How to Visit Tra Su Cajuput Forest: Routes, Fees & Best Time

Are you trying to plan a trip to Tra Su cajuput forest but keep finding vague information that makes everything feel confusing? Many travelers want to capture the dreamy green canals of the Tra Su floating forest, yet they struggle to know the best time, routes, or real activities inside. This guide gives you clear, updated, and traveler-focused tips so you can explore this Mekong gem with confidence.

1. Where Is Tra Su Cajuput Forest? A Quick Guide for First-Time Visitors

Tra Su cajuput forest is located in Tinh Bien district, An Giang province, close to the Cambodia border. This peaceful wetland sits deep in the Mekong Delta, an area famous for river culture, soft landscapes, and unique wildlife. The forest spans over 800 hectares and offers calm green canals, tall melaleuca trees, and rare bird species.

For first-time travelers, Tra Su floating forest is one of the most scenic river areas in Vietnam. It is also close to Chau Doc town, a convenient base for exploring floating villages in Vietnam or learning about life along rivers in Vietnam. Because the forest is well-protected, the atmosphere is fresh and quiet, perfect for visitors who want to escape big cities.

2. How to Get to Tra Su Cajuput Forest

Getting to Tra Su cajuput forest is simple, and you can choose different travel methods depending on your style. The forest is about 30 km from Chau Doc and more than 250 km from Ho Chi Minh City.

Most travelers choose one of the following options:

• Private car: This is the most comfortable choice. The car drives directly to the entrance. It is ideal if you travel with family or want a smooth journey. The ride is long but relaxing, and you can stop for food or photographs along the way.
• Motorbike: Many adventure travelers choose this option, especially from Chau Doc or Can Tho. The scenery along the road changes often, and the ride brings you closer to local life.
• Bus + taxi: You can take a bus to Chau Doc and then book a taxi or Grab to the forest. This option is budget-friendly and easy for solo travelers.

If you plan to continue exploring best river destinations in Vietnam, this area is a good start because it connects well with many Mekong highlights.

3. Best Time to Visit Tra Su: When the Forest Is at Its Most Beautiful

The best time to visit Tra Su cajuput forest is from September to November, which is the flooding season. During this period, the canals fill with water and the famous green duckweed covers the surface like a natural carpet. Many travelers describe this season as the “floating beauty” of the Mekong.

However, the dry season (December to May) also has its own charm. The water level is lower, and the air is cooler. Wildlife is more active in the early morning, and photography is still excellent.

No matter the month, the forest is open year-round and provides enjoyable nature experiences. Below is a quick comparison:

4. Things to Do in Tra Su Cajuput Forest

This section covers the most popular activities inside Tra Su cajuput forest. Each activity offers a different angle of the forest, and combining all of them creates a full experience. The area is big, so it is good to follow the walking path and enjoy the slow rhythm of the forest.

4.1 Boat Trips Through the Melaleuca Canals

The boat trip is the highlight of Tra Su floating forest. This activity gives you a close view of the green duckweed, melaleuca trunks, and quiet canals.

There are two kinds of boats:

• Motorboat: This is the first part of the journey. It takes you from the entrance to the inner area. The ride is short but exciting, and you will see wide-open water with birds flying above.
• Sampan (rowing boat): This is the most peaceful part. A local rower will guide you through narrow canals covered in green duckweed. You will see the water surface change colors under sunlight, and the sound of the paddle feels calming.

The sampan ride is also the best spot for photography. You can capture the iconic image of the Tra Su floating forest from here. The whole experience is slow, gentle, and suitable for all ages.

4.2 Watchtowers and Panoramic Views

The watchtower offers a beautiful panoramic view over the entire Tra Su cajuput forest. You will see endless green trees, winding canals, and distant mountains near the Cambodia border.

This is a great location to:

• Take wide landscape photos
• Watch birds in the early morning
• Enjoy the peaceful weather of the Mekong Delta

The forest looks different depending on the hour. Morning gives soft colors, while late afternoon brings warm golden light. Many travelers say this viewpoint is one of the most scenic places in the region, similar to the beauty found in Halong Bay floating village, but in a freshwater version.

