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Nature/ Wildlife Areas in Hong Kong

Top Nature & Wildlife Areas in Hong Kong, China

Nature & Wildlife Areas in Hong Kong

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  • EastmeetsWestAB
    London, UK1,361 contributions
    Review of: Hong Kong Wetland Park
    Easy to walk, a great day out
    A great day out and it is not too difficult to get to from central as there is a direct bus to get to the wetland park.

    The park is nicely done and the entrance fee is reasonable. Unfortunately there are a lot of big ants now and the park will not treat it. Make sure u bring an insect repellant with you. Food here is OK but do bring your own food or drinks.

    The hides is lovely. It is really a brilliant hiding place to cool yourself down and take pictures of birds. I can sit in the hides for ages provided there are no swarms of ants.

    Would definitely recommend.
    Written 13 May 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China146,662 contributions
    Review of: Mai Po Nature Reserve
    Fewer birds to be seen during May visits but still a really nice day out
    Recently participated in the English language Mangrove Boardwalk Adventure tour run by the WWF at the Mai Po Nature Reserve and had another very good experience birdwatching and spending time out in nature.

    This tour was rescheduled a couple times due to the 5th wave which shut down pretty much all events throughout the city over the past few months. There were only 4 participants this time around, the tour leader, Walter, did a very good job of explaining some of the history of the area, the role of the WWF and the founding of the Mai Po Nature Reserve, an important year round ecosystem and migration stopping ground for tens of thousands of birds during the cooler winter months.

    Visiting during May meant seeing far fewer numbers of birds and some species that are around earlier in the year having cleared out, returning home. We did see a few groups of black-faced spoonbills and other interesting birds including wagtails, turns, avocets, sandpipers, whimbrel, curlew, common redshank (one on a nest which is supposedly very rare at Mai Po), grebe, heron, loads of egrets (several cattle egrets only seen here now that they have two resident buffalo), coucals, magpies and others. There were quite a few butterflies, moths and loads of dragonflies on this occasion.

    One of the neat features of the Mangrove Boardwalk adventure is that they take you into the restricted Deep Bay mangrove area, where you walk across floating boardwalk for around 10 minutes until reaching hides deep into the bay. The birdwatching was excellent here while the tide was low. Many of the birds flew back into the gei wei ponds closer inshore as the tide began to rise. Walter took us back to a couple hides closer inland where we saw many more birds.

    The tour is around 5 hours in length from pick-up to drop-ff in Yuen Long and you have around 4 hours of actual birdwatching. Most tours are in Cantonese but you can join them as well, even if you don't speak the language. The guide will explain things to you on the side after addressing the rest of the group in Cantonese. We've done this before, it is just fine. Otherwise, they run several English language tours which are better suited to English speaking visitors. You can book these tours rather simply through the WWF Hong Kong website. For winter tours when the migratory birds are in the area, best to book the English language tours a month or more in advance as they are popular.

