Top 11 Most Fascinating Tourist Spots in the Mekong Delta

Located at the southernmost tip of Vietnam, Dat Mui, Ca Mau attracts tourists with its unique riverside cuisine like Sea Crabs and Thoi Loi Fish, along with the opportunity to explore the pristine and mysterious U Minh Forest, kayak through the fascinating mangrove forests, and visit the national border marker, immersing yourself in the sacred land of the nation.

In Dat Mui, Ca Mau, you’ll hear the peaceful sounds of the homeland, a tranquil space that offers a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, as you sit back and enjoy the serene melodies of the countryside. Local specialties to try here include salted fried turtle, U Minh fish hotpot, grilled Thoi Loi with chili salt, and forested steamed vop. Some must-visit places in Dat Mui include the National Coordinate Marker, the Ca Mau Cultural Park, the Ship’s Bow, and the final milestone of the Ho Chi Minh Road - Km2436.

Visitors can come to Dat Mui, Ca Mau at any time of the year depending on the experiences they want to enjoy. The weather here is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season from May to November, and the dry season from December to April the following year.

Travel Distance: From Ho Chi Minh City, tourists can take a flight to Ca Mau in about 45 minutes, or opt for a bus ride which takes approximately 7-8 hours. For those with more time, motorbiking to Ca Mau is a unique experience as you pass through the southern provinces of Vietnam. From Ca Mau, visitors can reach Dat Mui by either boat (canoe) or land (motorbike or bus).

• Location: Ngoc Hien District, Ca Mau Province

Phung Island Tourist Area is located in Tan Thanh hamlet, Chau Thanh district, Ben Tre province. It's one of the most famous islands in Vietnam's Mekong Delta, known for its traditional craft villages, unique restaurants and hotels, as well as its entertainment areas that blend perfectly with nature. Phung Island, also known as Tan Vinh Island, is part of the Four Sacred Animals archipelago (Long, Lan, Quy, Phung). While Quy and Phung Islands are located in Ben Tre, Long and Lan Islands are in Tien Giang province.

A visit to Phung Island allows you to immerse yourself in the simple, warm-hearted life of the Southern people, enjoy local specialties like water coconut dishes, and experience lively traditional music performances. You can also try your hand at the art of Don Ca Tai Tu, row a boat through the serene landscapes, and engage in thrilling adventure activities such as jet skiing and crocodile fishing.

Activities at Phung Island: Explore the Dừa (Coconut) Temple, visit the beekeeping farms, try crocodile fishing, ride horse-drawn carriages around the island, and tour the coconut candy production workshops. Don't miss local delicacies like crispy fried snakehead fish, shrimp boiled in coconut water, and Phung Island fried sticky rice.

Best time to visit Phung Island: Any time of the year is perfect, but especially in the summer months of June, July, and August when the lush green trees are full of ripe fruits like mangosteen, durian, and rambutan. Visitors will be treated to a variety of delicious and fresh tropical fruits.

Travel distance: From Ho Chi Minh City, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Ben Tre. You can cross the Rach Mieu Bridge, then turn left to follow the riverbank, where you'll find a ferry that will take you to Phung Island. Alternatively, you can go to My Tho’s dock and rent a boat, depending on the number of people in your group.

• Location: Tan Thanh hamlet, Chau Thanh district, Ben Tre province

Tra Su Melaleuca Forest - An Giang is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Mekong Delta. Spanning 850 hectares, the forest is home to an incredibly diverse ecosystem with over 140 plant species, 70 species of birds, many of which are rare and listed in the Red Book of Vietnam, more than 23 species of aquatic life, and the dense melaleuca trees that cover most of the area.

When visiting Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, you'll have the chance to navigate through fairy-tale-like lotus swamps by traditional watercraft. You can wander among vast fields of floating water plants while listening to the sounds of birds and storks during the breeding season. It's an experience of peace and serenity, perfect for unwinding from the stresses of everyday life.

Best time to visit Tra Su Melaleuca Forest: According to local residents, the best time to visit is during the flood season, from September to November. The entire forest is covered in lush greenery, and nature's beauty is on full display, creating a vibrant and dynamic natural scene. The most ideal time to explore the forest is between 7 AM and 9 AM, when you can watch flocks of birds gathering and playing. Later, from 5 PM to 6 PM, you can visit the observation tower to see the birds return to their nests.

