Discover all the best: Top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta

• September 08,2023
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Nestled in the heart of vibrant Southern Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is a mesmerizing region that beckons travelers with its rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking landscapes. In this article, we will uncover the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta to provide an insider's guide to the most captivating experiences this enchanting destination offers. From floating markets to lush rice paddies and traditional villages, embark on a journey with us now!

WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THE MEKONG DELTA?

Nestled in the southern reaches of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta stands as a vital component of the expansive Mekong River system. Its boundaries extend Westward and shares a border with Cambodia. While to the Southwest lies the Gulf of Thailand, and to the Southeast, the vast expanse of the East Sea unfolds.

The Mekong Delta includes 13 provinces and a centrally-run city. Which includes Can Tho, An Giang, Bac Lieu, Ben Tre, Ca Mau, Dong Thap, Hau Giang, Kien Giang, Long An, Soc Trang, Tien Giang, Tra Vinh, and Vinh Long.

In every province, a distinctive cultural identity unfolds, offering travelers an opportunity to witness the living heritage of the Mekong Delta. Try to join in the festivities, ceremonies, and daily rituals that make each community a captivating chapter in the story of this extraordinary region.

The Mekong Delta, also known as the Mekong River, has beautiful landscapes that tourists who visit once will never forget

Renowned as one of Vietnam's rapidly growing economic hubs, the Mekong Delta thrives on agriculture, specializing in rice, fruit, and fish farming. Beyond its economic prowess, tourism flourishes and offers visitors a myriad of experiences. 

The Mekong Delta boasts remarkable features, including the expansive Mekong River system, vast rice fields, extensive melaleuca forests, and abundant aquatic life. Recognized as a major fruit production center in Vietnam, the region is a visual feast for nature enthusiasts.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Mekong Delta is a melting pot of rich and diverse cultures. Home to various ethnic communities such as Khmer, Chinese, Cham, and Kinh, the region showcases a unique cultural identity through its traditional festivals and rituals.

For avid river travelers, the Mekong Delta offers an array of captivating experiences. Find out the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta below to ensure an unforgettable journey through this enchanting region!

HOW TO TRAVEL TO THE MEKONG DELTA?

Discovering the Mekong Delta promises every visitor a one-of-a-kind experience that allows them to fully immerse themselves in its captivating natural beauty. Before beginning the journey to explore the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta, let us provide you with a comprehensive list of transportation options to reach this enchanting destination.

From Ho Chi Minh to the Mekong Delta

Traveling from Ho Chi Minh to the Mekong Delta offers visitors various transportation options considering the distance ranging from 80km to 300km. Given the considerable distance, multiple modes of transportation are available to suit your preferences.

For those seeking an adventurous journey, motorbike travel is an option that takes approximately 4 to 10 hours. The scenic route ensures a visually rewarding experience and showcases the picturesque landscapes along the way. 

Alternatively, if you prefer a more comfortable and time-efficient option, renting or driving a car can reduce the travel time by about 2 hours compared to a motorbike.

Coach travel is another convenient choice to explore the provinces of the Mekong Delta. Reputable brands like Thanh Buoi, Phuong Trang, Tam Quoc, and Lien Hung,… provide numerous departure times throughout the day. Ticket prices are reasonably affordable, ranging from 100,000 VND (4.34 USD) to 250,000 VND (10.8 USD).

Tourists from Ho Chi Minh City can choose to travel to the Mekong Delta by plane or coach

Moreover, some provinces within the Mekong Delta have airports, including Can Tho, Ca Mau, Rach Gia, and Phu Quoc. Air travel provides a quicker option, with round-trip ticket prices varying from 1,200,000 VND (52.1 USD) to 2,500,000 VND (108.7 USD), depending on the class selected. 

Whether by road or air, diverse transportation choices make the journey to carry out the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta accessible and accommodating for every traveler.

