Luxury River Cruises
The Mekong Delta is a stunning region, and a luxury river cruise is the perfect way to experience its beauty and culture in style. Several luxury cruise lines operate in the Mekong Delta, offering itineraries ranging from 2 to 7 nights. Cruises typically depart from Ho Chi Minh City or Phnom Penh and visit towns and villages along the Mekong River.
Mekong Delta Cruise
Onboard, you can expect spacious and comfortable cabins, gourmet dining, sundecks, swimming pools, and spa treatments. Many cruises include shore excursions, such as visits to temples, markets, and local villages. Generally, you will pay between $400 and $1,000 per person for 1-night trips on luxury river cruises.
Beautiful Landscapes
The landscape of the Mekong Delta is blanketed with vast rice paddies, dominated by shades of green. Known for its waterways, it's common to spot boats, floating houses, and markets on rivers, canals, and streams. The delta seats amidst bustling towns where vibrant commercial activities thrive with serene countryside settings.
Rice fields in the Mekong Delta
There are many beautiful pagodas in the Mekong Delta. If you are planning a trip to the region, be sure to add one of these pagodas to your itinerary.
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Cai Be Temple: Located in Cai Be district, Tien Giang province, Cai Be Temple is a famous Khmer pagoda known for its unique architecture. The temple is decorated with colorful mosaics and intricate carvings, and it is surrounded by lush gardens.
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Vinh Trang Pagoda: It is located in Ben Tre province, and it is famous for its large, white stupa. The pagoda is also home to a beautiful lotus pond and a variety of statues of Buddha.
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Khmer Pagoda in Chau Doc: Chau Doc is a town on the border between Vietnam and Cambodia, and it is home to several beautiful Khmer pagodas. The most famous of these is the Khmer Pagoda in Chau Doc, which is known for its colorful murals and ornate decorations.
Ba Chua Xu Temple in Chau Doc (An Giang)
Unique Flavor Cuisine
Is Mekong Delta worth visiting? The cuisine of the Mekong Delta boasts distinctive flavors influenced by both Cambodian and Thai culinary styles. This region is renowned for its abundance of freshwater fish, tropical fruits, and vegetables, which are creatively incorporated into a variety of dishes. Moreover, the cuisine of the Mekong Delta is celebrated for its unique fermented fish sauce, called "mam." It enhances dishes with a rich, aromatic, and flavorful touch.
Fish sauce is the main ingredient used to make the base for "lau mam" soup
Floating Markets
The Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam boasts a vast network of water channels and is a key agricultural region. You'll discover bustling floating markets where vendors sell various fruits and foods.
Floating markets are not just bustling marketplaces; they are also a window into the daily lives of Mekong Delta inhabitants. Fishermen tending their nets, families huddled over breakfast on board, children practicing their rowing skills. These everyday scenes offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of the region.
Cai Rang Floating Market is bustling with visitors
Here are some of the most renowned floating markets in the Mekong Delta:
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Cai Rang Floating Market (Can Tho)
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Cai Be Floating Market (Tien Giang)
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Thot Not Floating Market (An Giang)
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Phong Dien Floating Market (Can Tho)
Want to know more about Vietnam before your departure? Check out the Vietnam Travel Guide!
Local Villages Experiences
One of the most fascinating activities in the Mekong Delta is visiting local villages to observe their way of life, sustenance, and culinary traditions. The Mekong Delta's local villages offer a treasure trove of authentic experiences waiting to be discovered.
Coconut candy factories
Visiting the renowned coconut candy factories in Ben Tre province is a must-experience in the Mekong Delta region. Here, you'll witness skilled artisans crafting delicious coconut candies using both traditional and modern techniques. The delightful aroma of freshly made candies fills the air, tempting you to savor the sweet treasures of this "land of coconuts". Moreover, you can even try making coconut candy yourself under the attentive guidance of local residents.
Tourists are taught by local people to make coconut candy in Ben Tre
Fruit orchards
One of the most delightful activities during a tour of the Mekong Delta is exploring its bountiful fruit orchards. You'll find a variety of fresh tropical fruits waiting to be tasted, including mangoes, rambutans, pineapples, and more. This rich experience allows you to savor the essence of the region's agricultural heritage.
In the orchards of Cai Be
Homestays
An overnight tour in the Mekong Delta allows you to stay with residents, offering a deep insight into their traditional way of life. Homestays provide a warm and friendly atmosphere where you can enjoy homemade meals, learn about age-old customs, and engage in cultural exchanges with welcoming hosts. These enriching experiences foster a wonderful connection with the locals of the Mekong Delta, making your journey truly worthwhile.
A rustic countryside view
Is Mekong Delta worth visiting? With its rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking natural landscapes, the Mekong Delta is a great choice for those seeking a Vietnamese experience. Whether you're passionate about nature, deeply interested in culture, or simply in search of a travel escapade, the Mekong Delta will serve you. If you have questions or need advice, contact New Asia Tours to make your Vietnam tour fulfilling.
