Once known mainly as a spiritual destination in the Mekong Delta, Chau Doc is now revealing a richer, more vibrant side to curious travelers. Beyond its sacred landmarks lies a unique way of life shaped by the river—peaceful, colorful, and deeply connected to the rhythms of nature. If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience that flows gently with culture and charm, this floating world in Chau Doc is waiting to be discovered.

Where Is Chau Doc And Why Is It Worth Visiting?

Chau Doc is a riverside city located in An Giang Province, in southern Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region. Nestled near the Cambodian border and along the banks of the Hau River (a branch of the Mekong), it lies about 250 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City. The city serves as a peaceful gateway to the slower rhythms of river life, away from the hustle of urban Vietnam.

What makes Chau Doc truly captivating is its rich cultural blend. The city is home to a harmonious mix of ethnic Vietnamese, Khmer, and Cham communities, each contributing to the area’s vibrant customs, architecture, languages, and spiritual practices. This multiculturalism is reflected in everything from local temples and mosques to traditional festivals and everyday life along the riverbanks.

For curious travelers, Chau Doc offers an authentic Mekong experience that goes beyond the usual tourist trail. Visitors can explore floating villages, sample unique river-based cuisine, and observe a way of life deeply rooted in the water. Whether you’re interested in cultural immersion, local food, or simply enjoying tranquil natural landscapes, Chau Doc promises a travel experience that’s both meaningful and memorable.

A Glimpse into the Floating Village in Chau Doc

The floating village in Chau Doc is located about 3 kilometers from the city center, along the Chau Doc River—a tributary of the Hau River. Rows of floating houses and adjacent fish cages line the riverbank, forming a close-knit “village” on the water. These freshwater fish farming villages have existed since the 1960s.

The Landscape of Chau Doc’s Floating Village

The floating village in Chau Doc stretches for a kilometer along the river, where over 160 fish cages form a vibrant mosaic on the water. Painted in vivid hues—red, yellow, green, blue, and purple—these floating homes and farms create a striking panorama that blends seamlessly into the surrounding river landscape. Reflections ripple across the surface like brushstrokes on a moving canvas, blurring the line between sky and water.

There are no roads here—only liquid pathways. Boats drift past as naturally as motorbikes in the city, weaving through a community that floats both literally and culturally. More than just a feast for the eyes, this colorful village tells the story of a way of life deeply rooted in tradition, resilience, and the ever-changing rhythm of the Mekong.

Daily Life on the Water

Life in Chau Doc’s floating village flows with the rhythm of the river. Each morning, locals begin their day tending to fish cages beneath their homes, feeding schools of catfish, basa, and tilapia raised for market. Boats serve as transport, kitchens, shops, and even play areas for children. At small floating markets, neighbors exchange produce, goods, and friendly conversations, all on water. Fishing nets are cast, engines hum, and the scent of grilled river fish wafts from makeshift stoves. It’s a way of life both practical and poetic—rooted in the water, yet full of human warmth.

A Peaceful Rhythm, Far from the City

Far removed from the buzz of city traffic and neon lights, the floating village offers a rare kind of tranquility. Here, time seems to slow down. The gentle lapping of the river, the occasional call of a boatman, and the rustling of wind through bamboo create a natural soundtrack for daily life. Locals live simply, in harmony with the tides and seasons. It’s a peaceful rhythm that reminds visitors what it means to live close to nature. For travelers seeking a pause from modern chaos, the village offers not just beauty but also a quiet lesson in contentment.

Top Things to Do in the Fishing Village

Visit the Floating Fish Farms 

When visiting Chau Doc’s floating village, you’ll be greeted by rows of unique floating houses gently swaying on the waters of the Tien and Hau Rivers. Though built on water, these homes are fully equipped with all the comforts of a land-based house—complete with kitchen, bedroom, and living area. Beneath each house lies a 5-meter-deep wooden cage made from starwood and reinforced with stainless-steel mesh, used for raising freshwater fish.

At the floating fish farms, you can even feed the fish yourself—simply toss in some pellets, and watch as hundreds of hungry fish leap and splash, fighting for food. The scene is lively and thrilling, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

Even better, you can buy fish directly from the farm. Known for their exceptional freshness and quality, the fish here are sold at very reasonable prices—so you can take home a taste of the Mekong with confidence.

Take a Boat Tour—Discover the River Culture of the Mekong Delta

A visit to Chau Doc’s floating village offers more than just scenic beauty—it’s a window into the unique river-based lifestyle of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Here, nearly every aspect of life is intertwined with water. Boats are not just transportation but also homes, kitchens, and places of commerce. This deep connection to the river has shaped a distinct culture, found only in the southern waterways of Vietnam.