From Hanoi and Da Nang to the Mekong Delta

The distance from Hanoi and Da Nang to the Mekong Delta provinces is quite extensive. Therefore, the fastest way for you to arrive at the Mekong Delta is probably by taking a flight.

Flights from Hanoi or Da Nang to the Mekong Delta provinces typically range from 1 to 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on the specific location. Various airlines offer services for your Mekong tour, including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Pacific Airlines, and Bamboo Airways. 

Ticket prices always fluctuate, with one-way fares ranging from 1,500,000 VND (65.2 USD) to 3,500,000 VND (152.1 USD) for a round trip. This mode of transportation not only ensures a quicker journey but also allows you to begin your exploration of the Mekong Delta's top attractions sooner.

DISCOVER THE TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN THE MEKONG DELTA

Let's explore the expansive landscapes of the Mekong Delta, renowned for its vast stretches of rice fields that seem to stretch endlessly, and its intricate network of winding rivers. As we delve into the Mekong Delta itinerary, join us in uncovering a myriad of intriguing experiences that await!

Get up early to go to Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho

Recognized as the busiest and most renowned market in the Western region, the Cai Rang floating market stands out as a unique and characteristic feature of the region. Therefore, a visit to Cai Rang is a must-do for anyone seeking the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta.

Established in the early 20th century, the Cai Rang floating market received recognition as "A national intangible cultural heritage" in 2016. Focused on the trade of agricultural products, fruits, and Mekong Delta specialties, the market showcases the vibrant river life with dozens of boats densely parked along the river.

Cai Rang floating market is a unique and typical type of market of the Mekong Delta that tourists from all over enjoy

To witness the full vibrancy of the market, you have to make sure to arrive early. As the hustle and bustle of this market typically start at dawn around 4:30 a.m. and wind down by 7 a.m. The lively trading scene paints a dynamic picture of river life that creates a memorable experience for visitors.

In case you rise early and find yourself without time for breakfast, just reach the Cai Rang floating market, and you will discover an abundance of meal options. Several boats offer a variety of breakfast dishes, including porridge, Com Tam, Hu Tieu, Banh Canh, and stir-fried vermicelli. Additionally, you can enjoy a selection of beverages like tea, coffee, coconut water, and soy milk.

For a more immersive experience, consider planning your visit during the Cai Rang Floating Market festival, held annually in early July. The festival features musical performances, traditional booths, fairs, book exhibitions, and a showcase of Can Tho travel photos

Explore the Tra Su Melaleuca Forest in An Giang

For those still contemplating whether the Mekong Delta is worth a visit, a trip to Tra Su Melaleuca Forest provides a resounding answer. This destination, especially for nature enthusiasts, stands out as an ideal choice.

Tra Su Melaleuca Forest is meticulously planted to replicate the typical ecosystem of the flooded areas west of the Hau River. This careful cultivation provides visitors with a captivating experience within its extensive cajuput forest, forming a rejuvenating "green patch".

The main mode of transportation for your Tra Su Melaleuca Forest tour is a dinghy. Skilled women rowing the dinghy will guide you through the forest as well as offer insights into the fascinating spots of this region along the way.

Dinghy riding in Tra Su Melaleuca forest takes you immersed in the vast green melaleuca forest, with the songs of birds

Picture yourself seated on a dinghy, gracefully gliding through the tranquil natural landscape to leave behind the hustle and bustle of city life. The harmonious symphony of bird calls resonating from the cajuput domes and the gentle splash of oars transport you to a fairyland of relaxation.

Additionally, deep within this forest, there is a towering observation tower that provides visitors with a panoramic view of the eco-tourism area. With a telescope boasting a visibility of 25 km, visitors can freely admire the vastness of the Melaleuca forest and even observe unknown bird species. 

This immersive experience undoubtedly secures Tra Su Melaleuca Forest's place among the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta.

Discover all the interesting things at Con Phung in Ben Tre

Con Phung, situated in Ben Tre province, is an idyllic eco-tourism spot. Positioned in the middle of the Tien River, this island offers a remarkably cool and serene atmosphere. Ensure it's on your itinerary when compiling the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta!

With its picturesque river landscapes, flourishing gardens, and a plethora of enticing services, Con Phung attracts thousands of visitors annually. A primary point of interest on the island is the Dao Dua relic site. This has preserved the cultural and religious values of the local people for the past 50 years while maintaining its timeless beauty.

Con Phung tourist area is an eco-tourism destination in Ben Tre province that is extremely cool and peaceful

Next, the Coconut Museum on Con Phung showcases intricate, eye-catching, and artistic handicrafts crafted from coconuts. Visitors can also witness the fascinating process of creating delicious coconut candies. 

To explore the entirety of Con Phung, bicycles and dinghies serve as ideal modes of transportation. Biking excursions provide you with a comprehensive view of the stunning natural scenery, while dinghies allow for exploration of the island's small canals.

For a more immersive experience, tourists can try their hand at fishing in the ditches and even experience crocodile fishing. You can cap off the visit by enjoying performances of Don Ca Tai Tu, a traditional Western-style musical genre, in charming thatched-roof houses.

Admire all the beauty of Sa Dec Flower Village in Dong Thap

Experience the vibrant beauty of Sa Dec Flower Village is a highlight among the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta this time. Recognized as the largest flower village in the West, it has become a cherished destination for tourists, particularly during the spring season.

Regardless of the month you visit, Sa Dec Flower Village captivates with its enchanting colors and fragrances that create a magical atmosphere. Each season unveils a unique array of flowers that shows the village's botanical diversity.

Sa Dec boasts an array of exquisite flowers, including raspberry chrysanthemums, gerberas, evening primroses, auspicious marigolds, and ten o'clock flowers. Notably, the village cultivates around 50 different rose varieties, destined for international export.

Sa Dec flower village every occasion near the Lunar New Year will be filled with beautiful yellow color of chrysanthemums

Renowned for its ornamental plants, the village hosts rare trees that have gracefully aged over nearly a century. Alongside familiar trees such as starfruit, areca nut, fig, and apricot, meticulous pruning transforms them into ornamental trees with captivating and unconventional shapes.

What sets Sa Dec Flower Village apart is its distinctive planting method. Flower beds are elevated on high trellises with the lower areas intentionally flooded. To tend to and harvest the flowers, growers don boots or utilize small boats that paint a unique and picturesque landscape.

Beyond the visual delight of admiring flowers and capturing photos, visitors can engage with the friendly farmers. The locals are eager to share insights into the intricate details of cultivating and caring for various flower varieties.

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Relax on “Pearl Island” – Phu Quoc in Kien Giang

Phu Quoc, situated off the Southwest coast of Vietnam, is one of the most enchanting islands in the Mekong Delta. Renowned for its captivating natural scenery and breathtaking beaches, Phu Quoc annually draws millions of visitors seeking a slice of relaxed paradise.

The island boasts splendid beaches, including Bai Sao, Bai Dai, Bai Khem, Ganh Dau, and more. The combination of fine white sand and crystal-clear blue waters forms a picturesque landscape, leaving visitors reluctant to depart. 

Surrounding islets like Hon Thom, Hon Dam, and Hon May offer fantastic opportunities for snorkeling and diving. This also allows visitors to explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life through activities like "sea walking". 

When sunset comes, the sky in Phu Quoc turns warm and magical colors that create a romantic and poetic scenery

Among the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta is exploring Phu Quoc National Park. This nature reserve, with its tropical forests, waterfalls, and rare flora and fauna, invites visitors to partake in trekking trips and immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the forest.

Moreover, venturing into the island's fishing villages provides insight into local life and the seafood harvesting process. Phu Quoc is equally famed for its exceptional cuisine, with must-try dishes like fresh seafood and local specialties such as Bun Quay and Bun Ken.

