Ben Tre Mekong Delta, known as the “Coconut Capital” of Vietnam, invites you to slow down and soak in the beauty of the bucolic riverland. With endless coconut palms, peaceful canals, and warm-hearted locals, it’s a place where nature and culture meet. This guide will show you why Ben Tre deserves a spot on your travel list, plus practical to helpful to make your trip smooth and memorable.
A glimpse into Ben Tre Mekong Delta
Bn Tre is a picturesque province in the Mekong Delta, renowned for its lush landscapes and vibrant local culture. Covering an area of approximately 2,360 square kilometers, the province is formed by three main alluvial islets: Bao Islet, Minh Islet, and An Hoa Islet. These landforms have been shaped over centuries by the fertile silt deposits of the Tien Giang and Ba Lai River branches. This unique geography gives rise to an intricate system of waterways that nourish the land and sustain Bến Tre’s distinctive riverine lifestyle.
The province is especially famous for its coconut groves, which not only dominate the landscape but also play a central role in the local economy and cuisine. From the iconic coconut candy to traditional handicrafts made from coconut shells and fibers, Bến Tre truly showcases the creativity and resilience of its people.
What makes the Ben Tre Mekong Delta a favorite among travelers is its genuine and untouched charm. Far from tourist crowds, Ben Tre offers an authentic look into local life along peaceful canals and lush orchards. With its natural beauty and strong focus on sustainable tourism, Ben Tre is perfect for those craving a meaningful, off-the-beaten-path experience in Vietnam.
Where is Ben Tre Mekong Delta?
Here’s the information you need to know about where it’s located and how to get there with ease.
Location of Ben Tre
Ben Tre lies in southern Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, about 85 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City. Bordered by the Tien River, a major branch of the Mekong, the province is divided into nine districts and is contiguous with neighboring provinces like Tra Vinh, Tien Giang, and Vinh Long. Its 60-kilometer coastline along the East Sea adds to its scenic appeal, with a network of rivers and canals creating a distinct, water-centric landscape.
How to get to Ben Tre Mekong Delta?
Getting to Ben Tre is easy and convenient, making it a perfect escape from Ho Chi Minh City or nearby provinces. The most popular option is taking a bus from Mien Tay Station, with tickets costing around $3 and a travel time of about 2 hours. Adventurous travelers can opt for a motorbike ride, enjoying the open road and rural scenery, while those seeking comfort may choose taxis or private cars for a more relaxed journey.
For a memorable experience, scenic boat routes from Can Tho or Vinh Long offer a peaceful way to arrive via the Mekong’s waterways. Thanks to the Rach Mieu Bridge, Ben Tre is easily accessible and well-connected to surrounding provinces.
Best time to visit Ben Tre Mekong Delta
Ben Tre enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the rainy season (May to November). The best time to visit Ben Tre Mekong Delta is during the dry season, when the average rainfall is only between 10 to 50 mm, with 30-35°C temperature. This period is ideal for outdoor activities like cycling, boat tours, and exploring orchards, as the weather is pleasant and humidity is lower. April can be particularly hot (nearing 40°C), so plan outdoor adventures in the early morning or late afternoon for a more enjoyable experience.
The rainy season in Ben Tre (between June and September) brings cooler temperatures (25-30°C), frequent downpours, and higher humidity. However, this natural phenomenon also transforms the area into a rich aquatic world filled with fish, shrimp, and blooming water lilies. During the rainy season, Ben Tre receives an average annual rainfall of about 1,500 to 2,000 mm. But don’t be too worried! Showers tend to be brief and pass quickly, often falling in the afternoon or evening, lasting just 30 minutes to a couple of hours. This allows plenty of time for outdoor activities before or after.
The late rainy season, known as the “floating season,” typically occurs from September to November, when rising river levels flood the fields and low-lying areas. This is a good time for travelers to have a rare glimpse into the Mekong Delta’s seasonal changes and traditional river-based way of life.
Where to stay in Ben Tre?
Ben Tre isn’t known for high-rise luxury hotels. Instead, its charm lies in garden-style homestays, local guesthouses, and eco-resorts that reflect the relaxed pace of the Mekong Delta. Riverside and garden homestays (around $15-$30 per night) are perfect for those seeking authenticity, including home-cooked meals, fruit picking, and cycling through coconut groves.
