Unique Three-Log Boat Race Held in Vietnam's U Minh Ha National Park

U Minh Ha National Park has become a vibrant hub of activity, hosting a unique festival that celebrates the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Ca Mau region. As part of the 'Ca Mau - Destination 2026' initiative, the park, in collaboration with the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Ca Mau, organized a series of engaging events designed to immerse visitors in the local way of life.

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Being able to row a boat right in the U Minh forest, amidst such a festive and lively atmosphere, makes me feel very excited.

The festival kicked off with a lively atmosphere, featuring a range of activities such as forest running, trekking, three-log boat racing, and traditional Don Ca Tai Tu music performances, alongside local culinary delights. The three-log boat race, in particular, generated considerable excitement, with many participants and spectators enjoying the spectacle. Tourists expressed delight at the opportunity to experience boat racing amidst the distinctive ambiance of the U Minh mangrove forest, many for the first time.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Hong Diep from Tan Thanh ward, Ca Mau city, shared her enthusiasm, noting it was her first time rowing a boat in the U Minh forest in over 20 years. "Being able to row a boat right in the U Minh forest, amidst such a festive and lively atmosphere, makes me feel very excited," she said. The event also included other traditional activities like monkey bridge challenges, where participants could win a prize of 500,000 VND for successfully crossing a bridge and retrieving a national flag without falling into the water.

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Not only promoting the potential of ecological tourism and community tourism, the event also contributes to introducing local products, connecting trade, and spreading the image of the forest land of U Minh to domestic and foreign tourists.

Beyond the races and challenges, the festival offered immersive experiences such as honey harvesting, fishing, and eel trapping, allowing visitors to connect with the traditional livelihoods of the region. The forest running event alone attracted nearly 1,000 participants, highlighting the community's engagement with the park's natural resources. Mr. Tran Cong Hoang, Director of U Minh Ha National Park, emphasized the event's dual purpose: promoting ecological and community-based tourism while also showcasing local products and fostering trade connections. He expressed hope that these activities would deepen visitors' understanding of the U Minh Ha region's culture and people, while simultaneously raising awareness for forest conservation.

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Through a series of experiential activities, we want visitors to understand more about the life, culture, and people of the U Minh Ha region, while also raising awareness of the need to protect the mangrove forest ecosystem.