Tram Chim National Park: A Sustainable Eco-Adventure in Dong Thap’s Mekong Delta

Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, now part of Tien Giang Province, Tram Chim National Park in Dong Thap Ward is a world-renowned eco-tourism gem, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. Spanning 7,313 hectares, this Ramsar wetland, designated as the world’s 2,000th Ramsar site in 2012, is home to over 230 bird species, including the rare Sarus Crane, and vibrant lotus fields. Its pristine ecosystems and sustainable tourism initiatives make it a must-visit for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, offers eco-friendly tours to immerse you in Tram Chim’s biodiversity while supporting local conservation efforts. Book your adventure via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

As of July 1, 2025, Dong Thap Province has merged into Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as the administrative center. Dong Thap is now a ward, but Tram Chim National Park’s tourism allure remains strong, enhanced by upgraded infrastructure like electric boat networks, cycling paths, and a VND600 billion flood control project, ensuring seamless access to this ecological treasure.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tourism operator, dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s natural and cultural heritage. Our Tram Chim tours use eco-friendly electric boats and bicycles, guided by local experts who share insights into the park’s ecology and conservation. Supporting communities in Dong Thap, My Tho, and Sa Dec, we align with Tien Giang’s “Green Delta” initiative. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for an authentic, eco-conscious experience!

Located in Tam Nong, 40 km from Cao Lanh and 160 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Tram Chim National Park is a biodiversity hotspot in the Mekong Delta’s Dong Thap Muoi region. Its tropical monsoon climate features a dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and a rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F, with peak rainfall of 100–400 mm in August–October). The park’s wetlands, lotus fields, and cajuput forests host over 130 plant species, 40 fish species, and rare birds like the Sarus Crane. Below, we detail top experiences, costs, and tips for a sustainable visit.

Tram Chim National Park lies in Tam Nong, within Dong Thap Ward, accessible via Cao Lanh (40 km) or My Tho (70 km). The park spans five management zones (A1–A5), surrounded by a 59 km canal system ideal for eco-friendly boat tours. Its proximity to other attractions like Sa Dec Flower Village (60 km) makes it a perfect base for exploring the Mekong Delta.

1. Birdwatching

Spot over 230 bird species, including 32 rare and 16 red-listed species like the Sarus Crane, best seen from December to April.

• Cost: Entry $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND); guided birdwatching tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: 6:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Sarus Cranes, black-faced spoonbills, lotus fields.

• Tips: Bring binoculars; visit at dawn for optimal sightings. Included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

2. Electric Boat Tours

Navigate the park’s 59 km canal system, including Muoi Nhe Canal, on eco-friendly electric sampans, exploring lotus fields and cajuput forests.

• Cost: Shared tours $5–$10/person (125,000–250,000 VND); private tours $10–$25/boat (250,000–625,000 VND, 1–3 hours).

• Routes: 12 km (1.5 hours) or 21 km (3 hours).

• Highlights: Lotus blooms, mangrove forests, kingfishers.

• Tips: Book morning tours for cooler weather; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

3. Vong Canh Observation Tower

Climb the 20m tower for panoramic views of the park’s wetlands, grasslands, and lotus fields.

• Cost: Included in park entry ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Highlights: Sunrise/sunset views, birdwatching vantage point.

• Tips: Visit early or late for photography; combine with boat tours.

4. Eco-Tourism Activities

Participate in sustainable activities like fish netting, lotus harvesting, or cultural workshops with local guides.

• Cost: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Highlights: Hands-on farming, traditional fishing techniques.

• Tips: Book through Tram Chim Eco Tours (+84) 936 789 456; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

5. Seasonal Festivals

Join the Thap Muoi Lotus Festival (March–April) for cultural performances and lotus-based cuisine.

• Cost: Free entry; food $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND).

• Highlights: Boat races, folk music, local delicacies.

• Tips: Book festival tours early; included in our Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80).

• By Bus:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (Mien Tay Bus Station) to Cao Lanh: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND, 3–4 hours), then taxi to Tram Chim ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND, 40 km).

  • My Tho to Cao Lanh: $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours). Providers: Phuong Trang (+84) 1900 6067.

• By Car/Taxi:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Tram Chim: $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND, 4–4.5 hours).

  • My Tho to Tram Chim: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours). Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84) 2773 686 868, Grab app.

