How many days should I spend in the Mekong Delta?

2-3 days allows for floating markets, island cycling, a homestay, and village visits. Day trips from HCMC feel rushed - you spend most of the time driving. One overnight minimum recommended.

What is the best time to visit the Mekong Delta?

December to May is dry season with easier travel. Fruit harvest peaks in summer (May-July). The wet season (June-November) sees higher water levels making some areas more scenic but muddy.

Is the Mekong Delta safe for tourists?

Very safe with welcoming locals. The main concerns are sun exposure on the water and ferry safety standards on some smaller boats. Drink bottled water. Mosquitoes are present - bring repellent.

Where should I stay in the Mekong Delta?

Can Tho is the largest city with hotels and Cai Rang market access. Ben Tre offers quieter island homestays. Vinh Long has authentic market scenes. My Tho is closest to HCMC but least atmospheric.

Region

South Vietnam

Mekong Delta

Lush river delta region with floating markets, fruit orchards, and authentic rural Vietnamese life.

1-3 days ideal

$25-50 per day

Culture, markets

Where to Stay

Overview

The Mekong Delta is where Vietnam's great river meets the sea in a maze of channels, islands, and floating markets. Rice paddies and fruit orchards line the banks, stilt houses cluster where waterways cross, and local life moves at the pace of a rowing boat. This is Vietnam at its most agricultural and authentic.

Most visitors see the Delta as a day trip from HCMC, but staying overnight reveals the rhythm of life here - predawn floating markets, homestays in orchard farms, and a slower pace that feels like stepping back in time.

Top Things to Do

1Float through the Cai Rang floating market at sunrise while vendors hawk fruit from boats

2Cycle through coconut palm-lined paths on the islands around Ben Tre

3Sample local specialties: elephant ear fish, coconut candy, and tropical fruits straight from trees

4Stay in a homestay on a fruit orchard island for an authentic Delta experience

5Navigate narrow canals by rowing boat through mangroves and nipa palm

6Visit a traditional brick factory or rice paper workshop to see local industries

Getting There & Around

By Air: Can Tho International Airport (VCA) has limited domestic flights. Most visitors arrive overland from HCMC. Phu Quoc Island flights sometimes route through Can Tho.

By Train: No train service to the Delta. The region is accessed by bus or car from HCMC (Can Tho is 170km, about 3.5 hours by road).

Getting Around: Boats are the traditional transport - tours include various boat rides. For independent travel, rent a motorbike in Can Tho. Ferries cross the larger rivers. The road network has improved significantly.