If you’ve been looking into traveling in Vietnam, then you probably heard of something called the Mekong Delta, an enchanting region in southern Vietnam, with its floating markets, lush orchards, and maze of rivers and canals. But is it worth visiting? If so, how many days is ideal? By the end of this article, we hope to have helped you figure out how long to spend in the Mekong Delta, as well as give you the best places to visit, whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a deeper dive into the local lifestyle.

Is it worth going to Mekong Delta ?

If you're into floating markets, scenic rivers, and a vibe that's a world away from the hustle of Saigon, why not visit the Mekong Delta? Picture yourself cruising down the river in a wooden boat, surrounded by lush greenery and bustling local life, while you sip on fresh coconut water. Relaxing, right ?

The Mekong Delta is all about slowing down and experiencing Vietnam’s rural charm. You can explore floating markets like Cai Rang, where vendors sell everything from pineapples to household goods right from their boats. Then, there are the peaceful villages, where you can cycle along rice fields, visit family-run coconut candy factories, and stay in cozy homestays for that local experience. Plus, there’s the food! From fresh seafood to delicious tropical fruits, the Mekong Delta offers a feast for your taste buds.

So, is it worth going to the Mekong Delta? If you love authentic experiences, serenity, and soaking in the local culture, then yes, it's definitely worth a visit.

Is one day enough for the Mekong Delta?

One day in the Mekong Delta can give you a quick glimpse of its charm, but it’s definitely a whirlwind trip! If you’re short on time, you can do a Mekong Delta day tour from Saigon that typically includes a visit to a local village, a boat ride along the river, and a quick stop at a floating market like Cai Be. You’ll get a taste of the culture and see some beautiful landscapes, but if you really want to dive into the local way of life and explore more off-the-beaten-path spots, one day might feel rushed.

So, is one day enough for the Mekong Delta ? It’s great if you’re tight on time, but for a more relaxed experience, consider staying longer. 

How long to spend in Mekong Delta?

If you have 7 days in the Mekong Delta, you’re in for a deep dive into one of Vietnam’s most vibrant and diverse regions. With a full week, you can explore not only the popular spots like Ben Tre, Can Tho, and the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, but also venture further to hidden gems like Soc Trang, Tra Vinh, and An Giang. You can enjoy leisurely boat rides, visit local temples, experience authentic homestays, and even check out the bird sanctuaries and unique ecosystems of the region.

A 7-day itinerary in the Mekong Delta allows you to slow down, interact with locals, and truly experience the rural beauty and culture. If you want to soak it all in, 7 days is the perfect amount of time !

What to visit in the Mekong Delta in 7 days?

Ben Tre

Ben Tre, often called the "land of coconuts," is a peaceful and picturesque destination in the Mekong Delta, known for its scenic canals, lush orchards, and traditional village life. If you're planning a trip to the Mekong Delta, Ben Tre should definitely be on your list. What to do in Ben Tre?

Explore the Coconut Kingdom

Ben Tre is famous for its coconut production. Take a tour of the coconut workshops where you can see how everything from coconut candy to coconut oil is made. Don’t miss the chance to taste fresh coconut water straight from the source and try the local delicacies made from coconut, such as coconut pancakes and candy.

Take a Boat Trip on the Mekong River

One of the best things to do in Ben Tre is a boat trip along its tranquil canals. Hop on a small sampan boat and explore the winding waterways, lined with palm trees and local homes. It’s a serene way to experience the everyday life of the Mekong Delta and see how locals fish and farm.

Visit the Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary

If you’re into nature, the Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary is a must-see. Located just outside Ben Tre, this lush green reserve is home to hundreds of species of birds, including storks, herons, and kingfishers. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own, walking along the trails or taking a boat ride to spot wildlife.

Cycling Around the Countryside

Ben Tre is one of the best places in the Mekong Delta for cycling. With its flat, scenic paths and quiet roads, you can easily rent a bike and pedal your way through coconut groves, rice paddies, and small villages. It’s a peaceful and enjoyable way to explore the countryside at your own pace.

