March is one of the best times to visit the Mekong Delta. The weather is pleasant, the landscapes are lush, and many outdoor activities are at their peak. This travel blog provides essential information on what to expect, the best things to do, and how to make the most of your trip to the Mekong Delta in March. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, food adventures, or scenic boat rides, this guide will help you plan the perfect visit.
Mekong Delta weather in March
March is one of the most favourable months to explore the Mekong Delta, especially for travellers who prefer dry weather and smooth travel conditions. The region remains in the dry season, which allows outdoor activities, river cruises, and floating market visits to run comfortably and on schedule.
Temperature and Daily Conditions
In March, daytime temperatures in the Mekong Delta usually range from 32 to 35°C, while evenings cool down slightly and feel more relaxed. Early mornings are the most pleasant time of day, making them ideal for boat trips and sightseeing. Although afternoons can feel warm, the heat is generally manageable with light clothing and regular breaks.
Rainfall and Sunshine
Rainfall in March is very limited, as this month sits firmly within the dry season. Most days are sunny, with clear skies and long daylight hours. Because sudden showers are rare, travel plans are less likely to change, which is especially important for multi-day itineraries and river-based experiences.
River Conditions and Outdoor Activities
Calm water levels in March create excellent conditions for cruising along the Mekong River and its smaller canals. Floating markets such as Cai Rang are particularly enjoyable, as cooler morning temperatures make early departures more comfortable. Cycling through villages, walking along riverbanks, and visiting fruit orchards are also more pleasant thanks to the lower humidity compared to the wet season.
Is March a Good Time to Visit the Mekong Delta?
For travellers looking for reliable weather, relaxed exploration, and authentic local experiences, March is an excellent time to visit the Mekong Delta. The combination of dry conditions, calm waterways, and comfortable mornings makes it well-suited for both short visits and extended journeys, especially for those who prefer a slower, more refined travel pace.
Other travel considerations
- Mosquitoes are not a big problem in March due to lower humidity and minimal rain, but insect repellent is still recommended, especially for evening activities.
- Water levels in the Mekong River are stable, making boat tours smooth and safe.
- Fruit season begins to pick up, with delicious tropical fruits like mangoes, coconuts, and pomelos widely available.
>>> Read more about Mekong Delta weather: Weather in Mekong Delta Vietnam: When is the best time to visit?
Cost and Crowd
March is considered peak travel season in the Mekong Delta, largely because of its dry weather and favourable conditions for river travel. As a result, both travel costs and visitor numbers tend to increase during this month.
Travel Costs in March
During March, prices for accommodation, transportation, and guided experiences are generally higher than in the low season. River cruises, private boat trips, and organised tours are especially popular, which can lead to limited availability and higher rates.
That said, the overall value remains strong. The stable weather, calm waterways, and smooth travel logistics make March a reliable time to explore the region. Travellers who book early can still secure well-priced options, particularly for multi-day itineraries or customised tours.
Crowd Levels and Visitor Experience
Visitor numbers rise in March, especially at well-known attractions such as floating markets and popular canal routes. Weekends often see more activity, with both international and domestic travellers on the water.
Even so, the Mekong Delta rarely feels overwhelming. Early-morning visits, quieter side canals, and lesser-known rural areas allow travellers to enjoy a slower pace and more authentic experiences, even during the busiest period of the year.
Best things to do in March in the Mekong Delta
Take a Mekong cruise
A Mekong River cruise is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the region, especially in March when water levels are calm and rainfall is minimal. Travellers can choose between short day cruises or multi-day journeys that move deeper into the delta.
Cruising allows you to observe daily river life, visit small riverside villages, and enjoy local performances on board. Many cruises also include hands-on activities such as cooking classes, farm visits, and sampan rides through narrow canals, offering a slower and more immersive experience.
>>> If you want more cruise ideas, read this blog: Best Mekong River cruises for 2025-2026
Visit the floating markets
Floating markets remain one of the Mekong Delta’s most iconic experiences. These markets operate early in the morning, when boats gather to trade fresh produce, breakfast dishes, and daily essentials directly on the river.
March’s cooler mornings and clear skies make market visits more comfortable and visually appealing.
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Cai Rang Floating Market (Can Tho): The largest and most famous market, ideal for first-time visitors.
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Phong Dien Floating Market (Can Tho): Smaller and quieter, offering a more local atmosphere.
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Long Xuyen Floating Market (An Giang): Less touristy and well-suited for travellers seeking authenticity.
Floating markets in the Mekong Delta are at their liveliest from 5:30 am to around 7:30 am. This is when trading activity peaks, boats are fully loaded with produce, and local breakfast dishes are freshly prepared on the water.
After 8:00 am, many vendors begin to leave, and the atmosphere becomes noticeably quieter. For the best experience, we recommend starting early and visiting with a local boat guide who knows the active trading routes.
