Tra Su Melaleuca Forest Activities Guide: Top Eco-Adventures in An Giang’s Mekong Delta

A Biodiversity and Cultural Hotspot Near Chau Doc

Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, nestled in Van Giao commune, An Giang Province, is a premier eco-tourism destination in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, attracting 15,000 visitors annually. Spanning 845 hectares, this submerged forest, part of An Giang’s UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, offers a vibrant ecosystem of cajuput trees, lotus-filled waterways, and diverse wildlife, far surpassing its outdated image as a mere nature spot. The tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F; rainy season: May–October, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F) enhances its lush scenery, ideal for sustainable activities like boat tours, birdwatching, and cultural experiences costing $5–$40 (125,000–1,000,000 VND). Its proximity to Chau Doc and the region’s Cham, Khmer, Kinh, and Hoa communities add cultural richness, making it a must-visit for nature and culture enthusiasts.

Legend Travel Group, a sustainable tourism leader since 2008, offers eco-friendly tours to Tra Su, using electric boats and bicycles to immerse travelers in its natural splendor while preserving the environment. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your journey.

Administrative Note

Use “Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, An Giang Province” for navigation. Located 30 km from Chau Doc and 64 km from Long Xuyen City, An Giang’s administrative center, the forest is accessible via Provincial Road 948 from Nha Bang town, enhanced by the merger of Kien Giang into An Giang Province.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group serves 20,000 travelers annually across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, prioritizing sustainable tourism. Our Tra Su tours feature eco-friendly transport, English-speaking guides with deep local knowledge, and partnerships with local communities to preserve the forest’s ecosystem. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours prior, and 24/7 support. Book through this guide for a responsible, immersive experience that supports An Giang’s green tourism vision.

Tra Su offers a range of eco-friendly activities that highlight its biodiversity and cultural connections, perfect for adventurers, photographers, and families:

1. Tắc Ráng Canoe Tours

Glide through lotus-filled waterways on traditional “tắc ráng” canoes ($8–$20 or 200,000–500,000 VND for 1–2 hours), exploring narrow canals lined with cajuput trees. Spot fish, shrimp, and birds like herons and painted storks, especially vibrant during the flood season (August–November). These eco-friendly boats minimize environmental impact, offering a serene journey into the forest’s heart.

2. Ten Thousand Steps Bamboo Bridge

Explore the 10-km Guinness-record bamboo bridge (free with $4 or 100,000 VND entrance ticket), winding through towering cajuput trees. Walk or cycle ($2–$6/day or 50,000–150,000 VND for bike rental) to capture panoramic views of the forest, rice fields, and thốt nốt palms. The bridge, made from sustainable Vietnamese bamboo, offers a low-carbon way to experience Tra Su’s scenery.

3. Birdwatching

Observe over 70 bird species, including rare painted storks and oriental darters, using telescopes ($0.25 or 5,000 VND) from the 14-meter watchtower or along waterways. Dawn (5:30–7:00 AM) and dusk (4:00–6:00 PM) are prime times, especially during the flood season when bird activity peaks. Guided birdwatching tours ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND) provide expert insights into Tra Su’s avian diversity.

4. Culinary Experiences

Savor Mekong Delta specialties in airy leaf huts, such as Lau Ca Linh hotpot with Dien Dien flowers ($3–$8 or 75,000–200,000 VND), grilled snakehead fish, or chicken with cajuput honey ($3–$8 or 75,000–200,000 VND). These dishes, served at Tra Su’s eco-friendly eateries, highlight local ingredients and sustainable practices. Pair with Thot Not Juice ($0.80–$2 or 20,000–50,000 VND) for a refreshing treat.

5. Cultural Workshops

Join Cham-led weaving or cooking classes in nearby villages ($10–$25 or 250,000–625,000 VND), learning to craft Tan Chau silk or cook Bun Ca Chau Doc. These workshops support local artisans and preserve cultural traditions, offering hands-on immersion into An Giang’s Cham and Khmer heritage.

6. Cajuput Honey Harvesting

Witness locals harvesting cajuput honey, a sustainable practice yielding a unique, aromatic product ($3–$8 or 75,000–200,000 VND per jar). Guided tours ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND) explain the process, connecting visitors with Tra Su’s eco-friendly initiatives.