Tra Vinh

Tra Vinh is one of the hidden gems of the Mekong Delta, it's a unique mix of Khmer culture, lush landscapes, and peaceful rural life. Tra Vinh is a quieter destination compared to its neighboring provinces, but that’s what makes it so special. If you’re looking for a more off the beaten path experience in the Mekong Delta, here’s what you can do in Tra Vinh:

Visit the Khmer Pagodas

Tra Vinh is famous for its Khmer community, and the region is home to some of the most stunning Khmer pagodas in Vietnam. Ang Pagoda (Chùa Âng) and Hang Pagoda (Chùa Hang) are two of the must-see temples in the area. These pagodas boast beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and peaceful surroundings, giving you insight into Khmer traditions and spirituality.

Explore Ba Om Pond (Ao Bà Om)

Ba Om Pond is a tranquil spot just outside of Tra Vinh town, surrounded by ancient trees that are hundreds of years old. The pond is a great place to relax, take a peaceful walk, or have a picnic while soaking in the natural beauty of the area. It’s also a significant cultural site for the Khmer people and hosts festivals during the Khmer New Year.

Visit the Tra Vinh Museum

For history buffs, the Tra Vinh Museum is the perfect place to learn about the region’s rich history and diverse cultures. The museum focuses on the heritage of the Khmer, Kinh, and Chinese communities, showcasing traditional costumes, artifacts, and historical photos. It’s a small but insightful stop for those who want to understand the cultural diversity of the Mekong Delta.

Attend a Khmer Festival

If you time your visit right, attending a Khmer festival in Tra Vinh is a highlight. The Ok Om Bok Festival, held in late October or early November, is one of the biggest Khmer celebrations, where locals gather to thank the moon for a good harvest. It includes traditional games, boat races, and performances, offering a lively and colorful cultural experience.

Soc Trang

Soc Trang, another Delta province distinguished by its ethnic and religious diversity. The population of Soc Trng is a mix of Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese, making it a unique place of cultural convergence. What to do in Sóc Trăng ?

Bat Pagoda

One of Soc Trang's most famous attractions is this Khmer pagoda where thousands of bats sleep during the day in the surrounding trees. The pagoda is a fascinating place of worship to visit for its architecture and the mystical atmosphere it exudes.

Chen Kieu Pagoda

Another must-see temple is the Chen Kieu Pagoda, also known as Bowl Pagoda, where walls and columns are decorated with broken pieces of bowls, plates, and ceramics. This temple is the fruit of a Buddhist monk's passionate work over more than 40 years.

Nga Nam Floating Market

If you want to experience the hustle and bustle of floating markets in Vietnam but with less crowd, you can visit this less touristy but just as picturesque floating market. It's an excellent opportunity to discover a local market where locals trade fresh produce from their boats.

Can Tho

Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta, is a vibrant hub known for its floating markets, riverside charm, and unique cultural experiences. It’s often referred to as the “capital” of the Mekong Delta and is a popular destination for travelers looking to explore the river life. Here’s what you can do in Can Tho to make the most of your trip:

Visit Cai Rang Floating Market

No visit to Can Tho is complete without exploring the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, one of the largest and most lively in the Mekong Delta. The market starts early in the morning, with vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to household goods—all from their boats! You can hire a small boat and cruise through the market, watching the hustle and bustle while enjoying a fresh breakfast right on the water.

Take a Boat Trip Along the Canals

The maze of canals around Can Tho is perfect for a relaxing boat trip. You can hire a private sampan (traditional wooden boat) and cruise through the smaller, less touristy waterways lined with lush greenery and coconut palms. It’s a peaceful way to see rural life in the Mekong Delta, passing by local homes, farms, and fishing villages.

Explore Binh Thuy Ancient House

Binh Thuy Ancient House is a beautifully preserved French colonial house located just outside of Can Tho city. Built in 1870, the house offers a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of wealthy Vietnamese families during the colonial era. The architecture is a blend of French and traditional Vietnamese styles, and the house has been used as a set for various movies, including "The Lover."

