When people think of Vietnam, often the first things that come to mind are the food, coffee, the Vietnam War, the Mekong Delta and maybe a motorbike or two. Even for wildlife inclined people, Vietnam is probably best known for its birds (think pittas, laughingthrushes, pheasants and perhaps even the critically endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper). But for those in the know, one of the most striking, iconic and most spectacular groups of animals are Vietnam’s Douc Langurs. These large, arboreal primates from the Pygathrix genus are known for their vibrant fur and expressive faces, making them among the most photogenic, striking (and most at risk of extinction) groups of mammals in the world. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the three species of Douc Langurs and offer tips on where to see them in Vietnam.

Red-shanked Douc Langur (Pygathrix nemaeus)

The Red-shanked Douc Langur is perhaps the most visually stunning of three Douc Langur species. Often called “The Queen of the Primates” and “the World’s Most Beautiful Monkey”, these striking primates are a by far the most sought after primate for wildlife and mammal photographers in Vietnam. With their large, human-like eyes, distinctive white beard and whiskers, bright red legs, silvery-grey fur, black “gloves” and “boots,” and a long, snowy-white tail over 60 cm in length, they are nothing short of extraordinary.

These remarkable monkeys are found in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests in Central Vietnam, with notable populations in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Bach Ma National Park, and the Son Tra Nature Reserve in Da Nang City, which hosts the largest population in the country.

In 2020, the IUCN reclassified these magnificent primates as Critically Endangered due to a dramatic population decline, with an estimated 50% of the global population lost over the past 30–40 years. Their primary threat is hunting, as they are still used for food, traditional medicine and in international trade. Other threats include habitat loss and the illegal pet trade.

If you’re visiting Da Nang or Central Vietnam, make sure to include the magnificent Red-shanked Douc Langur on your wildlife bucket list (so get in touch!). Witnessing these primates in their natural habitat is an experience like no other.

The Grey-shanked Douc Langur (Pygathrix cinerea)

Slightly less flamboyant than the Red-shanked Douc Langur (but no less beautiful), the Grey-shanked Douc Langur boasts a subtle yet striking beauty. Their predominantly grey fur is accented by distinctive white patches and darker limbs, creating a muted color palette that helps them blend seamlessly into the dense forest canopies of Central Vietnam. This camouflage makes them the most elusive (typically) of Vietnam’s Douc Langurs, especially when scoping edges of  distant evergreen forest.

Like their relatives, Grey-shanked Doucs are diurnal and arboreal, spending most of their lives in the trees. These rare primates are endemic to Vietnam, with their range limited to the forests of Quang Nam, Kon Tum, and Gia Lai provinces. They typically inhabit mountainous forests at mid-elevations, sharing similar habitats with the Red-shanked Douc Langur. However, they are significantly more secretive and skittish, making sightings a rare and special experience.

With fewer than 1,000 individuals remaining, the Grey-shanked Douc Langur is critically endangered. Their small population and restricted range make them one of the most challenging primates to find. For wildlife enthusiasts and mammal watchers, observing this elusive species is the ultimate prize. Tracking them requires the expertise of local guides and specialists, so don’t hesitate to reach out if this incredible primate is on your must-see list!

Black-shanked Douc Langur (Pygathrix nigripes)

In Vietnam, this species is Critically Endangered, with fewer than 500 individuals estimated to remain. Their Vietnamese range is highly restricted, with Cat Tien National Park and a few surrounding forests serving as their primary habitats. In contrast, the majority of the global population (around 25,000 individuals) thrives in Cambodia’s Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary, where they are relatively stable and well-protected. This makes the Black-shanked Douc Langur the most secure of the three Douc species globally.

Black-shanked Doucs are primarily folivorous but are notably more flexible in their diet compared to their relatives. They consume a wide variety of tree and plant species and adapt their diet to the changing seasons, switching between food sources in the dry and wet seasons. This dietary versatility contributes to their resilience in certain habitats.

Despite their adaptability, they face numerous threats, including poaching, hunting, habitat loss and the illegal pet trade. Furthermore, their restricted range and dependence on specific forest habitats make them particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

For those ready to find their own Black-shanked Douc Langur, tours to Cat Tien National Park or specialist mammal-watching tours offer the best opportunities. Please get in touch if you have any questions or would like to plan your adventure!

Summary:

The Douc Langurs of Vietnam are among the most beautiful and endangered primates in the world. As essential contributors to the health of Vietnam’s forest ecosystems, their survival is critical. However, hunting, habitat loss, and the illegal pet trade have pushed these remarkable species to the brink. By supporting conservation efforts, raising awareness, and protecting their natural habitats, we can ensure these extraordinary animals continue to thrive in the wild for generations.

Visiting Vietnam? Don’t miss the chance to see these rare primates in their natural environment. Our expert-led wildlife tours take you to the best locations, combining unforgettable experiences with a commitment to education and conservation tourism. Learn more or book your tour today!