    Note: You can rent binoculars from the WWF (presently HK$20 per person). If you have a quality pair, bring them. The birds are expediently at great distances away much of the time, you'll need them to see the birds well.
    Written 15 May 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • Maggie.C
    Hong Kong, China55 contributions
    Review of: Ha Pak Nai
    Great place for sunset 🌅
    It is a secret place for taking photos of beautiful sunset. If you are brave enough to explore and walk around, you will find many interesting spots to take photos.
    Written 18 February 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • Mairwen1
    United Kingdom6,324 contributions
    Review of: Hong Kong Trail
    Section 8 'Dragon's Back' is Unbeatable for Scenic Views
    The Hong Kong Hiking Trail is one of “The Big 4” hiking trails that together cover the whole of the island. This trail stretches over 50km, running from Victoria Peak to Big Wave Bay and crossing over 5 different country parks.
    It is broken into 8 clear sections, making it very easy to choose the sections you want to do and pick up the start of that trail. Be aware that the different sections vary quite a lot in difficulty.
    Overall, the trails are really well marked and sign-posted. Each 500 metres, there is a standardised metal plaque so you can easily gauge how far you’ve come. Every once in a while, you will also come across a large map board which is handy to stop at and check your position, especially as some of the big trails intersect and overlap.
    None of the trails are loops so you will have to return via public transport or taxi to your starting point.
    The paths are generally easy to follow but they also vary enormously, from paved paths or roads to bushland dirt tracks which can be rocky or gravelly and stairs.
    Stage 8 is one of the most popular walking trails and is more commonly known as Dragon’s Back. I love this hike. It’s a moderately easy walk and is a good one for families. Although there is one long, steep stretch of stairs at the start, the rest of the walk is along the ridgeline. From here, you get the most wonderful views of the coastline and outlying islands and you end up at Big Wave Bay. It’s stunning and on a clear day, the views are just incredible. For tourists who have a few days here and want to see another side of Hong Kong, this walk is unbeatable.
    Stages 5 & 6 take you through Tai Tam Country Park but they are quite different hikes. Stage 5 is difficult whereas Stage 6 is an easy amble, over a long stonework dam and past the Tai Tam reservoirs and water catchments.
    All the country parks are free to enter.
    NOTE: Make sure to take plenty of water, sunscreen and hats with you as depending on which stretch you are doing, there may not be much opportunity to buy things or fill water bottles.
    Written 21 March 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • mosto
    Hong Kong, China2,831 contributions
    Review of: Aberdeen Country Park
    Well maintained park with hiking trails for all fitness levels
    This huge park is easily accessible from the city and has hiking trails for all levels of fitness. You can stay on the concrete route or make diversions to dirt trails. Comparatively with other hiking trails in HK, there are not a lot of uphill or downward steps but enough to get some cardio work. I find the trails pretty scenic with green mountains, foliage, 2 beautiful reservoirs with open views, lots of rock formations and small waterfalls if you make diversions into smaller trails. I’ve hike here a few times. You can spend at least 3 hours or more in the park and then end your hike either at Wan Chai for shopping and food or at Wong Chuk Hang and from there go to Ap Lei Chau for seafood or local food. I see a few solo hikers bringing their own food to eat in the park and then continue hiking. It’s a fabulous place to hike there if you don’t want to spend too much time on transportation to start point. To start at Wan Chai, you can access the Park via Wan Chai Gap and Wan Chai Heritage Green trail (the Park is just opposite the Heritage Green Trail). Alternatively, you can take the MTR to Wong Chuk Hang Station Exit A and take a mini bus to the Park. Either way, you plan the route you want to take when in the Park but whatever routes you take, don’t miss the Upper and Lower Reservoirs.
    Written 6 February 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China146,662 contributions
    Review of: Lai Chi Wo Village and Nature Trail
    UNESCO Geopark - rare and beautiful sedimentary rocks at Lai Chi Wo
    One of the most interesting things to see at the historic village of Lai Chi Wo is the stretch of coastline lined with beautiful sedimentary rocks - the result Lai Chi Wo being is included in the Hong Kong UNESCO Geopark. It is a great place to view rare and impressive geology while spending time enjoying the outdoors of the Plover Cove Country Park.

    The sedimentary rocks are identified as point (6) on the Lai Chi Wo Trail. The trail starts at the village and makes it way through a really nice Heritiera forest, mangrove forest and mudflat. You then start to see some of the sedimentary rocks before walking over a an old village dam structure. Once you reach the other side, you are treated to a trove of brightly coloured rock structures that are amongst the most beautiful we have found around Hong Kong. Just look at the pictures attached to this review to get a feel for what you can expect to see here.
    Written 22 June 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China146,662 contributions
    Review of: Tai Po Kau Special Area
    Brown & Yellow trails make for a quality 1/2 day hike
    We recently spent a morning hiking in the Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve. This is a rare sub-tropic rainforest in Hong Kong with heavy wooded lands and forest, situated around a stream and with extended mountainside with elevations over 600 metres. There are a range of colour coded trail routes you can take, depending on how much time you have and how much of a challenging hike you are interested in doing.