Visit the Ong Pagoda

For those interested in culture and history, the Ong Pagoda is a must-see. This Chinese-style temple, located near Ninh Kieu Wharf, is dedicated to the worship of Kuang Kung, a symbol of loyalty and justice. The vibrant red and gold decor and the incense-filled air create a tranquil atmosphere, making it a fascinating cultural stop in Can Tho.

Try Can Tho’s Delicious Street Food

Can Tho is a paradise for food lovers. From bustling markets to street vendors, there’s no shortage of amazing local dishes to try. Be sure to sample banh cong (deep-fried shrimp cakes), hu tieu (noodle soup), and banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancakes). The street food scene here is vibrant and offers a taste of authentic Mekong Delta cuisine.

An Giang (Chau Doc, Long Xuyen)

An Giang, located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, is a fascinating destination known for its rich cultural diversity, beautiful landscapes, and unique religious sites. Whether you're exploring the bustling town of Chau Doc or the laid-back city of Long Xuyen, An Giang offers a variety of experiences, especially in Chau Doc or Long Xuyen. Here’s what you can do in An Giang:

Visit Sam Mountain and the Ba Chua Xu Temple

Sam Mountain is one of the most important religious sites in southern Vietnam, located just outside of Chau Doc. At the foot of the mountain, you’ll find the Ba Chua Xu Temple, a sacred place for locals who come to pray for health, prosperity, and protection. The temple is particularly busy during festivals, especially around the Ba Chua Xu Festival in late April. You can also hike up Sam Mountain for panoramic views of the Mekong Delta and the Cambodian border.

Explore Chau Doc Floating Villages

A boat trip around the Chau Doc Floating Villages is a must. These villages are home to fish farms where families raise fish right under their floating homes. You can visit one of the farms to learn about the local aquaculture industry and get a closer look at the daily life of the people who live on the water. The unique stilt houses and floating fish cages are a striking sight and a testament to the resourcefulness of the people in this region.

Visit the Cham Villages

Chau Doc is home to a significant Cham Muslim community. A short boat ride across the Hau River will take you to Cham villages like Chau Giang. Here, you can explore mosques, meet local families, and learn about the Cham people’s unique traditions and way of life. It’s a culturally enriching experience that highlights the diversity of the Mekong Delta.

Take a Boat Trip to Tra Su Cajuput Forest

The Tra Su Cajuput Forest is a bird sanctuary and one of the most beautiful wetlands in Vietnam. A boat trip through the flooded forest allows you to glide peacefully past submerged trees, watching birds and other wildlife. The best time to visit is during the wet season (September to November), when the forest is fully flooded and the scenery is at its most dramatic.

Explore Long Xuyen Floating Market

While less famous than Cai Rang or Cai Be, the Long Xuyen Floating Market is a more authentic and quieter experience. You’ll find fewer tourists here, making it a great place to witness the true local life of the Mekong Delta. Boats are loaded with fruits, vegetables, and various goods, and you can float between them to get a close-up view of this bustling market. Plus, the market lasts longer.

Visit My Khanh Village

Just outside Long Xuyen, My Khanh Village is a picturesque place where you can experience rural life in the Mekong Delta. The village is known for its sprawling fruit orchards, and you can take a leisurely walk or bike ride through the area, sampling tropical fruits like durian, rambutan, and longan straight from the trees.

Dong Thap (Sa Dec, Xeo Quyt, Gao Giong)

Dong Thap is known for its lush landscapes, rich history, and charming villages. Whether you're wandering through the flower-filled streets of Sa Dec, exploring the wartime history of Xeo Quyt, or experiencing the serene beauty of Gao Giong Eco-Tourism Park, Dong Thap offers something for every traveler. 
 

Visit Sa Dec Flower Village

Sa Dec is often called the “flower capital” of the Mekong Delta, and the Sa Dec Flower Village is one of its biggest attractions. This 100-hectare village is a colorful wonderland where you can stroll through fields of blooming flowers, especially during Tet (Lunar New Year) season. It’s a paradise for photographers and nature lovers, with over 2,000 varieties of flowers and ornamental plants.

