Essence of the Mekong – A 10-Day Journey Through Southern Vietnam

Once you land at Tan Son Nhat Airport, our friendly guide and driver will be there to greet you and escort you comfortably to your hotel in the city.

9:00 AM: Pick up from your hotel. Visit the Independence Palace, former home and office of South Vietnam’s presidents, including the war-ending 1975 tank scene and preserved 1960s-style interiors.

Continue with a walking tour to the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office, both iconic French colonial landmarks.

Break for lunch or a drink (at your own expense).

In the afternoon, visit the powerful War Remnants Museum for a deeper look into the Vietnam War.

End the day at Ben Thanh Market, the city’s most famous market, perfect for souvenirs and local street food.

Return to your hotel. Free time to relax or explore.

8:00 AM: Depart your hotel to explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network stretching over 250 km. Dug by hand over 20 years, these tunnels played a key role during the Vietnam War. You’ll have the chance to enter a section of the tunnels to experience their scale and significance.

Optional: Visit the on-site shooting range for a supervised live-fire experience (not included in the tour price; pay directly if interested).

Continue to Cao Dai Temple, one of Vietnam’s most sacred and colorful religious sites. Caodaism blends Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Christianity. Arrive in time to witness the midday mass, a truly unique spiritual experience.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel in the afternoon.

10:00 AM: Meet your guide and driver at your hotel for the drive to My Tho, a gateway to the Mekong Delta. Enjoy the scenic journey past rice fields and riverside villages.

Upon arrival, board a private boat to explore the canals of the Mekong River, surrounded by lush orchards and swaying coconut palms. Visit local workshops producing coconut candy, puffed rice, and honey tea.

Continue with a leisurely walk along village paths to visit a traditional home, meet friendly locals, and discover daily life in the countryside. Stop at the peaceful Vinh Trang Pagoda, famous for its architecture and serene atmosphere.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local garden restaurant, featuring regional specialties like elephant ear fish.

Later in the afternoon, relax on a rowboat ride through shaded canals, enjoying tropical fruit tasting along the way.

End your day with a peaceful overnight stay in My Tho, either at a local homestay or hotel (depending on your preference). Enjoy the tranquil setting and unwind at your leisure.

After a restful night in My Tho, begin your day with a slow-paced walk through a local village or riverside community. Enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere and observe how locals start their day.

Visit a nearby floating fish farm or a local temple, such as the colorful Vinh Trang Pagoda, if not already included the day before.

You may also take a short boat trip to the Ben Tre side, known for its peaceful coconut gardens and family-run workshops. Here, enjoy more hands-on experiences like learning how to make coconut candy, puffed rice, or weave mats.

Enjoy a local lunch at a riverside garden restaurant or at your homestay.

The afternoon is free to rest, read, or take a light walk around the village paths. Optional activities like a private cooking demonstration or traditional music performance can be arranged at your accommodation.

Overnight in My Tho, enjoying the quiet charm of the Mekong Delta without long travel.

Exploration En Route

After breakfast, depart My Tho and begin your scenic journey toward Chau Doc, a charming riverside town near the Cambodian border known for its cultural diversity and stunning Mekong landscapes.

On the way, stop in Cai Be for a relaxing boat trip through narrow canals lined with orchards and traditional homes. Visit local workshops to see how coconut candy, rice paper, and other handmade treats are produced. Enjoy a taste of fresh tropical fruits and observe everyday life in the delta.

Enjoy lunch at a garden restaurant by the river, then continue your journey deeper into the heart of the Mekong.

Arrive in Chau Doc in the late afternoon. Check in to your hotel and unwind. If time allows, you may visit the riverfront, explore the vibrant local market, or simply enjoy the peaceful views of the Hau River.

Overnight in Chau Doc.

After breakfast, depart Chau Doc and travel to Can Tho, the central hub of the Mekong Delta. Along the way, enjoy a few stops to experience more of the region’s charm and culture.

First, visit a Cham minority village, where you can see traditional stilt houses, local weaving, and learn about the Islamic influence in this unique part of Vietnam.

Continue the drive and, if time allows, stop at a floating fish farm or a small rural market to observe the daily life of delta residents.

Arrive in Can Tho in the afternoon and check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free at your leisure-relax, take a sunset walk along the riverfront, or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Can Tho.

Start your day early with a boat trip to the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market, one of the largest and most colorful in the Mekong Delta. Watch as dozens of boats loaded with fruits, vegetables, and local goods trade directly on the water-an unforgettable sight and a true highlight of the region.

Cruise through the nearby canals to visit a local noodle workshop or a small tropical fruit orchard. You’ll get a closer look at traditional livelihoods and the peaceful rhythms of delta life.

Return to your hotel for breakfast and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Relax at the hotel, explore Can Tho’s riverfront promenade, or visit the nearby Can Tho Museum or Binh Thuy Ancient House if you’re feeling curious.

Overnight in Can Tho.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in Can Tho. When ready, begin your drive back to Ho Chi Minh City for your onward journey.

You’ll be transferred directly to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in time for your departure flight, ending your memorable exploration of southern Vietnam and the Mekong Delta.

End of services. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey!