Beneath the fragrant leaves of the U Minh Hạ cajeput forest, the art of wild honey harvesting (Gác kèo ong) has long been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage of Vietnam. This unique ecotourism experience takes you deep into the forest to witness the skills of local honey hunters.
National Heritage
Gác kèo ong trade
in Cà Mau
Honey Quality
Golden, sweet, aromatic
cajeput flower scent
Activity
Forest trekking,
coconut husk smoking
Destination
U Minh Hạ
National Park
1. Gác Kèo Ong - The Art of Wild Bee Attraction
U Minh forest honey is entirely natural, created by wild honeybees. To harvest honey without disrupting the ecosystem, local hunters developed the art of "gác kèo". They select smooth, barked cajeput logs, carry them into the wetlands, and mount them at angles in sunny, open spots facing the sun.
Each beekeeper has family secrets regarding log orientation and wind direction to entice wild hives to nest on their logs.
2. The Thrill of "Honey Hunting" (Ăn ong)
Harvesting wild honey requires bravery, calm nerves, and deep experience. Hunters wear simple protective gear and mesh head coverings. The key tool is a bundle of dry coconut husks set on fire to produce thick smoke, temporarily dispersing the bees.
When the smoke rises, the hunter quickly cuts away the honey-filled sáp (comb) with a sharp knife, leaving a portion containing the larvae so the hive can rebuild. This respect for nature has sustained the trade for generations.
3. Nutritious Bee Larvae Specialties
Besides pure wild honey, fresh bee larvae are used in local culinary preparations. Stir-fried bee larvae with chives, banana flower salads, or crispy fried larvae wrapped in rice paper are highly unique delicacies offered to guests in U Minh.
4. Booking Your Forest Ecotour
If you wish to follow the steps of professional honey hunters, ask your homestay hosts to schedule an excursion. This is integrated into the Tour U Minh Hạ offered by Bà Ngoại Homestay.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I distinguish genuine U Minh honey from fake honey?
Genuine U Minh forest honey has moderate viscosity, a natural mild cajeput flower scent, and does not crystallize over time. When poured into water, genuine honey drops directly to the bottom without dissolving immediately.
Is the honey harvesting process safe for tourists?
Yes. Visitors stand at a safe distance of 15-20 meters, wear protective gear, and are protected by continuous smoke, making the experience safe from stings.
Reference Sources
To maintain objective and scientific accuracy regarding this traditional heritage, the facts in this article have been referenced from the following official archives:
- Decree No. 461/QD-BVHTTDL by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Vietnam) declaring "Wild Honey Harvesting" (Nghe gac keo ong) in Ca Mau Province as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.
- Ca Mau Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism (sovhttdl.camau.gov.vn): Scientific dossiers on traditional crafts and folklore of the U Minh Ha melaleuca forest.
- U Minh Ha National Park Management Board: Sustainable forest harvesting regulations and biodiversity conservation guides.
Experience Honey Hunting in U Minh
Trek through the cajeput forest, squeeze fresh honey, and taste local bee larvae salad with Bà Ngoại Homestay.
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Written by
Tran Bi (Founder of Ba Ngoai Homestay)
Tran Bi is a local tourism expert with over 10 years of experience guiding visitors through Cape Ca Mau and the U Minh mangrove forests.
Experience Ca Mau Ecotourism Firsthand
Join our local guides to explore the mangrove forests, catch mud crabs, harvest wild honey, and stay at our cozy homestay.