Planning your trip to the captivating Mekong Delta means crafting the perfect itinerary that lets you soak up its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and one-of-a-kind river life. Whether you’re stealing away for a single day or indulging in a multi-day journey, this guide offers many tailored options for the Mekong Delta itinerary to ensure an unforgettable experience. Here’s how to plan your dream adventure in this enchanting region.
How many days is enough for a Mekong Delta adventure?
Wondering about how much time for your Mekong itinerary? That all depends on your travel style: slow and soulful or fast and adventurous. One thing’s for sure: whether it’s two days or two weeks, the Mekong never fails to leave a lasting impression.
In fact, you need to spend at least 7-10 days to fully explore the Mekong Delta. If you’re on a tight schedule, don’t be too worried because a 1-day trip is great to dip your toes into the Delta. That said, the real adventure only begins when you spend 2 days or more. Craving the in-depth Mekong Delta experience? Set aside 4-5 days to dive deeper into hidden treasures. The longer you linger, the more this magical region unfolds its true soul: quiet, warm, and endlessly enchanting. Arrive curious, leave with memories that stay with you forever.
Below, you’ll find detailed itineraries for each trip length, designed to make planning your Mekong Delta adventure easy while still covering all the highlights.
1-Day Mekong Delta itinerary for a quick escape
A one-day trip to the Mekong Delta is a fantastic introduction to the region’s waterways, local life, and culinary delights. This itinerary focuses on My Tho and Ben Tre, with added activities for a richer experience.
Morning
- 7:30 AM: our adventure begins in My Tho. From here, enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive through the lush green rice fields surrounding the Tien River, a true showcase of the Mekong Delta’s rich agricultural heart.
- 9:30 AM: Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho, a stunning seven-story temple adorned with intricate mosaics and serene gardens. This cultural gem offers a glimpse into the region’s spiritual heritage.
- 10:30 AM: Arrive in My Tho and board a wooden motorboat for a ride to Unicorn Island. Glide along the Mekong’s banks, passing natural creeks, bustling fishermen’s ports, and unique stilt houses perched half on land, half over water.
- 11:30 AM: Stop at a seasonal orchard to enjoy a variety of tropical fruits, such as mangoes, rambutans, and dragon fruit, all complimentary. While savoring these treats, listen to traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music, a cultural hallmark of the region.
- 12:30 PM: Participate in a short cooking session at a local home, learning to make banh xeo – a crispy Vietnamese pancake filled with shrimp and bean sprouts, and enjoy them on the spot for lunch.
Afternoon
- 1:30 PM: Return to the motorboat and cruise through a canal lined with lush orchards. The journey continues to a village famous for its coconut candy workshops. Watch artisans craft sweet coconut candies and explore handcrafted items made from coconut trees, a staple of Mekong Delta life.
- 2:30 PM: Visit a local fish farm to feed catfish in the Mekong’s waterways, learning about the region’s aquaculture practices and their role in the local economy.
- 4:00 PM: Time to say goodbye to the Mekong Delta and start your journey home.
This one-day Mekong Delta itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking a quick yet immersive experience, blending culture, nature, and local flavors.
To make your adventure easy yet unforgettable, choose the MeKong Delta 1 day tour. This trip covers all the top destinations and lets you savor the region’s best specialties. Friendly, fluent English-speaking guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Join the tour to dive into the heart of the Delta and create lasting memories with ease!
2-Day Mekong Delta itinerary: Discover more, experience more
A two-day trip allows you to extend your adventure to Can Tho, home to the iconic Cai Rang Floating Market. This itinerary builds on the first day’s activities, with two new additions, and adds an overnight stay for a deeper exploration.
Day 1: My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho
Morning
- 7:30 AM: Arrive in My Tho, taste My Tho’s famous hu tieu at a local eatery.
- 8:00 AM: Explore Dong Tam Snake Farm
- 9:00 AM: Hop aboard a traditional wooden motorboat and glide along the Mekong to enchanting Unicorn Island in Ben Tre Province. Drift past charming stilt houses and bustling fishermen’s ports before stopping at a local bee farm to savor fragrant honey tea fresh from the hive.
- 10:30 AM: Join a hands-on session to create a small keepsake, such as a woven palm leaf mat, under the guidance of local artisans, learning about traditional craftsmanship.