Explore the Ancient House of Huynh Thuy Le

This historical gem is known for its connection to the famous French novel “The Lover” by Marguerite Duras. The Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House was the residence of Duras’ lover, and it’s a beautiful blend of Chinese and French architecture. You can take a guided tour of the house to learn more about the love story that inspired the novel, while also admiring the antique furniture and intricate wood carvings.

Explore the Xeo Quyt Relic Site

Xeo Quyt is a historical and ecological site that was once a Viet Cong base during the Vietnam War. The Xeo Quyt Relic Site offers a unique blend of nature and history, as it’s located deep in a swampy forest. You can explore the site by foot or take a boat ride through the narrow canals that weave through lush greenery. The site is dotted with underground bunkers and war relics, giving you a fascinating look into Vietnam’s past.

Xeo Quyt is known for its dense Melaleuca Forest, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds and fish. A guided boat ride through the forest is the best way to experience the natural beauty of this area. The calm, swampy waters and towering trees create a serene and atmospheric setting, perfect for nature lovers and those interested in eco-tourism.

Explore Gao Giong Eco-Tourism Park

The Gao Giong Eco-Tourism Park is often referred to as the “green oasis” of the Mekong Delta. This vast park covers over 1,700 hectares and is home to a rich ecosystem of wetlands, mangroves, and bird species. Visitors can explore the park by boat, gliding through peaceful canals surrounded by lotus flowers and water lilies. During the flood season, the park turns into a vibrant haven for migratory birds.

One of the highlights of visiting Gao Giong is climbing the Bird-Watching Tower. From here, you get a panoramic view of the park’s wetlands and can observe flocks of birds, including herons, egrets, and storks. The tower is especially popular during the nesting season, making it a fantastic spot for bird enthusiasts and photographers.

Vinh Long

Vinh Long is a top destination for travelers looking to experience the rural charm, lush landscapes, and river-based culture of southern Vietnam. Known for its fertile orchards, floating markets, and island homestays, Vinh Long offers a mix of natural beauty and authentic Mekong Delta life.

Visit the Cai Be Floating Market

Although technically in Tien Giang Province, the famous Cai Be Floating Market is easily accessible from Vinh Long. This floating market is one of the largest and most colorful in the Mekong Delta. A boat tour through the market gives you the chance to see vendors selling fresh produce, fruits, and other goods directly from their boats. The early morning is the best time to visit when the market is at its liveliest. Don’t miss the chance to sample local treats like tropical fruits and banh mi from the floating stalls.

Explore An Binh Island

One of the top highlights of Vinh Long is An Binh Island, a large, peaceful island in the middle of the Mekong River. The island is famous for its fruit orchards, traditional houses, and homestays, offering visitors a chance to experience life in the Mekong Delta. You can take a leisurely boat ride through the narrow canals, walk or cycle around the island, and enjoy tropical fruits like durian, longan, and rambutan straight from the gardens. Staying in a homestay on An Binh Island is a great way to connect with local families and enjoy home-cooked meals.

Check Out the Brick and Pottery Kilns

Vinh Long is known for its traditional brick-making industry, and a visit to one of the local brick kilns along the riverbanks is a unique experience. These kilns are typically family-run and have been passed down through generations. You can observe the brick-making process, from shaping the clay to firing the bricks in massive kilns. Some of the kilns also produce pottery, including household items and decorative pieces. It’s a fascinating look at the traditional craftsmanship that is still alive in the Mekong Delta. 

Deciding how many days to spend in the Mekong Delta comes down to what type of experience you’re after. With seven days at your disposal, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the best of the Mekong Delta: its serenity, rich history, and vibrant culture, creating memories that will last. If you have less time but still want to explore the Mekong Delta in depth, opt for the guidance of local experts. At Vietnam Original Travel, we offer you an authentic and personalized experience. As a local agency specializing in tailor-made tours of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Thailand, our team of experts, is dedicated to creating unique and memorable experiences tailored to your interests and preferences. Contact us to transform your visit to the Mekong Delta into a truly unforgettable experience from the very first moment.

=> Mekong Delta 3 Day Itinerary

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