Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Tra Su Melaleuca Forest is an ideal attraction for nature and adventure lovers. Visiting the forest, you will be overwhelmed by the vast cajuput forest. Let’s explore the tranquil beauty of Tra Su Melaleuca Forest with Handspan Travel Indochina!

Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

Through this blog post, you will find out these pieces of information below. 

General information about the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

• Address: Van Giao Commune, Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province
• Opening hours: 07.00 a.m. - 09.00 p.m.

Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, formed in 1983, is a typical submerged forest for the Western Hau River region with a rich ecological system. It has an important effect on the water environment and climate regulation for the entire Bay Nui region, home to many precious animals and plant species in Vietnam's special-use forest system. 

Tra Su Cajuput Forest

With a total area of 850 hectares, most of the plants living here are Melaleuca. The trees are about ten years old, with an average height of 5 - 8 meters. Besides Melaleuca, the forest also possesses 140 species of plants. They include 22 species of trees, 25 species of shrubs, 10 species of vines, 70 species of grass, 13 species of aquatic plants, 78 species of medicinal plants, etc. In addition to a diverse flora system, Tra Su Melaleuca Forest is also the habitat of 70 species of birds, among which Mycteria leucocephala and Anhinga melanogaster are two precious birds recorded in the Vietnam Red Book; 11 species of mammals, 25 species of reptiles and frogs, 10 species of fish, etc.

Cajuput trees in the Tra Su Forest

In general, Tra Su Melaleuca Forest offers you a chance to immerse yourself in the tranquil and pristine nature. Here are sightseeing fees and service prices in the forest you can refer to.

• Sightseeing ticket: VND 100,000/ person
• Motorboat ride: VND 50,000/ person (optional)
• Dinghy rowing service into the Melaleuca forest: VND 50,000/ person (optional)
• Telescopic observation service: VND 5,000/ person (optional)
• Renting a bicycle: VND 50,000 (optional)
• On-site tour guide: VND 250,000 for about three hours (optional)

Let’s keep reading for more detailed information about the forest!

The ideal time to visit the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

The ideal time to visit the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest is during the flooding season, which typically occurs from September to December. Visiting the forest at this time, you can experience the full beauty and biodiversity here. 

During the flooding season, the weather in the forest is generally more comfortable, with cooler temperatures compared to the hot and humid months. This weather creates a flavorful condition for exploring the forest. Besides the pleasant weather, Tra Su Melaleuca Forest’s landscape in the flooding season is also impressive. The water covering the whole area, combined with the green colors of cajuput trees and duckweed create an eye-catching scenery. The elevated water levels allow for easy navigation through the waterways of Tra Su. Boat tours during this season provide a unique and serene experience as you glide through the flooded forest, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Boat tour in the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

The floating water season also creates favorable conditions for the growth of fish and shrimp species. With its wealth of aquatic life, Tra Su Melaleuca Forest has become an attractive destination for many species of birds. Visiting the forest at this time, you can see different types of birds and hear their sound which creates a vibrant space. 

While the flooding season is considered the ideal time to visit Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, it is always a good idea to check for the latest weather conditions and any potential changes in the local ecosystem. 

How to get to the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest?

Getting to Tra Su Melaleuca Forest involves traveling to the An Giang Province in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam. From Ho Chi Minh City, you can drive your private vehicles or use a coach. You can buy the bus ticket at Mien Tay Bus Station to Long Xuyen or Chau Doc with an average price of 150,000 - 300,000 VND/ way. The total distance is about 250 kilometers, which takes you about four hours. There are many bus companies running this route, such as Phuong Trang Bus, Thien Thien Huong Bus, Hung Cuong - An Giang Bus, Trong Tin Limousine, etc. 

Phuong Trang Bus to Chau Doc City

You can also depart from Can Tho to An Giang, with a total distance of about 117 kilometers. On average, there are four bus trips per day running from Can Tho to Chau Doc or Long Xuyen, such as Phuong Trang Bus, Van Khoa Nguyen Bus, etc. If you are in other cities and provinces of Vietnam, you can take a flight, train, or bus to Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho, then continue transferring to An Giang from these two cities. 

Once you are in Chau Doc or Long Xuyen, you can hire a taxi, motorbike, or tourist car to continue your journey to the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest. The forest is about 30 kilometers to the Southwest of Chau Doc City and 64 kilometers from Long Xuyen City. 

Things to do in the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

Tra Su Melaleuca Forest offers a range of exciting activities. They allow you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and unique ecosystem of the area. Here are some recommended things to do when visiting the forest.

Boat tours

Taking a boat tour through the waterways is one of the most wonderful experiences in the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest. Local boat operators will guide you through the flooded forest, providing an up-close view of the cajuput trees and the diverse flora and fauna. You can choose a motorboat or a dinghy. 

Rowing in the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

Sitting on the boat, you will cross through canals and run straight into the heart of the Melaleuca forest. Along the way, you can observe local people harvesting cajuput honey from containers placed in the forest. Coming to the core area of the forest, you will see underwater a layer of green duckweed covering the surface, combining with Sesbania flowers, creating a beautiful and peaceful scenery.

Motorboat in the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

Bird watching

Bird watching is also one of the exciting things to do in the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest. The deeper you come into the forest, the more species of birds you will see. The forest is home to various bird species, including storks, herons, and other water birds. Bring binoculars or stop by the observation deck and use the telescope to take a closer look at the birds in the forest. 

Heron in the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

Casmerodius Albus in the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

Discovering the floral and fauna inside the forest

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn about local flora and fauna. The forest boasts a diverse and unique ecosystem, characterized by a combination of water, trees, and wetland habitats. 

Exploring the Khmer people’s life

Besides admiring the charming landscape and learning about the ecosystem, you can also have a chance to explore the life of the Khmer people who live near the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest. Visiting Khmer people’s villages, you can discover different handicrafts passed down from generation to generation by the Khmer ethnic people, such as silk and brocade weaving, beekeeping, cajuput essential oil production, etc. 

Walking in the Tra Su bamboo bridge

The Tra Su bamboo bridge inside the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest is the longest bamboo bridge in the world. With a total length of over 10 kilometers, the bridge has become a signature of the forest. Walking on the bridge, you can admire a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes. 

Bamboo bridge in the Tram Su Melaleuca Forest

Advice and Tips for a memorable trip to the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

For a memorable visit to Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, consider the following tips to enhance your experience and maximize your time in this enchanting natural setting. 

Wearing comfortable clothing and footwear

Visiting Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, you may want to dress in lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. If you travel in the flooding season, don’t forget to bring your raincoat. Besides, comfortable walking shoes are also essential.

Bringing insect repellent 

Tra Su is a wetland area, so there may be mosquitoes and other types of insects. So, Apply insect repellent to protect yourself from bites, especially if you're visiting during the warmer months. 

Respecting the environment and wildlife

You should follow all guidelines provided by local authorities and tour operators. Avoid touching or disturbing the wildlife, and stay on designated paths to minimize your impact on the delicate ecosystem. 

In conclusion, whether you're a nature lover, a bird enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Tra Su Cajuput Forest promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Vietnam's natural wonders. Supposing you need any assistance for your trip to Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, don’t hesitate to contact our team.