- 11:30 AM: Explore a small riverside market on Unicorn Island, where you can browse fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods, interacting with friendly vendors.
- 12:00 PM: Cruise to a village known for coconut candy production. Explore the workshops and learn about the versatile coconut tree.
Afternoon
- 1:00 PM: Savor a lunch of local specialties like caramelized fish (cá kho tộ), fresh spring rolls, and crispy fried elephant ear fish at a riverside restaurant.
- 2:00 PM: Visit a seasonal orchard for tropical fruits.
- 3:30 PM: Return to My Tho by motorboat, then travel to Can Tho (approximately 3 hours.
- 5:30 PM: Explore the bustling Can Tho Night Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, try street food, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to try crispy fried squid, spicy grilled meat skewers, or the famous bánh tằm bì — a local noodle dish.
- Overnight in Can Tho.
Day 2: Cai Rang Floating Market – Ho Chi Minh City
Morning
- 6:00 AM: Start your day early with a boat trip along the Hau River to the Cai Rang Floating Market – the largest and liveliest in the Mekong Delta. Watch vendors trade fruits, vegetables, and goods from colorful boats, a vibrant snapshot of local life. Sample local delicacies like banh mi or hu tieu (noodle soup) purchased directly from vendors on the floating market for breakfast on the boat.
- 8:00 AM: Visit a local noodle factory to see how Vietnamese vermicelli is made, a staple in dishes like bun nuoc leo. Participate in a demonstration to learn how rice paper is made, a key ingredient in Vietnamese spring rolls, and try rolling your own.
- 10:00 AM: Explore an orchard garden to learn about the region’s agriculture and enjoy fresh and juicy fruits and listen to don ca tai tu – a cultural treat unique to Southern Vietnam.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy sour tamarind soup (canh chua) and grilled snakehead fish (loc nuong) at a local restaurant, savoring more Delta specialties.
Afternoon
- 1:30 PM: Visit Bang Lang Stork Garden which is home to thousands of storks and herons.
- 4:00 PM: Gather your bags and bid farewell to the enchanting Mekong Delta.
This two-day Mekong Delta itinerary strikes the perfect balance between rich cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and the unforgettable thrill of exploring a bustling floating market.
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3-Day Mekong Delta Itinerary to immerse Yourself in Delta Life
A three-day trip allows you to explore beyond the popular spots, adding destinations like Vinh Long or Tra Vinh for a more authentic experience.
Day 1: My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho
Morning
- 7:30 AM: Your Mekong Delta journey begins in My Tho with a scenic 2-hour drive through vibrant rice fields along the Tien River.
- 9:30 AM: Visit the stunning Vinh Trang Pagoda, known for its mosaic art and peaceful gardens, providing a window into local spirituality.
- 10:30 AM: Board a traditional motorboat to Unicorn Island. Cruise past quiet creeks, fishing docks, and iconic stilt houses.
- 11:30 AM: Stop at a seasonal orchard to enjoy tropical fruits like mangoes and rambutans while listening to folk music from Southern Vietnam.
- 12:30 PM: Join a cooking class at a local home and learn to make banh xeo, then enjoy your homemade lunch.
Afternoon
- 1:30 PM: Hop back on the boat and cruise through lush canals to a village known for coconut candy. Watch artisans make sweet treats and browse handmade items from coconut trees – a Mekong Delta staple.
- 2:30 PM: Visit a nearby fish farm to feed lively catfish swimming in the Mekong’s waters. Learn about local aquaculture and its vital role in supporting the Delta’s economy and community.
- 4:00 PM: Return to Can Tho at around 6:00 PM
- 6:00 PM: Explore Can Tho Night Market where vibrant stalls, tasty street food, and local crafts await. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and soak in the authentic Mekong Delta charm.
- Ending the first day with an overnight stay in Can Tho.
Day 2: Cai Rang Floating Market – Vinh Long
- 6:00 AM: Visit the Cai Rang Floating Market and explore the noodle factory and village as described in the 2-day itinerary, including the new snack tasting and rice paper making activities.
