Travel out of Ho Chi Minh City to Cat Tien National Park to experience one of the most diverse ecosystems in Vietnam. Home to the country’s last remaining wild elephants and rhinoceroses, Cat Tien is a place to come face to face with adventure and wildlife.

Meet your guide and driver at your hotel early in the morning to make the 90-mile (150-km) trip out to Cat Tien National Park. Upon arrival, you will cross over the peaceful Dong Nai river and stop for lunch and some time to stretch your legs.

Fueled up on your Vietnamese lunch, you will tackle a 5-mile (8-km) hike through the dense forest. You’ll pass giant deciduous trees and tropical palms and hear the call of birds and monkeys high up in the foliage. Your guide will be keeping his eye out for pigs, woodpeckers, and civets. You can climb up to an observatory to observe more birds up close.

While it is unlikely you’ll come across the endangered elephants or rhinos, just walking in their territory is a thrill. Take a break after your walk and continuing relaxing on the journey back to the city, which includes a stop for a bite to eat.

Comfortable shoes and clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, and a camera.

Transportation, English speaking guide, bottled water, entrance fees, and lunch at a local restaurant.