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A 7-day private journey in the Mekong Delta covers Ben Tre's coconut groves, Can Tho's dawn floating markets, Sa Dec colonial heritage, and Tra Su Cajuput Forest in Chau Doc before connecting onward to Cambodia or returning to Saigon.
Your Guide to One Week in the Mekong Delta
Are you wondering if the Mekong Delta is worth a visit? Let me tell you, it absolutely is! In this post, I’m excited to share our 7-day itinerary from our incredible trip, complete with recommended accommodations and some thrilling activities to dive into in this stunning region.
After our first quick trip, where we were pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the Mekong Delta, we couldn’t wait to return and dig deeper. This enchanting area covers the entire southern part of Vietnam, yet it often gets overlooked by travelers who consider it underwhelming. I’m here to change that perception! The Mekong Delta is way more diverse and beautiful than what you’ll find in guidebooks, and it definitely deserves a spot on your travel list.
In this itinerary, I’ll take you off the beaten path to uncover a side of the Mekong Delta that few tourists get to see. Think ancient pottery factories, vibrant floating markets, lush nature reserves, and hidden paradise islands just waiting to be explored!
So buckle up, and let’s dive into our adventures in the Mekong Delta!
Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City
Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and transfer to your hotel.
Spend the afternoon exploring local attractions like Ben Thanh Market or the War Remnants Museum.
Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho
Travel to My Tho, the gateway to the Mekong Delta (about 1.5 hours by car).
Visit the famous Vinh Trang Pagoda and take a boat ride on the Mekong River.
Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant and continue exploring nearby islands.
Overnight stay in My Tho.
Day 3: My Tho to Ben Tre
Take a short boat ride to Ben Tre, known for its coconut plantations.
Visit a local workshop to see how coconut candy is made.
Explore the canals by motorboat or kayak and enjoy traditional folk music performances.
Spend the night in Ben Tre.
Day 4: Ben Tre to Can Tho
Head to Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta (about 2 hours drive).
Visit the famous Cai Rang Floating Market early in the morning.
Explore the nearby fruit orchards and enjoy fresh tropical fruits.
Spend the night in Can Tho.
Day 5: Can Tho to Phong Dien
Take a boat trip to Phong Dien Floating Market for a more local experience.
Visit traditional villages and learn about local lifestyles.
Return to Can Tho in the afternoon and enjoy some leisure time.
Overnight stay in Can Tho.
Day 6: Can Tho to Chau Doc
Travel to Chau Doc, close to the Cambodian border (about 2.5 hours drive).
Visit the Cham Village and learn about the local culture.
Explore the Tra Su Cajuput Forest and take a boat tour through the mangroves.
Spend the night in Chau Doc.
Day 7: Chau Doc to Ho Chi Minh City
Visit Sam Mountain for beautiful views of the Delta and Cambodia.
After sightseeing, return to Ho Chi Minh City (about 6 hours drive).
Enjoy a farewell dinner and reflect on your week in the Mekong Delta.
This itinerary lets you experience the unique beauty and culture of the Mekong Delta, allowing you to immerse yourself in its vibrant life and stunning landscapes.
Further reading: the Mekong River Commission is available at mrcmekong.org. To build any of this into a trip, our specialists arrange private, tailor-made itineraries.