Adding to its charm, Phu Quoc, known as the "Pearl Island", is considered the best place to stay in the Mekong Delta according to its diverse resort systems. With thousands of resorts catering to various budgets, this island warmly welcomes guests from all corners of the world at reasonable prices.

Immerse in nature at Tram Chim Vi Thuy forest ecology area in Hau Giang

The Tram Chim Vi Thuy ecology area stands out as a significant destination, not only in the Mekong Delta overall but specifically in Hau Giang. It goes beyond being just a tourist spot, encapsulating the cultural essence of the local people and the rivers within the Mekong Delta.

At the heart of Tram Chim Vi Thuy is a 10-hectare natural bird garden featuring species like buffalo storks, ivory storks, cauldrons, teal, gongs, wild ducks, and more. All these species are representative of the Western River region.

The area also houses a wildlife breeding section with inhabitants such as wild boars, pythons, and honey-producing bees. Additionally, the canals are stocked with various fish species like snakehead fish, catfish, and tilapia,…

Tram Chim Vi Thuy is not simply a tourist attraction but also contains the cultural beauty of the people and rivers of the Mekong Delta

These significant points provide visitors with the opportunity to engage in fishing activities, cast nets, and observe fish thriving in their natural habitat.

Among the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta, a must-do experience is taking a boat ride along the canals beneath the dense green canopy of the forest. In this tranquil setting, flocks of chirping birds gracefully fly around as if they are extending a warm invitation to the visitors.

The best times to explore the Tram Chim Vi Thuy ecology area are early morning or late afternoon. During these hours, visitors can witness a plethora of birds preparing for foraging or returning to their nests. 

Notably, during the breeding season, the area becomes a nesting ground for birds from various corners of the globe. This is the chance to spot rare bird species listed on the Red List if luck is on your side.

Have a good time at Rio Water Park in Long An

Within the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta, you can find more than just nature exploration, there are also enjoyable spots to visit. One standout location is the Rio Water Park in Long An.

Rio is a resort-style water park featuring an Olympic-sized swimming pool and a modern mineral salt pool system. It offers entertainment areas and pools for both kids and adults, complemented by a poolside coffee bar.

For families, engaging activities like trying out the role of a rice farmer or fishing in the ditch are not to be missed. Rio Park also serves as an excellent venue for family outings and school picnics.

Coming to have fun at Rio Water Park, visitors have the opportunity to participate in tours and recreational activities such as swimming or folk games

Visiting Rio Park provides children with opportunities to participate in traditional games. On the spacious lawns, kids can join in activities like capturing the flag, cockfighting, can throwing, blind man’s buff, fostering a sense of community and play.

Moreover, children can let their creativity soar by crafting objects from natural materials, such as making pinwheels with coconut leaves or modeling buffaloes from clay. These hands-on activities allow them to showcase ingenuity, promote their creativity, and enhance their aesthetic skills.

Wander through the Windmill Fields in Bac Lieu

Bac Lieu Windmill Fields is a vital part of Vietnam's largest renewable energy project. If you're seeking the next top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta, this site promises an overwhelming experience.

The journey to the wind power farm is smooth on a well-paved road. Along the way, you can encounter pristine mangrove forests and witness coastal communities engaged in goby fish farming.

Recognized by the Mekong Delta Tourism Association as a typical tourist destination, Bac Lieu Windmill Fields is a must-visit. Visitors can marvel at colossal wind turbine blades reaching into the blue sky, tirelessly generating clean electricity to preserve the environment.

With its grandeur and beautiful scenery no different from those in Europe, this windmill area has quickly become a tourist destination attracting a large number of visitors

Besides, the Windmill Field in Bac Lieu impresses with its grandeur and picturesque scenery. From a distance, it bears a striking resemblance to wind farms in Europe. It quickly becomes a popular spot for tourists, especially young people seeking photo-worthy check-in moments.