4.3 Explore Local Wildlife & Bird Watching

Tra Su floating forest is home to many species of birds, fish, and insects. Early morning is the best time to see birds flying low above the water or sitting on tree branches. You can also see flocks of storks, herons, and other wetland species.

The wildlife here is protected, so travelers must keep quiet and avoid disturbing the animals. This is also a good spot to understand more about conservation work in the Mekong. If you are interested in nature photography, this area is perfect.

4.4 Walking Trails & Cajuput Forest Pathways

After the boat ride, visitors can walk along wooden bridges and forest pathways. The trails are safe, easy to follow, and suitable for adults, older people, and children. You will also see small huts, lotus ponds, and resting areas.

Walking in this zone helps you understand local flora and the peaceful rhythm of the forest. Many travelers find this part relaxing after the busy boat area. Along the way, you might see Vietnam’s basket boat on display or activities related to bamboo rafting in Vietnam, which adds cultural charm to the visit.

If you want a smooth and worry-free experience at Tra Su cajuput forest, contact Sun Getaways Travel for a customized itinerary, local guide, and best-price tickets.

5. Entrance Fees, Boat Tickets, and Opening Hours

The ticket system at Tra Su cajuput forest is simple. Travelers usually pay for:

• Entrance ticket
• Motorboat ticket
• Sampan ticket

Prices can change depending on the season, so it is better to check updates before arrival. The forest opens from early morning to late afternoon. Morning visits are cooler and quieter, while afternoon sunlight creates warm colors for photos.

Below is a quick overview:

Mrs. Emma Nguyen, Tour Operator Manager with over 12 years of experience at Sun Getaways Travel, recommends arriving before 9:00 AM to enjoy calm canals and avoid crowds.

6. Dining & Local Specialties Near Tra Su

The area around the forest offers simple but tasty Mekong dishes. Many visitors like trying grilled fish, sour soup, and hotpot. Fresh herbs and vegetables come from nearby farms.

If you continue your journey to Chau Doc or visit floating markets, you should also try must-try foods at Vietnamese floating market such as banh xeo, fresh noodles, and tropical fruits. The culinary traditions here show the strong link between local life and the river.

Restaurants near Tra Su are casual and friendly. You can enjoy quiet landscapes while tasting local flavors.

7. What to Pack & Useful Tips for a Smooth Trip

To make your visit easier, here are useful tips for Tra Su cajuput forest:

• Light clothing: The weather can be hot, so comfortable clothes help you move easily. Bring a hat or a scarf for sun protection. Lightweight clothes also dry quickly if you get splashed during the boat ride.
• Mosquito repellent: The forest is a natural wetland, so insects are common. Using repellent helps you enjoy the walking trails without worry.
• Camera or phone: The scenery here is beautiful throughout the day. Keep your camera ready during the sampan ride because the light changes quickly.
• Water bottle: Walking and exploring can take hours. Staying hydrated is important, especially during warmer months.

With these items, your trip will be more comfortable and enjoyable.

8. Should You Visit Tra Su Cajuput Forest on Your Vietnam Trip?

Yes, Tra Su cajuput forest is worth visiting on your Vietnam trip. This place offers a peaceful view of the Mekong Delta and a chance to experience a quiet natural escape. It also shows a different side of Vietnam, far from busy cities.

Many travelers visit Tra Su before or after exploring river cruises in Vietnam or visiting other wetlands in the region. The forest is ideal for families, solo travelers, couples, and photographers. It is also a great stop if you want to learn more about floating villages in Vietnam and the ecology of southern Vietnam.

9. FAQs about Tra Su Cajuput Forest

10. Conclusion

Tra Su cajuput forest is one of the most peaceful natural landscapes in Vietnam. The green canals, tall melaleuca trees, and quiet atmosphere create a travel experience that is both relaxing and memorable. Whether you enjoy photography, nature walks, or river culture, this forest offers something meaningful for every traveler.

If you want a smooth, well-planned visit to Tra Su, Sun Getaways Travel can help you design a perfect itinerary. Our team can assist with tickets, transportation, and local experiences so you can enjoy the forest without stress. Contact us today and let us create your ideal Mekong Delta journey.