Tu Na Bird Sanctuary Travel Guide: Ca Mau’s Vibrant Eco-Haven

A Natural Oasis in the Mekong Delta

Tu Na Bird Sanctuary, located in Nam Can Ward, Ca Mau Province, is a thriving eco-tourism gem that transcends its outdated portrayal as a simple bird park. Nestled amidst lush mangroves and intricate canals, this 50-hectare sanctuary within the Nam Can Mangrove Forest attracts 10,000 visitors annually, offering an immersive experience of vibrant wildlife and serene landscapes. Following Vietnam’s administrative reform, Ca Mau Province now includes the former Bac Lieu ward, enriching its cultural diversity with Kinh, Khmer (20%), and Hoa communities. 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) fosters a dynamic ecosystem, with eco-friendly activities like birdwatching and canoe tours costing $5–$50 (125,000–1,250,000 VND).

Legend Travel Group, a sustainable tourism leader since 2008, offers eco-friendly tours to Tu Na Bird Sanctuary, using electric boats, bicycles, and local guides to connect travelers with its natural and cultural wonders while preserving the environment. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your journey.

Administrative Note

Use “Tu Na Bird Sanctuary, Ca Mau Province” for navigation. Located 50 km from Ca Mau City in Nam Can Ward, this sanctuary is a must-visit for nature lovers seeking authentic eco-experiences in the Mekong Delta.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group serves 20,000 travelers yearly across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, prioritizing sustainable tourism. Our Tu Na tours feature eco-friendly transport, English-speaking guides with deep local knowledge, and partnerships with community-based providers to preserve Ca Mau’s ecosystems and cultural heritage. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours prior, and 24/7 support. Book through this guide for a responsible, immersive experience aligned with Vietnam’s green tourism vision.

A Modern Eco-Tourism Destination

Tu Na Bird Sanctuary, often referred to as Tu Su Stork Garden, has evolved from its outdated image as a wild bird park into a premier eco-tourism destination within the Nam Can Mangrove Forest, part of the Ca Mau World Biosphere Reserve recognized by UNESCO. Established in the 2000s by a local farmer passionate about wildlife conservation, the sanctuary spans 50 hectares and is home to over 30,000 birds, including rare species like white storks, red-crowned cranes, and black-crowned night herons, many listed in Vietnam’s Red Book and the IUCN Red List. Unlike older descriptions claiming 100,000 species, the sanctuary hosts a diverse but realistic array of 60–70 bird species, alongside reptiles, amphibians, and mammals like long-tailed macaques.

The sanctuary’s mangrove-lined canals and melaleuca forests create a vibrant ecosystem, with “red water” from peat soil adding a unique hue. Modern eco-tourism infrastructure, including elevated walkways and electric boat docks, enhances accessibility while protecting the habitat. Visitors can explore via canoe tours ($15–$30 or 375,000–750,000 VND), witness flocks of storks at sunset, or join sustainable fishing activities ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND). The sanctuary’s conservation efforts, supported by local cooperatives, ensure the preservation of its biodiversity, making it a model for sustainable tourism in Ca Mau.

Ecological Significance

Tu Na Bird Sanctuary’s ecological importance extends beyond its bird populations. The sanctuary’s mangrove and melaleuca ecosystems support a thriving habitat for aquatic species like crabs and shrimp, contributing to Ca Mau’s sustainable fisheries. Conservation initiatives, including tree planting and anti-poaching patrols, protect rare species and maintain the sanctuary’s role as a carbon sink within the Ca Mau Biosphere Reserve. Unlike outdated narratives, modern eco-tourism activities like birdwatching ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND) and mangrove restoration workshops promote environmental awareness and support local livelihoods, ensuring the sanctuary’s vitality for future generations.

Activities at Tu Na Bird Sanctuary

Tu Na Bird Sanctuary offers a range of immersive experiences, moving beyond the simplistic “bird-watching” focus of past guides:

• Birdwatching: Observe storks, herons, and cranes with guided tours ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND), best at dawn (6:00–8:00 AM) or dusk (5:00–6:00 PM).

• Canoe Tours: Paddle through mangrove canals on electric boats ($15–$30 or 375,000–750,000 VND), offering views of wildlife and fishing villages.

• Eco-Activities: Join sustainable fishing or crab-catching sessions ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND), supporting local cooperatives.

• Cultural Experiences: Enjoy Don Ca Tai Tu performances during festivals like Ok Om Bok (October/November) or savor Cua Bien crab ($6–$12 or 150,000–300,000 VND) at nearby eateries.

• Nearby Attractions: Visit Nam Can Mangrove Trails (5 km) for cycling ($2–$6/day or 50,000–150,000 VND) or Ca Mau Cape (60 km) for panoramic views ($2–$5 entry or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• November–April (Dry Season, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F): Ideal for birdwatching and canoe tours with clear skies and moderate crowds (80–200 daily visitors). Book tours 1–2 weeks ahead. Perfect for observing storks and herons foraging in calm waters.