    The Red (3.5 km) and Blue (4.5 km) trails are run around the the lower level grounds and the stream. They are shorter and take no more than a 1-2 hours depending on how many stops you make for picture taking. The Brown (7.8km) and Yellow (10.3 km) trails are considerably longer and make much higher ascends up the mountainside. These are much less trafficked if want to experience a more personal nature experience of Tai Po Kau. Particularly in the early mornings, you won't see many people on these two longer trails.

    During our recent hike, we took on the first half of the Yellow before reconnecting with the Brown Trail around the midway point. Very much enjoyed the thick and rich vegetation along these routes. Some serious mushrooms seen along the paths. Had some lovely bird sightings, highlighted by spending around 20 minutes with a group of feeding Minivets, the scarlet coloured males and bright yellow females are so lovely to see.

    Note: Do bring binoculars if you want to see the birdlife in Tai Po Kau up close. The park is one of the two finest locations in Hong Kong for birding and is particularly well-known for woodland species. Winter time visits are best as our resident birds are joined by numerous migratory visitors.

    Note: Tai Po Kau is one of the outdoor areas in HK where macaques live. However, they are they are far fewer here compared to what can be found at Lion Rock, Kam Shan or Shing Mun Country Parks back in Kowloon.

    Note: There are a few public toilet spots in the reserve but no shops or kiosks. Make sure to pickup whatever sufficient water and snacks before making your way there.

    Overall, Tai Po Kau is a great nature reserve. This is the best rainforest like environs we have in Hong Kong, mature forests provide plenty of shade and chances are high of seeing some wildlife, be it birdlife or the macaques that call the reserve their home. And the hikes are great if you enjoy ecology, green and heavily forested scenery.
    Written 7 November 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • EastmeetsWestAB
    London, UK1,361 contributions
    Review of: Yuen Tsuen Ancient Trail
    Absolutely loved it. Easy but long, great views, changing scenary
    We started our hike from adventist hospital after taking mini bus 95 from tsuen wan west mtr E2 exit.

    The hike is not difficult with beautiful views along the way. There are steps but they are quite easy to climb. The walk is long, but the views and scenary are changeable. From view to the harbour and bridge, to bamboo and wooded forest. The walk is sign posted well. Start early so that you can really enjoy the hike.

    A great way to finish the weekend. Remember to bring plenty of water and food. As there are no supplies in between.
    Written 28 February 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • Douglas H
    Hong Kong, China136 contributions
    Review of: Fung Yuen Butterfly Reserve
    A walk among the trees with butterflies and all kinds of interesting insects around.
    The weather is a bit cooler so there is a less problem of mosquitoes.
    You pay the entrance fee at the reception, and then make your way to gardens/hillside/fields. Though not a very big area, on a warm day, you can see A LOT OF BUTTERFLIES of different types. Apparently many rare types too!
    Just remember to respect the insects and respect the place.
    Written 27 November 2017
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • Leonhkny
    Hong Kong, China8,568 contributions
    Review of: Kerry Lake Egret Nature Park
    Weekend respite
    Lake Egret is a hidden gem in Tai Po. Quite distant from any tourist area, it is a popular place for picnic or weekend escape from the urban jungle. Many come for sports activities or simply have a nice meal in the two restaurants. Food is pretty nice, too.
    Written 9 April 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China146,662 contributions
    Review of: Fung Hang Family Walk
    isolated family walk in the North District in the Plover Cove Country Park
    This is a roughly 2.5 km easy trail in the northern part of the Plover Cove Country Park. It starts at Kai Kuk Shue Ha in the North District along the shore of the Starling Inlet before turning south and cutting though the country park and winding back to Bride's Pool Road.

