hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Pack Smart: Bring binoculars, sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes; pack rain gear for summer.
Budget Wisely: Expect ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD/day); confirm boat and guide prices to avoid overcharging.
Stay Safe: Secure valuables; follow park staff guidance; avoid high-tide areas without boats.
Sustainability: Support local homestays and vendors; use reusable items; choose eco-tours to preserve the ecosystem.
Cultural Respect: Respect local aquaculture practices; ask permission before photographing villagers; tip guides (~25,000–50,000 VND, ~$1–$2 USD).
Navigation: Allow 3–5 hours for park exploration; combine with Vi Khe Bonsai Village (~20 km) for a full-day itinerary.
Our sustainable tours immerse you in the park’s natural and cultural wonders:
Birdwatching Eco-Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD/person): Guided birdwatching, Con Lu Island boat trip, local lunch. Includes eco-transfers.
Mangrove Boat Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Boat exploration of mangroves, Con Ngan Island, seafood tasting. Includes transfers and snacks.
Community Eco-Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD/person): Clam harvesting, fish sauce production, Vi Khe Bonsai Village. Includes bike rentals and lunch.
Ninh Binh Nature Odyssey (~8,500,000–13,500,000 VND, ~$340–$540 USD/person, 3–4 days): Xuan Thuy, Tran Temple, homestays (~300,000–600,000 VND, ~$12–$24 USD/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) available. Book now via links around this page!
Xuan Thuy National Park, a Ramsar and UNESCO-recognized wetland in Giao Thuy Hamlet, Nam Dinh Region, Ninh Binh Province, 150 km from Hanoi, is a breathtaking eco-tourism destination celebrated for its vibrant biodiversity, hosting 215 bird species, including the rare black-faced spoonbill, and drawing thousands yearly. Enjoy birdwatching ($2–$5 entry, 50,000–125,000 VND), cruise through mangroves on eco-friendly boats ($5–$15, 125,000–375,000 VND), or engage with local communities in sustainable shrimp farming. Supported by eco-friendly practices like low-impact tours and community-led conservation, Legend Travel Group’s Nam Dinh Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Nam Dinh Travel experience, blending park adventures with visits to Phu Day Temple, Tran Temple, and culinary delights like bánh cuốn ($0.50–$2, 12,500–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Xuan Thuy National Park’s wetland paradise? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Nam Dinh adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources:
Xuan Thuy National Park Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vinpearl.com, localvietnam.com, ramsar.org, tripadvisor.com
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