Bac Huong Hoa’s hidden gem for ecotourism in Quang Tri

Hidden in Quang Tri’s Truong Son mountains, Bac Huong Hoa is a paradise of misty forests, waterfalls, and rare wildlife.

Nestled in the western part of Quang Tri province, within the central Truong Son mountain range, Bac Huong Hoa Nature Reserve stands out with its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, fresh climate, and rich ethnic culture. With its unique natural beauty, this reserve holds great potential as an ecotourism hotspot for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Azaleas on the peak of Pa Thien – Photo: Provided by Bac Huong Hoa Nature Reserve

Covering nearly 23,500 hectares across five Northern communes of Huong Hoa district, Bac Huong Hoa Nature Reserve is often regarded as the “rooftop” of Quang Tri province. The area is home to Voi Mep Peak, soaring over 1,700 meters above sea level, and Sa Mu Pass, known for its fresh, cool climate all year round, often veiled in mist, creating a dreamy, mystical atmosphere. The rugged terrain, combined with dense forests, rivers, waterfalls, and caves, further enhances its appeal as a natural paradise.

As the lowest region in the Truong Son range, the reserve boasts remarkable biodiversity, benefiting from the intersection of northern and southern flora and the Indochinese ecosystem. With a forest cover of nearly 93 percent, the area provides a pristine habitat for countless species, including many endangered and endemic ones. The reserve also plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and watershed protection for rivers such as Ben Hai, Rao Quan, Hieu, and Se Pang Hieng, ensuring water supply for Quang Tri’s hydropower and irrigation projects.

Rich biodiversity and endangered species

According to recent surveys, Bac Huong Hoa Nature Reserve is home to 1,327 plant species from 157 families, including 156 rare and endangered species such as Dinh Tung, Hoang Dan Gia, and various rare orchids. The animal population is equally impressive, with 935 species, while 97 are listed as endangered.

Silver Waterfall, a majestic cascade in Bac Huong Hoa Nature Reserve

The reserve houses 110 mammal species from 30 families, including 38 species in Vietnam’s Red Book and 33 species on the IUCN Red List. Notable species include the Annamite striped rabbit, Javan pangolin, Siki gibbon, Ha Tinh langur, and the red-shanked douc langur. The bird population consists of 208 species from 49 families, with eight species listed in Vietnam’s Red Book and 11 in the global Red Book, including the great hornbill, white-cheeked pheasant, and crested argus. The reserve also shelters 81 species of amphibians and reptiles, 33 fish species, and 503 insect species, with rare specimens such as the three-horned beetle and various endangered butterflies.

Ecotourism potential and sustainable development

According to Ha Van Hoan, Director of Bac Huong Hoa Nature Reserve Management Board, the reserve’s stunning landscapes and biodiversity offer immense potential for ecotourism, scientific research, and environmental education. At Sa Mu Pass, visitors can enjoy cool weather year-round, camping, cloud hunting, and exploring the pristine forests. The Tria Cave in Huong Son commune offers a spectacular limestone landscape with stalactites and opportunities to observe rare langurs in their natural habitat. Adventurers can challenge themselves with hiking trails to Pa Thien and Voi Mep Peaks, while cultural enthusiasts can savor traditional Van Kieu ethnic cuisine like hill chicken, bamboo rice, sticky black rice, and wild vegetables.

To ensure sustainable tourism development, the management board is working on an ecotourism master plan, including four main ecotourism sites. The Environmental Education & Ecotourism Center serves as a hub for research, education, and tourism. The Botanical Garden covers 165 hectares and conserves rare and endemic plant species. The Sa Mu Pass Resort provides a retreat for visitors seeking a cool climate and nature-based relaxation, while the Tria Cave Exploration Site is a hotspot for adventure tourism and wildlife observation.

Hatinh langurs in Bac Huong Hoa Nature Reserve

Four ecotourism trails are being developed to highlight the area’s natural beauty. The Pa Thien, Voi Mep trekking route offers panoramic views, rhododendron forests, and war relics. The Sa Mu Peak experience combines scenic tours, environmental education, and local cultural immersion.

The Tria Cave adventure features rock climbing, cave exploration, and langur watching. The Se Pang Hieng River expedition allows visitors to embark on a five-kilometre kayaking journey through stunning landscapes.

The reserve will also connect with surrounding heritage and adventure routes, including the Ta Con Airfield, Rao Quan Lake, and Brai Cave, allowing visitors to explore Van Kieu ethnic villages and experience their traditions. Other routes will lead to attractions such as Chenh Vanh Waterfall, Ta Puong Waterfall, and the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail, providing tourists with opportunities to immerse themselves in nature and local culture.

According to Hoan, the ecotourism initiatives aim to generate employment, increase local income, and encourage community participation in forest protection. By fostering awareness and responsibility toward biodiversity conservation, the project ensures that visitors not only enjoy nature’s tranquillity but also contribute to the region’s sustainable development.

Hoang Nam