The Mekong Delta is a captivating region in Vietnam, renowned for its tropical climate, delectable cuisine, and warm-hearted locals. Located just a short two-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, this expansive area is teeming with rice fields, coconut groves, and mangrove forests. If you’re a nature and culture enthusiast, this four-day itinerary is perfect for you. Get ready to indulge in mouthwatering noodle soups, explore ancient Khmer temples, and immerse yourself in the best of the Mekong Delta.
Day 1: Coconut Groves and Cycling in Ben Tre
Morning
Starting your adventure in Ben Tre, a province famous for its coconuts and delicious food, is a fantastic idea. Take advantage of the complimentary bicycles offered by most hotels and embark on a cycling tour through the enchanting coconut groves.
Pedal past the vibrant Ben Tre Market and along the scenic Ben Tre River until you reach the ferry dock. A short ferry ride will take you to Cu Lao Long, one of Ben Tre’s idyllic islets. Here, you can explore tree-lined paths, shaded coconut groves, and even stop for a refreshing ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee).
If time permits, consider taking a ferry to visit other islets in Ben Tre. Some islets offer organized tours and activities, while others provide an authentic glimpse into local life in the Delta.
For lunch, treat yourself to the delectable coconut-inspired dishes that Ben Tre is famous for. Indulge in creamy coconut rice, coconut-braised shrimp, and củ hủ dừa, a light and refreshing salad made with coconut hearts.
Afternoon
After a satisfying meal, it’s time to visit one of Ben Tre’s renowned coconut candy factories. With over 300 factories in the area, Ben Tre’s soft, sticky coconut sweets have gained international acclaim. Take a guided tour of one of these factories to learn about the intricate process of making coconut candy. And of course, don’t forget to sample some of Ben Tre’s original coconut candy, a delightful blend of coconut milk and sugar.
For dinner, venture out and savor a bowl of hủ tiếu, a piping hot rice noodle soup topped with succulent pork, shrimp, and a quail egg, served with lime and fresh cilantro. This local Mekong Delta staple will surely tantalize your taste buds.
Day 2: Temples and Small-Town Life in Tra Vinh
Morning
Start your day by traveling from Ben Tre to Tra Vinh, considered one of the Delta’s most picturesque provinces. Tra Vinh is a maze of tranquil tree-lined streets, charming houses, and lush green rice paddies.
Upon arriving, take a leisurely stroll through Tra Vinh City, where old and new blend seamlessly. Explore the city’s wet market and stroll along the Long Binh River, where you can witness local fishermen casting their nets. Visit the market to admire the local produce and don’t forget to try the delightful bánh tét trà cuôn, a steamed sticky rice cake filled with banana or mung beans.
In the heart of the city, you’ll find a mix of charming bubble tea and coffee shops nestled alongside traditional sidewalk cafes and tempting food stalls.
For lunch, choose any stall that catches your eye and indulge in the local flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, try bánh canh Bến Có, a round rice noodle soup served in a clear broth with pork, liver, and other delectable cuts.
Afternoon
After a satisfying meal, delve into the rich history of Tra Vinh, which is home to 140 ornate Khmer temples. These temples, built by Vietnam’s Khmer Krom ethnic group, add a unique charm to the region.
Spend your afternoon at Kom Pong Chrai Pagoda, also known as Hang Pagoda, located 6km from the city. This pagoda is renowned for its elaborate wooden sculptures, intricately carved by resident monks. As you explore the temple grounds, you’ll be amazed by the impressive wooden pieces that reach as high as the ceiling. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a flock of storks taking flight at dusk.
“One of the Delta’s prettier provinces, Tra Vinh is a maze of quiet, tree-lined streets, quaint houses, and green rice paddies.”
Conclude the day with a hearty banh mi from one of Tra Vinh’s local sellers. For the adventurous, the bánh mì phá lấu is a must-try, packed with intriguing meats and served with a rich, sweet sauce. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along Pham Ngu Lao or join local families for an evening walk in Deja Vu Huynh Kha Eco Park.
