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Places of interest

Nui Chua Ninh Thuan National Park

4.3 · 2,873 reviews
Wild, rugged, and arid.
Nui Chua Ninh Thuan National Park, ĐT702, Thôn Thái An, Ninh Hải, Ninh Thuận, Vietnam
Interesting facts
1

The park hosts the only significant nesting grounds for green sea turtles in mainland Vietnam.

2

It is one of the few places in the country where 'dry forest' vegetation, adapted to low rainfall, predominates.

3

The park features a complex of granite rocks and reefs forming the Vung Vinh Hy bay area.

4

It contains over 600 species of plants, many of which are endemic to this specific arid microclimate.

5

The area experiences the lowest annual rainfall in Vietnam due to the local geographical shielding effect.

Overview

Nui Chua National Park is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve characterized by a rare arid tropical climate and coastal dry forest ecosystem. It spans over 29,000 hectares, featuring rugged granite mountains that drop directly into the South China Sea. The park protects the only remaining area in Vietnam where sea turtles come to nest on beaches such as Bai Thit. Its distinctive landscape consists of stone-strewn hills, thorny scrub vegetation, and coral reefs in the adjacent marine protected area. The park serves as a transition zone between the humid tropical forest and the semi-desert climate of Ninh Thuan. Elevations reach up to 1,040 meters at the peak of Chua Mountain. Visitors can traverse the coastal road DT702 which offers panoramic views of the coastline and desert-like terrain.

Photo spot

The viewpoint along the DT702 road overlooking Vinh Hy Bay.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes to navigate the sharp granite rock formations.

Carry significantly more water than you expect to consume due to the intense heat and lack of shade.

Check with the park management office at the entrance for restricted zones, as some coastal areas are protected for sea turtle nesting.

What to avoid

Attempting remote mountain trails without a local guide or proper navigation tools, as the terrain is rugged and easy to misidentify.

Good to know

Access to specific nesting beaches may be restricted during the turtle breeding season.

Etiquette

Do not leave litter in the coastal areas or near nesting beaches; respect quiet zones during turtle nesting season.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning; visit from November to April to avoid the peak heat and potential monsoon storms.
Address
Nui Chua Ninh Thuan National Park, ĐT702, Thôn Thái An, Ninh Hải, Ninh Thuận, Vietnam
11.681, 109.175
Get directions
Details
Ecosystem TypeArid tropical dry forest and coastal marine
Key WildlifeGreen sea turtles and various endemic mountain flora

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning; visit from November to April to avoid the peak heat and potential monsoon storms..

The viewpoint along the DT702 road overlooking Vinh Hy Bay.

Close by you'll find Vườn Nho Thái An, VƯỜN NHO 85 Thái An, Vinh Hy Bay.