Beyond homestays, budget-friendly guesthouses in the town center (from $10-$25 per night) provide basic comfort and are conveniently located near markets, and local eateries. This is perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace. For a more immersive natural escape, opt for eco-resorts tucked along riversides or hidden among coconut groves (typically $35-$80 per night). Whether you crave the simplicity of rural life or the quiet luxury of nature, Ben Tre has stays that connect you to the heart of the Mekong Delta.
Read more: Accommodation Mekong Delta: Guide to find your perfect stay
7 best things to do in Ben Tre Mekong Delta
The Ben Tre Mekong Delta combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and a sense of adventure, making it an ideal escape for every kind of traveler. Here are some must-try experiences to make your journey unforgettable:
Making coconut candies in the traditional villages
Ben Tre is closely associated with coconut candy (kẹo dừa)-a beloved Vietnamese sweet made from coconut milk and sugar. A visit to a traditional coconut candy village, especially in Thoi Son Islet, gives you an up-close look at how this local treat is crafted, from boiling and molding to hand-wrapping. Many small factories welcome visitors to join in the process and sample warm, freshly made candy right on site. It’s a fun, tasty way to experience Ben Tre’s coconut culture firsthand.
If unique, region-specific experiences excite you, then the Mekong Delta 2-day-1-night tour is a must! One highlight is cruising to a peaceful village where the sweet aroma of freshly made coconut candy fills the air. You’ll explore charming local workshops where villagers skillfully craft candy and handcrafted items from every part of the coconut tree. It’s amazing to see how deeply this versatile tree is woven into daily life in the Mekong Delta!
Exploring Phoenix Islet (Con Phung) & Tortoise Islet (Con Quy)
The Minh Islands, including Con Phung (Phoenix Islet) and Con Quy (Turtle Islet), are top highlights when visiting Ben Tre. Con Phung is well-known for its Dua religion relics, such as the Nine Dragons Yard and the Peace Tower, built by the eccentric “Coconut Monk” Nguyen Thanh Nam. The island is also home to vibrant bee farms, where visitors can sip fresh honey tea infused with kumquat and pollen.
Con Quy, on the other hand, is a green haven of coconut groves and fruit orchards. Just picture yourself cycling under swaying coconut palms, casting a line in quiet canals, and savoring freshly caught seafood. Cruising through the islands’ winding waterways reveals not only stunning scenery but also the gentle, everyday rhythm of life in the rural Mekong Delta.
Crafting with coconut: Make your handmade souvenirs from coconut shells & fibers
Looking for a one-of-a-kind travel experience that’s both creative and cultural in Ben Tre Mekong Delta? Just join fun, interactive workshops where you’ll turn coconut shells and fibers into stunning bowls, cups, spoons, mats, and ropes. Roll up your sleeves and get crafty as you dive into local life and time-honored traditions. It’s the perfect way to experience the region’s rich heritage and create a meaningful, handmade souvenir to take home.
Join National Coconut Festival
The National Coconut Festival in Ben Tre, held every two years around late June or early July, is the highlight event that proudly showcases the soul of this coconut capital of Vietnam. As the heartland of millions of coconut trees, Ben Tre comes alive with vibrant parades, cultural performances, coconut-inspired cuisine, and creative contests. From artisan crafts to traditional music, this festival offers a deep dive into the province’s identity. Don’t miss this unique celebration of Ben Tre’s most iconic treasure!
Step into the La Ma Church
The Roman Catholic Church in Ben Tre stands as a striking example of French colonial architecture and spiritual heritage. With its elegant facade and tranquil atmosphere, it caters a quiet retreat amid the lively town. Visitors interested in history and culture will appreciate the church’s architectural and spiritual significance. Evening visits are especially magical, as soft lighting transforms the space into a serene setting ideal for quiet reflection and connecting with Ben Tre’s colonial past.
Travel back to Vietnam’s revolutionary roots at Dong Khoi Historical Site
The Dong Khoi Historical Site in Dinh Thuy Commune marks the starting point of the 1960 uprising – an important milestone in Vietnam’s revolutionary journey. Visiting the site provides a powerful insight into Ben Tre’s pivotal role in the fight for independence, with exhibits and monuments that bring history to life.