Day 3: Legendary Lakes and Can Tho City
Morning
Before bidding farewell to Tra Vinh, make sure to visit Ao Ba Om, a picturesque man-made lake surrounded by tall trees, picnic areas, and coffee stalls. According to legend, this lake was dug by a team of Khmer women centuries ago in a contest to win the right to choose their own husbands.
Today, Ba Om is a serene oasis adorned with lotus flowers and dragonflies. Take a moment to relax in a plastic armchair and savor an ice-cold ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee). Afterward, visit Ang Pagoda, one of Tra Vinh’s most impressive Khmer structures, and the Khmer Cultural Museum across the street for a deeper understanding of Khmer Krom culture and history.
When it’s time for lunch, seek out the famous Tra Vinh delicacy, bún nước lèo. This delectable rice noodle soup features a flavorful broth made from freshwater fish, aromatic herbs, and shredded banana flower. Order some fried spring rolls and steamed pork on the side for an authentic local lunch experience.
Afternoon
Next, take a scenic car or bus ride to Can Tho province, a three-hour journey from Tra Vinh. Can Tho is a popular tourist destination with plenty to see and do. Upon arrival, explore the charming town of Can Tho, starting with Ong Pagoda. This temple, built by Chinese descendants in the late 19th century, exudes an aura of mystery with its dimly lit entrance hall and spicy incense smoke. The entire temple is adorned in deep red hues, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.
For dinner, treat yourself to fresh seafood and authentic Mekong-style dishes at one of the many restaurants in downtown Can Tho. Indulge in can chua, a hot and sour soup native to the region, made with fish or shrimp, pineapple, tomato, bean sprouts, and elephant ear stems. Before turning in for the night, book a boat tour for the following morning to make the most of your time in Can Tho.
Day 4: Floating Markets and Sampan Rides
Morning
Start your last day in the Mekong Delta by visiting the renowned Cai Rang floating market. Considered the largest wholesale floating market in the Delta, it operates from early morning till midday. Wake up early and embark on a 30-minute ride from Can Tho to Cai Rang, where you’ll witness the river coming alive with wooden boats laden with an abundance of fruits and vegetables.
Hawkers display samples of their produce on long poles, making it easy for customers to identify what they’re selling. Smaller boats weave in and out, offering breakfast noodles and coffee. After experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the floating market, continue your morning adventure by cruising through the smaller tributaries, providing glimpses into the locals’ daily lives.
Upon returning to Can Tho, treat yourself to nem nướng Cái Răng for lunch. These succulent skewers of lean pork are grilled over charcoal and served with peanut sauce, herbs, pickles, and bánh hỏi, delicate bundles of tiny vermicelli noodles topped with sautéed garlic.
Afternoon
Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring Can Tho town, shopping for souvenirs, and taking a stroll along the bustling promenade of Ninh Kieu Park. For your final evening in the Delta, consider indulging in a classy dinner cruise aboard the TranMekong’s Mystic Sampan.
As you enjoy a gentle river ride around the outskirts of Can Tho city, relish the city lights while savoring a delicious meal. Indulge in Vietnamese mango salad, grilled sea bass, chicken with lemongrass, and other freshly prepared delights. This unforgettable dinner cruise is the perfect way to conclude your Mekong adventure.
Tips for Getting Around the Mekong Delta
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Chartered Bus: If you plan to explore the deeper parts of the Delta, consider booking online with a commercial bus company such as Thao Chau Express. A ticket to Ben Tre costs VND75,000 per person.
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Local Bus: Local buses connect most Mekong Delta provinces with each other and Mien Tay Bus Station in Ho Chi Minh City. These buses offer more affordable options compared to chartered buses.
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Taxi: Taxis and xe oms (motorcycle taxis) are widely available in the Mekong Delta. Ensure the taxi meter is running and negotiate the price before riding a xe om.
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Bicycle: Renting a bicycle can be an excellent way to explore the scenic Mekong Delta. Inquire at your hotel about bicycle rentals in the area.
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Motorbike: For a more adventurous experience, consider joining a motorbike tour to discover hidden gems of the Mekong Delta. Always wear a high-quality helmet and exercise caution when sharing the road with larger vehicles.
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