Worth Exploring Chau Doc? Have you ever been to South Vietnam?

Exploring Chau Doc: A Gateway to Nature and Culture. Tra Su Forest and Nui Sam Mountain

Exploring Chau Doc reveals the enchanting blend of nature, culture, and everyday life in the Mekong Delta. This town is a hub for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Chau Doc is located in the An Giang province near the Cambodian border. Known for its cultural diversity, Chau Doc offers a unique blend of Khmer and Vietnamese influences, along with stunning natural landscapes.

To reach Chau Doc, travelers have two main options:

• From Saigon: A bus ride takes about 6–7 hours, offering views of Vietnam’s lush countryside. If you prefer comfort, opt for a sleeper bus or a private car for added convenience.
• From Phu Quoc: Begin with a ferry to Ha Tien (1.5 hours) and then take a 3-hour bus ride to Chau Doc. Apps like 123Go make it easy to book both modes of transportation in one go or ask for assistance at the hotel.

For a meaningful experience, plan to spend at least 2–3 days in Chau Doc. This allows enough time to visit key attractions like Tra Su Forest, Nui Sam Mountain, the floating villages, and to explore the town’s vibrant streets and markets at a relaxed pace.

My day began effortlessly, with breakfast and a chance encounter with two fellow travelers—a couple from the United States, each from unique backgrounds: India and Trinidad. Their stories about Japan and their love for Asia set an exciting tone for the journey ahead.

Our first destination was Tra Su Forest, located in the An Giang province, just 30 minutes from Chau Doc. Covering over 800 hectares, this tropical wonderland is a sanctuary of biodiversity. While only 3.5 hectares are accessible to tourists, the experience is unforgettable.

We began with a serene walk surrounded by lotus flowers, orchids, and other vibrant flora. The air was alive with the calls of birds and the soft rustling of leaves. From there, we boarded two boats—one rowed manually and the other motorized—to explore deeper into the forest. The ride offered a peaceful immersion into the mangroves, a sharp contrast to the busy towns nearby.

Climbing to the observation tower revealed panoramic views of the forest canopy and glimpses of traditional Vietnamese homes along the edge of the tourist area. It’s fascinating to think that Tra Su Forest, now a tourist destination, was developed in 2010 when management shifted from the forestry department to a local tourism agency.

Our next stop was Nui Sam Mountain, or simply “Sam Mountain,” a modest peak that offers stunning views of the surrounding rice fields and scattered houses. The ascent was made easy with a short cable car ride—just 5 minutes and costing around €6.

At the top, a modern pagoda and a small park greeted us. While the pagoda itself wasn’t particularly historic, the vibrant colors and surrounding scenery created a picturesque setting. The panoramic views were the highlight, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the delta’s residents.

The afternoon was reserved for a visit to the nearby floating village, an iconic part of Chau Doc’s cultural landscape. However, heavy rain disrupted those plans, forcing a change of course. The sudden downpour was a reminder that in Chau Doc, as in much of Southeast Asia, weather can be unpredictable. For travelers, flexibility is essential—sometimes, embracing a slower pace can lead to unexpected moments of reflection or alternative discoveries.

After a day filled with exploration, I dined at Quan Mekong, a local restaurant recommended by the hotel. The meal was a delightful mix of fresh calamari with herbs, a hearty pork and rice dish, and a light Saigon beer. Despite assurances that credit cards were accepted, they weren’t—so always carry cash as a backup.

• Plan Ahead for Tra Su Forest: Morning visits are ideal for catching the best light and enjoying cooler temperatures.
• Carry Cash: Credit cards may not always be accepted, especially in smaller establishments.
• Experience Nui Sam Mountain: The cable car ride is worth it for the views, but wear comfortable shoes for walking around the park and pagoda.
• Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to savor fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties in local restaurants.
• Embrace Flexibility: Travel in Chau Doc has its own pace, so stay relaxed and enjoy the experience.

Final Reflections on Exploring Chau Doc

Chau Doc offers a balance of cultural depth and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in the Mekong Delta. From the tranquil mangroves of Tra Su Forest to the scenic heights of Nui Sam Mountain, every moment here leaves an impression.

As I prepared for the next leg of my journey, I reflected on the warmth of the locals, the unique landscapes, and the rich stories that make Chau Doc a place worth exploring.