Thi Tuong Lagoon, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Ca Mau, is known as the “Inland Sea amidst the plains” due to its pristine beauty and vast expanse of nearly 700 hectares. This location is not only a unique ecotourism destination but also a treasure trove of biodiversity and the distinctive culture of Vietnam’s southernmost land. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around the World) to explore Thi Tuong Lagoon and experience the wonders bestowed by nature and the people here.
Thi Tuong Lagoon is situated across the districts of Tran Van Thoi and Phu Tan in Ca Mau province, approximately 40km southwest of Ca Mau city center. This special geographical location makes Thi Tuong Lagoon one of the largest natural lagoons in the Mekong Delta. The lagoon is divided into three main areas: Upper Lagoon, Middle Lagoon, and Lower Lagoon, connected by a natural canal system, creating a dense network of waterways that embodies the essence of the riverine Mekong Delta.
Historically, the name Thi Tuong Lagoon is associated with a touching folk tale. Legend has it that in the early 19th century, a woman named Tuong contributed significantly to reclaiming and developing this wild land. To commemorate her great contributions, the locals named the lagoon after her, expressing deep gratitude to the person who had merit in developing the land. Since then, Thi Tuong Lagoon has not only been a place name but also a cultural symbol, closely linked to the spiritual and economic life of the people of Ca Mau through generations.
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Diverse and Rich Ecosystem at Thi Tuong Lagoon
Thi Tuong Lagoon proudly possesses a diverse and rich ecosystem, a convergence of many rare and unique flora and fauna species typical of the Southern wetlands. This biodiversity is clearly reflected in three main ecosystems, each with its own beauty and role, contributing to the complete natural picture of Thi Tuong Lagoon:
- Brackish water lagoon ecosystem: The characteristic brackish water environment of the lagoon is home to countless valuable aquatic species such as fish, shrimp, crabs, and other seafood. In particular, Thi Tuong Lagoon is famous as an ideal habitat for mudskippers, a unique fish species of the Ca Mau mangrove area. Mudskippers are not only unique with their ability to live both on land and swim in water but are also a symbolic creature, attracting the attention of tourists and biological researchers.
- Mangrove forest ecosystem: Surrounding Thi Tuong Lagoon are lush green mangrove forests, acting as a green shield protecting the coastline from sea encroachment and climate change. Mangrove forests are also an invaluable ecological resource, providing habitat and food sources for many wildlife species, especially migratory birds. These forests are not only a refuge for animals but also “green lungs,” purifying the air and preserving rare plant species such as mangroves, nipa palms, and white mangroves, contributing to maintaining ecological balance for the entire area.
- Freshwater grassland ecosystem: Interspersed between the lagoon and mangrove forests are vast freshwater grassland areas, creating an open and airy space. Freshwater grasslands are an ideal habitat for many water birds and aquatic animals to thrive. This is also where local people take advantage of traditional agriculture, cultivating crops and raising livestock typical of the riverine area, creating harmony between nature and human production activities.
Beautiful scenery at Thi Tuong Lagoon
Unique Travel Experiences at Thi Tuong Lagoon
Tourism in Thi Tuong Lagoon aims for an experience close to pristine nature and exploring the unique local culture. Coming to Thi Tuong Lagoon, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in many exciting and memorable ecotourism activities:
- Sightseeing on the lagoon by boat: This is an unmissable experience when visiting Thi Tuong Lagoon. Visitors can rent boats from local people to gently glide on the vast waters of the lagoon, witnessing firsthand the pristine beauty of the diverse flora and fauna ecosystem. Boat trips usually last from 1 to 2 hours, enough for visitors to relax in the fresh air, admire the picturesque river scenery, and feel the peace of nature.
- Fishing and crab catching: If you love experiencing the rustic life and want to test your “hunting” skills, fishing and crab catching activities at Thi Tuong Lagoon will surely delight you. Visitors will be guided by local fishermen on traditional fishing and crab catching techniques, and personally harvest fresh produce from the lagoon. This is not only a recreational activity but also an opportunity for visitors to learn about traditional fishing, an important part of the economic and cultural life of the lagoon people.
- Exploring the mangrove forest: To better understand the unique mangrove forest ecosystem, visitors can join walking tours along trails through the forest. Here, you will admire the majestic beauty of the mangrove forest, learn about typical tree species such as mangroves, nipa palms, and white mangroves, and observe wild birds living in the forest. This activity not only provides useful ecological knowledge but is also a great opportunity to take unique nature photos.