Travel distance: From Ho Chi Minh City, you can reach An Giang by car or bus from the Western Bus Station, with tickets ranging from 150,000 to 300,000 VND per trip. The journey is about 250 km and takes approximately 4 hours. From Chau Doc, follow the Tan Lo Kieu Luong road to National Route 91, then turn left at the Tra Su Bridge in the town of Nha Bang, and continue a few kilometers along the canal to reach Tra Su Forest. From Long Xuyen, follow National Route 91 towards Chau Doc, and you'll find the forest along the same route.

• Address: Tinh Bien District, An Giang (about 30 km from Chau Doc)

Ninh Kieu Wharf is located on the right bank of the Hau River, at the confluence of the Hau and Can Tho rivers. Ninh Kieu Wharf is one of the most captivating tourist spots, offering scenic river views and a perfect location to enjoy the tranquil flow of the Hau River.

The wharf area is bustling with boats carrying a variety of agricultural products and tropical fruits from the Mekong Delta. Visitors to Ninh Kieu can not only indulge in the delicious local specialties but also immerse themselves in the vibrant and diverse culinary culture of the riverbank. Ninh Kieu Wharf transforms into a stunning masterpiece at night, with modern lighting illuminating the riverside, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.

Some must-visit attractions around Ninh Kieu Wharf include: the statue of President Ho Chi Minh, the Can Tho night market, Can Tho's love bridge, river cruises, the Can Tho Bridge (Vietnam's first cable-stayed bridge), Ong Pagoda, Cai Rang floating market, and the Can Tho mural street.

The best time to visit Ninh Kieu Wharf is during the dry season from December to April. Specifically, the period in April or Lunar December is ideal as it coincides with several lively festivals, such as the Le Thuong Dien and Le Ha Dien.

Distance: If you are traveling from Ho Chi Minh City or nearby provinces, you can take a convenient bus with tickets ranging from 200,000 to 280,000 VND per trip. Alternatively, you can take a road trip by motorbike with friends. From Ho Chi Minh City, take the An Lac roundabout or the Trung Luong expressway, and follow the directions to easily reach Ninh Kieu Wharf in Can Tho.

• Address: On the right bank of the Hau River, located between the confluence of the Hau and Can Tho rivers, adjacent to Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho.

Tan Lap Floating Village - Long An is one of the most captivating destinations in the Mekong Delta that you can experience. Also known as Tan Lap Tram Forest, located in Moc Hoa District, Long An Province, this area is conveniently accessible. The highlight of this floating village is its creation from a flooded forest, home to an ecosystem rich in the distinctive features of Southern Vietnam. When visiting Tan Lap Floating Village, you will encounter Tràm trees, lotus flowers, water lilies, and lily pads, along with various birds and fish. The entire atmosphere here is simple and rustic, something you won't find in the bustling city life.

When you visit Tan Lap Floating Village - Long An, you'll be able to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the lush green tram forest and the fresh, clean air. Not only will you find peace in nature, but there are also local dishes offered at affordable prices. Don’t forget to check out the 5-kilometer-long trail winding through the towering green trees. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour to explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding swamp area.

The best time to visit is year-round, as the climate is always comfortable, cool, and pleasant. Some travel expenses you may need to know: Tram forest entrance fee: 55,000 VND per person; Boat tour fee: 30,000 VND per person; Food and beverages range from 100,000 to 300,000 VND per person; Hammock rental: 10,000 VND per hammock (deposit 100,000 VND).

Distance: Tan Lap Floating Village is located on National Highway 62, Tan Lap Commune, Moc Hoa District, Long An Province. It is approximately 100 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, making it easy to access from the city.

• Address: Moc Hoa District, Long An Province

Chen Kieu Pagoda is a key spiritual destination for the Khmer people, offering a peaceful and sacred place for reflection. It is a tranquil sanctuary where visitors come to find calm and serenity. At Chen Kieu Pagoda, besides admiring its unique architecture, you can also delve into the rich culture of the Khmer people.

Located in the Southern Khmer Pagoda system in Soc Trang, Chen Kieu Pagoda is famous for its one-of-a-kind architectural style, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit. The most unique aspect of this pagoda is that it is built using thousands of broken ceramic pieces, carefully arranged to form a beautiful and harmonious design. Here, visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and learn about ancient Khmer texts, gaining insight into the lifestyle of the local Khmer community.

