Tra Su Melaleuca Forest Photography Guide: Capture An Giang’s Eco-Gem in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta

A Visual Paradise Near Chau Doc

Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, located in Van Giao commune, An Giang Province, is a photographer’s dream, attracting 15,000 visitors annually to its 845-hectare expanse in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Far beyond its outdated image as a mere nature spot, this UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve boasts a vibrant ecosystem of cajuput trees, lotus-filled waterways, and over 70 bird species, offering endless opportunities for stunning shots. 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, with eco-friendly activities like boat tours and cycling ($5–$40 or 125,000–1,000,000 VND) complementing photography. Its proximity to Chau Doc and the region’s Cham, Khmer, Kinh, and Hoa communities add cultural depth to your frames.

Legend Travel Group, a sustainable tourism leader since 2008, offers eco-friendly photography tours to Tra Su, using electric boats and bicycles to immerse you 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 photography tours feature eco-friendly transport, English-speaking guides with local knowledge, and partnerships with 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’s diverse landscapes and wildlife offer unparalleled photography opportunities. Here are the top spots and tips to capture its beauty:

1. Ten Thousand Steps Bamboo Bridge

• Why Shoot Here: This 10-km Guinness-record bamboo bridge, winding through cajuput trees, offers dramatic perspectives of the forest’s green canopy and reflective waterways. Sunrise (5:30–7:00 AM) provides soft, golden light for ethereal shots.

• Photography Tips:

  • Use a wide-angle lens (16–35mm) to capture the bridge’s curves and towering trees.

  • Shoot during the dry season (November–April) for clear skies and vibrant greens.

  • Frame locals or cyclists ($2–$6/day or 50,000–150,000 VND for bike rental) for dynamic human elements.

• Cost: Free with $4 (100,000 VND) entrance ticket.

2. Lotus-Filled Waterways

• Why Shoot Here: The flood season (August–November) transforms canals into a vibrant green carpet of water lilies and duckweed, perfect for capturing reflections and wildlife. Tắc ráng canoe tours ($8–$20 or 200,000–500,000 VND) take you deep into these scenic channels.

• Photography Tips:

  • Use a polarizing filter to enhance water reflections and reduce glare.

  • Shoot at dawn or dusk for soft lighting and active wildlife, like fish and shrimp.

  • Capture close-ups of lotus flowers or wide shots of canoes gliding through green waterways.

• Cost: $8–$20 (200,000–500,000 VND) for canoe tours.

3. 14-Meter Watchtower

• Why Shoot Here: The watchtower offers panoramic views of the forest, rice fields, and thốt nốt palms, ideal for landscape photography. During the flood season, storks and herons perch on treetops, adding dynamic subjects.

• Photography Tips:

  • Use a telephoto lens (70–200mm) for bird close-ups or a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas.

  • Visit at dusk (4:00–6:00 PM) for golden-hour lighting and bird activity.

  • Rent telescopes ($0.25 or 5,000 VND) for detailed wildlife shots.

• Cost: Free with entrance ticket; telescope $0.25 (5,000 VND).

4. Cajuput Tree Canopy

• Why Shoot Here: Rows of towering cajuput trees create a natural tunnel, perfect for dramatic, symmetrical shots. The flood season enhances reflections, while the dry season offers crisp, clear compositions.

• Photography Tips:

  • Use a drone (with permission) for aerial shots of the canopy and waterways.

  • Shoot in RAW format to capture the vibrant greens and subtle light gradients.

  • Include local boats or wildlife for storytelling elements.

• Cost: Included in boat tours or bridge access.

5. Birdwatching Hotspots

• Why Shoot Here: Tra Su is home to 70+ bird species, including rare painted storks and oriental darters, making it a haven for wildlife photography. The flood season boosts bird activity, with flocks visible from boats or the watchtower.

• Photography Tips:

  • Use a telephoto lens (200–400mm) and fast shutter speed (1/1000s) for sharp bird shots.

  • Shoot at dawn (5:30–7:00 AM) when birds are most active, avoiding midday heat.

  • Join guided birdwatching tours ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND) for expert spotting tips.

• Cost: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND) for guided tours; telescope $0.25 (5,000 VND).

Beyond photography, Tra Su offers immersive eco-friendly experiences:

• Tắc Ráng Canoe Tours: Explore narrow canals on traditional canoes ($8–$20 or 200,000–500,000 VND), ideal for close-up nature observation.

• Cajuput Honey Harvesting: Witness sustainable honey collection ($3–$8 or 75,000–200,000 VND per jar), with guided tours ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND) explaining the process.

• Culinary Experiences: Savor Mekong Delta dishes like Lau Ca Linh hotpot or grilled chicken with cajuput honey ($3–$8 or 75,000–200,000 VND) in airy leaf huts.

• Cultural Workshops: Join Cham weaving or cooking classes in nearby villages ($10–$25 or 250,000–625,000 VND), supporting artisans.

• Nearby Attractions: Visit Ba Chua Xu Temple (30 km, free entry), Chau Doc Floating Market (30 km, $12–$25 or 300,000–625,000 VND), or Cam Mountain (40 km, $5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).

• May–October (Rainy Season, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F): The flood season (August–November) is ideal for vibrant waterway shots, with lotus blooms and duckweed creating a green carpet. Bird activity peaks, perfect for wildlife photography. Fewer crowds (50–200 daily visitors). 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 golden sunlight make this perfect for landscape and bridge photography. Moderate crowds (100–300 daily visitors). Book tours 1–2 weeks ahead, especially during festivals.

• Festival Seasons:

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

  • Ba Chua Xu Festival (April/May): Capture cultural scenes near Chau Doc, 10,000+ visitors. Book 2–4 weeks ahead.

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

• Timing Tip: Shoot at dawn (5:30–7:00 AM) for soft light and active wildlife; dusk (4:00–6:00 PM) for golden-hour landscapes; avoid midday heat.

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.

• Photography Gear: DSLR/mirrorless camera, wide-angle (16–35mm) and telephoto (70–400mm) lenses, polarizing filter, tripod, waterproof camera case, extra batteries, and memory cards.

• Other 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 ($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 photography tour, homestay dining).

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

• Timing: Shoot at dawn (5:30–7:00 AM) for soft light and active wildlife; dusk (4:00–6:00 PM) for golden-hour shots. Expect 50–300 visitors daily, peaking during festivals.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s photography 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 camera gear; 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 asking permission before photographing people.

Discover Tra Su with our eco-friendly tour packages:

• Tra Su Photography Adventure ($100–$140/person, 1 day): Capture the forest’s beauty with guided boat tours, birdwatching, and expert photography tips. Includes guide, eco-transport, meals.

• An Giang Eco-Immersion ($180–$240/person, 2 days): Photograph Tra Su, Chau Doc Floating Market, and stay at eco-homestays. Includes meals, guide, eco-transport.

• Mekong Delta Eco-Explorer ($430–$590/person, 4 days): Shoot 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 is a photographer’s paradise, offering stunning shots of lotus-filled waterways, cajuput canopies, and vibrant wildlife near Chau Doc. From the iconic bamboo bridge to birdwatching hotspots, it’s a must-visit for capturing the Mekong Delta’s natural beauty. Legend Travel Group’s An Giang Tours guide you through this eco-tourism gem, ensuring a sustainable An Giang Travel experience that supports local communities and preserves the environment. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Tra Su adventure today!
Ready to capture the stunning beauty 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.