Vietnam

Vietnam is home to some of the most spectacular birds in Southeast Asia. Many colorful beauties are found here, including this gorgeous Blue Pitta...
Vietnam is home to some of the most spectacular birds in Southeast Asia. Many colorful beauties are found here, including this gorgeous Blue Pitta...
Susan Myers
...and many of them are endemic to Vietnam, including this wonderful Collared Laughingthrush.
...and many of them are endemic to Vietnam, including this wonderful Collared Laughingthrush.
Susan Myers
It's also a fantastic country for breathtaking pheasants. Here, the Siamese Fireback...
It's also a fantastic country for breathtaking pheasants. Here, the Siamese Fireback...
Susan Myers
...and the more subtle, but even more secretive, Germain's Peacock-Pheasant.
...and the more subtle, but even more secretive, Germain's Peacock-Pheasant.
Susan Myers
And then there are some more that are more cryptic… Here a Rufous-tailed Robin...
And then there are some more that are more cryptic… Here a Rufous-tailed Robin...
Susan Myers
...and here, the migratory Japanese Thrush.
...and here, the migratory Japanese Thrush.
Susan Myers
We start our tour in the north. For those arriving a little early, they can enjoy some charming scenes, food and hospitality of the northern capital, Hanoi.
We start our tour in the north. For those arriving a little early, they can enjoy some charming scenes, food and hospitality of the northern capital, Hanoi.
Susan Myers
We'll visit Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam's oldest national park, not far from Hanoi.
We'll visit Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam's oldest national park, not far from Hanoi.
Susan Myers
The scenery in the north is often breathtaking...
The scenery in the north is often breathtaking...
Susan Myers
...here we explore the limestone karsts...
...here we explore the limestone karsts...
Susan Myers
...which is the last stronghold of the rare and beautiful Delacour's Langur.
...which is the last stronghold of the rare and beautiful Delacour's Langur.
Susan Myers
As well, there are many waterbirds, such as this Asian Openbill stork.
As well, there are many waterbirds, such as this Asian Openbill stork.
Susan Myers
Moving to Central Vietnam, we'll visit Phong Nha National Park.
Moving to Central Vietnam, we'll visit Phong Nha National Park.
Susan Myers
This beautiful reserve...
This beautiful reserve...
Susan Myers
...is famous amongst birders for the recently discovered and charming Sooty Babbler, a bird with a very restricted range...
...is famous amongst birders for the recently discovered and charming Sooty Babbler, a bird with a very restricted range...
Susan Myers
...and even more for its incredible cave systems, the largest in the world.
...and even more for its incredible cave systems, the largest in the world.
Susan Myers
Venturing into the drier zones, we may encounter a different suite of birds, with luck the scarce White-rumped Falcon.
Venturing into the drier zones, we may encounter a different suite of birds, with luck the scarce White-rumped Falcon.
Susan Myers
As we bird our way southwards...
As we bird our way southwards...
Susan Myers
...we'll find there's never a dull moment! Here, the striking Black-hooded Laughingthrush...
...we'll find there's never a dull moment! Here, the striking Black-hooded Laughingthrush...
Susan Myers
The stunning Indochinese Green Magpie is restricted to central Vietnam.
The stunning Indochinese Green Magpie is restricted to central Vietnam.
Susan Myers
This male Large Niltava is more subtly gorgeous.
This male Large Niltava is more subtly gorgeous.
Susan Myers
Some strategically placed hides will allow  us views of some shy beauties, such as this Slaty-backed Forktail...
Some strategically placed hides will allow us views of some shy beauties, such as this Slaty-backed Forktail...
Susan Myers
...or this Blue-rumped Pitta.
...or this Blue-rumped Pitta.
Susan Myers
Vietnam is known for its diversity of laughingthrushes, many of them endemic, including the very secretive Orange-breasted Laughingthrush.
Vietnam is known for its diversity of laughingthrushes, many of them endemic, including the very secretive Orange-breasted Laughingthrush.
Susan Myers
Vietnam is a great adventure! Here we make the short river crossing to Cat Tien National Park in the south.
Vietnam is a great adventure! Here we make the short river crossing to Cat Tien National Park in the south.
Susan Myers
At Cat Tien we will make use of hides, which are great for Siamese Fireback...
At Cat Tien we will make use of hides, which are great for Siamese Fireback...
Susan Myers
...and the ground dwelling bejewelled Bar-bellied Pitta.
...and the ground dwelling bejewelled Bar-bellied Pitta.
Susan Myers
Migratory Blue-winged Pittas can often be found...
Migratory Blue-winged Pittas can often be found...
Susan Myers
...and we'll have more chances to track down another pitta - Blue-rumped Pitta.
...and we'll have more chances to track down another pitta - Blue-rumped Pitta.
Susan Myers
We often encounter so many  exciting birds. Here a Green-billed Malkoha...
We often encounter so many exciting birds. Here a Green-billed Malkoha...
Susan Myers
...some more widespread from the region, here a Common Tailorbird...
...some more widespread from the region, here a Common Tailorbird...
Susan Myers
...and we will always be on the look out for other creatures, such as this Hampton's Slug-eating Snake...
...and we will always be on the look out for other creatures, such as this Hampton's Slug-eating Snake...
Susan Myers
...or this charming Buff-cheeked Gibbon...
...or this charming Buff-cheeked Gibbon...
Susan Myers
...and some other intriguing mammals, like this Northern Treeshrew.
...and some other intriguing mammals, like this Northern Treeshrew.
Susan Myers
And there are some breathtaking insects - elegant butterflies…
And there are some breathtaking insects - elegant butterflies…
Susan Myers
...of many different types...
...of many different types...
Susan Myers
...and this little forest jewel, a tiger beetle.
...and this little forest jewel, a tiger beetle.
Susan Myers
The hides in Vietnam are five star!
The hides in Vietnam are five star!
Susan Myers
At the end of the day, we'll relax with...
At the end of the day, we'll relax with...
Susan Myers
...some amazing meals! Vietnamese cuisine is famous throughout the world.
...some amazing meals! Vietnamese cuisine is famous throughout the world.
Susan Myers
And around every corner we'll get glimpses of Vietnam's rural life...
And around every corner we'll get glimpses of Vietnam's rural life...
Susan Myers
...and culture...
...and culture...
Susan Myers
On our journey we may get to try the world's most notorious fruit - the wonderful Durian!
On our journey we may get to try the world's most notorious fruit - the wonderful Durian!
Susan Myers
On our birding adventures, we'll certainly meet some of the friendly local people...
On our birding adventures, we'll certainly meet some of the friendly local people...
Susan Myers
We will see many examples of the legacy of the French occupation, including this Catholic cathedral.
We will see many examples of the legacy of the French occupation, including this Catholic cathedral.
Susan Myers
Mealtimes are always fun on WINGS tour. Here's our after birding dinner party
Mealtimes are always fun on WINGS tour. Here's our after birding dinner party
Susan Myers
Birding in Vietnam is unforgettable...
Birding in Vietnam is unforgettable...
Susan Myers
There is vibrant culture. As we travel we will stop for breaks en route to enjoy Vietnam's lively cafe culture.
There is vibrant culture. As we travel we will stop for breaks en route to enjoy Vietnam's lively cafe culture.
Susan Myers
There is fascinating culture.
There is fascinating culture.
Susan Myers
that will certainly leave a lasting impression.
that will certainly leave a lasting impression.
Susan Myers
As, of course, will the birds. Let's leave with this Green-legged Partridge...
As, of course, will the birds. Let's leave with this Green-legged Partridge...
Susan Myers
...and Blue Whistling-thrush...
...and Blue Whistling-thrush...
Susan Myers
...Snowy-browed Flycatcher...
...Snowy-browed Flycatcher...
Susan Myers
...and the lovely White-browed Scimitar-Babbler. See you in Vietnam!
...and the lovely White-browed Scimitar-Babbler. See you in Vietnam!
Susan Myers
2025 Tour Price
$7,050
Single Room Supplement $780
2026 Tour Price to be Determined
Maximum group size eight with one leader and a local guide.
Tour balances paid by check/bank transfer may carry a 4% discount

