Imagine a world where the water turns into a vibrant green mirror, where the silence is only broken by the flapping of stork wings, and where a simple sampan boat ride feels like floating through a fairy tale. This is not a dream; this is the Tra Su Cajuput Forest in An Giang, the crown jewel of the Mekong Delta.
While backpackers have known about this hidden gem for years, Tra Su has recently evolved into a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both raw nature and comfort. Whether you are a photographer chasing the perfect light or a family looking for a peaceful escape from the chaos of the cities, this guide—brought to you by SUNDAY GO will show you how to experience the “Green Wonderland” in style.
Why Tra Su cajuput forest is Vietnam’s best kept secret?
Often overshadowed by the famous floating markets of Can Tho, the Tra Su Cajuput Forest offers something entirely different: absolute serenity. Located about 30km from Chau Doc city and covering 850 hectares, this eco-reserve is a sanctuary in the truest sense.
The forest is famous for its “cajuput” trees (known locally as Melaleuca), which grow directly out of the submerged wetlands. But the real magic happens on the water’s surface. A thick carpet of green duckweed (water hyacinth) covers the canals, creating the illusion that your boat is gliding over a manicured lawn rather than a river.
Beyond the scenery, this area acts as the Tra Su Sanctuary—a vital home to over 70 species of birds, including painted storks and rare water birds. For nature lovers, it is one of the most biodiverse spots in the entire Mekong Delta region.
The best time to visit Tra Su cajuput forest
Timing is everything when visiting a wetland ecosystem. A trip in the dry season is beautiful, but a trip during the Floating Season is unforgettable.
- The Golden Season (September – November): This is the peak “Floating Season” in the Mekong Delta. The water levels rise, the duckweed multiplies, and the forest turns into the iconic emerald-green paradise you see on Instagram.
- Best Time of Day: To avoid the heat and the crowds, we recommend arriving early.
- 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: The birds are active, the air is cool, and the lighting is soft.
- 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: The sunset hour. Thousands of birds return to their nests, creating a spectacular natural show.
The ticket price to visit Tra Su forest (Updated 2025)
These are the core tickets required to explore the forest fully.
- Entrance Ticket (Compulsory): 120,000 VND. Access to the entire eco-tourism area and miniatures (walking).
- Motor-boat Ticket: 70,000 VND. Cruising through the green duckweed to the forest’s center.
- Rowing-boat Ticket: 70,000 VND. A hand-rowed boat trip through narrow canals to observe birds up close (3-4 passengers per boat).
Note: For the full experience (Entrance + Motor-boat + Rowing-boat), the total cost is 260,000 VND per person
- Free Admission: Children under 1.3 meters & Elderly visitors over 70 years old (Free Entrance Ticket only).
- Optional Services: Cycling (50,000 – 80,000 VND), Fishing (35,000 – 70,000 VND), and Archery (20,000 VND)
Top things to do in Tra Su Sanctuary
Whether you are a nature lover, a photographer chasing the perfect light, or simply seeking peace away from the city bustle, Tra Su offers a symphony of sights and sounds found nowhere else in Vietnam. Get ready to immerse yourself in the “green paradise” with these unmissable experiences.
1. The Motorboat Ride (Tac Rang)
Your journey begins with an exhilarating ride on a “Tac Rang” – a traditional long-tail motorboat unique to the Mekong Delta. You will zip through the wider canals at high speed, feeling the cool breeze in your hair as the endless rows of Cajuput trees rush by on both sides. This 30-40 minute ride takes you deep into the heart of the reserve, where the waterways are blanketed in a stunning layer of green duckweed, looking like an emerald carpet rolling out before you.
2. The Rowing Sampan (The Highlight)
This is the soul of Tra Su. You will transfer to a small, hand-rowed wooden sampan guided by a local boat lady in a traditional conical hat (“nón lá”). As the motor cuts off, silence falls, and you gently glide through the narrowest, most secluded parts of the forest. The water here is covered in thick green duckweed (beo), creating a surreal, fairy-tale atmosphere. It is incredibly photogenic and peaceful—keep your camera ready to snap close-ups of storks, herons, and giant beehives resting on the branches just meters away.
