Xuan Son National Park

Xuan Son National Park is a protected natural area in Tan Son District, Phu Tho Province, about 120 km northwest of Hanoi. Covering about 15,048 hectares at the southeastern end of the Hoang Lien Son range, it features primeval forest, limestone karst mountains and extensive cave systems. Notable for its rich biodiversity, waterfalls and Muong and Dao ethnic villages, it was designated a nature reserve in 1986 and a national park in 2002.

Visitors can expect a forested limestone karst landscape with dense primeval forest, clear streams and waterfalls, and a network of caves. The park has marked trekking trails, viewpoints over the mountains, and small Muong and Dao villages with stilt houses and homestays. Exploration is on foot with local guides, including cave visits, forest walks, birdwatching and swimming in natural stream pools. Facilities are basic and nature-focused.

Initially established as Xuan Son Nature Reserve in 1986 to protect primeval forest and limestone ecosystems, it was upgraded to Xuan Son National Park in 2002 under Decision No. 48/2002/QD-TTg. The park preserves one of the few remaining primeval forests on limestone in northern Vietnam and protects important flora and fauna of the Hoang Lien Son range.

The park area is home to Muong and Dao ethnic communities, notably in villages such as Du, Lap and Xoan. Visitors encounter traditional stilt houses, brocade weaving, folk customs and local cuisine. The communities participate in community-based tourism offering homestays and guiding services.