Stretching a thousand miles down the east coast of Southeast Asia, Vietnam supports a vast array of habitats. Between the mighty deltas of the Red River in the north and the Mekong in the south are endless beaches, fertile plains, lush rainforests, and high plateaus with rhododendron-covered peaks rising to over 9,000 feet.It’s no wonder that Vietnam is home to over 850 species of birds, among them more endemics than any other country in mainland Southeast Asia. By visiting both the north and the south we’ll see a great variety of Vietnam’s distinctive birdlife, which combines influences from the Himalayas, the Palearctic, and Malaysia, including a large number of Indochinese specialties that are difficult to find elsewhere in the regionWith the ravages of the past well and truly behind it, Vietnam has emerged as one of Asia’s thriving economies and one of its most popular tourist destinations. It has an infrastructure to match this popularity, and we’re assured of a warm welcome everywhere we travel in this fascinating country.

NOTE: The 2026 departure will be 19 days long, and cover South and Central Vietnam with an optional extension to the North. A corresponding itinerary is forthcoming.

Tour Team
Itinerary (Click to see more)

Day 1: Participants should arrive in Hanoi no later than 5 p.m. Night in Hanoi.

Days 2-4: After an early breakfast we’ll depart Hanoi for Cuc Phuong National Park, an area of limestone hills covered in primary rainforest and the first national park to be established in Vietnam. We’ll have two full days to explore the park, where we’ll hope to see such special birds as Bar-bellied and Blue-rumped Pittas, Silver-breasted Broadbill, White-tailed Flycatcher, White-winged Magpie, Ratchet-tailed Treepie, Rufous-throated Fulvetta, Limestone Wren-Babbler, Fujian Niltava, and Pied Falconet. One afternoon we’ll visit Van Long Nature Reserve. Here we’ll take a sampan to the dramatic limestone cliffs that are home to the largest population of one of Vietnam’s most beautiful of its many endangered primates, the Delacour Langur. Various waders, herons, bitterns, and a breeding pair of Bonelli’s Eagles are often seen here. Nights at the Park Headquarters guesthouse.

