If you’re looking for an escape from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, a Mekong Delta 1 day itinerary in My Tho and Ben Tre is the perfect way to experience the rich culture and natural beauty of southern Vietnam. The Mekong Delta is known for its winding waterways, lush fruit orchards, and traditional villages. In just one day, you can visit vibrant islands, taste local specialties, explore coconut and honey farms, and enjoy a peaceful sampan ride through narrow canals. This itinerary takes you to the best highlights of My Tho and Ben Tre, offering a glimpse into the authentic life of the Mekong Delta.

About the Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a vast and fertile region in southern Vietnam. It is where the Mekong River splits into nine branches before flowing into the sea, creating a network of rivers, canals, and lush islands. This area is known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam because of its rice production (enough to make Vietnam the third largest rice exporter in the world), but it also produces tropical fruits, coconut products, and fish. Life here revolves around the water, with floating markets, boat-based transport, and traditional villages lining the riverbanks.

The Mekong Delta consists of 13 provinces and cities, including Can Tho, An Giang, Dong Thap, Vinh Long, Tra Vinh, Ben Tre, and Tien Giang. Each province has its own charm. Can Tho is famous for its floating markets, Chau Doc near the Cambodian border is rich in cultural diversity, and Tra Vinh has strong Khmer influences. My Tho and Ben Tre are probably the most visited destinations in the Delta. They are the closest to Ho Chi Minh City and offer a perfect introduction to the Mekong Delta’s landscapes, culture, and food.

Getting from Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is about 70 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, making it an easy destination for a day trip. You have several options to get there.
 

Bus

The most common way is by bus. Many local and tourist buses operate between Ho Chi Minh City and different Mekong Delta cities, including My Tho, Ben Tre, and Can Tho. If you are heading to My Tho, the ride takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Buses leave from Mien Tay Bus Station, but if you prefer a more convenient option, some companies offer direct transfers with hotel pickup.

Speedboat

For a faster and more scenic journey, consider taking a speedboat. A few companies run speedboat tours to Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City, usually departing from Saigon’s central pier. This option is more expensive, but it offers a unique perspective as you cruise along the Saigon River before reaching the wider Mekong. The ride takes about 1.5 hours.

Private car

You can also hire a private car if you prefer comfort and flexibility. This is the best option if you are traveling in a group or want to visit multiple places in one day. A private car allows you to stop at local markets or take detours along the way.

Can you do Mekong Delta without a tour?

While it’s possible to travel independently, booking a guided tour is the best way to experience the Mekong Delta. A tour includes transportation, boat rides, and visits to local workshops and villages, making it easier to explore without worrying about logistics. Since many activities involve boats and rural roads, a guide can help you navigate the area and provide insights into the culture and history.

Is one day enough in the Mekong Delta?

A day trip to the Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City is enough to experience the highlights, especially in My Tho and Ben Tre. These two destinations are the most accessible parts of the Delta with rich river life, local crafts, and traditional food.

My Tho is the gateway to the Mekong Delta and one of the busiest cities in the region. It is known for its large river, scenic islands, and floating fish farms. The most popular activity here is a boat ride to the nearby islands, where you can visit fruit orchards, bee farms, and handicraft villages.

Ben Tre is quieter and greener, famous for its coconut plantations and small waterways. It is the best place to see traditional Mekong life, with hand-rowed sampan boat rides through shaded canals and visits to coconut candy workshops. The relaxed atmosphere and lush scenery make it a perfect escape from the city.

A one-day trip allows you to explore both destinations, but if you have more time, staying overnight will let you experience the slower pace of life in the Delta. You can visit floating markets in the early morning, cycle through rural villages, or take a deeper look at local industries like brick making and rice paper production. However, if you are short on time, My Tho and Ben Tre offer a great introduction to the Mekong Delta in just one day.

Mekong Delta 1 day itinerary in My Tho and Ben Tre

Getting there

Your day in the Mekong Delta starts early with a pickup at 8:00 AM from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. After a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, you will reach My Tho, the gateway to the Mekong Delta. Along the way, you’ll get to see typical scenery of the countryside in Vietnam – narrow roads flanked by green rice paddies, with temples and shrines dotted here and there.

Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda

Before boarding your boat, make a quick stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda, the largest and most famous Buddhist temple in My Tho. Built in the mid-19th century, the pagoda has a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French colonial architecture. As you enter, you will see three giant Buddha statues—one representing the past, present, and future. You can spend hours admiring the statues and the peaceful gardens, filled with bonsai trees, lotus ponds, and intricate carvings.

