Vietnam Birding Expedition

Vietnam Birding Expedition – A 10-Day Journey from Jungles to Highlands

This expertly guided 10-day birdwatching expedition takes you through Vietnam’s most biodiverse landscapes from the lush lowland rainforests of Cat Tien National Park to the misty pine forests of the Dalat Plateau. Designed for birding enthusiasts, the itinerary focuses on endemic species, rare sightings, and unforgettable natural scenery.

Explore a wide range of habitats rich in tropical and montane birdlife, with opportunities to spot Southeast Asia’s most sought-after species, including the Blue-rumped Pitta, Collared Laughingthrush, and Vietnamese Greenfinch. The journey also offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s highland culture, with relaxing stays in eco-lodges and locally run guesthouses.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a nature lover in search of something unique, this experience blends world-class birding with the beauty and serenity of Vietnam’s wild landscapes – all led by expert local guides who know these regions intimately.

Tour Highlights:

• Explore Cat Tien National Park, home to over 300 bird species and rare mammals
• Full-day trek to Crocodile Lake, a pristine wetland birding hotspot
• Spot endemic and highland species in the forests of Deo Suoi Lanh
• Discover Dalat’s birding gems: Mount Lang Bian, Ho Tuyen Lam, and Ta Nung Valley
• Search for prized species like the Rusty-naped Pitta, Langbian Sunbird, and Grey-crowned Crocias
• Travel with an experienced birding guide and enjoy flexible daily excursions
• Comfortable accommodations in nature lodges and highland retreats
• Suitable for both amateur and experienced birdwatchers

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Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City – Transfer to Cat Tien National Park

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport or pick-up from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll travel north to Cat Tien National Park (approx. 4–5 hours). This biodiverse sanctuary is home to southern Vietnam’s largest remaining lowland tropical forest. Spend the afternoon exploring trails near the park headquarters where early birding highlights may include Germain’s Peacock-Pheasant, Green Peafowl, Orange-necked Partridge, and primates such as the Buff-cheeked Gibbon.

Overnight: Cat Tien National Park

Day 2: Cat Tien National Park – Lowland Birding Trails

Today is dedicated to exploring the forest trails around the park HQ, which are rich with birdlife. Target species include Bar-bellied Pitta, Blue-rumped Pitta, Orange-breasted Trogon, and woodpeckers like Great Slaty and White-bellied. You may also spot Broadbills, Hornbills, and Crested Serpent-Eagle soaring above the canopy.

Overnight: Cat Tien National Park

Day 3: Cat Tien National Park – Crocodile Lake

Set out early for a full-day excursion to Crocodile Lake, one of the park’s most rewarding sites. After a short jeep transfer, hike 5 km through lush forest to reach the lake, which is a haven for Lesser Adjutant, Woolly-necked Stork, and Green Peafowl. Along the way, look for Pale-headed Woodpecker, Black-and-red Broadbill, and elusive mammals like Sambar Deer or Leopard Cat. Return by late afternoon.

Overnight: Cat Tien National Park

Day 4: Cat Tien National Park – Final Exploration

Spend a final morning on the park trails, targeting species missed on earlier walks. With luck, you might glimpse the secretive Siamese Fireback or Dusky Broadbill. After lunch, rest or explore nearby wetland patches ideal for waterbirds.

Overnight: Cat Tien National Park

Day 5: Cat Tien to Di Linh – Highland Transition

After early birding, depart for Di Linh, a hill region on the southern Dalat Plateau. In the afternoon, visit Deo Suoi Lanh Pass, a lush montane evergreen forest teeming with highland specialties. Keep watch for Maroon Oriole, Black-headed Parrotbill, Grey-crowned Tit, and White-cheeked Laughingthrush.

Overnight: Di Linh

Day 6: Di Linh to Dalat – Forest Birding

Return to Deo Suoi Lanh for another morning of focused birding. Highlights include Green Cochoa, Blue Pitta, Indochinese Green Magpie, and the striking Spotted Forktail. After lunch, travel to Dalat, a former colonial hill station and your base for exploring the bird-rich forests of the central highlands.

Overnight: Dalat

Day 7: Dalat – Mount Lang Bian

Begin the day at Mount Lang Bian, a high-elevation site with a mix of pine and evergreen forest. Key endemics include Collared Laughingthrush, Langbian Sunbird, Vietnamese Greenfinch, and Grey-crowned Crocias. The trails here are challenging but offer some of the region’s best birding. Afternoon birding can continue at lower elevations or around the forest base.

Overnight: Dalat

Day 8: Dalat – Ta Nung Valley

Head to Ta Nung Valley, a biodiversity hotspot just outside town. The valley’s secondary forest and cultivated patches host the stunning Blue Pitta, Rusty-naped Pitta, Slender-billed Oriole, and White-cheeked Laughingthrush. You may also spot Red-vented Barbet, Manipur Treecreeper, and Langbian Tit. Afternoon options include more relaxed birding at Ho Tuyen Lam or pine forest areas around town.

Overnight: Dalat

Day 9: Dalat – Ho Tuyen Lam & Surrounding Forests

Spend your final birding day at Ho Tuyen Lam Lake, a peaceful area ringed by pine and mixed forest. Look for Annam Minivet, Annam Prinia, Black-crowned Fulvetta, and Vietnamese Cutia. The diverse elevation here provides chances to observe species not yet encountered. Wrap up with optional evening birding or local sightseeing.

Overnight: Dalat

Day 10: Dalat – Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy a final early walk or revisit a favorite site around Dalat before transferring to the airport for your flight back to Ho Chi Minh City, where your Vietnam birding adventure concludes.