Day 5: We’ll have a bit of time for early morning birding at Cuc Phuong before transferring to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport for the short flight to Hue, in central Vietnam. On arrival we’ll drive to the scenically stunning Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extensive cave systems and rugged limestone karsts. Night at Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. 

Day 6: We’ll have a full day to explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in search of such limestone specialists as the near-endemic Sooty Babbler and Limestone Leaf-warbler. The scarce and rarely seen Red-collared Woodpecker is also possible, as is another scarce endemic primate, Ha Tinh Langur. The birdlife is active and exciting, and large mixed flocks often contain some very glamorous species: Sultan Tit is common and Purple Cochoa is sometimes seen. This afternoon we’ll visit the world-renowned cave system of this remarkable area. The Phong Nha Cave is the second largest in the world (the first and third largest are found deeper within Phong Nha National Park) and a short boat trip and walk deep inside the cave is an unforgettable experience. Night in Phong Nha.

Day 7: After an early morning birding session back at Phong Nha National Park, we’ll depart for the long drive south to the Sa Mu Pass located in the Bac Huong Hoa Natural Area. We will bird at various spots along the way including a break for lunch at Lang Co on the coast to look for the recently described White-faced Plover.  If we have time we’ll bird at our destination before checking in to our hotel. Night in Khe San.

Day 8: We’ll have a full day to explore this little-known area, which is located right on the Laos border in the narrowest part of Vietnam in the centre of the Annamite Mountains range. This lovely, forested area is home to several Vietnamese and regional endemics, including Red-vented Barbet, White-winged Magpie, and Blyth’s Kingfisher. But our most wanted birds will be the range restricted Central Vietnam specialities – Red-collared Woodpecker, Black-crowned Barwing, Rufous and White-cheeked Laughingthrushes and the elusive Short-tailed Scimitar-Babbler. Other spectacular birds here include Ratchet-tailed Treepie, Indochinese Green Magpie, Black-throated and Lesser-necklaced Laughingthrushes, and a distinctive subspecies of Sultan Tit with a glossy blue-black crown—a possible future split. Red-shanked Douc Langur, a beautiful and endangered primate, is sometimes seen in the treetops below the summit trails. Night in Khe San.

Day 9: After some more birding, we’ll leave the Sa Mu area in the mid-morning when the birding activity drops for the five-hour drive south to Ngoc Linh on the newly constructed Ho Chi Minh Highway. We should arrive in the Ngoc Linh area in the late afternoon. Night at Tu Mo Rông.

Day 10: Ngoc Linh Nature Reserve is one of the best birding hotspots in Central Vietnam; the area is the second highest mountain range in Viet Nam and is recognised as a Key Biodiversity Area, Important Bird Area, and a Global Endemic Bird Area. There are many birding highlights here, amongst them the endemic Golden-winged and Red-tailed Laughingthrushes, more chances for Black-crowned Barwing, as well as Indochinese Fulvetta, Annam Golden-breasted Fulvetta, Coral-billed Scimitar-Babbler, Red-tailed Minla, and Ferruginous Flycatcher. Night at Tu Mo Rông.

Day 11: After a final morning birding in Ngoc Linh we’ll continue south down the Ho Chi Minh Highway to Mang Den, a quiet town located in Vietnam’s central highlands. Night at Mang Den. 

Day 12: We’ll have a full day at Mang Den, where the seldom-seen and exceptionally shy endemic Chestnut-eared Laughingthrush, discovered in 1999 and seen by only a handful of birders, will be our main quarry. Just a few kilometers from the town we’ll explore a large area of excellent montane forest, the most reliable site in Vietnam for three other scarce birds: Pale-capped Pigeon, Yellow-billed Nuthatch, and Black-hooded Laughingthrush. Night at Mang Den.

Day 13-14: We’ll have a second morning’s birding at Mang Den before taking the scenic drive north to Yok Don National Park, arriving in time for a late lunch and some afternoon birding. This recently declared national park borders the Mondulkiri Protected Area in Cambodia and constitutes one of the largest areas of protected lowland forest in Southeast Asia. The habitat is characterized as a mosaic of deciduous and semi-evergreen forest interspersed with areas of rainforest. Specialties here include the scarce White-rumped Pygmy-falcon, Collared Falconet, several woodpeckers including the beautiful Black-headed, Rufous Treepie and the curiously-named Neglected Nuthatch. Not surprisingly, it’s considered one of the most biodiverse areas of Vietnam and a number of species that have disappeared elsewhere in the region can still be found here. Nights at Yok Don National Park HQ. 

Day 15: After an early breakfast we’ll cross the Srepok River to bird in and around the Yok Don Botanical Gardens. We’ll leave Yok Don mid-morning for the drive to Da Lat, stopping en route for lunch. Night at Da Lat. 