Exploring Phoenix Island and the Coconut Candy Factory

From My Tho, board a traditional wooden boat and cruise along the Mekong River to Phoenix Island. This island is a popular stop where you can visit a small coconut candy factory. Ben Tre, famous for its coconuts, is where you can see how the locals make chewy, sweet coconut candy by hand. You can watch the process from start to finish—cooking the coconut milk, cutting the warm candy into small pieces, and wrapping them individually.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try snake wine or coconut wine. Snake wine is made by fermenting whole venomous snakes in rice wine, while coconut wine is a milder, sweeter alternative. Both are believed to have health benefits, though the taste is definitely not for everyone.

Cycling Through the Village and Lunch on Turtle Island

After the factory visit, continue your journey by cycling through a small village in Ben Tre. The quiet paths wind through coconut groves and fruit orchards, where you can see how locals live. You’ll pass by neighborhoods, locals drying coconut husks, or families making rice paper.

For lunch, stop at a riverside restaurant on Turtle Island, one of the four famous islands in the area. A highlight of the meal is deep-fried elephant ear fish, a specialty of the Mekong Delta. The fish is served whole, crispy on the outside and soft inside. It is usually wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs and dipped in a sweet-sour fish sauce.

Dragon Island – Bee Farm and Honey Tea Tasting

After lunch, get back on the boat and head toward Dragon Island. Here, you will visit a bee farm, where locals produce honey from longan flowers. You can sample fresh honey tea, a sweet and refreshing drink made with honey, kumquat juice, and sometimes a little royal jelly. If you like, you can also try honey-based products like pollen or handmade beauty products.

Unicorn Island – Sampling Tropical Fruits and Enjoying Don Ca Tai Tu

Next, hop on a motorized buggy to reach Unicorn Island. This island is famous for its fruit orchards and traditional Vietnamese music. You will stop at a small house where you can sample fresh tropical fruits such as jackfruit, red dragon fruit, pomelo, and longan.

While enjoying the fruit, you will listen to a performance of Don Ca Tai Tu, a traditional folk music style from southern Vietnam. This music, played with stringed instruments, is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. The melodies are soothing, and the experience feels like stepping back in time.

Sampan Tour Through the Shaded Canals

After the cultural experience, take a sampan boat ride through the narrow canals of Ben Tre. These hand-rowed boats glide through waterways lined with water coconut trees, offering a peaceful and scenic journey. The only sounds you’ll hear are the paddles dipping into the water and the occasional bird call. This is one of the most relaxing and authentic experiences of the day.

Return to My Tho and Back to Ho Chi Minh City

After the sampan ride, return to the main boat and cruise back to My Tho. By 4:30 to 5:00 PM, you will board your car or bus for the drive back to Ho Chi Minh City. You will arrive around 6:00 PM.
 

This one-day Mekong Delta day trip from Ho Chi Minh City gives you a perfect introduction to the region, balancing sightseeing, cultural experiences, food, and relaxation. If you have more time, spending a night in the Mekong Delta will allow you to see the floating markets and explore deeper into the countryside. However, even in one day, you will get a taste of the Delta’s unique way of life, making it a memorable part of your Vietnam trip.

Tips for day-tripping to the Mekong Delta

1. Choose the Right Season

The Mekong Delta is warm and humid year-round, but the best time to visit is from November to April, during the dry season. The weather is more comfortable, and you won’t have to deal with heavy rains. If you visit during the rainy season (May to October), expect short but intense showers, which can make boat trips and cycling more challenging.

2. Dress Comfortably

The Mekong Delta is hot and humid, so wear light, breathable clothing. Opt for shorts or loose pants and a T-shirt. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, as you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors. If you’re planning to cycle or walk on dirt paths, wear comfortable sneakers or sandals.

3. Bring Cash for Small Purchases and Tipping

Many small shops and vendors in the Mekong Delta do not accept credit cards, so bring Vietnamese dong (VND) for souvenirs, snacks, and tips. If you plan to buy local products like coconut candy, honey, or handmade crafts, cash will be necessary.

4. Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are common in the Mekong Delta, especially near the rivers and canals. Bring insect repellent and apply it before visiting fruit orchards or taking a sampan ride. Wearing light-colored clothing can also help keep mosquitoes away.

5. Book a Guided Tour for a Hassle-Free Trip

While it’s possible to visit the Mekong Delta independently, booking a guided tour makes the experience smoother. A tour includes transportation, activities, and meals, so you don’t have to worry about planning logistics. If you’re short on time, a tour ensures you get the most out of your visit without missing key attractions.

Conclusion

A Mekong Delta 1 day itinerary in My Tho and Ben Tre offers a perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. From visiting Vinh Trang Pagoda and cycling through peaceful villages to tasting fresh tropical fruits and cruising along the river, this trip gives you an unforgettable experience of southern Vietnam’s countryside. If you want a stress-free journey with well-organized transportation and knowledgeable guides, consider booking a tour with our agency. Let us take care of the details so you can fully enjoy the beauty and charm of the Mekong Delta.

>>> How Long To Spend In The Mekong Delta : A Complete Guide