The Mekong Delta, a vast maze of rivers, swamps, and islands, forms the lifeblood of southern Vietnam. This region offers visitors a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. As you plan your trip to this fascinating area, one question often arises: how many days should you spend in the Mekong Delta? This travel blog will guide you through the options, from quick day trips to extended stays, and provide insider tips to make your visit truly memorable.
How many days are best for Mekong Delta Vietnam?
The ideal duration for a visit to the Mekong Delta depends on your interests, travel style, and available time. You can experience a slice of Delta life in just one day, but a longer stay allows for a deeper exploration of the region’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and attractions. Let’s break down what you can expect from trips of varying lengths:
| Tour Duration | Pace | Type of traveler | Things to do |
| 1 Day Tour | Fast-paced, rushed | Time-constrained tourists, day-trippers from Ho Chi Minh City | A quick visit to a floating market, a short boat ride, fruit tasting |
| 2-Day Tour | Moderate, balanced | Weekend travelers, those wanting a taste of the Delta | Floating markets, canal boat rides, homestay experience, local workshops |
| 3-Day Tour | Relaxed, comprehensive | Cultural enthusiasts, want to relax | Multiple floating markets, countryside biking, local industry visits, deeper cultural experiences |
| 4-Day Tour | Leisurely, in-depth | Immersive travelers, photographers, nature lovers | All of the above plus visits to national parks, multiple provinces, extended cruises, cooking classes |
Mekong Delta 1 day tour
A one-day tour of the Mekong Delta provides a quick introduction to the region’s highlights. These tours typically depart early in the morning from Ho Chi Minh City and return in the evening. During your day trip, you’ll likely visit My Tho or Ben Tre, two of the closest Delta provinces to Ho Chi Minh City.
Your day might start with a boat ride along the Mekong River, where you’ll see the bustling river life and perhaps visit a floating market. It’s advisable to take a short sampan ride through narrow canals, giving you a close-up view of the lush surroundings.
While a one-day tour allows you to get a glimpse of the Mekong Delta off your list. It can be rushed because you’ll spend a significant portion of the day traveling to and from Ho Chi Minh City, leaving limited time for exploration. However, if you’re pressed for time, a day trip can still provide a memorable taste of delta life.
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Mekong Delta 2-day tour
This two-day tour of the Mekong Delta offers a relaxed exploration, ideal for those seeking an authentic experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want a brief but immersive Delta experience, balancing cultural insights with natural beauty.
You can venture further into the Delta with an overnight stay and experience the region’s charm beyond the well-trodden day-trip routes. Highlights include visiting the vibrant Cai Be and Cai Rang floating markets, cruising through small canals, experiencing local workshops, enjoying a countryside bicycle ride, and tasting tropical fruits:
- Day 1: Saigon – Cai Be – Vinh Long – Can Tho
- Day 2: Can Tho – Cai Rang floating market – Saigon
>>> Check out our best Mekong Delta 2-day tour: Mekong At A Glance 2 Days
Mekong Delta 3-day tour
This extended tour provides a deeper dive into the Delta’s diverse landscapes and cultures, ideal for travelers seeking a more comprehensive Delta experience with a mix of nature, culture, and adventure. With this amount of time, you can visit multiple provinces and experience a wider range of things to do in Mekong Delta.
Key experiences include exploring multiple floating markets, visiting the Vinh Trang Pagoda, enjoying boat trips through smaller canals, cycling in the countryside, and exploring the unique Tra Su Forest. The tour also includes a visit to a Cham village and panoramic views from Sam Mountain:
- Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho – Can Tho
- Day 2: Can Tho exploration
- Day 3: Can Tho – Chau Doc – Ho Chi Minh City
>>> Above is just a recommendation. You can also visit Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta within 3 days. Find more in our top-rated 3-day tour: Glimpse of Saigon & Mekong Delta 3 days
Mekong Delta 4-day tour
This four-day Mekong Delta tour offers the most in-depth exploration of the Mekong Delta. It is perfect for travelers who want to fully immerse themselves in the Delta’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offering a balance of popular attractions and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Highlights include visiting My Tho, Ben Tre, Sa Dec flower village, Cai Rang floating market, and Tra Su Forest. Unique experiences include exploring the historical Xeo Quyt area, visiting the ancient house from “The Lover” novel, and taking a speedboat to Phnom Penh:
- Day 1: Saigon – My Tho – Xeo Quyt – Cao Lanh (Dong Thap)
- Day 2: Cao Lanh – Sa Dec – Can Tho
- Day 3: Can Tho – Chau Doc
- Day 4: Chau Doc – Phnom Penh
>>> Get an inquiry about our best 4-day Mekong Delta tour: Authentic Mekong Delta Tour 4 Days
Best places to visit in the Mekong Delta
Ben Tre: a peaceful province known for its coconut plantations and serene waterways. You can explore the area’s narrow canals by boat, witnessing local life along the riverbanks. The province is famous for its coconut candy, and tours of local workshops offer insights into traditional production methods. Ben Tre appeals to nature lovers and those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in the Delta.