There’s something calming about sitting on a floating platform, watching clusters of water hyacinth drift slowly by. These quiet, gentle moments offer a rare sense of peace and reflection. At the same time, visitors are invited to connect with local families—asking questions like, "Why did they choose this life?" Is it harder than living on land? How have they adapted over the years?

Through open conversations, travelers begin to understand the resilience and resourcefulness of the people who live here. While life on the water does come with its challenges, it also eliminates many burdens—like housing costs or land ownership. In a way, it offers freedom.

Despite economic shifts and environmental changes, the villagers remain deeply committed to this way of life. They continue to raise fish, maintain their floating homes, and live in harmony with the river. This enduring connection is what makes Chau Doc’s floating village so distinctive—and why travelers often leave with a newfound appreciation for the land, its people, and the quiet strength of life on the water.

Taste Freshwater Fish Dishes

When visiting Chau Doc Floating Village, don’t miss the chance to enjoy the local specialties. Fermented fish hotpot (lau mam), pangasius hotpot, neem flower salad, crispy fried fish, and deep-fried basa are just a few of the delicious dishes available. The fish is freshly caught, the ingredients and vegetables are fresh and locally sourced, and everything is prepared by the hands of skilled Mekong Delta locals—resulting in distinctive flavors that will leave a lasting impression.

Enjoy the Nighttime Charm of Chau Doc’s Floating Village

By day, Chau Doc’s floating village hums with activity—but as night falls, it transforms into something entirely different. The vibrant hustle gives way to a gentle calm as lights flicker on in the floating homes. Families gather together after a long day’s work, and the whole village slips into a slower, quieter rhythm.

Soft glows from the house lights reflect on the water’s surface, creating warm, golden pools of light. From a distance, the scene resembles a small city floating serenely on the river. It’s a magical sight—calm, shimmering, and full of quiet beauty. This peaceful nighttime view is one of the most enchanting moments in Chau Doc’s floating village, and something no visitor should miss.

What to eat in Chau Doc’s Floating Village

Chau Doc Fish Noodle Soup

If you ever have the chance to visit Chau Doc, you definitely shouldn’t miss the opportunity to try its famous fish noodle soup (bun ca). While this dish can be found in many places, only the cooking style and ingredients unique to Chau Doc can deliver such an unforgettable, distinctive flavor. Fresh, sweet snakehead fish paired with crispy, aromatic herbs and vegetables makes this dish truly irresistible.

Sau Dau Salad

In Chau Doc and across An Giang Province, locals make a unique salad using the young shoots and leaves of the sau dau—a wild plant known for its bitter taste, sweet aftertaste, and cooling properties. These leaves are often blanched briefly to reduce their bitterness before being mixed with ingredients like dried snakehead fish, dried gourami, or sometimes pork and shrimp.

The dressing is typically made from tamarind sauce, combined with sugar, minced garlic, and chili, creating a bold mix of flavors. The dish strikes a perfect balance of bitter, sour, salty, and sweet—from the tamarind’s tang, the gentle bitterness of neem leaves, the heat of chili, and the savory richness of the dried fish.

Chau Doc Fermented Fish Hotpot (Lau Mam)

In Chau Doc, mam ca chot and mam ca sac are the two key ingredients in lau mam, a signature hotpot. Common additions to the hotpot include stuffed chili with minced thac lac fish, various meats, seafood, and vegetables like water spinach, pumpkin flowers, water mimosa, banana blossoms, and a touch of chili and scallions for extra flavor. The dish is typically enjoyed with rice vermicelli. Diners are encouraged to prepare a dipping sauce with tamarind fish sauce or chili fish sauce to enhance the rich, bold flavors of this delicacy from the waterway region.

Banh Bo Thot Not

This is a signature delicacy of Chau Doc cuisine, and visitors can only truly enjoy its authentic flavor here. Banh bo thot not is made from the sugar and pulp of the palmyra palm fruit, combined with basic ingredients like rice flour and coconut milk. The cake is often a vibrant golden yellow, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Rich in carbohydrates and saturated fats, it’s an energy-boosting treat that can be enjoyed as a breakfast item, dessert, or even paired with savory dishes like braised pork or roasted pork.

Grilled Sticky Rice Banana

Grilled sticky rice banana is one of the nine desserts featured by CNN in its list of the “World’s Best Desserts.” As CNN described: “Crispy, hot, and fragrant—this dish is best enjoyed with coconut milk and roasted peanuts. It’s a must-try when visiting Vietnam.”

