A day trip to enjoy the best of the beautiful Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City

A visit to the Mekong Delta offers an escape from the fast-paced life of Ho Chi Minh City. The visit takes visitors into a serene world of winding rivers, lush coconut groves, and traditional villages. This full-day journey to My Tho showcases the heart of Vietnam’s “Rice Bowl,” where life flows with the currents of the mighty Mekong River.

Early Departure from Ho Chi Minh City

A view of Ho Chi Minh City

The adventure begins early in the morning as you depart from Ho Chi Minh City. The scenic 1.5-hour drive towards My Tho takes you through the fertile landscapes of the Mekong Delta. Vast rice paddies stretch as far as eyes can see. Along the way, your guide provides insights into the rich culture and significance of the Mekong Delta in Vietnam’s history and economy.

Exploring My Tho & Vinh Trang Pagoda

Your first stop is the famous Vinh Trang Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist temple known for its unique fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer architectural styles. Surrounded by well-manicured gardens and massive Buddha statues, the pagoda offers a peaceful retreat before the real adventure begins. Take a few moments to admire the intricate carvings and golden statues before heading toward the river.

Boat Ride on the Mekong River

A view of My Tho

From the My Tho pier, you embark on a motorboat that glides along the mighty Mekong River. The river bustles with life as you pass floating houses, fishing boats, and stilted villages. You’ll soon navigate past the four legendary islets named Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Turtle, each with its own cultural significance. The boat ride provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of locals. They depend on the river for transportation, fishing, and agriculture.

Visit to the Bamboo Factory in Ben Tre

Arriving in Ben Tre, often called the “Coconut Kingdom” of Vietnam, you step into a bamboo factory. Here  skilled artisans transform bamboo into various eco-friendly products. You’ll witness how bamboo fibers are processed into textiles, creating soft and breathable fabrics used for clothing. This sustainable practice is an excellent example of how local industries are adapting traditional craftsmanship to modern demands. Take the opportunity to feel the lightness of bamboo-fiber clothes and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two.

Rowboat Ride Through Shaded Canals

A canal with boats plying in it as seen in the Mekong Delta

One of the most tranquil experiences of the day awaits as you board a small sampan (traditional rowboat). Gliding through the narrow canals, lined with towering coconut palms and lush greenery, boating offers a deep sense of connection to nature. This journey is often referred to as the “Amazon of Vietnam.” It showcases the true beauty of the Mekong Delta.

Local Handicrafts & Coconut Workshop

Stepping back onto solid ground, you visit a traditional coconut candy workshop. Here, you witness the meticulous process of making

A woman displaying the bee harvest. Honey making is a big livelihood for rural people in Mekong Delta area

Vietnam’s famous coconut sweets. You can sample fresh, warm candies straight from the molds while sipping on honey tea at a local bee farm. The delicate balance of flavors makes for an unforgettable treat.

For those interested in unique local experiences, there’s also a chance to try snake wine, a traditional Vietnamese liquor infused with whole snakes—believed to have medicinal properties. Whether you take a sip or not, it’s certainly an intriguing sight!

Lunch on One of the Mekong Islands

By midday, you make your way to one of the islands for an authentic Mekong Delta lunch at a riverside restaurant. The highlight of the meal is the elephant ear fish, a Mekong specialty. This is deep-fried, and served with fresh herbs and rice paper for DIY spring rolls. Other delicious dishes include braised clay pot pork, crispy fried shrimp, and a selection of tropical fruits. Enjoying a leisurely meal while gazing over the peaceful waters is an experience that perfectly encapsulates the region’s charm.

Battery Cart Ride & Folk Music Performance

After lunch, you continue your exploration of a traditional Mekong village, where an electric cart takes you through fruit orchards and small local farms. Along the way, you stop to enjoy a traditional Đờn ca tài tử performance—Southern Vietnam’s soulful folk music that has been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. The melodies, played on traditional string instruments, provide a

Folk musicians and singers playing traditional Vietnamese music at a rural restaurant

soothing end to your cultural journey.

Return to My Tho & Drive Back to Ho Chi Minh City

As the afternoon comes to a close, you board the motorboat back to My Tho. Take your ride back to Ho Chi Minh City. The ride back provides time to reflect on the day’s experiences, from the bustling river life to the peaceful canals and warm hospitality of the locals. By early evening, you arrive back in the city, filled with lasting memories of the Mekong Delta’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.

Why Take This Tour?

This Mekong Delta day tour is an unforgettable experience that blends natural beauty, cultural traditions, and local craftsmanship. Whether it’s witnessing the art of bamboo fiber production, gliding through shaded canals, or indulging in fresh Mekong cuisine, this journey provides a comprehensive look into Vietnam’s most fertile and culturally vibrant region. For travelers seeking an authentic glimpse into the Mekong Delta’s way of life, this tour offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

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