3. The Bamboo Walking Bridge
Do not miss the “Bamboo Bridge of Ten Thousand Steps,” a masterpiece of rustic architecture that holds the record for the longest bamboo bridge in Vietnam. Stretching for kilometers through the forest canopy, this bridge allows you to walk right above the wetlands. It offers a completely different perspective from the boat, perfect for leisurely strolls and capturing stunning “check-in” photos amidst the lush greenery without getting your feet wet.
4. The Bird Watching Tower
For the best panoramic views, climb the 23-meter high observation tower located in the center of the forest. From this vantage point, you can see the vast endless green carpet of the Cajuput forest stretching to the horizon. Using the equipped telescope, you can spot bird nests miles away or gaze at the majestic Sam Mountain and the Seven Mountains region (That Son) in the distance. It is a breathtaking spot to appreciate the sheer scale of this eco-system.
How to get to Tra Su Cajuput forest?
Tra Su Forest is remote, which preserves its beauty but makes logistics a challenge. It is approximately 250km from Ho Chi Minh City (6-7 hours) and 120km from Can Tho (3-4 hours).
The public bus
You can take a sleeping bus (like Futa Bus) to Chau Doc, then haggle with a motorbike taxi (xe om) or a local taxi for the final 30km trek to the forest entrance. While cheap, this option often involves waiting, language barriers, and uncomfortable transfers in the heat.
Private transfer & Tour
For international tourists who value their time, SUNDAY GO offers seamless connectivity.
Door-to-Door: We pick you up from your hotel in HCMC, Can Tho, or Chau Doc.
Comfort: Travel in a private, air-conditioned SUV or limousine van.
Flexibility: Stop for photos whenever you want, and skip the tourist traps.
Transparency: No hidden costs or haggling with drivers.
Practical tips for International Travelers
What to Wear: Choose light, breathable fabrics. Avoid bright red or neon orange colors, as these can startle the birds. A hat and sunglasses are essential.
Mosquitoes: This is a wetland forest, so bugs are inevitable. Bring high-quality insect repellent.
Food: After your boat ride, enjoy lunch at the forest restaurant. Must-try dishes include Lau Mam (Fermented Fish Hotpot) and Grilled Chicken with Honey, caramelized catfish…
Opening Hours: The forest is open daily from 06:30 AM to 18:30 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Tra Su Cajuput Forest safe for children and elderly travelers?
A: Yes. The walking paths are flat, and the boats are stable. However, the bamboo bridge can be uneven, so caution is advised for those with mobility issues. SUNDAY GO guides are always there to assist.
Q: Do I need to book tickets in advance?
A: For the entrance ticket, you can buy it at the gate. However, private boats and English-speaking guides often sell out during the high season (Sept-Nov). We highly recommend booking a package with SUNDAY GO to guarantee your spot.
Q: How much is the ticket price in 2025?
A: Prices were adjusted in July 2025. The full combo ticket is around 260,000 VND. Be wary of scalpers outside the gate; always buy from the official counter or your tour guide.
Exclusive Tra Su Tour Packages
At SUNDAY GO, we don’t just sell tickets; we design experiences. We understand that our tourists prefer quality over low prices.
- The tour’s name: Tra Su forest tour from Can Tho or Cai Rang floating market and Tra Su forest tour
Route: Can Tho – Tra Su Forest – Chau Doc – Can Tho.
- Highlights: Tra Su forest – Khmer pagoda – Sugar palm field
Ideal For: Travelers with limited time.
Includes: Private car, English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, and a lunch of local specialties.
The Tra Su Cajuput Forest is more than just a stop on a map; it is a reminder of the raw, untouched beauty that still exists in Vietnam. Whether you are gliding through the emerald waters on a sampan or watching the sunset from the bird tower, the memories you make here will last a lifetime.
Don’t navigate the complex logistics of the Mekong Delta alone. Let SUNDAY GO handle the driving, the tickets, and the details, so you can focus on the magic.
Ready to explore the Green Wonderland? Contact SUNDAY GO today for a custom quote and start your journey into the heart of An Giang.
Ref: Wikipedia