When visiting Soc Trang’s pagodas, Chen Kieu Pagoda stands out as a place that will deeply resonate with travelers. The Khmer artisans have skillfully used broken pottery to decorate the walls and pillars, creating a stunning, harmonious architectural masterpiece. With its striking architecture, Chen Kieu Pagoda is not only a religious site but also an attractive tourist destination.

The best time to visit: Any time of year.

Distance: Chen Kieu Pagoda, also known as Sa Lon Pagoda, is located in Dai Tam Commune, My Xuyen District, Soc Trang Province, right on National Highway 1A, about 12 km from Soc Trang city, heading toward Bac Lieu.

• Address: National Highway 1A, Dai Tam, My Xuyen, Soc Trang

An Giang is a province in the southwestern region of Vietnam, known for its unique culture and famous festivals. The beauty of An Giang is gentle and captivating, making it easy to fall in love with upon arrival. The vast rice fields, the endless flight of storks, and the towering sugar palms typical of the region add to its charm. One of the must-visit spots in An Giang is Ta Pa Lake, located in Tri Ton District. The lake is surrounded by a stunning landscape, with its lush green waters providing a picturesque view that will surely enchant every visitor. For this reason, Ta Pa Lake is often referred to as the “Tuyet Tinh Coc” (Valley of Love) of the Mekong Delta.

With a depth of about 17 meters and surrounded by limestone cliffs, the lake’s crystal-clear water comes from rainwater and underground springs. The surrounding mountains enhance the romantic, serene atmosphere of the area. At Ta Pa Lake – An Giang, visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as: Nui Pagoda, Ta Pa Hill, and Ta Pa Rice Fields.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year.

Distance: To get there, it is recommended to travel by motorbike for a better experience, allowing you to enjoy the scenery along the way. If you’re coming from Saigon, head to Chi Ton Market first. From there, continue along Nguyen Trai Street for a short distance (toward the Tuc Dup Tourist Area), and you’ll encounter a large tamarind tree. Across from this ancient tree is the entrance to Ta Pa Pagoda, which marks the start of the main road leading to Ta Pa Hill and the lake.

• Address: Nui To Commune, Tri Ton District, An Giang Province

Bang Lang Bird Sanctuary is known as one of the largest bird parks in the Mekong Delta. Located in Thuan An, Thot Not, Can Tho, about 60 km from the city center, this sanctuary is home to a variety of rare bird species that gather here during their breeding season. The sanctuary is a must-see for anyone who loves exploring the rustic beauty of the river delta and witnessing nature in its purest form, with golden rice fields and the sweet sounds of birds nesting in the trees.

At Bang Lang, you can tour the sanctuary by boat, drifting through the lush greenery and past rice fields freshly harvested. Explore the bamboo groves and see hundreds of birds from all over the region gathering in this peaceful haven. Visitors will also hear fascinating stories about the long history of this natural reserve and its humble founder, the farmer known as 'Ba Co', who created this unique tourist attraction.

Best time to visit: The most vibrant season is during the birds' breeding period, typically from August to January, when the sanctuary is teeming with life. Admission fees are quite affordable: international visitors pay 20,000 VND per person, and domestic visitors pay 10,000 VND per person, which helps maintain and restore the sanctuary.

How to get there: The sanctuary is located 60 km from Can Tho city center, making it an easy trip to combine with visits to other local attractions. Visitors can reach Can Tho by plane, car, motorbike, or bus, then follow National Highway 91 through O Mon and Thot Not to the bird sanctuary. Once you reach the beginning of Bang Lang Bridge, which is about 2 km from the sanctuary, there is a small road leading into the sanctuary, where you can either rent a vehicle or walk. If you visit during the spring, you’ll have the chance to take a boat ride through the calm waters of the river, adding to the tranquil experience.

• Address: Thuan An, Thot Not, Can Tho

Cai Rang Floating Market is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Can Tho's Cai Rang district, especially for those exploring the Mekong Delta. The market is famous for selling a variety of local fruits and agricultural products on large boats floating side by side. Cai Rang Floating Market was ranked by the UK travel magazine Rough Guide as one of the top 10 most impressive markets in the world.

