Gao Giong Ecotourism Area - Home of Rare Birds

Gao Giong Ecotourism Area - Home of Rare Birds

Enjoying the cool green space along with the colorful natural landscape, Gao Giong Ecotourism Area is enough to captivate any visitor who stops by. Located in Dong Thap province, this place is also known as the "domain of rare bird species," attracting the curiosity of many. So to learn more about this fascinating destination, don't hesitate any longer, let's follow NVK travel to read the article below.

Introduction to general information about Gao Giong Ecotourism Area

Gao Giong Ecotourism Area has captured the hearts of many nature lovers and those who appreciate pristine landscapes. Although it has been heavily invested in to attract foreign tourists, this place still retains its inherent natural beauty.

Location

Gao Giong Ecotourism Area is located in Hamlet 6, Gao Giong Commune, Cao Lanh District, Dong Thap Province (After merging with Tien Giang Province, it is still called Dong Thap). This destination is only 17 kilometers from Cao Lanh city, about 140 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, and 60 kilometers from Can Tho City. With such a convenient location, it has become an ideal stopover for those who love exploring the Mekong Delta.

The ecological tourist area is located in a prime position

The ecotourism area is situated in a prime location

Area

Gao Giong Ecotourism Area impresses tourists with its vast scale, covering more than 1,670 hectares. More specifically, over 250 hectares inside are primary forest, highlighted against the dark green backdrop is 25 hectares of natural bird sanctuary. Thanks to this large area, it has long been considered the largest garden in Dong Thap Muoi. Notably, being surrounded by a dense network of natural canals, this conservation area is always maintained at a high humidity level, creating a favorable environment for flora and fauna to thrive.

>>> See more: Tram Chim National Park - Rustic Beauty of the Mekong Delta

Gao Giong has an extremely large construction scale

Gao Giong has an extremely large construction scale

History of formation

Rich and beautiful are the adjectives that tourists often use to describe Gao Giong Ecotourism Area. However, few people know that this place was once an ugly, barren land heavily affected by salinity. Many years ago, Gao Giong made everyone shake their heads in dismay as only sedge and grass could survive.

Until 1985, Gao Giong Tram Forest was established with an initially planned area of 1,657 hectares. The purpose of planting tram trees here was to improve the soil and restore the natural ecosystem. Over time, it has become the characteristic aquatic plant of this land.

After 2003, following the investment efforts of Cao Lanh District, this area was planned and focused on developing as a protective forest, enhancing the construction of an interesting ecotourism area as it is today.
 >>> See more: Rach Mieu Bridge: Famous Waterway Check-In Point in Tien Giang

The tourist area has depth in its formation process

The ecotourism area has a deep history of formation

Ecological significance

Gao Giong Ecotourism Area is not just a stop where you can admire the beautiful scenery. Looking further, this place has long been regarded as a solid "shield" that preserves biodiversity while balancing the wetland ecosystem in the Mekong Delta.

Everyone knows that Gao Giong stretches out with a rich vegetation cover, featuring a multitude of valuable plants such as sedge, water lily, lotus, and various types of fish. Additionally, it is home to dozens of water bird species and countless different fish species. Notably, the tram forest has recorded the footprints of over 15 rare bird species, prominently including the red-headed crane, heron, and bittern. Among them, the yellow-headed heron, which is listed in the Red Book, also chooses the "fertile land" of Gao Giong as its habitat.

Moreover, this vast tram forest is also considered the "green lung" of the Dong Thap area. Gao Giong has helped regulate the air, purify the water source, and contribute to reducing the negative impacts of climate change on the vast Thap Muoi.

Gao Giong carries many meanings related to ecology

Gao Giong carries many ecological meanings

Top experiences to do when visiting Gao Giong Ecotourism Area

When you set foot in Gao Giong Ecotourism Area, don't forget to participate in the following activities to have the best experiences.

Rowing leisurely on the river

For the people of the Mekong Delta, the three-legged boat has long been an indispensable means of transportation, capable of maneuvering through tiny canals. Coming to this ecotourism area, this very boat will take you through every nook and cranny of the Gao Giong tram forest.

Sitting on this vehicle to explore the surroundings, you will feel the tranquility flowing through your skin and senses. This is due to the wonderful sounds of chirping birds and the forest breeze that can lull any sensitive soul to sleep. In addition, the boat driver will share local stories with tourists, helping you understand more about the culture and history of this land.

Rowing a three-leaf boat like a true Westerner

Rowing a three-legged boat like a true Mekong Delta local

Watching birds soar

In this land, visitors will get to see "herons flying straight" in the true sense, along with enjoying a beautiful natural picture woven by hundreds of different rare birds. The best time to watch birds is in the early morning before 9 AM or in the late afternoon after 4:30 PM. At this time, birds gather in large numbers, flying and singing, making the sky bright with sunlight.

Admiring the scenery of birds soaring above

Admiring the scenery of birds soaring above

Admiring the beauty of the tram forest

Don't think that moving in the tram forest is difficult because there are already small trails built around, containing cleverly arranged wooden bridges that do not impact the natural environment.

Entering the tram forest and challenging yourself with gentle turns, visitors will then reach many small resting spots along the way, where they can stop to breathe in the fresh air and take many beautiful pictures.

Exploring the profound beauty of the cajeput forest

Exploring the profound beauty of the tram forest

Exploring the 18m high observation tower

In addition, Gao Giong Ecotourism Area also has an observation tower with a height of up to 18 meters. Standing here, you can admire the entire tram forest and watch the birds flying with a closer view.

Fishing

If you want to experience absolute tranquility and patience, participate in fishing activities here. From the catch you obtain, tourists can send the fish to the restaurant for processing and enjoy it on the spot.

Challenging your patience by fishing

Challenging your patience by fishing

Experience tips when visiting Gao Giong Ecotourism Area

Before heading to Gao Giong Ecotourism Area for your experience, here are some tips you shouldn't miss.

Best time to visit

The ideal time to visit Gao Giong Ecotourism Area is from November to April of the following year. At this time, the weather is in the dry season, the sky is clear, and rain rarely occurs. Therefore, tourists can almost fully experience all activities such as fishing, cycling, rowing,...

Especially if you visit this ecotourism area during the period from December to January, you will witness a beauty that cannot be found anywhere else. That is the scene of millions of birds migrating together, weaving a vibrant and beautiful natural tapestry.

Visit the tourist area during the dry season of the year

Visit the tourist area during the dry season of the year

Important notes to keep in mind

When visiting the Gao Giong ecological tourist area, you need to prepare your clothing carefully. It is best for visitors to wear long, light-colored clothes to minimize attracting insects. On your feet, don't forget to wear sports shoes or sandals with straps to avoid slipping.

As for items, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, snacks, and drinks are things you need to prepare before starting activities here. One last important note is that visitors need to be aware of protecting the environment, avoiding littering or making unnecessary noise as this can scare the birds.

Prepare necessary items when visiting Gao Giong

Prepare necessary items when visiting Gao Giong

Conclusion

Surrounded by the greenery of countless plants, the Gao Giong ecological tourist area has blended into the vibrant nature, creating interesting experiences for everyone. This place is home to numerous rare bird species that live close to the Mekong Delta region. When you come here, don't forget to turn on your camera to capture the most vivid moments. Also, remember that NVK travel is offering quality travel and tour guide services at very affordable prices. If you have a need to travel to Dong Thap, please call immediately for consultation.