Truly Mekong Delta 3 Days 2 Nights
Overview
Discover the Mekong Delta in three days! Explore Cai Rang floating market, idyllic orchards, and charming villages. Cruise through canals, cycle through lush landscapes, and savor authentic Mekong cuisine. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of Can Tho and Ben Tre.
Included/Exclude
- Private A/C transportation
- English speaking guide
- All accommodation on twin share basis with breakfast
- Meals as mentioned: (L = Lunch; D = Dinner; B = Breakfast)
- Entrance fees and permits during guided time
- Additional meals as described in the itinerary
- Sampans (boat cruise in Mekong delta)
- Services not mentioned.
- Drinks and other meals not clearly mentioned
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance, Tips
Tour Plan
Today’s tour starts at 8:30 am. Leave the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City behind and transfer 3-hours southwest of the city to Can Tho, the largest city in this area and the fourth largest city in Vietnam. The name of the city, which means ‘river of poems’ in Vietnamese, refers to its location in the Mekong Delta region.
Mid-afternoon, once arrived, refreshed and checked into the hotel, transfer from the hotel for the starting point of the bicycle tour. Wind through charming villages on the outskirts of Can Tho at a leisurely pace on 2-wheels, observing the unhurried rhythm of rural life in this southern part of Vietnam. H, then pedal along sun-dappled paths by canals, passing by orchards and smiling locals. Feel the warmth this region has to offer. En route, see a gigantic sprawling tree with huge branches that rise up, almost like a serpent. Late afternoon, after the exploration of Can Tho, transfer back to the hotel. Overnight in Can Tho.
Start the day early at 7:00 with a cruise to Cai Rang, the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta. The waterway becomes a frenzy of boats, both tourists and traders, although some days see fewer traders (due to the season or time of year). See local produce depending on the season for sale—mango, bananas, papaya, pineapple, and even floating coffee sellers and noodle soup vendors.
Following the floating market cruise, visit Binh Thuy Ancient House, written about in the French novel and featured in the film "The Lover" (1992). A beautiful French-Vietnamese-style house built in 1870 by the Duong family, one of the wealthiest families in the region at the time. With lush gardens all around it, the house is a distinctive fusion of French and Vietnamese architectural styles.
Continue the journey with a 2.5-hour transfer to Ben Tre Province, known as the land of coconuts in the Mekong Delta. Upon arrival, check in to a local homestay. Rest of the day at leisure, exploring the lush neighborhood at your own pace. Overnight in Ben Tre.
After breakfast at the lodge, board a local boat for a glimpse of Delta scenery on a wooden boat. Sip a freshly picked coconut as the boat winds through canals and large waterways. Witness the trading along the water and activity of a coconut ‘market’ that stretches for kilometers along both banks of the river. Continue by boat across a huge expanse of water to a very special place, home to friendly locals who promote sustainable and community tourism. Unique to the region, the locals here live ‘off the grid’ with only solar, plus as there is no electricity on the island, which adds to the rustic charm. Meet the villagers at their homes to learn more on their simple and humble lives. Enjoy lush tropical fruits, honey tea, and regional snacks while learning about their daily life. For lunch, feast on delicious Mekong-style dishes, home-cooked by one of the local families. Conclude with a short boat cruise across the mighty Mekong to the mainland before the transfer back to Saigon. End of services