Days 16–17: We have two full days to explore the excellent birding sites around Da Lat. In the Ta Nung Valley, a small but bird-filled area of remnant evergreen forest about 6 miles (10 km) from Da Lat, we’ll look for the rare and endemic Grey-crowned Crocia as well as White-cheeked Laughingthrush. The distinctive subspecies of Blue-winged Minla, Rufous-backed and Black-headed Sibias, and Black-throated Sunbird can also be found here.  

In addition to the wonderful Ta Nung Valley two other sites around Da Lat are well worth visiting: Mount Lang Bian and Bi Doup National Park. Mount Lang Bian is a 6700-foot peak about 20 minutes by road from Da Lat, and we’ll spend a day exploring its pine and montane evergreen forests. Our target species here include wintering Mugimaki Flycatcher, Grey-crowned Tit, Vietnamese Cutia, Black-crowned Fulvetta, and Vietnamese Greenfinch. Bi Doup National Park is a wonderful birding area where we might find birds such as Burmese Shrike, Slender-billed Oriole, Indochinese Cuckooshrike, and Vietnamese Crossbill, among many other species in the coniferous forests, while the evergreen forests hold one of the most sought-after species on the Da Lat Plateau, the beautiful and very secretive endemic Collared Laughingthrush. We’ll also appreciate Da Lat’s cooler climes and its old French colonial buildings and numerous outdoor cafes, restaurants, and markets. Nights at Da Lat. 

Day 18: This morning we’ll head to Di Linh, a two-hour drive from Da Lat. Descending from the plateau, we’ll pass by a virtual mosaic of rubber, teak, tea, and coffee plantations, as well as fascinating Vietnamese architecture. The forested mountain pass known as Deo Suoi Lanh is an ideal site to look for several Da Lat Plateau specialties, including Black-hooded, White-cheeked, and Orange-breasted Laughingthrushes and the near-endemic Black-crowned Parrotbill. We may also find the gorgeous Blue Pitta. We’ll continue onward from the pass to arrive at Cat Tien National Park in the late afternoon. Night at Cat Tien headquarters.

Days 19-21: Cat Tien National Park contains the largest remaining area of lowland tropical forest in southern Vietnam. We’ll have an amazing three full days around the park. There are more than 330 bird species here, including the endangered Germain’s Peacock-Pheasant, Green Peafowl, and the very elusive Orange-necked Partridge. The list of mammals includes Eurasian Wild Pig, Sambar, Red Muntjac, and Gaur (very scarce, although increasing in numbers) as well as two endangered primates, Black-shanked Douc Langur and Buff-cheeked Gibbon.

Over the next three days we’ll take jeeps to visit areas around the park such as Heavens Rapids and Crocodile Lakes, where Grey-headed Fish-Eagle and Lesser Adjutant may be seen. The three-mile walk through the forest to Crocodile Lake is an excellent place to look for Germain’s Peacock-Pheasant and Blue-rumped and Bar-bellied Pittas, as well as Red-and-Black and Banded Broadbills and Orange-breasted Trogon, among many others. Other Cat Tien specialties include Scaly-breasted (Green-legged) Partridge, Siamese Fireback, White-bellied, Great Slaty, and Black-and-buff Woodpeckers, Red-vented Barbet, Woolly-necked Stork, and Grey-faced Tit-Babbler. Nights at Cat Tien headquarters.

Day 22: We’ll have a last morning of birding in Cat Tien National Park before driving back to Ho Chi Minh City for our final dinner. Night at Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 23: The tour concludes this morning in Ho Chi Minh City with transfers to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for flights home.

Last updated Jun 12, 2024
Tour Information (Click to see more)

Note: The information presented here is an abbreviated version of our formal General Information for this tour. Its purpose is solely to give readers a sense of what might be involved if they take this tour. Although we do our best to make sure that what follows here is completely accurate, it should not be used as a replacement for the formal document which will be sent to all tour registrants, and whose contents supersedes any information contained here.

ENTERING VIETNAM: A passport valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry and with at least one blank page for an entry stamp. A Vietnamese visa is required and it can be obtained either online via E-visa, or a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate prior to traveling to Vietnam.  

Citizens of other countries may need a visa and should check with the nearest Vietnam embassy. If required by the embassy or visa-granting entity, WINGS can provide a letter for you to use regarding your participation in the tour. 

COUNTRY INFORMATION: You can review the U.S. Department of State Country Specific Travel Information for Vietnam at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html. Review foreign travel advice from the UK government here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice and travel advice and advisories from the Government of Canada here:  https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.

PACE OF TOUR AND DAILY ROUTINE: The tour is a relatively strenuous one and requires a good degree of fitness due to the high temperatures in the south, some longish walks and a moderate amount of ascent and descent. Some days may involve some longer walks, however most walking is fairly easy and will include plenty of stops for birding. Some uphill and cross-country walking is required in the sites around Da Lat, as well as Ngoc Linh in the center.

