Mekong Delta
The Mekong splits into nine branches here before reaching the sea, and life follows the water: orchards, rice, fish farms and markets that trade from boats.
Highlights
- Cai Rang floating market near Can Tho, busiest between 5:30 and 7:30 in the morning
- Small canals by rowing boat, under water coconut palms
- Fruit orchards, coconut candy and rice paper workshops around My Tho and Ben Tre
- Homestays on the islands, where dinner is cooked with what the family grows
- Bird sanctuaries and stork gardens in the wetlands
Best time to visit
December to April is dry and pleasant. Water is highest from September to November, when the floating markets and canals are at their best.
Getting there
My Tho and Ben Tre are about 2 hours from Ho Chi Minh City; Can Tho is about 3.5 hours by expressway.
How long to stay
A day trip from Saigon, or one to two nights to reach the market at dawn.
Where to stay
Can Tho is the base for the floating markets, with riverfront hotels and homestays on the islands. Ben Tre and My Tho are closer to Ho Chi Minh City for a shorter trip, and garden homestays there put you among the orchards.
What to eat
Fish cooked whole, elephant-ear fish wrapped in rice paper, banh xeo, hu tieu, coconut candy and whatever fruit is in season: rambutan, longan, mango, durian.
Good to know
- Since 1 July 2025 Can Tho has absorbed the former Hau Giang and Soc Trang provinces.
- November to April is dry; the water is highest from September to November.
- Cai Rang is busiest between about 5:30 and 7:30 in the morning, so boats leave early.
Combine with
Tours that visit Mekong Delta
See HYNA tours in Mekong Delta
Questions about Mekong Delta? Message us on WhatsApp +84 345 827 501 or email booking@hynatravel.com.