7. Nearby Attractions

Extend your adventure with these nearby sites:

• Ba Chua Xu Temple (30 km, free entry): A UNESCO-recognized spiritual site with vibrant festivals.

• Chau Doc Floating Market (30 km, $12–$25 or 300,000–625,000 VND): A bustling river market, best in the flood season.

• Cam Mountain (40 km, $5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND): Trek An Giang’s highest peak for scenic views.

• May–October (Rainy Season, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F): The flood season (August–November) transforms Tra Su into a vibrant, waterlogged paradise, ideal for boat tours and birdwatching. Lush waterways teem with fish, shrimp, and birds, with water lilies and duckweed creating a green carpet. Fewer crowds (50–200 daily visitors) ensure a serene visit. Bring rain gear ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Book tours 24–48 hours ahead.

• November–April (Dry Season, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F): Clear skies and moderate crowds (100–300 daily visitors) make this perfect for cycling, walking the bamboo bridge, and photography. Festivals like Ba Chua Xu (April/May) and Chol Chnam Thmay (mid-April) add cultural vibrancy. Book tours 1–2 weeks ahead, especially during festivals.

• Festival Seasons:

  • Floating Water Festival (Early September): Pair with Tra Su for boat races at Bung Binh Thien, 2,000+ visitors. Book 2–4 weeks ahead.

  • Ba Chua Xu Festival (April/May): Combines with Tra Su tours, 10,000+ visitors. Book 2–4 weeks ahead.

  • Chol Chnam Thmay (Mid-April): Cham New Year, 1,000+ visitors. Book 1–2 weeks ahead.

• Timing Tip: Visit at dawn (5:30–7:00 AM) for birdwatching; afternoons for boat tours; evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) for dining.

From Chau Doc (30 km, 45–60 minutes)

• Route: From Chau Doc city center, follow Tan Lo Kieu Luong Road to National Highway 91. At Nha Bang town, turn left onto Provincial Road 948, then proceed 3 km along Tra Su Canal to the forest entrance.

• Transport Options:

  • Motorbike: $3–$7/day (75,000–175,000 VND), ideal for flexibility.

  • Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND), eco-friendly and comfortable.

  • Electric Shuttle: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND), sustainable group option.

  • Bicycle: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND), scenic and low-carbon.

• Navigation Tip: Save “Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, An Giang Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

From Long Xuyen City (64 km, 1.5–2 hours)

• Route: From Long Xuyen city center, take National Highway 91 to Chau Doc, then follow Provincial Road 948 from Nha Bang town to Tra Su Canal.

• Transport Options:

  • Bus: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND) to Nha Bang, then taxi or motorbike to Tra Su.

  • Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND), direct and eco-friendly.

  • Motorbike: $3–$7/day (75,000–175,000 VND), scenic and flexible.

• Navigation Tip: Use offline maps for “Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, An Giang Province.” Parking: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

From Ho Chi Minh City (280 km, 5–6 hours)

• Route: Travel to Chau Doc via National Highway 1A, then follow the Chau Doc route.

• Transport Options:

  • Bus: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND) from Mien Tay Bus Station to Chau Doc (e.g., Phuong Trang, Hung Cuong), then taxi or motorbike to Tra Su.

  • Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $120–$180 (3,000,000–4,500,000 VND), direct and eco-friendly.

  • Flight + Bus: Fly to Can Tho ($40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND) + bus to Chau Doc ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND), then taxi or motorbike.

• Navigation Tip: Save “Chau Doc, An Giang Province” and “Tra Su Melaleuca Forest” in offline maps.

From Hanoi (1,600 km, 5–6 hours)

• Route: Fly to Can Tho or Rach Gia, then travel to Chau Doc and follow the route above.

• Transport Options:

  • Flight + Bus: Fly to Can Tho ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND) + bus to Chau Doc ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND), then taxi or motorbike.

  • Flight + Taxi: Fly to Rach Gia (Kien Giang ward, $90–$160 or 2,250,000–4,000,000 VND) + Xanh SM electric taxi to Tra Su ($15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND).

• Navigation Tip: Use offline maps for “Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, An Giang Province.”