Our birding days will normally begin around 6:00 a.m. with a quick early breakfast before birding. Some days we might take a light packed breakfast. Bird activity usually drops off by 11:00 a.m. and lunch would normally be taken at the park headquarters, hotel or nearby restaurant followed by a short break before resuming birding around 2:30-3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. or dusk. There are some three/four hour drives and one long drive of around six to eight hours, depending on road conditions.

HEALTH: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations. These include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. 

They further recommend that most travelers have protection against Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Please contact your doctor well in advance of your tour’s departure as some medications must be initiated weeks before the period of possible exposure. 

The most current information about travelers’ health recommendations can be found on the CDC’s  Travel Health website at http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/vietnam

Malaria:  The CDC recommends a malaria preventative.  Please consult your physician. 

Elevation: Our highest elevation will be at Tam Dao where we will be birding at 930 m/3050 ft. Elsewhere our birding will be in the lowlands or foothills.

Smoking:  Smoking is prohibited in the vehicles or when the group is gathered for meals, checklists, etc. If you are sharing a room with a nonsmoker, please do not smoke in the room. If you smoke in the field, do so well away and downwind from the group. If any location where the group is gathered has a stricter policy than the WINGS policy, that stricter policy will prevail. 

Insects:  The abundance of biting insects varies from year to year and place to place. Generally biting insects are not numerous although mosquitoes and ticks occur locally. A can of spray repellent should provide adequate protection. 

Miscellaneous: At the time of our visit there should not be any terrestrial leeches present but there is always a small risk we could encounter a few. 

CLIMATE: Unlike much of Southeast Asia, Vietnam’s climate is complex and varied. It is a mix of humid tropical, sub-tropical, and cool at the respective locations. Our tour takes place during the spring in North Vietnam and during what is the dry season in South Vietnam. Daytime temperatures are likely to be in the range 30-35°C (86-95°F) in the south and 20°C-25°C (68-77°F) around Da Lat. At Tam Dao, situated at 930 metres, and Cuc Phuong, night time temperatures may drop to 5°C (40°F), whilst daytime temperatures are likely to be around 8°C-14°C (47-57°F). In the north we may encounter some rain at times and colder temperatures. 

ACCOMMODATION: In the north we stay at national park accommodations at Cuc Phuong. The accommodation is in simple rooms at the park headquarters with air-conditioning, private bathroom facilities and hot water, while at Phong Nha, Khe Sanh, Mang Den and Da Lat we use comfortable hotels in the respective towns. The accommodations at Tu Mo Rung and Yok Don are basic but clean with private bathrooms. At Cat Tien National Park the accommodations are similar to those at Cuc Phuong National Park.

WiFi, Internet and Cell Phones:Internet access is generally available in almost every corner of the world, and Wi-Fi is increasingly common in hotels, airports, restaurants and cafes. In the hotels in the main towns free Wi-Fi is generally available. Most require a password, which we’ll receive on check-in.

Cell phones can be useful while on tour but keep in mind that many countries operate on a different cellular technology than US or Canadian carriers. Your phone may be incompatible with the local system, so please check with your local carrier.

FOOD:  Vietnam is rightly famous for its delicious and healthy cuisine. Rice is, of course, the staple and most Vietnamese eat it at every meal. Breakfasts often consist of bread or noodles, though. Our meals will vary from quite fancy to fairly simple depending on our location but always tasty. As is the custom throughout much of Asia, a variety of dishes will be placed on our table by our hosts and the group will share the meal. Usually, we will have two or three vegetable dishes and one or two meat dishes, generally chicken or pork. Meals are eaten with chopsticks in Vietnam but a fork and spoon can usually be provided if preferred. In the cities Western food can be found for variety and the French-style Vietnamese bread is delicious and ubiquitous.

Food Allergies / Requirements: We cannot guarantee that all food allergies can be accommodated at every destination. Participants with significant food allergies or special dietary requirements should bring appropriate foods with them for those times when their needs cannot be met. Announced meal times are always approximate depending on how the day unfolds. Participants who need to eat according to a fixed schedule should bring supplemental food. Please contact the WINGS office if you have any questions. 

Drinks: Bottled water and/or a soft drink or a beer is provided at lunch and dinner, as is coffee or tea. Bottled water is provided in our vehicle during the day. Personal drinking water for use in your room is the responsibility of the individual. 

TRANSPORTATION: Ground transportation is by air-conditioned bus. We will take a short boat trip in shallow waters at one site near Cuc Phuong. Participants should be able to ride in any seat in tour vehicles and are expected to change seats with others daily.

Last updated Apr 30, 2024
Bird Lists (Click to see more)
Map (Click to see more)

Vietnam Tour Routing

Narrative (Click to see more)

2024 Narrative

IN BRIEF: Once again, the Vietnam tour surpassed all expectations – from the mesmerizing variety of birds and other wildlife to breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable cultural encounters. Beginning our journey in the vibrant capital of Hanoi and culminating in the bustling streets of Saigon in the south, each step revealed diverse birdlife, ecosystems, and picturesque vistas.