Can Tho: the largest city in the Mekong Delta, is home to the famous Cai Rang Floating Market. Early risers are rewarded with the vibrant spectacle of boats laden with fresh produce. Can Tho attract culture enthusiasts, photographers, and food lovers looking to experience urban Mekong life.
Chau Doc: stands out for its cultural diversity and proximity to Cambodia. Nature enthusiasts often explore the nearby Tra Su Flooded Forest, a serene ecosystem teeming with bird life. Chau Doc’s unique floating villages provide insight into the amphibious lifestyle of many Delta residents. This destination appeals to adventure seekers and those interested in border cultures and religious diversity.
My Tho: serves as many travelers’ primary gateway to the Mekong Delta. The impressive Vinh Trang Pagoda showcases a blend of architectural styles. My Tho is ideal for first-time travelers to the Delta and those on short trips from Ho Chi Minh City, providing a quick taste of Mekong life.
Phu Quoc: boasts pristine beaches and lush forests. Long Beach attracts sun-seekers, while Fingernail Island’s coral reefs draw snorkelers and divers. The night market offers delicious seafood. Phu Quoc National Park provides hiking opportunities. Fish sauce factories and pearl farms offer unique local experiences.
Can Gio: a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, features extensive mangrove forests. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot monkeys, crocodiles, and various birds. Boat tours explore the waterways. The Rung Sac Guerilla Base offers historical insights. Fresh seafood is abundant in local eateries. The Whale Temple showcases local cultural traditions.
Cruise Mekong Delta Vietnam—a unique way to explore the region
A cruise in the Mekong Delta allows you to experience the rhythm of river life up close and discover local culture, sharing insights about local life. You can explore small villages, sample local delicacies, and learn about traditional crafts. The region’s biodiversity is also displayed, with opportunities to spot various bird species and lush tropical vegetation lining the waterways.
For a comprehensive experience, plan for 3-5 days. This duration allows visits to floating markets, local villages, and the chance to observe daily river life. Cai Rang’s bustling market and Can Tho’s serene canals are highlights.
For a more immersive adventure, consider a 7-10 day cruise combining Vietnam and Cambodia. This extended journey typically starts in Ho Chi Minh City and ends in Siem Reap, or vice versa. You’ll traverse the Delta’s intricate waterways before crossing into Cambodia. Here, the cruise continues to Phnom Penh, showcasing the capital’s colonial architecture and sobering history.
Let’s take a look at different types of Mekong Delta Cruises for your preference:
| Types of Mekong cruises | Overview | Duration | Type of travelers | Price |
| Luxury cruises | high-end amenities and services, combining comfort with cultural experiences | 3 days 2 nights 4 days 3 nights 5 days 4 nights 6 days 5 nights 8 days 7 nights | older travelers, couples on romantic getaways, or anyone who prefers a more refined travel experience | From $716 per person |
| Deluxe cruises | a balance between comfort and authentic experiences, good amenities but with a stronger focus on local interactions | 2 days 1 night 3 days 2 nights 4 days 3 nights 5 days 4 nights | families, groups of friends | From $230 per person |
| Private & Charter Boats | the most flexibility and personalized experiences in the Mekong Delta | 2 days 1 night 3 days 2 nights 4 days 3 nights | independent travelers, small groups, or families who want to customize their itinerary | From $277 per person |
Our top-rated cruises in the Mekong Delta:
- Heritage Line Jahan cruise: luxury cruise, British India style, Indian art and architecture influenced the Khmer and Cham cultures in the Mekong Delta, price from $1074 per person
- Victoria Mekong Cruise: deluxe cruise, state-of-the-art design and a chic, price from $874 per person
- Song Xanh Sampan Cruises: private and charter boat, charming, boutique, authentic sampan for private experience, price from $277 per person
Here are just a few suggestions. In Luxury Cruise Mekong, we offer so many cruises with different styles and durations for every type of traveler. For more information, contact us to find your best Mekong cruise with our cruise experts!
FAQs
Is it worth going to the Mekong Delta?
Yes, it’s definitely worth exploring! With natural reserves, old customs, and tropical islands, the Mekong Delta has so much to see and do that you may spend weeks driving around.
What is the best month to do a Mekong River cruise?
November to January is considered the greatest time of year to go on a Mekong River cruise since the temperature is not too hot or too cold, and there is no heavy rain.
How to get around the Mekong Delta?
Getting around the Mekong Delta involves a mix of water and land transportation:
- Boats are the most characteristic option, ranging from small sampans to larger tour vessels, ideal for exploring canals and floating markets.
- On land, motorbikes and bicycles offer flexibility for short trips, while buses connect major towns. In urban areas, taxis and ride-hailing services are available.
- Many travelers opt for organized tours combining multiple transport methods.
- For the best experience, mix boat travel with land options, be flexible with schedules, and embrace the region’s relaxed pace.
Hope this Mekong travel guide is useful for you to plan a perfect Mekong Delta tour. If you have any questions or require helpful assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our Luxury Mekong Cruise; our team will always welcome you enthusiastically!
Mo Nguyen – From Luxury Cruise Mekong