Eco-Friendly Note

Opt for bicycles or electric shuttles to minimize environmental impact; book through Legend Travel Group for sustainable transport arrangements.

• Walking: Free, ideal for the 10-km bamboo bridge and nearby paths (1–2 km radius).

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND), perfect for forest trails.

• Tắc Ráng Canoe: $8–$20 (200,000–500,000 VND) for 1–2 hour waterway tours.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Prioritize bicycles or canoes; book through Legend Travel Group.

• Tip: Confirm fares upfront; rent bikes at Tra Su’s entrance.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire, sturdy sandals, hat; waterproof poncho ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season; long sleeves for sun protection. Avoid high heels.

• Gear: Reusable water bottle ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), reusable tote ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), biodegradable wipes.

• Essentials: Compact umbrella ($3–$6), hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), sunscreen ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), binoculars for birdwatching ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Tech: Smartphone with Vietmap/Maps.me, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($6–$12 or 150,000–300,000 VND).

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

Activity Costs

• Entrance Ticket: $4 (100,000 VND).

• Tắc Ráng Canoe: $8–$20 (200,000–500,000 VND).

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND).

• Telescope Observation: $0.25 (5,000 VND).

• Culinary Experiences/Workshops: $6–$25 (150,000–625,000 VND).

• Nearby Attractions: $2–$25 (50,000–625,000 VND).

Transport Costs (Local)

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND).

• Motorbike Rental: $3–$7/day (75,000–175,000 VND).

• Electric Shuttle: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $0.50–$1/km (12,500–25,000 VND).

Accommodation Costs

• Budget Homestays (e.g., Tra Su Eco Homestay): $12–$25/night (300,000–625,000 VND).

• Mid-Range Hotels (e.g., Chau Doc Riverside Hotel): $30–$50/night (750,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Luxury Hotels (e.g., Victoria Chau Doc Hotel): $60–$100/night (1,500,000–2,500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $15–$30 (self-guided exploration, local snacks).

• Mid-Range: $40–$60 (guided boat tour, homestay dining).

• Luxury: $80–$120 (premium tours, upscale lodging).

• Timing: Visit at dawn (5:30–7:00 AM) for birdwatching; afternoons for boat tours; evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) for dining. Expect 50–300 visitors daily, peaking during festivals.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead; book festival tours (September, April) 1–4 weeks ahead. Homestays require 1–2 days’ notice.

• Sustainability: Use reusable items; support artisans with purchases like cajuput honey ($3–$8 or 75,000–200,000 VND). Choose eco-friendly transport like bicycles or canoes.

• Navigation: Save “Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, An Giang Province” in offline maps; key sites are within 30–64 km.

• Safety: Secure valuables; wear life jackets on boats. Avoid loud noises to protect wildlife. Check for typhoons (June–December).

• Cultural Respect: Greet with “xin chào”; respect local customs by dressing modestly and avoiding disruption during boat tours.

Discover Tra Su with our eco-friendly tour packages:

• Tra Su Melaleuca Forest Adventure ($90–$130/person, 1 day): Enjoy a tắc ráng boat tour, birdwatching, and local cuisine. Includes guide, eco-transport, meals.

• An Giang Eco-Immersion ($170–$230/person, 2 days): Explore Tra Su, Chau Doc Floating Market, and eco-homestays. Includes meals, guide, eco-transport.

• Mekong Delta Eco-Explorer ($420–$580/person, 4 days): Visit Tra Su, Ba Chua Xu Temple, and Cam Mountain with boat and bike tours. Includes meals, eco-transport.

• Prices include guides, eco-transport, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now for an unforgettable journey.

Tra Su Melaleuca Forest in An Giang Province offers a rich array of eco-friendly activities, from gliding through lotus-filled canals to spotting rare birds and savoring local cuisine. Its vibrant ecosystem and proximity to Chau Doc make it a top Mekong Delta destination. Legend Travel Group’s An Giang Tours ensure a responsible, immersive adventure that supports local communities and preserves An Giang’s environment, blending natural wonders with cultural experiences. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-tour today to experience Tra Su’s natural and cultural wonders!
Ready to explore the eco-adventures of Tra Su Melaleuca Forest? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Mekong Delta adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group