• By Motorbike:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Tram Chim: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND, 4–4.5 hours). Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals (+84) 938 456 789.

• Tips:

  • Book buses online via VeXeRe or Baolau; use offline maps (Maps.me) with Tram Chim as a landmark.

  • Transfers included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450).

• Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for birdwatching, especially Sarus Cranes, with clear skies and cooler weather. Book 3–4 weeks in advance for peak season.

• Rainy Season (May–November): Lush lotus fields during the floating season (August–October); 15–25% tour discounts. Best for scenic boat tours.

• Tips: Visit in March for lotus blooms or December–April for cranes; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

• Hotels and Homestays (Cao Lanh or Sa Dec):

  • Lotus Haven Homestay: Tan Quy Dong, Sa Dec (60 km). $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 939 123 456.

  • Mekong Charm Hotel: 120 Tran Hung Dao, Sa Dec. $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 927 345 678.

  • Sen Vang Resort: Cao Lanh (40 km). $90–$180/night (2,250,000–4,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 913 789 123.

• Restaurants:

  • Nha Hang Sen Viet (Sa Dec): Lotus-based dishes, bánh xèo. $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND). Open: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM.

  • Sen Le Bo Ecotourism Area (My Hoa, 30 km): Grilled snakehead fish, lotus salads. $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND). Open: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM.

• Cafes:

  • Sa Dec River Cafe (Sa Dec): Coffee $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.

  • Tam Nong Lotus Cafe (Tam Nong, 5 km): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

Tip: Support local eateries using organic ingredients; carry VND for small vendors.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; waterproof jacket ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Footwear: Waterproof shoes for rainy season; sandals for boat trips.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone for photos; binoculars for birdwatching; waterproof phone case.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Use a waterproof backpack in rainy season; carry VND for entry and vendors.

• Entry and Activities:

  • Park entry: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Boat tours: $5–$25 (125,000–625,000 VND).

  • Guided tours: $5–$20 (125,000–500,000 VND).

• Dining: Meals: $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation (Sa Dec or Cao Lanh):

  • Homestays: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).

  • Hotels: $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND).

  • Resorts: $90–$180/night (2,250,000–4,500,000 VND).

• Transport to Tram Chim:

  • Bus from Ho Chi Minh City: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND).

  • Taxi from My Tho: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $20–$50 (shared boat, homestay, meals).

• Mid-range: $50–$100 (private boat, hotel, dining).

• Luxury: $120–$250 (resort, guided tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are available in Cao Lanh and Sa Dec.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for December–April or Thap Muoi Lotus Festival.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Ideal for birdwatching; pack sunscreen.

  • Rainy Season: Lush lotus fields; bring waterproof gear.

• Sustainability: Choose electric boats; support local vendors to align with eco-tourism goals.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Tram Chim as a landmark.

• Safety: Wear life jackets on boats; secure valuables.

• Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào” (hello); tip guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Tram Chim’s biodiversity and beyond:

• Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Electric boat tour in Tram Chim, cycling through Sa Dec Flower Village, lotus field visits. Includes transfers, snacks, guide.

• Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Tram Chim birdwatching, Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, festival visits. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Tram Chim visit, Sa Dec markets, lotus-based cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Tram Chim, Cai Be, homestays ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links around this page!

Tram Chim National Park, located in Tam Nong District, Dong Thap Province, 130 km from Ho Chi Minh City, is a 7,500-hectare Mekong Delta masterpiece and Ramsar site, renowned for unparalleled birdwatching of 230 species, including the red-headed sarus crane, and vibrant ecosystems, drawing thousands yearly. Explore via eco-friendly boat tours ($2–$5 entry, 50,000–125,000 VND; boat tours $5–$15, 125,000–375,000 VND) through lotus-filled wetlands or cycle rural paths ($2–$5/day bike rental, 50,000–125,000 VND). Supported by sustainable practices like low-impact tours and community-led conservation, Legend Travel Group’s Dong Thap Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Dong Thap Travel experience, blending Tram Chim with visits to Sa Dec Flower Village, Xeo Quyt Relic Area, and culinary delights like hủ tiếu Sa Đéc ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND). 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 Tram Chim’s natural wonders? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in the Mekong Delta’s timeless beauty!

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:

• Tram Chim National Park Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, vietnamamazingtours.com, scootersaigontour.com, tripadvisor.com