Tra Su is a Cajuput forest and eco-tourism area established in 1983, covering nearly 850 hectares located in Van Giao commune, Tinh Bien district. It is a typical flooded forest of the Hau River region, playing a crucial role in water environment and climate regulation for the entire Seven Mountains region. The forest is home to many rare species of animals and plants belonging to Vietnam’s specialized forest system.
Visitors to Tra Su will immediately notice the immersion in nature, drawn not only by the lush greenery of the shaded Cajuput forest but also by close encounters with numerous rare bird species and wild animals. This area is developed to conserve a diverse range of tropical organisms found in the Southwest region of Vietnam.
Local guides use boats to take tourists deep into the Cajuput forest. Sitting on the boat, you will encounter birds perched right on the tree trunks and various colorful lotuses. If desired, visitors can request the boat driver to pause to fully appreciate the tranquil surroundings and capture the moments of nature.
The Tra Su Cajuput forest serves as the backdrop for the movie “Southern Land”, directed by Nguyen Quang Dung, which has recently premiered in Vietnam.
I, The best time to visit Tra Su Cajuput Forest
The flooding season, from September to November each year, is considered the best time to experience the beauty of the Cajuput forest. As water inundates the area, it nourishes the lush greenery and combines with layers of green duckweed covering the water’s surface, creating a stunning landscape. The flooding season also provides favorable conditions for the growth of fish and shrimp species and becomes an attractive destination for many bird species.
To fully enjoy a day at Tra Su Cajuput forest and indulge in local specialties from the Mekong Delta, consider the following travel tips:
Accommodation: Stay overnight in Chau Doc city for convenience. Depart for Tra Su in the morning and return in the evening. Tra Su is approximately 30 km from Chau Doc, a 30 to 40-minute drive by car or motorbike on a convenient route.
Best Times to Visit: The best times to explore Tra Su are early morning or during sunset. From around 3 to 5 PM, many bird species gather in the forest, creating beautiful natural scenes.
Entrance Fees:
General Admission: Includes access to the entire Cajuput forest and the longest bamboo bridge in Vietnam. Cost is 100,000 VND per person. Children under 1.3 meters tall and adults over 70 years old enter for free.
Boat Service Ticket: 60,000 VND per person for motorboat service.
Rowing Boat Service: 60,000 VND per person for a rowing boat shared by 3 to 4 people.
Special discounts may apply for tours and group bookings. Contact the tourist area in advance for details.
II, What to do in Tra Su Cajuput Forest
These tips will help you make the most of your visit to Tra Su Cajuput forest, ensuring a memorable experience amidst its natural beauty and wildlife.
The longest bamboo bridge in Vietnam is a highlight of Tra Su Cajuput forest. Recognized by the Vietnam Record Organization, this bridge spans a total length of 10 kilometers. However, as of early 2020, the completed phase 1 is nearly 4 kilometers long, constructed using over 500,000 bamboo trees at a cost exceeding 5 billion VND. Phase 2, extending approximately 6 kilometers, is currently under construction.
The bridge is divided into 5 sections, each featuring rest pavilions. As you venture deeper along the bridge, the scenery becomes more breathtaking, with tranquil and cool surroundings. The bridge leads to motorboat docks, where visitors can embark or disembark to adjust their itinerary.
This bamboo bridge offers a unique way to experience the beauty of Tra Su, providing a serene path through the lush landscape of Cajuput trees and enhancing the overall visit with its peaceful ambiance.
1, Visiting the Cajuput forest by motorboat or rowing boat
Motorboat (Speedboat): These boats travel at higher speeds and cover more distance. Visitors embark on a journey through narrow channels, penetrating deep into the heart of the Cajuput forest. Along the way, you can observe local villagers harvesting honey from beehives placed within the forest. It’s an opportunity to relax, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and learn about the local way of life.
Rowing Boat (Sampan): These traditional boats provide a slower and more intimate experience. They glide gently through the waterways, allowing passengers to appreciate the greenery and the full coverage of duckweed on the water’s surface. If you’re fortunate to visit on a sunny day, the sunlight filtering through the tree branches creates a mystical atmosphere.
Both options—motorboat and rowing boat—offer ample opportunities for capturing beautiful photographs amidst the lush green landscape and reflective waters. Whether speeding through channels or leisurely rowing through tranquil paths, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and serene ambiance of Tra Su Cajuput forest.
2, Observation tower
For a panoramic view of Tra Su Cajuput forest, visitors should visit the observation tower and utilize binoculars. With a view extending up to 25 kilometers, you can observe the entire Cajuput forest, watch birds soaring and nesting on tree branches. From this vantage point, you can also catch a glimpse of the Khmer village located a few kilometers away.
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