Cuc Phuong National Park
Departing from Hanoi, our journey unfolded southward along the iconic National Route 1, a legendary highway spanning the entirety of Vietnam, stretching 2301 kilometres from the Chinese border to the southernmost tip of the country. We weren’t quite ready to travel that far just yet, so a relatively brief two-and-a-half-hour drive brought us to the national park just in time for lunch. Over the next two days, we explored the park, traversing it from end to end as we birded at various points on the scenic drive from the park headquarters to the Bong Substation, situated at the terminus of the sole road that cuts through the park’s picturesque landscape.

Despite persistent inclement weather – characterized by chilling cold and relentless rain – our determination prevailed, leading to several remarkable bird sightings during our sojourn in Vietnam’s premier national park. Established in 1960 under the watchful guidance of then-President Ho Chi Minh, this expansive sanctuary encompasses a landscape of limestone karst mountains and verdant valleys, harboring an impressive diversity of plant and animal species. Despite the weather’s persistence, an extended stay at a strategically positioned hide proved fortuitous, affording us sightings of several elusive birds such as the Rufous-tailed Robin, Fujian Niltava, Rufous-throated Fulvetta, as well as the Japanese and Black-throated Thrushes – species that might have otherwise eluded us. Roadside birding, though at times slow, yielded fruitful results, punctuated by noteworthy encounters with elusive species such as the Annam Limestone Babblers, Red-headed Trogon, Orange-headed Thrush, and Greater Flameback. Closer to the headquarters, our exploration rewarded us with more sightings, including Rufous Prinia, White-bellied Erpornis, Pin-striped Tit-Babblers, and an assortment of bulbuls.

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve
One afternoon, we ventured to the Van Long Nature Reserve, located about an hour away from the park. Here, we embarked on a fleet of small boats expertly guided by local navigators, meandering through the labyrinthine waterways flanked by dense reedbeds, and karsts rising dramatically from the wetlands. One couldn’t ask for a more peaceful and picturesque birding experience as we marvelled at large congregations of unlikely looking Asian Openbills, interspersed with welcome sightings of Black, Yellow and Cinnamon Bitterns. Bubbling Blue-tailed Bee-eaters cavorted overhead as we spotted lumbering Greater Coucals, charming Amur Stonechats, and a diversity of prinias.

Phong Nha National Park

Formally known at Phong Nha-Ké Bàng, this exceptionally beautiful reserve was the next stop on our birding journey. Situated approximately 500 kilometers south of Hanoi, we arrived in the late afternoon following a lengthy journey. Beyond its breathtaking scenery, this national park was established not only to safeguard its remarkable biodiversity but also because it boasts the world’s largest karst system, harboring over 300 caves. This includes the illustrious trio of the planet’s largest caves, notably the awe-inspiring S?n ?oòng Cave, whose existence was discovered only in 2009.

Our primary objective here was to encounter the elusive Sooty Babbler, a species rediscovered in 1994 after having been previously known only from specimens collected in Laos in 1920. Thankfully, our quest proved fruitful, and in our pursuit, we crossed paths with several other captivating avian species, including the Brown-rumped (Swinhoe’s) Minivet, the striking Long-tailed Broadbill, Racket-tailed Treepie, Sultan Tit, and Streaked Spiderhunter.

An afternoon voyage by boat along the S?n River towards the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Phong Nha Cave, is an enthralling adventure. The tranquil journey unfolds against a backdrop of verdant foliage and snippets of local life dotting the riverbanks. As the boat ventures closer to the mouth of Phong Nha Cave, the imposing limestone cliffs adorned with intricate stalactites and stalagmites lure explorers into its mysterious depths. Stepping onto the cave’s shores, enveloped by its cool, damp ambiance, one is immediately struck by the overwhelming beauty and profound historical significance of this majestic subterranean marvel.

Stationing ourselves on a bridge overlooking the dramatic landscape, we were delighted to spot Rufous-bellied Eagle, Square-tailed Drongo-Cuckoo, Red-vented Barbet, and Spot-necked Babbler. A brief detour directed by Trong took us to a spot where a brief blast of a Short-tailed Scimitar-Babbler call yielded an immediate and dramatic response. Our return to the bridge the following morning proved equally rewarding, with sightings of Green-eared Barbet, Indochinese Yuhina and three species of laughingthrush - White-crested, Black-throated and Lesser Necklaced - standing out as particular highlights.

Deo Sa Mu
Continuing our journey southward, our next destination was Khe Sanh, a modest town nestled right in the heart of Vietnam, forever etched in history as the site of one of the most intense battles of the Vietnam War, referred to in Vietnam as the American War. Visiting this town today, devoid of historical context, one would hardly fathom the tragic events that once unfolded here.

Our brief stay was marked by a fleeting visit to the excellent birding site known as Sa Mu Pass. We were treated to wonderful sightings of Crested Goshawks, Necklaced and Moustached Barbets, Lesser Racket-tailed Drongos, along with an array of bulbuls and babblers, and the charming Verditer Flycatcher. These sightings beautifully complemented our eagerly anticipated, albeit challenging, quest to catch a glimpse of the elusive Rufous-cheeked Laughingthrushes!

