Tan Lap Floating Village | Long An

Tan Lap Floating Village (also known as Tan Lap Eco-Tourism Area) is a popular tourist destination located in Long An Province, in the Mekong Delta of southern Vietnam. This floating village is an excellent spot for visitors to experience the peaceful and unique water-based life of the Mekong Delta region. Known for its serene natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and immersive experiences in local culture, Tan Lap offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and eco-tourists.

Overview of Tan Lap Floating Village

• Location: Tan Lap Floating Village is situated in the Tan Lap Commune, Moc Hoa District, Long An Province, about 100 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City. The area is known for its vast wetlands, waterways, and a distinctive eco-system that makes it a peaceful and attractive place for tourists seeking an authentic Mekong Delta experience.
• Area: The village is part of a protected ecological zone called Tan Lap Wetland and spans around 1,500 hectares of rich, natural landscape. The wetland area is part of the Dong Thap Muoi (Plain of Reeds) and is one of the key ecosystems in the Mekong Delta.

Natural Features and Attractions

Tan Lap Floating Village:

• The village itself is an eco-tourism area designed to help visitors understand and experience the local rural life and water-based culture of the Mekong Delta. It consists of floating houses and platforms built along the winding canals of the wetland, offering a glimpse into how local residents adapt to life in the watery landscape.
• Visitors can explore the village via boat rides, either on traditional wooden boats or larger tour boats that wind through the tranquil canals and lakes.

Canals and Waterways:

• The canals surrounding Tan Lap Floating Village are the heart of the area. The waterways provide transport, fishing, and irrigation for the locals. Taking a boat ride along the canals offers a great way to see the lush greenery of the wetland, the mangroves, and the unique ecosystems that thrive here.
• A highlight is the water lily fields that bloom in the wetland, creating a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere, especially during the rainy season.

Tan Lap Floating Village Observation Tower:

• The observation tower is one of the main attractions in the area, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wetlands and the entire floating village. Standing tall above the mangrove trees, it gives visitors an opportunity to take in the vastness of the landscape, including the water channels and the flora and fauna.
• The tower is about 38 meters high, and climbing it provides an excellent opportunity for photography, especially with the picturesque wetlands and the setting sun.

Wetland Ecosystem:

• The Tan Lap wetland is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. It’s a great spot for birdwatching as the wetlands attract many species of migratory birds, especially during the dry season. Some of the birds you might encounter include herons, egrets, kingfishers, and waterfowls.
• The ecosystem also supports fish, crabs, and other aquatic life. Visitors can see locals fishing along the canals and may even try their hand at fishing in the traditional style.

Traditional Bamboo Bridges and Floating Houses:

• The area is known for its traditional bamboo bridges, which connect small islands and floating houses. These picturesque bridges are an essential part of the village and add a rustic charm to the surroundings. Many of the houses are built on stilts, raised above the water level, and are designed to withstand flooding during the rainy season.
• The floating houses give visitors a chance to see how people live in this unique water-based environment, using boats and water as their primary means of transport.

Things to Do in Tan Lap Floating Village

Boat Tours:

• Taking a boat tour through the canals of Tan Lap is a must-do activity. Whether you opt for a guided boat tour or rent a private boat, you’ll be able to explore the canals, get close to the local wildlife, and take in the beauty of the surroundings. Boat tours are the best way to experience the floating village’s charm, as you navigate through narrow water pathways lined with lush vegetation.

Birdwatching:

• If you're a bird enthusiast, Tan Lap offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching. The wetland area is a haven for migratory birds that visit during the dry season. You can spot a variety of species, particularly waterfowl, which are common in the region. The observation tower is an ideal spot to see large flocks of birds soaring above the wetlands.

Fishing:

• Fishing is an integral part of life in the floating village, and visitors can join the locals in their traditional fishing methods. You can try your hand at net fishing or catching fish with local traps.

Explore the Wetlands on Foot:

• While boat rides are the main way to explore the village, there are also designated walking trails and boardwalks in the eco-tourism area. These trails allow visitors to get up close to the mangrove forests and wetland ecosystems while avoiding disturbing the wildlife. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the natural surroundings.

Learn About Local Culture:

• Visitors can learn about the local culture and traditional livelihoods of the people living in the floating village. Tan Lap is an excellent place to learn about the importance of wetlands and how local residents have adapted their lives around the waterways. Many tours offer educational experiences that teach visitors about the natural resources, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices in the region.

Photography:

• Tan Lap Floating Village is a photographer's paradise, with its picturesque landscapes, tranquil waterways, and vibrant birdlife. The observation tower provides a perfect vantage point to capture the vastness of the wetlands, while the floating houses and bamboo bridges offer unique and cultural photo opportunities.

Best Time to Visit Tan Lap Floating Village

The best time to visit Tan Lap Floating Village is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is typically warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities like boat tours, walking trails, and birdwatching.

However, the rainy season (from May to October) can also offer a unique experience. During this time, the wetlands are lush, and the water lilies bloom, creating a magical atmosphere. Though some areas may become flooded, the wet season also means you can experience the region in its most vibrant state.

How to Get There

• By Car: The most convenient way to reach Tan Lap Floating Village is by car. From Ho Chi Minh City, it takes approximately 2-2.5 hours to drive to Tan Lap, which is about 100 kilometers away. You can take National Route 1A and head towards Long An Province, following signs to Moc Hoa District.
• By Bus: There are buses and shuttle services that run from Ho Chi Minh City to Long An and Tan Lap. Bus travel takes about 2-3 hours.
• Private Tours: Many travel agencies offer day tours from Ho Chi Minh City to Tan Lap, which typically includes transportation, a guide, and activities like boat tours.

Accommodation

• Eco-Friendly Hotels and Resorts: Tan Lap offers basic accommodations within the eco-tourism area, including floating hotels and guesthouses that allow you to stay overnight and experience the village life. These accommodations often focus on sustainability and maintaining the natural environment.
• Homestays: For a more authentic experience, you can choose to stay in a local homestay where you can interact with the villagers and learn about their daily routines.
• Nearby Towns: If you prefer more developed accommodations, you can stay in Tan An or other towns in Long An Province, which have a wider range of hotels and guesthouses.

Conclusion

Tan Lap Floating Village offers a unique, peaceful experience in the heart of the Mekong Delta. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking an eco-friendly adventure, with opportunities to explore the wetland ecosystems, observe wildlife, learn about local traditions, and enjoy the beauty of Vietnam’s waterways. Whether you're taking a boat tour, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the area, Tan Lap provides an authentic and serene glimpse into life in the Mekong Delta.