    You'll see some decent forested lands and rural grounds of Plover Cove. The trail takes no more than 45 minutes to walk with elevation climb up to around 80 metres in total. Overall, an isolated but easy trail, good for those with little ones living in the area. If you are coming from the city, a far more interesting, easy trail is further south at Bride's Pool stop. There is a nature trail there that passes the stream and two very nice waterfalls and pools.
    Written 26 December 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • ECWorld
    Hong Kong, China2,647 contributions
    Review of: Lions Nature Education Centre
    Showing its age but still informative
    This is not exactly a tourist attraction (and there are many more interesting destinations in the area), but rather an education center for school visits etc. There are various exhibition halls covering different themes - the exhibits are certainly aging but I found some of them still surprising information. I learned about the use of artificial reefs to build up the local fishing stock, for instance. There is also an herbal garden in which the herbs are grouped based on their medicinal properties - very interesting indeed. The 'center' actually consists of small short trails and open areas, but I'd imagine it will be good for a day trip for a family with small kids. For the tourist - maybe not so much
    Written 16 June 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China146,662 contributions
    Review of: So Lo Pun Village
    Very interesting ghost village in Plover Cove Country Park
    So Lo Pun is one of the ghost villages in the Plover Cove Country Park in the Northeast of the New Territories of Hong Kong. It is an eery place with several rows of abandoned homes when can be accessed by way of country trail between the heritage village of Lai Chi Wo to the south and fellow ghost village Yung Shue Au to the North.

    The history of So Lo Pun includes Hakka roots and many generations of the Wong family, the likely original settlers of the village . The are interesting legends about So Lo Pun, including a reported mass disappearance of everyone in the village just before a ceremony during the era of the Japanese occupation (1940s). As well, hikers over the years having reported having their compasses stop working while they wandered the village hence the modern name - So Lo Pun which means locked compass in Cantonese.

    So Lo Pun is around 1 hour hike to the north from Lai Chi Wo or approximately 1 hour hike south from Yung Shue Au. The path is well maintained and easy to follow. If hiking on weekends, you will most likely see others hiking as well but in far fewer numbers to what you find in Hong Kong's more easily accessible trails.

    Arriving in the village, you will find three rows of abandoned homes that various states of ruinous condition. Most rooftops have caved in or given way to the weight of banyan trees which have grown upon them. However, most of the home entrances have remained standing. They are adorned with bright orange signs with various Chinese characters, evidence that while abandoned there remains a So Lo Pun Village Committee that tends to the village.

    You can walk the main walking paths in So Lo Pun and comfortably view the exteriors of the old homes. Notice the similar layout, grey brick constructions and simple interiors of most. However, best to not enter the actual homes for safety reasons.

    A few other interesting things to see at So Lo Pun include the modern shrine at the mouth of the village when approaching from Lai Chi Wo. The original shrine was damaged by a fallen banyan tree in 2018. It has since been replaced with the one you see today by the village committee. When exiting the village towards Yung Shue Au, there is a giant fallen tree that once laid across the walking path. It has now been cut through and cleared leaving a passage through a fallen tree. You'll next find is an old water well that is now filled in. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll find a small fenced off area completely overgrown with trees and other vegetation. Look carefully, you can make out playground gym items that rest now in thick forest. This would have been a children's playground area long ago.

    In the end, you can easily spend half an hour browsing and taking pictures of So Lo Pun. It is more photogenic than fellow ghost village Yung Shue Au and more eery and taken over by nature compared to the heritage village of Lai Chi Wo. Combined these make for a really neat day hiking through Plover Cove Country Park. It is interesting to see the ghost villages and to think about what sort of lives the villages would have lived here in centuries past.
    Written 6 February 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
  • Rocky
    4 contributions
    Review of: Hoi Ha Wan - WWF Marine Life Studies Centre
    Boat Tour to observe corals
    It is my second time to go to Hoi Ha, compare to the first time I go there with other tour company, WWF's glass-bottomed boat has more space and time for the visitors to observe the marine life easily ,furthermore the docents on the boat are very helpful, they indicate the corals so we do not miss the chance to say hello to it, besides they give a briefing on do's and don'ts and put safety at first, coxswain is familiar with the surrounding waters and sail us to a clam and clear water area for us to enjoy the ride. I highly recommended this activity to every Eco lover.
    Written 6 June 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
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