Tra Su forest is located in An Giang. It is a fascinating and well maintained attraction with walking tours and small boat tours. Unlike other planned destinations it is immaculate, has good facilities and a real treat for families or small groups. Speaking of groups, there can be many on the weekends so best to go on at opening time on a weekday when the light is best and the crowds small.
No surprise it is dominated by Cajuput trees that line the narrow waterways making for powerful photographic opportunities. It doubles as a bird sanctuary and home to two rare birds the Painted Stork and the Oriental Darter acting as a sanctuary for them. More common bird encounters include: Asian Palm Swift, Streaked Weaver, Asian Golden Weaver, Eurasian Tree Sparrow, Black Drongo, Bee-eaters, Chestnut Munia, Scaly-breasted Munia, and others. I am not a wildlife photographer and do not carry long prime lenses nor do I have the patience for birding. But even a 1/2 day of being in the forest here will get you many great images.
The best time to visit is during the “flooding season” when the waterways in the forest are full. This is from July to November. I find September and October to be ideal with less rain than the summer months. There is an entrance fee of 120k vnd. Once inside you can rent bicycles and hire boat rides. Both motorized and rowing guid boats are available. They take different routes so do both:
- Entrance Fee: 120K
- Bicycles: 50k
- Power Boat: 60k
- Rowing boat: 60k
- Private rowing or powerboat: 200k boat
Hours of operation: 07:00 – 18:00