Cycle Through Rural Villages
Cycling is a wonderful way to experience the Mekong Delta at ground level. Flat terrain and quiet village roads make biking accessible and relaxing.
Along the way, travellers pass rice paddies, coconut groves, and stilt houses, while stops at local workshops introduce traditional crafts such as rice paper making, coconut candy production, and fishing techniques. March’s dry weather makes cycling far more enjoyable than during the rainy season
Try Local Mekong Delta Dishes
The Mekong Delta is known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavours, and March is an excellent time to explore regional cuisine.
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Hu Tieu: Savoury noodle soup with pork, shrimp, and clear broth.
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Banh Xeo: Crispy Vietnamese pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.
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Ca Kho To: Braised fish cooked in a rich caramelised sauce.
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Bun Mam: Fermented fish noodle soup served with fresh herbs and seafood.
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Che Troi Nuoc: Sweet sticky rice dumplings in warm ginger syrup.
Visit Temples and Sacred Sites
Spiritual sites across the Mekong Delta offer insight into local beliefs and daily life. Temples and pagodas are often quieter in the morning and provide peaceful breaks between activities.
Notable stops include Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho, known for its blend of Asian and European architecture, and Ba Chua Xu Temple in Chau Doc, one of southern Vietnam’s most important pilgrimage sites.
Explore Fruit Orchards
March marks the early fruit season in the Mekong Delta. Many orchards welcome visitors to walk among fruit trees and taste produce directly from the garden.
Popular orchard areas include Ben Tre, Vinh Long, and Tien Giang, where travellers can sample mangoes, pomelos, and early-season durians, often combined with tea and traditional snacks.
How to choose the best Mekong Cruise in March?
Cruise based on price
- Luxury Cruise – Offers high-end amenities, gourmet dining, and spacious cabins. Ideal for travelers looking for comfort and premium service.
- Deluxe Cruise – A balance between comfort and affordability, featuring well-appointed rooms and good dining options.
- Private & Charter Boat – Ideal for those who want a customized experience. These boats offer flexible schedules and exclusive service.
Cruise based on duration
- Day cruise – Perfect for those with limited time, covering key attractions in a few hours.
- Overnight cruise – A great option for travellers who want a more relaxed experience, including sunset views and cultural performances.
- Multi-day cruise – Recommended for those who want to explore deeper into the delta, including visits to remote villages.
Here are our best Mekong cruises for your perfect trip in March:
| Cruise | Type | Duration | Route | Features | Price from |
| Heritage Line Anouvong | Luxury Cruise | 4 days 3 nights, 8 days 7 nights, 10 days 9 nights | Houay Xay – Luang Prabang | eight spacious staterooms and two luxurious suites. All cabins feature floor-to-ceiling windows and open onto elegant French balconies, a tucked-away spa, and the cozy and light-flooded Café-Bar & Lounge | $2,140 |
| Heritage Line Jahan | Luxury Cruise | 4 days 3 nights, 5 days 4 nights, 8 days 7 nights | Saigon – My Tho – Cai Be – Tan Chau – Border Crossing – Phnom Penh – Tonle Lake – Siem Reap | interior or exterior decorations, luxurious cabins, East India Club, Jacuzzi on the Pool Deck, Observatory Lounge, Apsara Spa, three decks | $1,355 |
| Mekong Eyes Explorer & Classic Cruise | Deluxe Cruise | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights, 4 days 3 nights | Saigon – Cai Be – Can Tho – Phu Quoc – Phnom Penh | boutique cruisers, 12 superior cabins that are all designed as outside cabins, with modern boutique style with traditional materials, 4 suites | $185 |
| Bassac Mekong River Cruise | Deluxe Cruise | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | Cai Be – Sa Dec – Can Tho | a large covered upper deck, a lounge, and wide gangways | $208 |
| Song Xanh Sampan Cruises | Private and Charter Boats | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | Cai Be – Sa Dec – Can Tho – Phu Quoc | Two spacious spaces of 15 sqm each are equipped with beautiful bamboo and rattan furniture, and attentive service is provided by a team of 4 crew members. | $268 |
| Mekong Gecko Eyes Cruise | Private and Charter Boats | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | Cai Be – Sa Dec – Can Tho – Phu Quoc – Phnom Penh | fleet consists of three beautiful vessels, and the private houseboats are perfect for two people, French balcony, panorama lounge (convertible to a second bedroom), sundeck | $374 |
Travel Tips for Visiting the Mekong Delta in March
March offers excellent travel conditions in the Mekong Delta, but a little preparation will help you stay comfortable and make the most of your time on the river and in rural areas.
What to Wear in the Mekong Delta in March
- Light and practical clothing is essential when travelling in the Mekong Delta during March. Breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen help you stay cool during warm daytime hours, especially when exploring by boat or bicycle.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are recommended for village paths, markets, and short cycling routes. Because sunlight can be strong, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen are important for daily outings.