Ngoc Linh
Our journey then led us to the tiny and remote village of Tu Mo Rong, serving as our hub for exploring nearby Ngoc Linh, aptly named Jade Mountain in English. Embarking on an adventurous hike deep into the forest, we arrived at a well-prepared blind where we waited patiently, albeit unsuccessfully, for our elusive target. Nonetheless, our efforts were richly rewarded with sightings of some highly sought-after birds – including the Grey-bellied Tesia, Golden Babbler, Brown-crowned Scimitar-Babbler, Rufous-winged, Rusty-capped, and Indochinese Fulvetta, along with the Black-crowned Barwing. These sightings ensured that our endeavours were far from futile.

M?ng ?en
This newly established town, built in 2003 and situated at 1200 meters on the M?ng ?en Plateau, was envisioned to draw in throngs of tourists enticed by its refreshing climate and picturesque surroundings. However, despite these expectations, the town has yet to experience the influx of visitors. Nevertheless, since its inception, it has become a magnet for birding enthusiasts drawn by the promise of encountering some truly remarkable avian species.

From the comfort of our well-appointed hotel base, we embarked on numerous excursions into the nearby forest. Along roadsides and trails, we sought out birds such as the Indochinese Barbet, Stripe-breasted Woodpecker, Clicking Shrike-Babbler, Yellow-cheeked Tit, Pale Blue-Flycatcher, and Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird. On one occasion, a cute Collared Owlet allowed us extended views, its familiar call echoing through the forest as it revealed the captivating eyespots on the back of its head.

Although our attempts to catch a glimpse of the infuriating Blyth’s Paradise Flycatcher were less fruitful, we were treated to some excellent sightings of smaller avian delights such as the Rufous-faced Warbler, Black-throated Tit, Black-chinned Yuhina, and Fire-breasted Flowerpecker. The elusive Grey-headed Parrotbill posed a greater challenge, briefly revealing themselves to only a fortunate few among our group of birders.

Yok Don National Park
Our next destination provided a complete change of pace! Yok Don sits right on the border with Cambodia, contiguous with the Cambodian Mondulkiri Protected Forest. Unlike the forests we had previously explored, the landscape here offers a distinct contrast, characterized by a mosaic of deciduous and mixed deciduous forests. This unique habitat gives rise to a diverse avifauna, setting it apart from the other locations we had visited.

Exploring Yok Don was an exciting adventure, as we encountered a whole new array of bird species. Although our accommodations in the national park were rustic, being nestled right in the heart of the action added to the experience. Our birdwatching targets were plentiful, and we achieved remarkable success!

During our initial exploration, we were swiftly greeted by the sight of Indochinese Roller, Eurasian Hoopoe, Lineated Barbet, Black-hooded Oriole, Velvet-fronted Nuthatche, Purple Sunbird, and Golden-fronted Leafbird. We were thrilled when our sought-after targets, the Black-headed Woodpecker and Burmese Nuthatch, cooperated beautifully.

Further expeditions rewarded us with sightings of Common Woodshrike, White-crested Laughingthrush, Rufous Treepie, Crested Treeswift, Asian Barred Owlet, and more. The surprise appearance of a pair of Black Bazas was an unexpected delight, too!

?à L?t
Our penultimate destination, Da Lat, proved to be one of our favourites. This large and bustling, yet delightful city, is located on the Langbian or ?à L?t Plateau in Vietnam’s southeast. The plateau’s isolation has fostered the evolution of a distinctive fauna, including numerous endemic species and subspecies.

We birded several excellent sites and blinds during our three nights stay here, including the Bi Dup National Park (an Important Bird Area as designated by Birdlife International), Ta Nung Valley, and Cong Troi (another IBA). Though our targets were plentiful, they required diligent effort to locate.

We began our efforts at Bi Dup where we found Black-hooded and White-cheeked Laughingthrushes, as well as our first stunning Indochinese Magpies. White-tailed Robins were cooperative, as were Black-browed Fulvetta, Large Niltava and Black-headed Sibia. We were thrilled to find a group of exceptionally cooperative Black-headed Parrotbills, in company with Mountain Tailorbird and Long-tailed Broadbill. To our delight, the hoped-for Yellow-billed Nuthatch also made a welcome appearance.

Our next stop was Ta Nung Valley, and if anyone ever asks about the most peculiar place I’ve ever birded, this is certainly the answer! What was once a tranquil patch of forest has now been transformed into the “Hoa Son Dien Trang Ecotourism Destination,” which is a rather exaggerated use of the term “ecotourism.” This selfie paradise is undeniably bizarre, yet amidst the chaos, the birds persist, which is quite remarkable!

