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Located approximately 50km from Ha Tien (Kien Giang) and adjacent to the mangrove forests along the Gulf of Thailand, U Minh Thuong National Park is a rare wetland forest and a distinctive ecological destination.
U Minh Thuong – A Unique Mangrove National Park in Kien Giang
U Minh Thuong National Park is part of the world biosphere reserve in Kien Giang Province. This area boasts multiple levels of biodiversity that few wetland conservation areas in Southeast Asia can match. Formed and concentrated in the western part of the Ca Mau Peninsula, U Minh Thuong is a unique type of acidic wetland forest in Vietnam. It has even been recognized as one of the world's most distinctive and rare forest types.
In the past, the U Minh Thuong forest region was called 'Thap Cau' because it had ten large canals flowing into the Gulf of Thailand. The years of land reclamation and cultivation shaped the distinctive character of the U Minh Thuong people, known for their hard work, resilience, generosity, and bravery. This forest area also served as the inspiration for writer Doan Gioi's timeless work, 'The Southern Forest Land.'
Diverse Flora and Fauna at the National Park
U Minh Thuong National Park is surrounded by a closed levee system stretching 60km. It is regarded as a natural museum showcasing wetland ecosystems. The forest features remarkable landscapes typical of the Mekong Delta region. The park is home to 72 animal species listed in the world's Red Book, including the hairy-nosed otter, fishing cat, grey-legged pelican, Javan pond heron, and pangolin.
U Minh Thuong boasts a rare wetland ecosystem with peat swamps. It hosts 254 species of higher plants, 32 mammal species, 188 bird species, and 64 fish species. Notably, in the Mekong Delta, only the core area of U Minh Thuong's forest vegetation exhibits characteristics of pristine climax forests, such as mixed melaleuca forests and melaleuca forests on peat soil.
An Attractive Ecotourism Destination
U Minh Thuong also served as a revolutionary base during the resistance against the French and American forces. The area now has 31 historical and cultural relics. Due to these unique conditions, the national park has become a captivating ecotourism destination in the Southwest region, attracting an increasing number of visitors from afar.
When visiting U Minh Thuong National Park, travelers will feel refreshed and invigorated by the clean air. Here, you can explore the melaleuca forest, bird sanctuary, bat observatory, and observe wildlife. Additionally, you can discover swamp habitats, which serve as feeding grounds for waterbirds.
During the honey-harvesting season from December to June, visitors can accompany beekeepers into the forest to collect honey. In the rainy season, travel is only possible by boat, allowing easy navigation through the forests. The deeper you venture, the more fascinating discoveries await, from bird nests and beehives to fish feeding and breeding in the forest. When the melaleuca trees bloom, the entire forest is filled with their fragrant aroma.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour.vn
Mytour.vnAugust 5, 2024
