No traveler in their right mind would skip Vietnam’s Mekong River Delta. This colorful collection of towns sprinkled along the banks of the Mekong River is blessed with dazzling blue skies, exotic fruits, and a rich cultural heritage. It’s a place where you can relax in a hammock, explore local markets, and indulge in delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Here are five unique destinations in the Mekong Delta for modern-day explorers.
Can Tho
Can Tho is the perfect base for your first visit to the Delta. Despite being the fourth largest city in Vietnam, it maintains a relaxed and laid-back vibe. Take a short motorcycle tour to experience the beauty of the islets and witness fish ponds, fruit orchards, and canals. Can Tho is surrounded by a network of sleepy canals, and you can hire a rowboat to explore them and visit small workshops that produce rice paper and noodles by hand. After a day of adventure, unwind in one of the rustic hotels or homestays with blissful views of the water.
Of course, a visit to Can Tho wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Cai Rang Floating Market. Get on a boat in the early morning and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the market. Watch as boats laden with fresh fruits trade their goods. Don’t forget to try a steaming bowl of tapioca noodles, sliced pork, and aromatic herbs for breakfast – it’s a local favorite.
Cai Be
Cai Be is a lesser-known town in the Mekong Delta, which gives it an authentic and approachable charm. The highlight of Cai Be District is Tan Phong Islet, a lush paradise surrounded by the Tien Phong River. Take a short and interesting ferry ride to reach the islet, where you can explore its canals and fruit orchards. The best way to experience Tan Phong Islet is by taking a sampan or riding a bicycle down the narrow lanes. Immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and witness how farmers cultivate tropical fruits like rambutans and mangosteens.
Back on the mainland, the markets in Cai Be town offer a diverse range of produce. Visit the Cao Dai temple and explore the market to discover local delicacies. Don’t miss the opportunity to try ginger candy with peanuts, fluffy banh mi with chili sauce, and slippery banh canh noodles in fish broth. And, of course, indulge in the abundance of fresh, sun-kissed fruits.
Chau Doc
Chau Doc is a fascinating border town that showcases a mix of influences from different cultures. The Hau River, also known as the Bassac River, flows in front of the town, and the river boats bring produce from near and far to the bustling market. Let yourself be immersed in the multicultural trade and marvel at the variety of goods available. Taste the unique Chau Doc-style bun ca, a turmeric-tinted noodle soup made with river fish, fresh rice noodles, and aromatic herbs.
Chau Doc offers a glimpse into the deep-rooted traditions and harmonious coexistence of different communities. Visit the delicately painted mosques on the islets where the Cham community gathers, and explore the Buddhist pagodas on the sacred hill of Nui Sam, which attract both Khmer and Vietnamese devotees. Don’t miss the bustling Ba Chua Xu temple, where pilgrims offer whole roasted pigs, fruit pyramids, and lotus blossoms. For a serene experience, visit Chua Hang (Cave Pagoda) nestled on a hill, and soak in the breathtaking views of rice fields stretching to the mountains of Cambodia.
Sa Dec
Sa Dec holds a special place in the hearts of many visitors. It’s where French author Marguerite Duras lived and set her renowned novel, “The Lover.” You can visit the house of Duras’ lover, Huynh Thuy Le, which still stands today and is open to the public. Sa Dec is also known for its beautiful mansions and ornate temples that line its tidy riverfront streets. Take a leisurely stroll along the river to appreciate the town’s architectural gems.
The vibrant market in Sa Dec is the heart of the town, offering a wide range of intriguing produce. After exploring the market, venture a few kilometers outside the city to discover Sa Dec’s extensive flower nurseries. Walk through the greenhouses and nurseries, immersing yourself in the colorful world of tropical plants. Sa Dec’s tranquil charm and colonial influences have a way of captivating travelers passing through.
Ben Tre
Located near Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Tre is a convenient destination for a day trip or a longer retreat. Embark on a boat ride along the nipa palm-fringed canals, stopping at a coconut candy workshop to learn about the process from harvest to packaging. Explore the quiet roads and lanes that encircle the town, leading to the countryside adorned with towering palms and olive-hued canals. Visit weaving workshops, brick making factories, or simply enjoy a relaxing rowboat tour on the water. And, of course, savor a classic Ben Tre lunch of fried elephant ear fish rolled with cucumber, pineapple, herbs, and rice noodles.
Whether you have a day or several days to spare, Ben Tre offers hidden treasures at every turn. For a hassle-free experience, consider booking a tour with a local provider like Saigon Tourist. They offer transfers from Ho Chi Minh City, two boat rides, a visit to an ancestral house in the countryside, and an amazing lunch. Their well-trained, English-speaking guides will ensure you have a memorable and informative exploration of Ben Tre.
Enjoy your journey through these unique towns in the Mekong Delta, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. For more travel ideas and inspiration in Vietnam, sign up for our newsletter.