Additionally, the area features glistening mud fields and biota-rich alluvial soil, along with mangrove trees standing tall in the distance. Due to its seaside location, the best times to visit Bac Lieu Windmill Fields are early morning and late afternoon. During these periods, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking sunrise and sunset over the sea.

Conquering the Southern Pole Point of Vietnam – Ca Mau Cape

Ca Mau Cape is a crucial geographical landmark in Vietnam, situated at the southernmost point of the country. Symbolized by a sail billowing in the wind, it represents the sea where the people of Ca Mau frequently venture out to catch seafood.

Visitors to Ca Mau Cape can explore and capture images of its distinctive symbols, such as the GPS 0001 coordinate landmark. The site also features the Hanoi Flag Tower, designed to mimic the architecture of the capital's flagpole. Inside, exhibitions, paintings, and photographs depict the nature, history, culture, and people of Ca Mau across various periods.

Ca Mau Cape is the last land of the Southern sky and the last most sacred destination of Vietnam on land

Included in your top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta should be a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Trail end marker, Lac Long Quan Temple, and Mother Au Co Statue. 

Additionally, a system of breakwaters encircles Ca Mau Cape. This system serves to prevent erosion, safeguard forests, and provide a coastal promenade, allowing you to immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery and enjoy the refreshing southern breeze.

Notably, Ca Mau Cape is the sole location in the Mekong River region where you can witness both the sunrise from the East Sea in the morning and the sunset in the West in the afternoon. The dawn's first rays, casting a red hue, combined with the lush greenery, create a captivating scene. As dusk falls, the entire sky glows, and the sun gracefully descends into the sea like a fiery ball.

Enjoy the cuisine of the Mekong River region

Mekong Delta is a region celebrated not just for its stunning scenery but also for its diverse and delectable local cuisine. In your top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta, don’t forget to try all the featured dishes of this region. In which you will not only be mesmerized by the natural beauty but also tantalized by the rich and unique flavors.

Banh Xeo

Banh Xeo, a delectable and distinctive traditional dish, originated in the Mekong Delta region. It boasts a delicious flavor and is crafted from simple ingredients.

In the West or Mekong River region, Banh Xeo stands out for being thinner and larger compared to versions found in other areas. The Western Banh Xeo features yellow skin with a delightful coconut milk aroma. Its filling includes shrimp, meat, and green beans, and in certain places, you might also find bean sprouts or coconut tubers.

Banh Xeo has a crispy crust and a golden color that makes diners fall in love

Moreover, Banh Xeo in this region is often enjoyed with an assortment of vegetables such as mustard leaves, toadstool leaves, ming aralia leaves, fish mint, mango leaves, and perilla. The dish is typically dipped in an exceptionally tasty sweet and sour garlic chili sauce.

Hu Tieu Sa Dec (Sa Dec’s noodles)

Hu Tieu Sa Dec, hailed as a specialty of Dong Thap province offers a uniquely delicious flavor and has gained widespread recognition in Vietnamese cuisine. Opting for a steaming bowl of Hu Tieu Sa Dec while exploring the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta is a savvy choice.

Beyond its appealing appearance, Hu Tieu Sa Dec captivates with its distinctive taste. This dish results from the harmonious blend of two key components: noodles and a flavorful broth.

A bowl of Hu Tiec Sa Dec will energize you on your journey to explore the Mekong Delta

The noodles, crafted from Sa Dec rice flour, boast a white, smooth, and soft texture without being crumbly or sour. Complementing this, the broth is prepared from bones and seasoned with traditional flavors.

Each serving of Hu Tieu Sa Dec features generous toppings such as char siu, pork liver, minced meat, fresh shrimp, and quail eggs. It is accompanied by an array of vegetables and herbs including celery, chives, bean sprouts, and a few lettuce stalks. Occasionally, diners can enhance the dish's flavor by adding garlic and chili soaked in vinegar.