- Experiencing local culture: Thi Tuong Lagoon is home to many fishing communities with a rich traditional culture. Visitors can spend time interacting and chatting with local people to learn about their lives, customs, and unique cultural features of this land. Participating in daily activities with locals, learning how to prepare traditional dishes, and enjoying local specialties will be profound and memorable cultural experiences on your Thi Tuong Lagoon trip.
Tourists experience boat sightseeing, exploring the pristine beauty of Thi Tuong Lagoon.
Rustic and Flavorful Cuisine at Thi Tuong Lagoon
Thi Tuong Lagoon cuisine is a delicate blend of the distinctive flavors of the Southwest region of Vietnam and fresh seafood caught directly from the lagoon. When visiting Thi Tuong Lagoon, visitors cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy famous local specialties, imbued with rustic flavors:
- Grilled mudskipper with salt and chili: A signature dish of Thi Tuong Lagoon that any visitor should try. Mudskippers, after being cleaned, are marinated with rich spices, especially spicy salt and chili, then grilled over charcoal until golden brown. The grilled fish has a natural sweetness, firm and fragrant meat, combined with the spicy and salty taste of salt and chili, creating an unforgettable flavor.
- Fermented fish hotpot (Lẩu mắm): A dish imbued with the culinary identity of the Mekong Delta, fermented fish hotpot is a harmonious combination of fermented linh fish, snakehead fish, and many fresh country vegetables such as sesbania sesban flowers, water lily flowers, bitter herbs, and climbing wattle… The hotpot broth has a rich, fragrant flavor characteristic of fermented fish, combined with the sweetness of seafood and the freshness of raw vegetables, creating an attractive and nutritious dish.
- Stir-fried crab with tamarind: Ca Mau crab is famous for its firm meat and rich roe, and when processed into stir-fried crab with tamarind, it becomes even more appealing. Fresh crabs are stir-fried until just cooked, then evenly coated with a rich sweet and sour tamarind sauce. Stir-fried crab with tamarind has the sourness of tamarind, the sweetness of sugar, the mild spiciness of chili, combined with the natural sweetness of crab meat, creating a dish that is both familiar and unique.
- Herring salad (Gỏi cá trích): Fresh and flavorful herring salad with the taste of the sea is a great choice for an appetizer or to enjoy with friends. Fresh herring is skillfully prepared, mixed with herbs, onions, roasted peanuts, and distinctive sweet and sour fish sauce. Herring salad has a harmonious sour, spicy, salty, and sweet taste, fresh and non-fishy fish meat, served with grilled rice paper or shrimp crackers, it is even more attractive.
Enjoying grilled mudskipper with salt and chili, a famous specialty when traveling to Thi Tuong Lagoon.
Culture and People of Thi Tuong Lagoon: The Beauty of the Riverine Region
The culture and people of Thi Tuong Lagoon bear the deep imprint of the riverine life of Southwest Vietnam. The locals here are gentle, honest, and live mainly by fishing and farming. They are always open, hospitable, and willing to share with visitors interesting stories about their land, their lives, and the traditional cultural features preserved through generations.
The traditional culture of the people of Thi Tuong Lagoon is clearly expressed in folk festivals, cultural activities, and in daily life. Traditional festivals are not only an opportunity for people to pray for favorable weather and bumper crops but also a chance for the community to bond, express solidarity, and preserve the good cultural values of their homeland. Coming to Thi Tuong Lagoon, visitors will not only discover beautiful nature but also immerse themselves in a space of rich cultural identity, feeling the warmth and sincerity of the people of the riverine region.
Sightseeing in Thi Tuong Lagoon Ca Mau – Discovery
Thi Tuong Lagoon is truly a precious gem of Ca Mau tourism, an ideal destination for those seeking peace, immersing themselves in pristine nature, and exploring unique local culture. With beautiful natural landscapes, diverse ecosystems, distinctive cuisine, and hospitable people, Thi Tuong Lagoon promises to bring visitors unforgettable travel experiences and cherished memories. If you are planning a trip to the Mekong Delta river region, do not miss the opportunity to explore Thi Tuong Lagoon and experience the wonderful things that this place has to offer.