This beloved sweet treat can be found throughout the Mekong Delta, including Chau Doc. To prepare it, ripe chuoi su (a type of local banana) is peeled, rinsed in salted water, then marinated with 2–3 tablespoons of sugar and a pinch of salt for 30 minutes. Sticky rice is cooked with coconut milk, spread thinly, and used to wrap the banana. The whole roll is then wrapped in banana leaves and grilled. When the leaves are charred and the sticky rice turns golden and crispy, the dessert is ready—emitting a delicious aroma that’s as inviting as its taste.

Nearby Attractions to Combine 

Ba Chua Xu Temple 

When visiting Chau Doc, one place you truly must see is the Ba Chua Xu Temple located on Sam Mountain. At the beginning of the year, many visitors come here to pray for peace and good fortune. In addition to worship, there are also other activities such as releasing birds for merit and having fortune readings for the new year.

Sam Mountain Cable Car

Since 2021, An Giang has operated a cable car system to the mountain, spanning a total length of 900 meters with 37 cabins. Each cabin can carry up to 8 passengers and runs continuously, transporting visitors to Sam Mountain to pay respects at the Lady Xu Temple and explore other unique architectural structures.

Tra Su Cajuput Forest

When visiting Tra Su Cajuput Forest, travelers typically ride a boat that gently drifts along the water, allowing them to immerse themselves in nature and soak in the peaceful sounds of the forest—an escape from the hustle and bustle of crowded city life.

The first thing that will surely impress you upon arrival is the lush green color of the cajuput forest. This area is home to many rare animal species and a stunning variety of plant life.

The Cham Village

During your visit to Chau Doc’s floating village, you can also take the opportunity to explore nearby Cham villages—particularly the two most well-known: Chau Phong and Chau Giang. These villages are home to the Cham people, who practice Islam and have preserved a rich and distinct cultural identity.

As you wander through the villages, you’ll notice the unique customs and traditions of the Cham community. The local mosques feature striking Islamic architecture, and they are well worth a visit. One of the most notable cultural practices here is traditional handwoven brocade. This craft has been passed down through generations, and you can find beautifully made items such as bags, scarves, and textiles—all handmade, perfect as souvenirs or personal keepsakes.

How to Get to Chau Doc’s Floating Village

Getting to Chau Doc From Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re departing from Ho Chi Minh City, one of the most common ways to reach Chau Doc in An Giang is by bus. There are numerous bus options available throughout the day, offering a variety of departure times. On average, the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours. If you choose this option, be sure to keep an eye on the schedule to board on time and avoid missing your trip.

Another popular option is to travel independently by car or motorbike. The main advantage of this method is the flexibility it offers in terms of timing. 

Getting to Chau Doc’s Floating Village

To reach Chau Doc’s floating village, you’ll need to travel by boat. You can hire a boat from either the Chau Doc Three-Way Crossroads or the Chau Giang Wharf. Rental prices depend on your chosen destinations and the number of people in your group. Overall, the rates are considered quite reasonable, so you can rest assured you’re getting fair value.

Best Time to Visit

You can visit Chau Doc’s floating village at any time of the year. Thanks to its riverside location, the climate is generally cool and pleasant. However, for the most immersive and memorable experience, it’s best to go during the flood season—known locally as the “floating season.”

During this time, the water levels rise and carry rich alluvial soil, bringing an abundance of fish and shrimp. This makes the village even more lively and vibrant.

The flood season in An Giang typically lasts from the 7th to the 10th lunar month. Visiting the floating village during this period, you’ll witness water tinted with the color of silt and floating cages teeming with fish. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy authentic dishes made with the freshest local ingredients—true flavors of the Mekong Delta.

Useful Tips for Visiting Chau Doc’s Floating Village

If it’s your first time visiting the floating village in Chau Doc, there are a few important things to keep in mind. These tips will help ensure that your trip is both enjoyable and safe. The following information will definitely come in handy:

While traveling on the river, it’s advisable to wear a life jacket for your safety throughout the boat tour.

Keep your wallet and phone in a waterproof bag. That way, even if an accident happens, your belongings will stay dry and undamaged.

Since you’ll be getting on and off boats frequently, choose comfortable clothing that allows easy movement. It’s also best to wear flat shoes or sandals—avoid wearing high heels.

Although many households raise fish in floating cages, not all of them are open to receiving visitors. It’s a good idea to ask your boat operator to connect you with families known to be friendly and welcoming.

The Floating Village in Chau Doc

The floating village in Chau Doc is a must-visit destination in An Giang. If you have the chance to explore this region, don’t miss out on this fascinating spot! The Mekong Delta, with its lush gardens and river life, is a land of warmth and simplicity. Just one visit is enough to make you fall in love with its genuine charm.

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