MEKONG DELTA

The Mekong Delta in Vietnam is a vast and fertile region characterized by intricate waterways, lush green rice fields, and vibrant floating markets. It offers a unique glimpse into the local way of life, where agriculture, fishing, and river transportation play significant roles in the daily activities of the people.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Mekong Delta in Vietnam is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is generally more favorable with less rainfall, allowing for easier exploration of the delta's waterways and outdoor activities. However, it's worth noting that the Mekong Delta can be visited year-round, and each season offers its own unique charm and experiences.

How to Get There

To reach the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, you have several transportation options depending on your starting point:

By Air: If you are traveling from a distant location, the most convenient way to reach the Mekong Delta is by flying to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). From there, you can continue your journey to the Mekong Delta by other means of transportation.
By Bus: Buses from Ho Chi Minh City to various destinations in the Mekong Delta are readily available. The bus journey typically takes around 2-4 hours, depending on your final destination within the delta. There are also bus services connecting other cities in Vietnam to the Mekong Delta.
By Boat: Another scenic option is to take a boat from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho to reach different parts of the Mekong Delta. These boats traverse the extensive network of waterways, providing a unique and picturesque journey through the delta.
By Private Car or Taxi: If you prefer a more flexible and convenient mode of transportation, you can hire a private car or taxi from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta. This allows you to have greater control over your itinerary and stops along the way.

Once you reach the Mekong Delta, you can explore the region further by taking boat tours, hiring local guides, or using public transportation options like buses or motorbike taxis.

Mekong Delta's Provinces

The Mekong Delta in Vietnam is comprised of multiple provinces, each contributing to the region's unique characteristics and cultural heritage. The provinces that make up the Mekong Delta are:

An Giang: Located in the western part of the delta, An Giang is known for its diverse ethnic communities, including Khmer, Cham, and Chinese. The province offers scenic landscapes with rice fields, mountains, and the Hau River. An Giang is also home to religious sites like Ba Chua Xu Temple and Sam Mountain, which are popular pilgrimage destinations.
Bac Lieu: Situated in the southern part of the delta, Bac Lieu is known for its coastal scenery along the East Sea. The province features beautiful beaches, seafood markets, and historical sites like the Bac Lieu Mansion, which showcases French colonial architecture. Bac Lieu is also famous for its cultural attractions, including the "Don Ca Tai Tu" music, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Ben Tre: Known as the "Coconut Kingdom," Ben Tre is famous for its lush coconut groves and tranquil canals. The province offers opportunities to explore the delta's waterways by boat, visit coconut candy factories, and experience local homestays. Ben Tre is also renowned for its traditional handicrafts, such as making coconut leaf conical hats and weaving mats.
Ca Mau: Located at the southernmost tip of Vietnam, Ca Mau is a nature lover's paradise. The province features vast mangrove forests, wetland areas, and unique wildlife, including the rare Ca Mau Salanganes. Visitors can explore the U Minh Ha National Park, take boat trips to enjoy the scenic beauty of the delta, and visit cultural sites like the Ca Mau Cape.
Can Tho: As the largest city in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho attracts a significant number of visitors. It is known for its bustling floating markets, including the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, where tourists can witness local trading activities and enjoy boat rides along the canals. Can Tho also offers a range of accommodation options, dining choices, and easy access to other attractions in the region.
Dong Thap: Home to the Tram Chim National Park, Dong Thap is known for its diverse ecosystem and bird sanctuary. The park offers a chance to see rare bird species and enjoy the picturesque landscapes of wetlands and lotus ponds. Dong Thap also has cultural attractions such as Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House and Gao Giong Eco-Tourism Area.
Hau Giang: This province is characterized by fertile agricultural lands, floating markets, and opportunities to experience local rural life. Hau Giang offers insights into the delta's agricultural practices, and visitors can explore floating markets like Long My and Nga Bay, known for trading a variety of goods. The province also has cultural attractions like the Long My Historical Relic Area.
Kien Giang: Kien Giang is a diverse province that includes the famous Phu Quoc Island, known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life. The province also offers opportunities for island-hopping tours, exploring national parks like Phu Quoc and U Minh Thuong, and visiting cultural sites like Nguyen Trung Truc Temple.
Long An: Located on the western edge of the Mekong Delta, Long An is characterized by vast rice fields, fruit orchards, and cultural heritage sites. The province offers the chance to experience the local agricultural lifestyle and visit historical landmarks like Rach Cat Fortress and Vinh Hung Ancient Tower. Long An is also known for its traditional craft villages, including Tan Lap Floating Village and Thanh Phuoc Bamboo Village.
Phu Quoc Island (Kien Giang Province): Phu Quoc Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. With its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, it attracts a large number of beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The island offers a wide range of accommodations, water activities, and a lively nightlife scene.
Soc Trang: Soc Trang is recognized for its vibrant Khmer culture, with numerous Khmer pagodas and festivals. The province offers opportunities to explore cultural sites like Doi Pagoda, Mahatup Pagoda, and Khleang Pagoda. Soc Trang is also known for its unique architectural styles influenced by Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese cultures.
Tien Giang: Tien Giang is known for its agricultural production, fruit orchards, and the scenic Tien River. Visitors can explore fruit gardens, participate in fruit-picking activities, and enjoy boat tours along the Tien River. Tien Giang is also home to cultural attractions such as Cai Be Floating Market and Dong Tam Snake Farm, where you can learn about snake farming and traditional medicine.
Tra Vinh: This province is renowned for its diverse ethnic communities, including Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese. Tra Vinh offers a rich cultural experience with numerous Khmer pagodas, vibrant festivals like Ok Om Bok, and unique architectural styles influenced by different cultures. Visitors can explore the Ang Pagoda, Hang Pagoda, and learn about the traditions and customs of the local communities.
Vinh Long: Vinh Long is famous for its picturesque river landscapes, fruit orchards, and traditional brick-making villages. Visitors can take boat trips along the canals, visit local fruit orchards, and experience the daily life of the delta's inhabitants. Vinh Long is also known for its traditional brick production, and you can witness the brick-making process in villages like Thanh Duc and Thuan Hoa.

