What to Pack for a Jungle Trek in Vietnam - 2025 Travel Guide

Planning a jungle trek across Vietnam's lush rainforests in 2025? You'll want quick-drying, moisture-wicking layers. And avoid 100% cotton T-shirts-to stay comfortable on humid trails plus way more which we will unpack in this Vietnam travel guide.

Why Jungle Trekking in Vietnam?

Vietnam's jungle landscapes span from primeval forests in the north to dipterocarp wetlands in the south.

• Cuc Phuong National Park (Ninh Binh) was Vietnam's first conservation park, established in 1962, and harbors over 2,200 plant species alongside rare wildlife such as Delacour's langur and clouded leopard.

• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in central Vietnam features UNESCO-listed karst formations and caves enveloped by dense rainforest-with Phong Nha Cave alone charging 150,000 VND per adult for wet-cave access.

• Cat Tien National Park protects lowland tropical forest, home to Siamese crocodiles, endangered primates, and over 300 bird species, making it a hotspot for wildlife treks.

Packing Essentials

White Helmet on Top 2 Box and Other Stuffs

Clothing

• Quick-dry, moisture-wicking shirts & trousers: Avoid 100% cotton T-shirts to cut down on chafing and slow drying times.

• 2-3 pairs of hiking pants & 1-2 pairs of shorts: Convertible trousers are ideal for switching between trails and river crossings.

• Lightweight silk liner or thin thermal layer: Handy for cool cave interiors or misty mountain mornings.

Footwear

• Sturdy trekking shoes or boots: Models like the Salomon Exvantage offer excellent grip on slippery jungle trails.

• Flip-flops or sandals: Perfect for camp life and stream crossings.

Gear & Gadgets

• Dry bag (10-20 L): Keeps electronics and documents bone-dry during rain squalls or river fords.

• Headlamp or torch + extra batteries: Essential for night hikes and spelunking in Phong Nha's caves.

• Pocket knife or multi-tool: Versatile for quick gear fixes or food prep.

• Portable power bank: Choose one under 100 Wh to pass airline rules-perfect for charging cameras or phones.

• Microfiber towel: Dries fast and packs down small.

Health & Safety

• Insect repellent with DEET: Small bottles are easy to find in Vietnam and vital against dengue-carrying mosquitoes.

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) & wide-brimmed hat: Protects skin on open trails and boat transfers.

• Compact first-aid kit: Include blister pads, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications.

Quick Tips: Underwear & Socks

• 7-10 pairs of quick-dry underwear: We recommend extras to minimize laundry stops on 3-day treks.

• 3-4 pairs of crew socks + 2 short socks: Crew socks shield ankles from mosquitoes, while short socks work for downtime.
  Oh and if you are doing jungle treks especially places like Phong Nha, it will protect you from leeches!

Permits, Fees & Costs

Someone Hold a Lot of Money

• Cuc Phuong National Park (Ninh Binh): Adults 60,000 VND; Students 20,000 VND; Children 10,000 VND; open 07:30-18:00 daily.

• Phong Nha-Ke Bang: Phong Nha Cave 150,000 VND; Tien Son (dry cave) 80,000-90,000 VND; boat access for both caves 550,000 VND/boat (max 12).

• Paradise Cave: Entrance 250,000 VND; optional golf-car shuttle 60,000-350,000 VND per group.

• Mooc Spring: Entry 80,000 VND; all-inclusive kayaking & mud-bath package 180,000 VND.

• Chay River & Dark Cave: Adventure package (mud-bath, zipline) 450,000 VND/adult.

• Cat Tien National Park: Entrance (including ferry) 60,000 VND; bear sanctuary ~150,000 VND; night safari ~230,000 VND; open 07:00-18:30.

• Elephant cave & Mada Lake trek in Phong Nha: ~4,500,000 VND/person, includes meals, gear transport & camping fees.

• 1-day Nuoc Nut Cave tour: 1,950,000 VND/person, covers VAT, park & environment fees.

Hidden Gems & Pro Tips

Turtles Over the Stones and Water

• Turtle Conservation Centre at Cuc Phuong: Your 60,000 VND entrance ticket grants access to the endangered primates and turtle-release tours-ask at park HQ for feeding times.

• Bear sanctuary in Cat Tien: Pay an extra ~150,000 VND to see rescued Sun bears up close; slots fill fast, so book at the park office upon arrival.