Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary, home to dozens of rescued bears, is a must-visit tourist attraction in Ninh Binh for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. In this article by Asia Legend Travel, we will delve into the sanctuary’s wonders, exploring its story, visitor experiences, and crucial role in wildlife conservation. Join us as we uncover the beauty and importance of this remarkable sanctuary in Ninh Binh, Vietnam.
History and Background of Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary
- Address: Cuc Phuong – Bai Dinh road, Ky Phu commune, Nho Quan district, Ninh Binh province, Vietnam.
Located not far from Cuc Phuong National Park, Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary serves as a symbol of hope for rescued bears, offering them a safe refuge and rehabilitation services. Established by the global animal welfare organization, FOUR PAWS, this sanctuary in Ninh Binh, Vietnam is dedicated to alleviating animal suffering, rescuing those in need, and ensuring their protection.
Since the first bears were rescued in November 2017, the sanctuary has provided a home for 65 rescued bears, although sadly, 19 have since passed away. The sanctuary, spanning 5.5 hectares, serves as a lush haven for its residents. There are ongoing plans to expand it to 10 hectares, with the goal of more closely mirroring their natural habitat, improving the overall quality of life for the bears. (*figure for June 2024)
The sanctuary also welcomes all animal and bear lovers to come and learn. With guided tours and educational programs, visitors can glean insights into the lives of these amazing animals, all within the beautiful nature of the sanctuary. The Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary is not only a home for bears rescued from bile farming and illegal trade in Vietnam, but it is also where we can learn, understand, and appreciate these magnificent beings.
How to Getting Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary
Embark on an exciting journey to the Bear Sanctuary Ninh Binh! Whether you’re starting from the bustling city of Hanoi or elsewhere in Vietnam, the trip promises to be a rewarding adventure.
From Hanoi: When traveling from Hanoi or other northern provinces in Vietnam, travelers have three main transportation options to consider.
- By Train: Trains from Hanoi to Ninh Binh are comfortable and offer good views. It takes about 2-2.5 hours. Once you arrive at Ninh Binh station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to the sanctuary.
- By Bus: Many bus services go directly from Hanoi to Ninh Binh in about 2-3 hours. Buses leave from several places in Hanoi, including the Gia Lam and My Dinh bus stations.
- By Car: Renting a car or hiring a private taxi is another convenient option. The drive from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes about 1.5-2 hours via the CT01 Expressway.
From Other Major Cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang: The best way is to fly to Hanoi and then follow one of the above methods to get to Ninh Binh.
Visitor Experience in Bear Sanctuary Ninh Binh
During a visit to Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary, travelers can engage in a variety of exciting activities as follows:
The Interactive Exhibition about Bears
At the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary, you will be immersed in a captivating, interactive bear exhibition. This exhibition includes three parts, each represented in a unique hut.
Hut 1 – “Hello, this is a bear”
Here, you will explore the eight bear species that inhabit our world today. Prepare to be captivated by vibrant images and intriguing details presented on large displays.
Hut 2 – “1 square meter world”
Here, you’ll witness a poignant re-enactment of the life stories of bears that were trapped for bile exploitation over many long years. As well as this, the rescue process and bear care methods in the sanctuary are also introduced, highlighting the hard work that goes into helping each bear recover.
Hut 3 – “Happy bears”
In this hut, you’ll get the opportunity to observe bears at the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary. Prepare to be charmed by playful bears who now lead fulfilling lives within the sanctuary. The natural spectacle of these bears in various positions – sitting, lying down, or playing – will undoubtedly create unforgettable memories.
Vegetarian Bistro
After touring the sanctuary, you can visit its on-site Vegetarian Bistro. Here, you will find a selection of delicious vegetarian and vegan Vietnamese dishes, made with fresh local ingredients. As you enjoy these culinary treats, you can appreciate the sanctuary’s serene beauty. It’s worth noting that the sanctuary avoids using single-use utensils, which helps limit plastic waste and protect the environment.
Souvenir Shop
In addition to enjoying a tour package and delightful food, you can support the bear sanctuary by purchasing authentic souvenirs from the local store. These handmade items are crafted by locals using recycled, eco-friendly materials. Available products include bullet journals, locally made herbal soaps, bamboo straws and cutlery sets, and tote bags.