For an even richer experience, time your visit with the Dong Khoi Revolutionary Festival on January 17. The area comes alive with traditional performances, parades, and reenactments that highlight the region’s vibrant culture and history.
Discover the Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary
The Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary, covering over 6,000 hectares in Ba Tri District, is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. This lush wetland is home to a variety of bird species, including storks, herons, cormorants, and even rare migratory birds during certain seasons.
Glide through mangrove-lined canals by boat, where the peaceful atmosphere is accompanied by a chorus of bird calls. For anyone looking to reconnect with nature, Vam Ho delivers a truly immersive, biodiverse escape in Ben Tre.
Read more: 1-4 Day Mekong Delta itinerary: Which is the best duration?
What to eat in Ben Tre Mekong Delta?
Ben Tre cuisine is a delightful reflection of its coconut-rich landscape and Mekong Delta heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and specialties:
- Coconut candy (Keo Dua): Dive into Ben Tre’s iconic treat-soft, chewy coconut candy made from creamy coconut milk and natural sweetness. Savor it fresh right at bustling local factories or grab a beautifully wrapped batch to bring a taste of the Mekong Delta’s rich coconut heritage back home!
- Coconut worm (Duong dua): As a rare and exotic treat from Ben Tre, coconut worms are considered a local delicacy with a rich, buttery texture. Usually served raw with chili fish sauce or stir-fried, trying this dish is truly a bold and unforgettable culinary adventure for those looking to experience the Mekong Delta like a local.
- Fried snails with coconut milk: This dish blends the silky richness of coconut milk with tender, flavorful snails, creating a mouthwatering taste that stays with you long after the last bite. It’s a true Ben Tre delicacy that perfectly captures the region’s bold and comforting flavors.
- Pounded banana (Chuoi Dap): This charming local dessert features soft, flattened bananas drizzled with creamy coconut milk-a simple yet irresistible treat. Often enjoyed fresh from street vendors near Trúc Giang Lake, it’s a sweet bite of Ben Tre’s authentic flavor that’s hard to resist!
- Coconut mouse (Chuot Dua): Coconut mice are wild rodents that live in coconut trees and feed on coconuts, giving their meat a naturally sweet flavor. Typically grilled, steamed, or cooked in curry, this Ben Tre food is a favorite among locals and a bold culinary adventure for curious travelers visiting coconut farms.
- , are bursting with tropical delights like durians, mangosteens, mangoes, and longans. Wander through the gardens and savor these juicy, sun-ripened fruits straight from the trees for the freshest, most flavorful experience.
For an authentic dining experience, visit local restaurants or homestays, where you can enjoy family-style meals featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties like can chua (hot and sour soup) or hu tieu (rice noodle soup). Street food stalls at Ben Tre Night Market are also a great spot to sample local flavors at budget-friendly prices.
Top travel for visiting Ben Tre Mekong Delta
By following these , you’ll be well-prepared to explore the Ben Tre Mekong Delta and create lasting memories in this enchanting corner of Vietnam.
- Embrace local transportation: Rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore Ben Tre’s narrow paths and islands at your own pace. For safety, wear a helmet and check traffic conditions. The Grab app is handy for taxis or food delivery.
- Book boat tours early: For floating market visits or canal cruises, book tours in advance, especially during peak seasons. Early morning tours (starting around 5 AM) are best for avoiding crowds and catching the vibrant market atmosphere.
- Check weather conditions: During the rainy season, be prepared for sudden downpours and potential flooding. Plan flexible itineraries and carry rain gear.
- Bring cash: ATMs and card payment options are limited in rural areas, so carry sufficient Vietnamese Dong for small purchases, street food, and local tours.
From its coconut-laden landscapes to its vibrant festivals and delectable cuisine, Ben Tre captures the spirit of the Mekong Delta – a harmonious blend of culture, adventure, and calm. In case you’re finding a stress-free way to explore the region’s top experiences, look no further than TravelByHuman's Travel? With over 20 years of expertise in organizing unforgettable tours across Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, thousands have turned their dream trips into reality with TravelByHuman's Travel. Call us today at +84931152368 and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