- 10:00 AM: Travel to Vinh Long (1-hour drive), a less touristy province known for its homestays and lush orchards. Visit the An Binh Islet, where you can cycle through fruit gardens and interact with local farmers.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy a home-cooked lunch at a local homestay, featuring fresh fish and regional dishes.
- 2:00 PM: Take a boat ride through Vinh Long’s narrow canals, visiting a traditional brick kiln to see how artisans craft bricks using rice husks.
- 4:00 PM: Return to Can Tho
- 5PM: Wander through Tay Do Night Market to its lively atmosphere, finding souvenirs and savoring local food such as Fresh spring rolls (goi cuon) and snails cooked in various ways.
- 8:00 PM: Embark on a romantic cruise along the Hau River aboard the Ninh Kieu yacht to enjoy live don ca tai tu.
- Spend another night at your hotel in Can Tho.
Day 3: Can Tho – Tra Vinh – Ho Chi Minh City
- 8:00 AM: Travel to Tra Vinh (1.5-hour drive), a peaceful province known for its Khmer culture and ancient pagodas. Visit the Ang Pagoda, a beautiful Khmer temple surrounded by storks, and explore the Ba Om Pond, a serene cultural site.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, trying Khmer-inspired dishes like nom banh chok (rice noodle soup).
- 2:00 PM: Visit a traditional Khmer village to learn about their unique weaving and cultural practices.
- 4:00 PM: Reflect on your adventure and get ready to head home.
This three-day Mekong Delta itinerary offers a deeper dive into the region’s diverse cultures and quieter corners.
Read more: What to see in Mekong Delta: Guide for best 19 attractions
4-Day Mekong Delta Itinerary: Uncover even hidden gems
A four-day trip allows for a comprehensive exploration, including off-the-beaten-path destinations and immersive cultural experiences.
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho
Morning
- 7:30 AM: Arrive in My Tho and kick off your day by savoring the city’s famous hủ tiếu at a cozy local eatery.
- 8:00 AM: Dive into an adventurous visit to Dong Tam Snake Farm, home to a fascinating collection of snakes and reptiles.
- 9:00 AM: Board a traditional wooden motorboat and cruise along the Mekong River toward the charming Unicorn Island in Ben Tre Province. Glide past quaint stilt houses and lively fishermen’s ports before stopping at a local bee farm to enjoy freshly brewed honey tea straight from the hive.
- 10:30 AM: Take part in a hands-on workshop with local artisans, crafting a small keepsake like a woven palm leaf mat, and discover the secrets of traditional craftsmanship.
- 11:30 AM: Wander through a quaint riverside market on Unicorn Island, where you can sample fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods while chatting with friendly vendors.
- 12:00 PM: Continue your boat ride to a nearby village famed for its coconut candy workshops. Explore the process and learn how every part of the coconut tree is put to use.
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM: Relish a riverside lunch featuring Delta specialties such as fermented fish noodle soup (bun mam), grilled shrimp paste on sugarcane (chao tom), three-color dessert (che ba mau)
- 2:00 PM: Visit a seasonal orchard and indulge in a variety of tropical fruits fresh from the garden.
- 3:30 PM: Cruise back to My Tho by motorboat, then set off on a 3-hour journey to Can Tho.
- 5:30 PM: Arrive in Can Tho and dive into the vibrant energy of Can Tho Night Market. Shop for unique souvenirs, sample street food delights like crispy fried squid, spicy grilled meat skewers, and the famous banh tam bi – a beloved local noodle dish.
- Overnight in Can Tho.
Read more: Accommodation Mekong Delta: Guide to find your perfect stay
Day 2: Cai Rang Floating Market – Vinh Long
Morning
- 6:00 AM: Explore the lively Cai Rang Floating Market, visit a noodle factory, and try making rice paper and new local snacks.
- 10:00 AM: Drive 1 hour to peaceful Vinh Long, known for homestays and fruit orchards. Cycle around An Binh Islet and meet local farmers.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy a homemade lunch at a local homestay featuring fresh fish and regional dishes.
Afternoon
- 2:00 PM: Take a boat ride through narrow canals and visit a traditional brick kiln using rice husks.
- 4:00 PM: Return to Can Tho to rest.
- 5:00 PM: Wander Tay Do Night Market, sampling fresh spring rolls, catfish salad, and sweet dessert soups (che).
