2 Best Sights in Mekong Delta, Vietnam

In a mangrove forest about 5 km (3 miles) from the township of Bac Lieu is a large bird sanctuary that is home to 46 species of birds, including the endangered painted stork and small king cormorant. An estimated 40,000 birds live here, within a 951-acre mangrove ecosystem. The best time to visit is when the birds nest during the rainy season between May and October. Time a visit for dawn or dusk, when thousands of birds take to the skies.

This 104-acre mangrove forest, which stretches to Vietnam's southernmost point, is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve that is home to many rare and endangered birds, animals, and reptiles. The national park is 110 km (68 miles) from Ca Mau City, about two hours by speedboat. No organized tours visit the park (at the time of writing), but it is possible to hire a speed boat to take you there. This should be arranged well in advance of arriving in Ca Mau (preferably from Ho Chi Minh City) and should include the services of an English-speaking guide.