Tra Su Cajuput Forest is located in Van Giao Commune, Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province, about over 20km from Chau Doc Town and 10km from the Cambodia border. Belonging to the national specialized forest system in the western region in Southern Vietnam, it is an ideal destination for ecological and scientific research tours in the Mekong Delta, thanks to its wonderful diverse wildlife.
The forest includes a 845ha special-purpose forest surrounded by a 645ha buffer zone. It is the habitat for many colonies of water birds, bats and various others such as rare and endangered animals and reptile species. Scientists estimate that it is home to over 70 species of birds, including 2 very rare species of Giang sen (Mycteria leucocephala) and the Dieng Dieng (Anhinga Melanogaster); 11 species of animals belonging to 6 families and 4 orders; 20 species of reptiles; 5 species of amphibians; 23 species of fish, including Ca com (Chitala ornata) and Tre trang (Clarias batrachus) having the scientific value and being in danger of extinction.
The flora is equally abundant and splendid with over 140 specified floral varieties which represent the second largest number of plant species in the Mekong Delta region, only after the Xeo Quit Cajuput Forest in Dong Thap Province. They include 22 varieties of trees, 25 varieties of shrubs, 10 varieties of vines, 70 varieties of grasses, 13 species of aquatic plants, 22 varieties of ornamental plants, 9 varieties of fruit trees and particularly many varieties of medicinal herbs of high value.
Apart from the birds and animals, the tourists will see the wonderful countryside and farmers busily attending to their paddies, orchards and so on, but still happy to stop for a chat with guests.
The best time to visit Tra Su is at the high water season, from September to November. At this time of the year, the entire forest floats on a vast area, so a motor-boat is the only way to travel around. Indeed, rowing along the green mysterious canals is a particularly good idea, since the tourists are able to stop as they chose to pick wild berries or fruits or go for a bit of fishing in quiet contemplation.
Endowed with peace and tranquility, Tra Su Cajuput Forest became a unique and attractive ecological destination for the tourists who love the beauty of the nature.