Mekong Delta Travel Guide

Mekong Delta Travel Guide

Being a very rich, beautiful and lush area, Mekong Delta is the southern most region of Vietnam end of the Mekong River. It splits in Cambodia into two main rivers, the Bassac (Hau Giang) and the Upper River (Tien Giang), then in Vietnam into a more complex system, creating a maze of small canals, rivers and arroyos interspersed with villages and floating markets. Life in the Mekong Delta revolves much around the river and boats are still the main means of transport to access villages.

What to do?

Highlights of journeys to Mekong Delta are boat trips through canals, floating markets, exploring the local daily life by staying overnight on islands and visiting family run factories; not less interesting, tasting local specialities. The most renowned places in the Mekong Delta are My Tho, Vinh Long, Can Tho and Chau Doc. This is also a natural passageway from southern Vietnam to Cambodia either by road or by river.

When to go?

Trips to Mekong Delta are suitable all year round but the best time is the monsoon from June to September.

Travel Tips:

If time allowed, Cai Rang floating market is really worth visiting on your way to explore the Mekong Delta. Almost floating markets start in the very early morning and finish before noon. Thus, to catch the liveliest and busiest scenery, you should plan to stay one night in Can Tho.

Wherever you go in the delta (except for My Tho), be prepared for ferry crossings which may take you few hours.