• May–October (Rainy Season, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F): Peak breeding season with up to 30,000 birds, including red-crowned cranes (April–May). Lush mangroves and fewer crowds (50–150 daily visitors). Bring rain gear ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Last-minute bookings often available.

• Festival Seasons:

  • Ok Om Bok (October/November): Khmer festival with boat races and music, drawing 500+ visitors. Book 2–4 weeks ahead.

  • Chol Chnam Thmay (April): Khmer New Year with cultural feasts.

  • Lunar New Year (January/February): Vibrant local celebrations; book 2–4 weeks ahead.

• Timing Tip: Early mornings (6:00–8:00 AM) for peak bird activity; evenings (5:00–6:00 PM) for sunset views and cultural performances.

• From Ca Mau City (50 km, 1–1.5 hours): Bus ($4–$8 or 100,000–200,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxi ($18–$25 or 450,000–625,000 VND); private car ($15–$20 or 375,000–500,000 VND). Follow National Highway 1A to Nam Can, then local roads to Tu Na Bird Sanctuary in Nam Can Ward.

• From Ho Chi Minh City (400 km, 7–8 hours): Bus ($12–$25 or 300,000–625,000 VND) from Mien Tay Bus Station; Xanh SM electric taxi ($160–$220 or 4,000,000–5,500,000 VND); flight to Ca Mau Airport ($40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND) + taxi ($18–$25 or 450,000–625,000 VND).

• From Hanoi (1,990 km, 6–7 hours): Flight to Ca Mau Airport ($90–$160 or 2,250,000–4,000,000 VND) + taxi ($18–$25 or 450,000–625,000 VND); flight to Can Tho ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND) + bus ($6–$12 or 150,000–300,000 VND).

• Navigation Tip: Save “Tu Na Bird Sanctuary, Ca Mau Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Opt for buses or Xanh SM taxis; book through Legend Travel Group for sustainable transport.

• Walking: Free, ideal for elevated walkways and observation points (1–2 km radius).

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

• Electric Boat: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND) for 1–2 hour canal tours.

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

• Tip: Confirm fares upfront; rent bikes at Nam Can’s eco-tourism center.

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 forest trails.

• 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); binoculars ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND) for birdwatching.

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

Activity Costs

• Birdwatching Tours: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Canoe Tours: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND).

• Eco-Activities (Fishing/Crab Catching): $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Local Dining: $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND).

Transport Costs (Local)

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

• Electric Boat: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND).

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

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $20–$40 (self-guided biking, local snacks).

• Mid-Range: $50–$80 (guided boat tour, homestay dining).

• Luxury: $100–$150 (premium tours, upscale lodging in Ca Mau City).

• Timing: Plan early morning visits (6:00–8:00 AM) for peak bird activity; evenings (5:00–6:00 PM) for sunset views. Expect 50–150 visitors on weekdays, 80–200 on weekends.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead; book rainy season tours (August–November) 1–2 weeks ahead for boat availability. Homestays require 1–2 days’ notice.

• Sustainability: Use reusable items; support local fishers with seafood purchases ($3–$12/kg or 75,000–300,000 VND). Choose eco-friendly transport like bicycles or electric boats.

• Navigation: Save “Tu Na Bird Sanctuary, Ca Mau Province” in offline maps; key sites are within 1–5 km of the sanctuary’s visitor center.

• Safety: Secure valuables; wear life jackets on boats. Avoid heavy rain and check for avian influenza risks; avoid contact with birds.

• Cultural Respect: Greet with “xin chào”; respect conservation efforts by avoiding littering or disturbing wildlife.

Discover Tu Na Bird Sanctuary with our eco-friendly tour packages:

• Tu Na Eco-Adventure ($90–$130/person, 1 day): Cruise mangrove canals, join guided birdwatching, savor Cua Bien crab. Includes guide, eco-transport, meals.

• Tu Na & Ca Mau Eco-Immersion ($170–$230/person, 2 days): Explore the sanctuary, visit Nam Can Mangrove Trails, stay at eco-homestays. Includes meals, guide, eco-transport.

• Mekong Delta Wildlife Explorer ($420–$580/person, 4 days): Visit Tu Na, U Minh Ha, and Ca Mau Cape 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.

Tu Na Bird Sanctuary in Ca Mau Province, a vibrant eco-haven in the Mekong Delta located 170 km from Can Tho, blends stunning biodiversity with sustainable tourism, far beyond its outdated image as a wild bird park. With its mangrove waterways, rare bird species like the painted stork, and cultural richness, it offers an immersive adventure, drawing thousands yearly with entry fees of $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Legend Travel Group’s Ca Mau Tours ensure a responsible, enriching Ca Mau Travel experience, supporting local communities and preserving the environment through eco-friendly practices like low-impact boardwalks and community-led conservation, paired with visits to Tac Say Floating Market and Phong Dien Bird Sanctuary. Don’t miss out—contact Legend Travel Group to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Tu Na Bird Sanctuary’s natural wonders? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an authentic 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:

• Tu Na Bird Sanctuary Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group