- Evenings are generally mild, but a light jacket can be useful for river cruises or air-conditioned transport. In addition, insect repellent is advisable, particularly when visiting orchards, canals, or rural areas.
Local Travel Tips for March
- Starting your day early is one of the best ways to enjoy the Mekong Delta in March. Early mornings are cooler, less crowded, and ideal for floating markets and boat excursions.
- It is also wise to carry cash, as small vendors, local boats, and rural shops often do not accept credit cards. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can go a long way in creating friendly interactions and smoother experiences.
- March is a great time to try seasonal fruits and fresh coconut water, which are widely available and naturally refreshing. When visiting temples or sacred sites, remember to dress modestly and follow local customs to show respect.
Suggested itinerary in March in the Mekong Delta
If you want to experience the Mekong Delta beyond a short day trip, this 4-day journey offers a well-balanced mix of river life, nature, border culture, and relaxed coastal scenery. We find this route ideal for travellers who enjoy slow exploration with meaningful local encounters.
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho – Ben Tre – Chau Doc
Your journey begins with a morning drive from Ho Chi Minh City into the heart of the Mekong Delta. In My Tho, you can stretch your legs at Vinh Trang Pagoda before continuing to Ben Tre, known for its coconut groves and quiet canals.
By afternoon, the scenery becomes more rural as you reach Chau Doc, near the Cambodian border. A boat trip through Tra Su Cajuput Forest introduces you to flooded wetlands, birdlife, and peaceful green waterways. In the evening, we recommend a gentle walk around Sam Mountain or the local night market to experience daily life in this border town.
Day 2: Chau Doc – Seven Mountains – Ha Tien
After breakfast, travel through the Seven Mountains region, one of the Mekong Delta’s most distinctive landscapes. Along the way, you can stop at Tinh Bien Market, where Vietnamese and Khmer cultures blend naturally.
By afternoon, arrive in Ha Tien, a laid-back coastal town near the Gulf of Thailand. Here, time slows down. You may relax at Mui Nai Beach or head uphill for panoramic views toward Phu Quoc Island. The evening is perfect for seafood and a quiet stroll along the waterfront.
Day 3: Ha Tien – Rach Gia – Can Tho
Today focuses on coastal and river cities. From Ha Tien, continue to Rach Gia, known for its open sea views and local fishing culture.
By late afternoon, reach Can Tho, the central hub of the Mekong Delta. After checking in, enjoy dinner at Ninh Kieu Wharf. If you wish, traditional southern folk music performances add a cultural touch to the evening without feeling staged.
Day 4: Can Tho – Cai Rang Floating Market – Ho Chi Minh City
An early start rewards you with a visit to Cai Rang Floating Market, where boats trade fruit and produce directly on the river. This remains one of the most authentic market scenes in southern Vietnam when visited early.
Afterwards, continue by boat through smaller canals and fruit gardens before returning to land. In the afternoon, drive back to Ho Chi Minh City, ending your Mekong Delta journey with a deeper understanding of its rhythm and lifestyle.
This is just a suggested itinerary for a 4-day Mekong Delta tour. If you need a customized travel plan or more ideas for exploring the Mekong Delta in March, feel free to contact us. We can help you design the perfect trip to experience the best of Vietnam.
💡Experience the Mekong in style with Luxury Mekong Cruises, where February journeys benefit from calm rivers, stable weather, and an unhurried pace that suits both comfort and cultural discovery. For a broader adventure, Indochina Voyages designs customised itineraries that combine river cruising with thoughtful land experiences across southern Vietnam and Indochina. To begin planning a well-timed Mekong Delta journey, contact us at [email protected] or visit our website.
FAQs
Is March a good time to visit the Mekong Delta?
Yes, March is one of the best months to visit the Mekong Delta. The weather is dry, waterways are calm, and outdoor activities such as river cruises and floating market visits run smoothly.
Is the Mekong Delta too hot in March?
March can be warm during the afternoon, with temperatures reaching the low to mid-30s Celsius. However, mornings and evenings remain comfortable, especially for early activities.
Are floating markets open in March?
Floating markets operate year-round, including in March. Clear skies and cooler mornings make this month ideal for early boat trips to markets such as Cai Rang and Phong Dien.
Is March crowded in the Mekong Delta?
March is part of the peak travel season, so popular sites can be busier, particularly on weekends. Even so, quieter canals and rural areas are easy to find with early starts or local guidance.
Is March suitable for Mekong River cruises?
March is an excellent time for Mekong River cruises. Dry weather, stable water levels, and reliable schedules make cruising comfortable and enjoyable.
What should I pack for the Mekong Delta in March?
Light, breathable clothing, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and insect repellent are essential. A light jacket is useful for evenings or air-conditioned transport.
