U Minh Thuong National Park, the hidden gem of Kien Giang, exudes a pristine and mystical beauty that transports visitors to a fairytale realm. Beyond the expansive melaleuca forests and a rich tapestry of flora, U Minh Thuong is an ideal destination to observe rare bird species, especially the awe-inspiring moment when flocks of red-crowned cranes soar through the twilight sky. Let “Travel Around the World” guide you through the wonders of this enchanting land.
U Minh Thuong: A Journey from Remoteness to Allure
Once an isolated and hard-to-reach area, U Minh Thuong has become more accessible thanks to Tac Cau Bridge, which has shortened travel distances and paved the way for visitors to explore its pristine melaleuca forests. Located just 20 kilometers from the Rach Gia junction via Tac Cau, visitors reach the buffer zone of U Minh Thuong National Park, an ASEAN Heritage Park spanning over 21,000 hectares, with a core area of more than 8,000 hectares equipped with modern asphalt pathways.
To fully immerse in the beauty of U Minh Thuong, visitors are encouraged to take a motorboat ride, weaving through lush green melaleuca forests, breathing the fresh air, and marveling at the untouched scenery along the riverbanks.
A flock of red-crowned cranes soaring at dusk
One intriguing aspect of U Minh Thuong that surprises visitors is its water—it’s not red as many might imagine but rather black. This coloration stems from the region’s terrain, formed on peat bogs through the prolonged decomposition of vegetation in the park. This area is considered Vietnam’s largest peat reserve.
Ms. Kieu Thi Duyen, a guide at the park, shared that since 2002, following a major fire, the melaleuca forests in U Minh Thuong have been consistently submerged in water to a minimum depth of 1 meter, even during the dry season. This strategy effectively mitigates fire risks and protects the park’s valuable ecosystem.
Discovering Diverse Ecosystems and the Largest Bird Sanctuary in the Mekong Delta
U Minh Thuong National Park is not only a favorite destination for international tourists and locals but also a hub for scientists conducting research on rare flora and fauna. The saying “A hospitable land attracts birds” truly applies to U Minh Thuong, boasting a vibrant and diverse ecosystem.
According to statistics, U Minh Thuong is home to over 200 bird species, 32 mammal species across 7 families, 7 bat species, and numerous species listed in Vietnam’s Red Book, such as Asian small-clawed otters, fishing cats, large spotted civets, and flame squirrels. Mr. Le Hoang Huong, Director of U Minh Thuong National Park, revealed that its most captivating feature is the bird sanctuary located amidst the expansive waters northwest of the park’s core area. This sanctuary is considered the largest bird museum in the Mekong Delta, where visitors can admire hundreds of bird species.
Furthermore, the park features over 200 bird species, 12 of which are of conservation significance, and 8 globally threatened species including the spot-billed pelican, black-headed ibis, painted stork, greater adjutant, lesser adjutant, yellow-vented bulbul, grey-headed fish eagle, and black eagle.
When visiting U Minh Thuong, you’ll find serenity in its tranquil environment, listening to birds singing melodiously. And if fortune smiles on you, you’ll witness the majestic moment of red-crowned cranes taking flight against the sunset—a truly magnificent and breathtaking spectacle.
Savoring Local Delicacies and Experiencing River Life
After exploring the untouched natural beauty, visitors can indulge in U Minh Thuong’s specialties like fragrant and smooth melaleuca honey, participate in river fishing tours, and enjoy rustic Western-style dishes such as grilled snakehead fish wrapped in fresh herbs with tamarind sauce, caramelized climbing perch, sour soup with sleeper goby, and a sip of fiery local rice liquor.
Boats also take visitors deep into the forest to explore Tram Chim and Dam Doi, where they’ll marvel at thousands of bats hanging densely from melaleuca trees, including rare species like the flying fox bat.
Currently, U Minh Thuong provides limited accommodation services, making visits typically brief. However, with its unique experiences and unspoiled beauty, U Minh Thuong undoubtedly leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.
Conclusion
U Minh Thuong National Park is a precious gem of the Mekong Delta, where visitors can marvel at its pristine nature, observe rare bird species, and experience the authentic riverine lifestyle of the West. Especially, witnessing the red-crowned cranes soaring gracefully against the sunset sky will be an unforgettable memory of your journey to U Minh Thuong. If you ever have the chance to visit Kien Giang, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this pristine melaleuca forest and immerse in the peace and tranquility it offers.