Despite the unconventional setting, our birding experience here was surprisingly fruitful. We enjoyed notable sightings of the Indochinese Barbet, Grey-headed Pygmy Woodpecker, White-browed (Da Lat) Shrike-Babbler, Burmese Shrike, Green-backed Tit, Hill Prinia, Flavescent Bulbul, Chestnut-vented Nuthatch, and more. Spotting a Mugimaki Flycatcher alongside a Narcissus Flycatcher was an added bonus, and encounters with Mrs. Gould’s and Black-throated Sunbirds were simply delightful.

Following a splendid birthday celebration featuring a beautiful bird-themed cake (skillfully sliced), our next adventure led us to Cong Troi, another Important Bird Area designated by Birdlife International. This picturesque area is characterized by gently sloping mountains covered in evergreen forest, interspersed with patches of Pinus insularis forest, predominantly found on south-facing slopes and at lower altitudes.

Our anticipation peaked as we patiently waited at a blind, hoping for a glimpse of the glamorous endemic Collared Laughingthrush. Despite a seemingly endless wait, our perseverance paid off at the eleventh hour, much to our absolute delight. On our return journey to Da Lat, a spontaneous stop proved to be very rewarding as we were granted a much-anticipated sighting of the striking Vietnamese Cutia, yet another highly sought-after endemic species with a restricted range.

Di Linh
A relatively brief drive brought us to our next destination, the town of Di Linh, serving as our base for birding expeditions to the Deo Nui San Pass. After a brief respite at our charming hotel, we geared up in full birding attire, eager for encounters with pittas and partridges. Setting up at yet another strategically positioned blind, we were rewarded with sightings of the stunning Blue Pitta and the Bar-backed Partridge, accompanied by their adorable chicks! Additional rewards included Indochinese Magpie, Maroon Oriole, Siberian Blue Robin, White-throated Rock Thrush, and Black-headed Parrotbill.

Cát Tiên National Park
Our final destination on this remarkable journey was the renowned Cat Tien National Park. This park boasts five major habitat types, including primary evergreen, mixed deciduous, secondary, and bamboo forests, along with seasonally flooded grasslands. This diverse range of habitats supports a rich and varied fauna, ensuring that the birding here never disappoints. With four nights to spend here, we had ample time to thoroughly explore each of these diverse biomes, resulting in a fantastic list of bird sightings.

After crossing the picturesque ??ng Nai River, we settled in and wasted no time in starting our birding adventure along the paved road leading north from the park headquarters. This immediate exploration revealed some remarkable sightings, including the Indochinese Blue Flycatcher, Thick-billed Green Pigeon, and our first glimpses of the Vernal Hanging Parrots, infernally darting overhead.

Our birding expedition the following morning proved even more rewarding, with highlights such as the Green-billed Malkoha, stunning male and female Banded Kingfishers, Black-and-red Broadbill, three species of barbet, and an impressive six species of woodpecker! We were fortunate to have access to two world-class blinds, managed by the park authorities, affording us unforgettable views of some highly coveted birds, notably the Bar-bellied and Blue-rumped Pittas, Germain’s Peacock-Pheasant, and Scaly-breasted Partridge.

Our sighting of the Slaty-legged Crake at the blind came as quite a surprise, as did the Red Junglefowl, although for different reasons. It’s only when seen up close that one can truly appreciate the striking beauty of this familiar bird.

A morning spent in the grasslands to the south of the park headquarters proved to be both enjoyable and fruitful, with a whole different bunch of birds. We were delighted to come across and have excellent views of the Chinese Francolins and the majestic Green Peafowls strutting about. A pair of graceful Asian Woolly-necked Storks were well received, as were colourful Orange-breasted Green-Pigeons and Blossom-headed Parakeets. Fly by Oriental Pied-Hornbills caused quite a stir, while a pair of shy Pale-headed Woodpeckers led us on a bit of a merry chase, as did the infuriatingly skulky Chestnut-capped Babblers.

Taking the jeeps to Crocodile Lake and Heaven’s Rapids rounded off our birding explorations, with yet more excellent observations, including Orange-breasted Trogon, Crested Serpent Eagle, Black-and-buff Woodpecker, Violet Cuckoo, Grey-faced Tit-Babbler, Golden-crested Myna, Thick-billed Flowerpecker -  with its unique tail waggling behaviour, and Van Hasselt’s Sunbird, to name but a few.

Concluding our birding explorations, we embarked on jeep rides to Crocodile Lake and Heaven’s Rapids, where we were treated to yet more outstanding observations. Among the highlights were sightings of the Orange-breasted Trogon, Crested Serpent Eagle, Black-and-buff Woodpecker, Violet Cuckoo, Grey-faced Tit-Babbler, Golden-crested Myna, and Thick-billed Flowerpecker with its distinctive tail-wagging behaviour. Additionally, we were delighted to spot the Van Hasselt’s Sunbird, among many other fascinating species.

So that was Vietnam! What a great adventure. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your excellent companionship throughout this avian exploration of this captivating country. A special recognition is due to our local guides and drivers for their tireless dedication and invaluable contributions. I couldn’t have asked for a better team.

                                                                                                                                                                                -          Susan Myers

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Maximum group size eight with one leader and a local guide.

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