The Beauty Of Vietnam: The 5 Most Beautiful Cajeput Forests Of The Mekong Delta

Vietnam is well known for its natural reserves and parks: Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Nui Chua, Cat Tien, Cat Ba, and many others! So is the Mekong Delta, which, among other wonders, offers tourists majestic cajeput forests, 5 of which make for good things to do when taking a tour in the region, especially during the rainy season - roughly between May and October.

Let us see what our pick of the 5 most beautiful cajeput forests of the Mekong Delta is, then!

N°1. The Cajeput Forest Of Tra Su

Cajeput forests are particularly prevalent in the South-Western part of Vietnam. Tra Su, in that regard, probably holds the first position for the freshness and tranquility of its forests and wildlife.

Located in An Giang province, 60 km or so from Long Xuyen city center and 45 minutes away from Chau Doc, Tra Su 845 hectares of cajeput forest are best admired by boat through the mangroves. A vast ecosystem, the flooded forest is home to numerous birds, such as storks, and rare fish species. Moreover, the flora of the place, comprised of water hyacinths and cajeput trees, adds to the wild yet the poetic feel of Tra Su.

Every year, when the monsoon hits, Tra Su forest records a noticeable increase in visitors. The surrounding waters, covered in hyacinths, display a fascinating green hue. Tourists to the site are given the possibility to explore the area aboard little watercraft while munching on typical dishes of the Mekong Delta: sour soup, charred fish, a wide array of local and savory fruit, etc. 

N°2. The Cajeput Forest Of Tan Lap 

Situated in Long An province, roughly 100 km away from Ho Chi Minh City and an hour and a half from My Tho, Tan Lap is one of the largest cajeput reserves of the Mekong Delta too. 

More adventurous souls that muster up the courage to ride their way to the site and explore the Mekong Delta at their own pace will love the spacious 5-km-long road that will take them through the forest. The floating village of the area is a picturesque addition to this natural reserve comprised of verdant cajeput trees, lotus ponds, and water lily lakes. Here, no less than 100 species of birds nest, and the aquatic fauna is just as diverse. 

No matter the season, tourists can hop aboard an inflatable boat that will take them through narrower channels edged with cajeput trees. Trails also surround the forest and allow for relaxing strolls through the shadowy and fresher area.

N°3. The Cajeput Forest of Xeo Quyt

Now praised 50-hectare-wide eco-tourism spot, Xeo Quyt, in Dong Thap province, once was, back when Vietnam was at war with the Americans, a revolutionary military base. Of the 50 hectares, cajeput trees account for close to half: 20. An effort was made to ensure that the fragile flora and fauna ecosystem that calls the forest its home would remain well protected.

Visitors to the site can get aboard a sampan and glide through the many channels that cover the region. Perhaps, the best time to visit is during the lotus season, which undoubtedly offers one of the most memorable and romantic experiences, as the waters are then covered in pinkish flowers and give a real taste of the Mekong Delta countryside feel.

N°4. The Cajeput Forest of Gao Giong 

In Dong Thap province as well, this other well-taken-care-of eco-tourism forest is enjoyed by numerous tourists on their trip to this Mekong Delta region.

36-hectare-wide in total and divided into 4 zones, the dense cajeput forest of Gao Giong, as do many other natural reserves of the Mekong Delta, harbors its specific ecosystem of water birds, flora, and aquatic fauna which all live together in what feels like a depiction of peacefulness and calm.  

Tourists dropping by for a visit are presented with a one-of-a-kind activity at Gao Giong: climbing up the 18-meter-high lookout overlooking the forest. Traditional Mekong Delta foods are also on the menu!

N°5. The Cajeput Forest Of U Minh Ha

A mere 40 km away from Ca Mau, U Minh Ha, the south-westernmost natural park of the Mekong Delta on our list, is circumscribed by the conjunction of the Doc and Trem rivers and offers an immense playground for cajeput amateurs!

Officially recognized as a valuable biosphere of the region, this massive 8'000-hectare forest houses a staggering 176 species of exotic plants, 41 species of local birds, 37 species of rare fish, 36 diverse species of reptiles, no less than 23 different species of mammals, and 11 total species of amphibians! 

One can agree: the forest of U Minh Ha is impressive both in size and biodiversity. From a lookout overhanging the treetops, you will see nothing but a vast sea of green that seemingly stretches to infinity. And from the comfort of your canoe cruising through the forest, you will get the chance to immerse yourself in the thick wilderness of this gigantic reserve. 

The farthest you venture into the Mekong Delta, the more authentic the experience. Bee chrysalis salads, fish stews, and savory fruit are delicacies that could beautifully complement your tour to the Mekong Delta! 

Experience Mekong Delta Food, Homestay, and Floating Markets!

We hope to have given you an appetizing taste of some of the many things to do in the Mekong Delta, a region worth visiting on your trip to Vietnam! At Innoviet, we specialize in Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta tours. 1-day, 2-day, 3-day, tailor-made private cycling tours with accommodation, you name it! Be sure to take a look at our catalog and feel free to contact us for more information!