Fried Giant Gourami

As you explore your Mekong Delta itinerary, not trying Fried Giant Gourami would be a significant oversight. This dish is a culinary gem among the locals in the Mekong River region.

Resembling a large ear in shape with a flat body, the Giant Gourami offers sweet, tender, and delicious meat. Once cleaned, the fish is gently placed into a pan of boiling oil, ensuring that the outer skin becomes beautifully crisp as it fries.

Fried Giant Gourami has a beautiful appearance along with an unforgettable taste

After frying, the fish is elegantly presented on a large, eye-catching plate alongside fresh vermicelli and over 20 typical Western vegetables. Additionally, Fried Giant Gourami is served with rice paper. 

To savor this delightful dish, you can take a piece of fish, roll it with the vibrant vegetables, and dip it into the sweet and sour fish sauce. It's a culinary experience that couldn't be more wonderful.

Banh Canh Ben Co

An exceptional dish to savor while embarking on the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta is undoubtedly Banh Canh Ben Co. Hailing from Tra Vinh, this specialty dish boasts a delectable flavor that entices diners from around the globe.

Banh Canh Ben Co features soft, chewy, milky-white noodles. The broth is meticulously crafted from stewed bones, simmering for hours to extract a sweetness enriched with secret seasoning.

Banh Canh Ben Co has been famous for more than 20 years and is associated with the location of Ben Co Hamlet in Tra Vinh province

To truly relish a bowl of Banh Canh Ben Co, the accompaniments are indispensable. Expect a medley of lean meat, pig's trotter, and pork intestines including kidneys, liver, and heart, along with an assortment of vegetables. It's a culinary delight that enhances the journey through the Mekong Delta.

Ca Mau’s crab

Ca Mau's crab stands as a delightful specialty, a natural gift from the Mekong Delta to its people. It is also widely regarded as the finest crab in Vietnam.

The crab meat is a fragrant and sweet delight, boasting a fleshy and firm texture, while the crab roe is extremely greasy. The delectable flavor of the crab is attributed to its habitat in a saltwater environment, where the saltier the water, the firmer the crab meat becomes.

When cooked, Ca Mau's crab will have a beautiful orange color, so it is very stimulating for hungry diners

This special seafood lends itself to various delicious dishes, including boiling, steaming, roasting with salt, or preparing in a hot pot. Each preparation method highlights the unique and tasty flavor of the crab.

Proud of their sea crab specialty, Ca Mau residents often present it to esteemed guests or offer it as gifts when visiting relatives in other provinces and cities. For those undertaking the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta, bringing home some of these exceptional crabs could be a delightful choice.

Ben Tre’s coconut candy

Ben Tre coconut candy stands out as a specialty gift from the Mekong River region. It is cherished not only locally but also exported to numerous countries worldwide, including Korea, America, and Thailand.

The original coconut candy recipe involves a simple mix of coconut milk, granulated sugar, malt, and a touch of vanilla to enhance the aroma. To add variety, other ingredients such as durian, peanuts, taro, cocoa, and more are introduced.

Ben Tre coconut candy specialty has a sweet and fatty taste from the best coconuts and the sweetest fragrant malt

Beyond being a delightful treat for family occasions, Ben Tre's coconut candy makes for a thoughtful and friendly gift for friends and relatives. If you find yourself in Ben Tre, don't miss the chance to bring home some of this sweet and iconic treat.

The Mekong Delta offers captivating travel experiences, showcasing a distinctive culture and stunning natural landscapes. Through our insights into the top 10 things to do in the Mekong Delta, you undoubtedly gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and uniqueness of South Vietnam.

So, seize the opportunity to plan your exciting journey to the Mekong Delta, where you can unravel the wonders that await you and create lasting memories in this enchanting corner of South Vietnam.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us directly at +84 28 7303 6167 or through email at [email protected]. Our team is prepared to provide swift and effective assistance.