Cuc Phuong forest in firefly season is as beautiful as a fairy tale

In early May, the weather in Ninh Binh was still cool and not too hot, so Nguyen Hong Nhat and his wife drove from Hanoi to visit Cuc Phuong forest for the day. This is also the busiest season of the year in Cuc Phuong National Park with butterflies flying all over the sky during the day and fireflies sparkling at night. Photo: Nguyen Hong Nhat

Mr. Nhat suggests going on a weekday to avoid crowds, and on a sunny day, without rain or wind, because if the sky is cloudy or the moon is too bright, there will be fewer fireflies. The easiest places to see fireflies are the Mac Lake area, the road to the Ancient People Cave, and some trails near the center of the forest. Photo: Nguyen Hong Nhat

Firefly season in Cuc Phuong forest lasts from April to June. The best time to see fireflies is from 7pm to 9pm. Before that, it is still light, then the night gets darker and the fireflies fly less. Photo: Nguyen Hong Nhat

The scene of fireflies flying and sparkling throughout the forest is like a scene from a fairy tale. Besides experiencing fireflies at night, Mr. Nhat and his wife spend their days trekking in the forest, visiting animal rescue centers, archaeological sites, watching colorful butterflies... The trip is a day trip so they only spend 60,000 VND/person for tickets, 120,000 VND/person for the night tour. The cost of gas, roads, food and drink when traveling by private car is 400,000 VND. Photo: Nguyen Hong Nhat

Just a few hours wandering in Cuc Phuong forest, the young couple felt like they were back in their childhood. Mr. Nhat shared his feelings: “Cuc Phuong night in early summer. The train quietly pulled back to childhood, where fireflies filled the sky, insects chirped, and memories were green. It had been a long time since my eyes had been amazed by such a spectacular dance of light. At 11pm, the clock reminded me to return to reality, to “let go” of my role and become an adult again. But tonight, at least I found the two children in my heart again, the couple trotted around the forest under the bright moonlight.” Photo: Nguyen Hong Nhat

Since early April, Cuc Phuong National Park has opened a night tour for visitors to experience firefly watching and wildlife observation. The tour takes place daily and starts at 7pm, divided into many different time slots. Photo: Cuc Phuong National Park

The tour is 5km long, visitors take an electric car to the attractions with a tour guide. In addition to fireflies, the night tour also gives visitors the opportunity to see species such as deer, pangolins, civets, wild cats... learn about insects and nocturnal life in the middle of the jungle. Photo: Cuc Phuong National Park