Basic ecotouristic information on Tam Dao National Park (Vietnam) - localization, access, characteristic, fauna and flora, possible activities.
Localization
North Vietnam, 85 km northwest of Hanoi
Access
Easy - 2-3 hours drive from Hanoi along the national road No.2.
Characteristic
369 km2; Isolated mountain range which runs 80 km from north west to south east, and has more than 20 peaks with altitudes of over 1000m. The highest summit is Tam Đảo Bac with an altitude of 1592 m. Three other peaks in the area include Thien Thi at 1375 m, Thach Ban at 1388 m and Phu Nghia at 1300 m. Sharp peaks with sloping sides and numerous, deep partitions are characteristic of the topology. The boundary of the national park is located at an altitude of 100 m around the Tam Đảo range. Seventy per cent of the area of the park is covered by natural and artificial forest. Due to the tall mountainous range that splits the area into two parts, the national park's climatic condition is divided into two areas with different rainfalls - eastern slopes have higher rainfall than the western slopes. Average annual temperature ranges from 18 - 25 Celsius degree. Tam Dao National Park lies within the catchment of two major rivers: Cong River in the north-east, while the south-west face lies within the catchment of the Day river. Most of the streams and rivers in the national park are steep and fast flowing. The mean annual rainfall of around 2,800 mm is concentrated in the rainy season from April to October, when 90% of the total rainfall occurs. During the dry season, rainfall and humidity at higher elevations can be very low, making these areas susceptible to forest fire. Typical ecosystems: tropical moist evergreen forest (up to 800m), subtropical moist evergreen forest, high mountain short forest, bamboo forest (only covers 8.84 km2), bush and grasslands in some dry and sun exposed areas, freshwater ecosystems (streams, rivers).
Fauna + Flora
Species List - See the Attachment Below
(Species list may not be complete)
Possible activities
The park’s trekking trails cater to all levels, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging hikes.
Note
Park can be visited during any season of the year. Best time for the visit: XI-III.
Inside the park is the Tam Đảo Hill Town, a charming area offering panoramic views, colonial-era architecture, and cool, refreshing air.