Mekong River Delta - A vast labyrinth of rivers

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a floating world made up of a vast maze of rivers and fertile, alluvial soil in southern Vietnam. Referred to as Dong Bang Song Cuu Long in Vietnamese, or the river delta of nine dragons, this haven for lush rice paddies, wildlife, and tropical fruits and vegetables is a biological treasure trove of the world. The colorful floating markets and shimmering Khmer Pagodas of the largest city in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho, showcase a proud Vietnamese and Cambodian heritage. In addition, to the natural wonder of the area, the culinary delights abound in regional delicacies such as Lau Mam, a hotpot with fermented fish, and Banh Xeo, a Vietnamese-styled crispy pancake. As much of the lifestyle in the area revolves around the river, many of the villages are often only accessible by canals and boat, creating the atmosphere of land frozen in Cochinchine time.

Travel guide

Time to visit

This floating maze is worthy-visited in any season of the year. Ripe rice seasons are in early April, late August and late November.

Accommodation

Accommodation facilities are not as developed in other regions of the country. Most international visitors who choose to stay in the Mekong Delta instead of day-tripping from Ho Chi Minh City spend the night on cruise or in simple homestay. Most hotels cater to domestic guests with prices reflecting the local budget. A few boutique properties exist around My Tho and Can Tho but due to competition, fill-up quickly. If you wish to stay in one of these properties, book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Food

Mekong Delta is lack of international dishes but serves flavorful ones like Hu tieu My Tho (My Tho noodle soup), Lau Mam (fish sauce hot pot), Dua Ben Tre (Ben Tre coconuts).

My Tho noodle soup

Ben Tre coconuts

Transportation

Boat, bicycle.

It is an amazing experience to get on a boat ride along the small channels to admire the wildlife. You can also ride a bike around the smallest villages.

How to get to Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta: 193km

Although the Mekong Delta has 12 different provinces, the most common route is to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho, which is home to the well-known Cai Rang floating market. Here are some suggestions for your 169-km-journey.

Bus: It’s cheap, and there are many departures daily.
Boat: An interesting way to travel and take a look at the local life on the riverside
Airplane: Can Tho has an airport, so instead of sitting for 3 hours on the bus, you can shorten the traveling time with a 45-minute flight.
Motorbike: If you like the feeling of immersing yourself in the scenery around, consider motorbike. It’s cheap and easy to rent one almost anywhere in Vietnam.

Recommended length of stay

If you want a quick look of the floating market and local life, a day trip could be enough. Stay for 3 to 5 days to fully experience more attractions of Mekong Delta.

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