The appeal of Cai Rang lies in its early morning operations, where vendors sell all kinds of goods, and despite the absence of branded products, the market is always bustling with activity. Visiting Cai Rang Floating Market allows you to immerse yourself in the rural river life, experiencing the lively trade that takes place along the river with boats stretching as far as the eye can see. For years, Cai Rang has become a major attraction for those passionate about orchard tourism.

Best time to visit: Can Tho has two distinct seasons: the rainy season from May to November and the dry season from December to April. You can visit the floating market in both seasons, but if you love tropical fruits, it’s best to visit during the dry season (summer), as this is when the fruit harvest is at its peak. The market usually operates early, from around 4-5 AM, and closes quite early as well.

How to get there: Located about 180 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Cai Rang Floating Market is situated on the Cai Rang River, near Cai Rang Bridge in Cai Rang district. It’s about 6 km from the city center of Can Tho by road, and you can reach it by boat in around 30 minutes from Ninh Kieu Wharf in Ninh Kieu district. According to the Can Tho Institute of Social Economics, when the market was first established, it was located at the intersection of four rivers: Can Tho, Dau Sau, Cai Son, and Cai Rang Be, adjacent to the Cai Rang market on the shore.

• Address: 46 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho

Floating markets are a unique cultural feature of the Mekong Delta, a must-see whether you're on a tour or exploring the region independently. While Can Tho is well-known for its floating markets, Soc Trang is home to another popular one: Nga Nam Floating Market. If you’re ever in Soc Trang, this is a stop you shouldn't miss to experience the lively local culture. This market is situated at the junction of five rivers: Cà Mau Lên, Vĩnh Quới, Long Mỹ, Thanh Trị, and Phụng Hiệp, making it incredibly accessible. It’s located in Nga Nam town, Thanh Trị district, Soc Trang province, where you can find all kinds of goods being sold.

The market features boats filled with fresh fruits and local specialties. Though not luxurious, the scene here is rare and offers a glimpse into rural life that you won’t find in the city. Visitors can immerse themselves in the market’s lively atmosphere and learn about the unique floating lifestyle of the locals. The market typically opens at 3 AM, with peak activity between 5 AM and 6 AM.

Best time to visit: Nga Nam Floating Market starts operating early, usually around 3 AM. By 5 AM, the market is at its busiest, with many boats selling fresh goods. This is also the perfect time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. During the Lunar New Year, the market remains open from morning until evening, creating an even more festive atmosphere.

How to get there: To reach Nga Nam Floating Market from Ho Chi Minh City, take National Route 1A and head toward Nga Bảy town. Then, turn onto Quản Lộ – Phụng Hiệp Road, and follow the route to reach the market.

• Address: Phường 1, Nga Nam Town, Soc Trang Province

The Nam Du Archipelago, consisting of 16 small islands off the coast of Nam Du commune in Kiên Hải, is one of the most memorable destinations for travelers both from Vietnam and abroad. When you visit Nam Du, you’ll be swept away by the serene atmosphere beneath the lush coconut palms of Hon Lon, and amazed by the pristine beauty of Bai Chuong and Hon Ngang. The Nam Du Lighthouse, the tallest in Vietnam, is another unmissable sight here.

Beyond the stunning scenery, you can explore the diverse natural beauty of the 16 islands, indulge in local delicacies such as dried fish, steamed squid with ginger, and grilled scallops with onion oil, all offering a taste of the region’s rich riverine culture. If you're passionate about Western Vietnam tourism, then Nam Du Archipelago should definitely be on your travel bucket list.

Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Nam Du Island is from December to March, when the seas are calm and the weather is perfect. There are many beautiful spots to explore, including Bai Cay Men, Bai Ngu, Bai Chet, Bai Chuong, Hon Ngang, Hon Nom, the Nam Du Lighthouse, Hon Dau, Hon Mau, Hon Hai Bo Dap, and the fishing village.

How to get there: From Ho Chi Minh City, take a bus to Rach Gia, with tickets available from various bus companies such as Phuong Trang, Kumho Samco, Tuyet Hon, and Dieu Gia, with fares ranging from 150,000 to 170,000 VND. Once in Rach Gia, you can catch a high-speed boat to Nam Du Island, which takes about two hours. To save on costs, it’s best to travel in groups of 8-12 people and book tickets in advance.

• Address: An Son and Nam Du communes, Kiên Hải District, Kiên Giang Province