Explore Tra Su Melaleuca Forest in An Giang, a biodiversity haven near Chau Doc. Book eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group for a sustainable Mekong Delta experience.
Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, located in Van Giao commune, An Giang Province, is a must-visit eco-tourism destination in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, drawing 15,000 visitors annually. Spanning 845 hectares, this submerged forest, part of An Giang’s UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, transcends its outdated image as a simple nature spot with its rich ecosystem of cajuput trees, lotus-filled waterways, and diverse wildlife. 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 workshops 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 perfect blend of nature and heritage.
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 and cultural wonders while preserving the environment. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your journey.
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 Melaleuca Forest is a pristine ecosystem, home to 140 plant species, 70 bird species (including painted storks and herons), 11 mammals, 25 reptiles, and 10 fish species, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Its iconic 10-km “ten thousand steps” bamboo bridge, a Guinness record holder, winds through towering cajuput trees, offering stunning views. Restored post-Vietnam War by An Giang authorities, the forest features a 12-km dyke system to manage flooding, ensuring year-round accessibility. Eco-tourism initiatives, like cajuput honey harvesting and sustainable fishing, support local livelihoods. Boat tours on traditional “tắc ráng” canoes ($8–$20 or 200,000–500,000 VND) and cycling paths ($2–$6/day or 50,000–150,000 VND) provide low-carbon exploration.
The forest’s proximity to Chau Doc (30 km) allows easy combination with cultural sites like Ba Chua Xu Temple or Chau Doc Floating Market. Local cuisine, such as grilled snakehead fish with cajuput honey ($3–$8 or 75,000–200,000 VND), served in airy leaf huts, enhances the experience amidst poetic scenery.
Tra Su’s name, derived from the Khmer word “tà” (monk) and its abundance of melaleuca (tràm) trees, reflects its cultural ties to the Cham and Khmer communities. Its restoration after wartime damage symbolizes An Giang’s commitment to conservation, with the forest now a key part of the UNESCO biosphere reserve. Nearby Cham villages offer weaving workshops ($10–$25 or 250,000–625,000 VND), while festivals like Chol Chnam Thmay (mid-April) feature traditional performances, drawing 1,000+ visitors. Tra Su’s serene waterways have also served as a filming location for Southern Forest Land, highlighting its cultural prominence.
Tắc Ráng Boat Tours: Glide through lotus-filled waterways on traditional canoes ($8–$20 or 200,000–500,000 VND), spotting birds and cajuput trees, best during the flood season (August–November).
Bamboo Bridge Exploration: Walk or cycle the 10-km Guinness-record bamboo bridge ($2–$6/day or 50,000–150,000 VND for bike rental), offering panoramic forest views.
Birdwatching: Observe 70+ bird species using telescopes ($0.25 or 5,000 VND) at dawn or dusk, especially painted storks during the flood season.
Culinary Experiences: Enjoy Mekong Delta dishes like Lau Ca Linh hotpot or grilled chicken with cajuput honey ($3–$8 or 75,000–200,000 VND) in 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).
November–April (Dry Season, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F): Ideal for cycling, walking the bamboo bridge, and clear-sky photography with moderate crowds (100–300 daily visitors). Book tours 1–2 weeks ahead.
May–October (Rainy Season, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F): Lush waterways and vibrant flora during the flood season (August–November), perfect for boat tours and birdwatching with fewer crowds (50–200 daily visitors). Bring rain gear ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Last-minute bookings often available.
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.
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 flexible exploration.
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), perfect for scenic routes.
Navigation Tip: Save “Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, An Giang Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
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 a 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).
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, then taxi or motorbike to Tra Su (e.g., Phuong Trang, Hung Cuong).
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.
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.”
Opt for bicycles or electric shuttles to minimize environmental impact; book through Legend Travel Group for seamless, 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).
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).
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).
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).
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).
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, a 845-hectare eco-tourism destination in Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province, 190 km from Ho Chi Minh City, enchants with its unique blend of biodiversity, serene waterways, and cultural richness near Chau Doc, drawing thousands yearly. Glide through lotus-filled canals on eco-friendly boat tours ($3–$6, 75,000–150,000 VND), home to 140 bird species and 22 reptile species, or walk the world’s longest bamboo bridge (3.5 km, free access), offering panoramic views of the forest’s 22,000-year-old ecosystem. Legend Travel Group’s An Giang Tours ensure a responsible, immersive An Giang Travel experience, blending these adventures with visits to Chau Doc Floating Market, Ba Chua Xu Temple, and culinary delights like Bun Ca Chau Doc ($1.50–$3, 37,500–75,000 VND), supporting local communities and preserving An Giang’s environment. Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to discover the natural splendor of Tra Su Melaleuca Forest? Reserve your sustainable 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:
Tra Su Melaleuca Forest Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, fme.travel, vietnamamazingtours.com, scootersaigontour.com, angiang.gov.vn, mekongecotravel.com
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