- 8:00 PM: End the day with a romantic cruise on the Hau River aboard the Ninh Kieu yacht, enjoying live don ca tai tu music.
- Staying overnight in Vinh Long.
Day 3: Vinh Long – Sa Dec – Can Tho
Morning
- 8:00 AM: Travel to Sa Dec (1-hour drive), famous for its flower villages and as the setting for Marguerite Duras’ novel The Lover. Visit the Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, a beautifully preserved home featured in the story.
- 10:00 AM: Explore the Sa Dec Flower Village, where vibrant blooms like marigolds and chrysanthemums are grown year-round.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling Delta specialties including inh fish salad (goi ca linh) and snakehead fish porridge (chao ca loc).
Afternoon
- 2:00 PM: Take a boat ride through Sa Dec’s canals, visiting a traditional rice noodle factory.
- 4:00 PM: Return to Can Tho
- 6:00 PM: Have fermented fish hotpot for dinner.
- 8PM: Unwind with a drink at rooftop bars in Ninh Kieu Wharf and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and the Hau River.
Day 4: Can Tho – Tra Vinh – Ho Chi Minh City
- 8:00 AM: Depart for Tra Vinh (1.5-hour drive), a peaceful province known for its Khmer heritage. Visit the ancient Ang Pagoda, home to flocks of storks, and stroll around the tranquil Ba Om Pond.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy a Khmer-style lunch with dishes like nom banh chok (rice noodles with herbs and curry).
- 2:00 PM: Explore a traditional Khmer village to learn about local weaving and cultural traditions.
- 4:00 PM: Complete your check-out and then begin your departure.
Useful for your Mekong Delta adventure
Best time to visit
The Mekong Delta is a year-round destination, but the dry season (December to April) offers pleasant weather with less rain, ideal for boat trips and outdoor activities. The wet season (May to November) brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, but be prepared for occasional showers. February and March are particularly vibrant, coinciding with flower blooms in Sa Dec and festive events.
How to get to the Mekong Delta?
From Ho Chi Minh City, you can reach the Mekong Delta by bus, car, private transfer or speedboat, with travel times ranging from 2 to 4 hours depending on your exact destination. If you’re coming from other regions, flying to Can Tho is a convenient option, as it’s the only city in the Mekong Delta with an airport. From Can Tho, buses, boats, and cars provide easy access to surrounding towns.
Getting around the region
Boats and ferries are popular for exploring the intricate waterways and floating markets. On land, motorbikes and bicycles provide a flexible way to navigate small villages and rural roads. For those who prioritize comfort and convenience, taxis and private cars offer hassle-free transport for longer distances across the Mekong Delta.
Where to stay?
The Mekong Delta offers diverse accommodation options, from cozy homestays and charming guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. For a more authentic experience, homestays in rural villages allow visitors to immerse themselves in traditional Delta life.
Many travelers prefer staying in Can Tho, the region’s largest city, for its vibrant night market and convenient access to floating markets. Other popular areas include My Tho and Ben Tre, known for their peaceful riverside settings and local culture.
Things to note
- What to bring: Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat for sun protection.
- Cash is King: Many local vendors don’t accept cards, so carry Vietnamese Dong (VND) in small denominations.
- Respect local culture: Dress modestly when visiting pagodas, and ask permission before photographing locals.
- Language: English may be limited in rural areas, so a translation app or basic Vietnamese phrases can be helpful.
In case you haven’t made up your mind on your Mekong Delta itinerary, let TravelByHuman's Travel craft the perfect itinerary just for you! Whether you have a few days or a whole week, or want to explore hidden gems and popular spots, we tailor every detail to fit your style. With our 24/7 dedicated support, you’ll have expert advice whenever you need it. Reach out now and start planning a memorable journey through the heart of the Mekong Delta!
The Mekong Delta is a treasure trove of experiences, from gliding through lush canals to savoring fresh tropical fruits and exploring vibrant floating markets. Whether you choose a 1-day whirlwind tour or a 4-day immersive journey, your Mekong Delta itinerary will be filled with unforgettable moments. With added activities like cooking demonstrations and craft workshops, you’ll connect even deeper with the region’s culture. Plan your trip with these itineraries, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the heart and soul of Vietnam’s riverine wonderland.
