Boasting vast expanses of water, sprawling green meadows, and a rich aquatic ecosystem, Tri An Reservoir is increasingly becoming a favorite destination for nature lovers and those seeking pristine, tranquil ecotourism experiences.
Overview of Tri An Reservoir
The Tri An Reservoir is a large artificial reservoir in Southern Vietnam. Originally built to serve the Tri An Hydroelectric Power Plant and provide water for agricultural production and daily life in the region, the lake has now become an attractive tourist destination, especially for those who enjoy camping and relaxing in a pure natural environment.
With a surface area of approximately 323 km² and a volume of nearly 2.8 billion m³, Tri An Reservoir is a large “green lung,” attracting tourists from all over, especially young people in Ho Chi Minh City and neighboring provinces, who come to “change the scenery” and enjoy a peaceful weekend by its clear blue waters.
Beyond its primary function, Tri An Reservoir also captivates visitors with its serene natural beauty. The calm lake surface reflects the clouds and sky, surrounded by lush green grass, creating an ideal open space for outdoor activities such as camping, BBQing, or stargazing. In particular, the 67 islands scattered throughout the lake further enhance the pristine, peaceful landscape.
How to get to Tri An Reservoir from Ho Chi Minh City?
Located about a 2-hour drive from Saigon, Tri An Reservoir is an ideal weekend getaway. The road to the lake is straightforward, primarily via major roads. Here are some suitable transportation options for your trip:
• Motorbike: A popular option for those who enjoy independent exploration. Ensure your motorbike is properly fueled, has complete documentation, and has safety equipment.
• Tourist bus: A convenient option for families or groups of friends. Reputable bus companies operating the Saigon-Dong Nai route charge 150,000-350,000 VND one-way.
• Book a private car: If you want a comfortable and convenient trip with an air-conditioned vehicle, you can book a private car to Tri An from HCMC to Tri An Reservoir through Vietdreamtravel.
What is the best time to visit Tri An Reservoir?
Tri An Reservoir is an ideal destination for those seeking a brief escape from urban life and a relaxing natural setting. According to Vietdreamtravel’s experience, the following times are ideal for a trip to Tri An Reservoir:
• October to June of the following year: This is the dry season in the Southeast region. The weather is cool and dry, which is very favorable for outdoor activities such as camping and trekking. In particular, you will have the opportunity to admire the vibrant Ma Da forest, a beautiful landscape to immerse yourself in nature.
• July to September: This is the rainy season in Dong Nai Province. Although travel may be a little difficult, this is a unique time to admire the lake’s distinct beauty. At this time, the lake surface often experiences a green algal bloom, creating unique photo opportunities.
Things to do in Tri An Reservoir
What is there to do, and what tourist activities await you at Tri An? Let’s explore the attractive suggestions below!
Camping at Tri An Reservoir
Tri An Reservoir currently has 67 islands of varying sizes, many of which are inhabited, making it ideal for community-based tourism and experiential activities. Thanks to its fresh air, clean water, lush green shores, and pristine scenery, the lake area is perfect for overnight camping, fishing, canoeing, swimming, or simply enjoying the peaceful sunset over the lake.
In particular, camping at Tri An Reservoir is a popular weekend activity, allowing you to escape the city, immerse yourself in nature, and create lasting memories. If you have experience, you can prepare your own tent and supplies. Alternatively, many campsites such as Ma Da LakeView, Lanh Farm, Napy Garden, Gao Farm Stay… offer a full range of services, from tent rentals and BBQ parties to karaoke, SUP paddling, and even vehicle rentals for tours of the hydroelectric dam and Ma Da forest, catering to all your recreational needs.
Not only is Tri An Reservoir an ideal place for relaxation, but it’s also a popular spot for young people to take photos. At sunset, when the sun bathes the lake in golden light, the scenery becomes romantic and poetic, rivaling famous lakes around the world.
Trekking through Ma Da Forest
Exploring Tri An Reservoir wouldn’t be complete without trekking through Ma Da forest, the “green lung” of Dong Nai. This area boasts pristine beauty with ancient trees, lush green meadows, and a diverse array of butterflies, forest birds, and wildlife. The ideal time for trekking is during the dry season, when the trails are dry and the weather is pleasant. You can travel by private vehicle or use a Jeep shuttle service.
SUP Paddling on the lake
Tri An Reservoir is an ideal destination for SUP paddling, suitable for all ages, offering a chance to admire the majestic scenery on the peaceful lake. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent SUPs at campsites at reasonable prices.
Many tourists choose to go boating at dawn to watch the sunrise, or after 3 pm to enjoy the cool air and watch the sunset. The experience of gliding freely on the calm lake surface will bring relaxation and exhilaration.
Enjoy local specialities
With its vast area and numerous coves, streams, and other habitats, Tri An Reservoir has created favorable conditions for many fish species to adapt and thrive. Among the fish in the lake, the Hoang De (Emperor) Fish has become a notable sight, attracting tourists’ interest. Emperor Fish originates from South America with the scientific name Cichla ocellaris.
In fact, this is not a species of fish that has been present in Tri An Lake for a long time. According to local people, about 20 years ago, a few fish farmers on the lake imported this species for the purpose of breeding ornamental fish. This is because the fish has a rather attractive appearance. However, during the rearing process in cages and rafts, some fish escaped into the wild and, finding suitable conditions, reproduced rapidly. Initially, when caught, many people were hesitant to eat the Emperor fish because of their unusual, fierce-looking teeth. Later, people discovered that the meat of the Emperor fish is firm, sweet, and fatty, making it very delicious. Over time, catching Emperor fish gradually became a source of income for fishermen in Tri An Lake.
No one remembers the exact origin of the elegant name “Emperor” for this fish, but the most plausible explanation is probably its colorful, golden-yellow scales. And dishes made from Emperor fish meat have become an indispensable part of such trips.
There are many ways to prepare it, but grilling and stewing are the most popular. According to local “chefs,” the white, fragrant, sweet, firm, and fatty flesh of the freshly caught fish only needs simple marination before grilling and dipping in chili salt, or it can be cooked in a light or sour broth to be delicious. Because it is a rare species found elsewhere, the hobby of fishing for Emperor fish also contributes to attracting many visitors from afar to Tri An Lake…
Source: collected by An
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