Tour options in Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary
Visitors to the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary can choose from a variety of tour packages that offer an in-depth view of the bears and their daily lives. The available options include the CONNECT, EXPLORE, and IMMERSE SANCTUARY Tour Packages.
EXPLORE Tour Package (VND 50,000 | 30 minutes)
Embark on the captivating EXPLORE Tour Package, where you’ll engage in a series of enthralling activities.
- Stroll across the skywalk and explore the bear habitat at your own pace.
- Engage with interactive exhibits about rescued bears.
- Learn about bear rescue missions and the international standards of care in the conservation area.
- Observe and gain knowledge about the rescued Asian black bear species.
- Get a closer look at the bears using the Bear-noculars or Phone Telephoto Lens (additional fee of VND 50,000).
CONNECT Tour Package (VND 150,000 | 75 minutes)
With this package, you can look forward to the following experiences:
- A visit across the skywalk and an interactive bear exhibition, guided by knowledgeable staff at the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary.
- An insight into the process of rescuing bears from illegal wildlife trade and poor captivity conditions, as well as the sanctuary’s international standard care process.
- The opportunity to observe and learn about the Asian black bear species.
- A viewing of the 30-minute movie “Bình Yên, về nào” (Binh Yen, let’s come back home) in the Binh Yen theatre.
- Bear-noculars or Phone Telephoto Lens that allows a closer look at the bears (additional fee of 50,000 VND).
IMMERSE SANCTUARY Tour Package (VND 250,000 | 90-120 minutes)
In this immersive tour package, you will explore the world of bear conservation at the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary. Here, you can learn about the fight against illegal wildlife trade, the rescue of bears from inadequate living conditions, and the international bear care standards maintained at the sanctuary. Specifically, you will:
- Take a guided tour of the sanctuary (45 – 60 minutes).
- Visit the bear enrichment area, technical facility, and enclosure perimeter to understand how the staff uphold international standard care across the 5.5-hectare sanctuary.
- Observe the rescued Asiatic Black bears thriving in a suitable environment.
- Watch “Bình Yên, về nào” in the Bình Yên Theatre (30 minutes).
- Experience the self-guided Skywalk.
- Refresh with complimentary drinks.
- Use Bear-noculars or a Phone Telephoto Lens (available for an extra fee of VND 50,000) to get a closer view of the bears.
Highlights of Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary
The bears living at the Ninh Binh bear sanctuary are all survivors of illegal captivity and bile farming, each with its unique name and story. Some bears suffered nearly 20 years in rusty, filthy cages, living in cramped conditions with scarce light. These bears had no bathing facilities, nothing to do and stood on concrete. Meanwhile, there were young bears, only a few weeks old, who became victims to unlawful cross-border wildlife trafficking.
Thus, many of the bears have developed severe behavioral disorders, which they gradually overcome under the new living conditions in the bear house. After rescue, the bears undergo a 21-day quarantine. During this period, veterinarians examine and treat them. Afterward, the center’s specialized staff transfers them to an appropriate bear house. Here, they receive food, hygiene maintenance, regular health check-ups, and care from veterinarians and professional staff.
Notably, the bears will live in a semi-natural, spacious, and clean environment. The Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary also builds models and climbing tools to encourage the bears’ natural behaviors. As a result, visitors to this sanctuary can observe and learn more about the rescue, rehabilitation, and care processes for these bears.
Practical Information
Here is some useful information you should know before your visit to the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary.
Operating hours
- Daily schedule: 09:00 – 17:00 daily.
Admission fees and booking
A variety of visiting options are available at the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary, each offering unique experiences.
- Prices: VND 50,000 – 250,000 per tour, lasting 30 – 120 minutes. (*price for 2024)
- Book online HERE ⇒ Bear Sanctuary Ninh Binh Official Website
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
- What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle are recommended. Also, remember to bring your camera to record the stunning landscapes and memorable encounters with the bears.
- Language: English and Vietnamese
Prepare for an unforgettable journey at the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary, a haven for bears rescued from captivity and bile farming. More than a refuge for bears, it’s one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Ninh Binh for nature enthusiasts and environmental advocates. So, why wait? Put on your adventure boots and head to the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary. Join us in making a significant difference!