Top 25 Attractions in the Mekong Delta

Cai Rang Floating Market: One of the largest and most vibrant floating markets in the Mekong Delta, where you can witness local trading activities and enjoy a boat ride through the bustling market.
Long Xuyen Floating Market: An authentic floating market where locals gather to buy and sell goods, providing an immersive experience of the Mekong Delta's riverine culture.
Phung Hiep Floating Market: A bustling floating market located in Hau Giang Province, known for its vibrant atmosphere, variety of goods, and the opportunity to sample local cuisine.
Cai Be Floating Market: A picturesque floating market in Tien Giang Province, where you can observe local trading activities, shop for fresh produce, and enjoy boat rides along the canals.
Vinh Trang Pagoda: Located in My Tho, this beautiful Buddhist pagoda is renowned for its intricate architecture, colorful statues, and tranquil gardens.
Vinh Trang Pagoda: in My Tho, Vietnam, is a famous Buddhist temple known for its beautiful blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer architectural styles. With intricate statues, ornate decorations, and serene surroundings, it serves as a significant cultural and historical landmark, attracting visitors interested in Vietnam's spiritual and architectural heritage.
Vinh Hung Pagoda, located in the An Giang Province, is a Buddhist temple renowned for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. The pagoda is adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and statues, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors to explore and engage in religious activities.
Ang Pagoda, situated in the Tra Vinh Province, is a Khmer-style Buddhist temple that reflects the unique cultural heritage of the local Khmer community. The pagoda features striking architecture, with colorful decorations and intricate sculptures, and serves as an important religious and cultural center for the Khmer people in the region.
Ben Tre Museum in Ben Tre City is a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, culture, and traditions of the Ben Tre Province. It houses artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that provide insights into the region's past, including its role during the Vietnam War and its agricultural heritage, particularly in coconut farming.
Binh Thuy Ancient House: Located in Can Tho, this well-preserved ancient house showcases traditional Vietnamese architecture with a mix of Western influences, making it a fascinating cultural site to explore.
My Thuan Bridge is an iconic landmark in the Mekong Delta, connecting the Tien Giang and Vinh Long provinces. The cable-stayed bridge spans over the Tien River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding waterways and facilitating transportation and trade in the region.
Sam Mountain: A sacred mountain in Chau Doc offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and housing numerous pagodas and temples.
Tra Su Cajuput Forest: A pristine wetland area known for its rich biodiversity, with dense mangrove forests, bird species, and tranquil boat rides through narrow waterways.
Tra Su Mangrove Forest in the An Giang Province of Vietnam's Mekong Delta is a picturesque and serene attraction known for its lush greenery, canals, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the narrow waterways and observe the rich biodiversity, including various bird species, fish, reptiles, and mammals, while enjoying the unique floating green carpet formed by water ferns during the rainy season.
An Binh Island: A peaceful island known for its lush orchards, traditional village life, and opportunities to experience local homestays and biking tours.
Ninh Kieu Wharf: in Can Tho, Vietnam, is a bustling riverfront area on the Hau River, known for its vibrant atmosphere and picturesque views. It offers visitors a chance to experience the lively floating markets and immerse themselves in the local culture of the Mekong Delta.
My Tho: A gateway to the Mekong Delta, My Tho offers boat tours along the river, visits to local fruit orchards, and glimpses into the delta's agricultural activities.
Chau Doc: A bustling riverside town known for its mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Cham communities, offering cultural insights, scenic river views, and the opportunity to visit the nearby sacred Mount Sam.
Tan Lap Village: in Vietnam's Mekong Delta is a picturesque tourist destination known for its vast lotus fields and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can enjoy boat rides through the blooming lotus flowers, explore the mangrove forest, and experience the rural lifestyle in traditional stilt houses, immersing themselves in the natural beauty and local culture of the region.
My Khanh Tourist Village: A family-friendly tourist village near Can Tho that showcases rural life in the Mekong Delta, featuring activities such as fishing, farming, and traditional music performances.
Ca Mau Cape: The southernmost point of Vietnam, offering scenic landscapes, mangrove forests, and the chance to observe diverse bird species in the Ca Mau Nature Reserve.
Mekong Delta Homestays: Experience the warm hospitality of the locals by staying in a homestay in one of the Mekong Delta's villages. This allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, participate in daily activities, and enjoy traditional meals.
Rach Gia: A coastal city in the Mekong Delta region, serving as a gateway to the Phu Quoc Island. Rach Gia offers beautiful beaches, seafood markets, and a chance to experience the local way of life.
Tra Su Bird Sanctuary: in Vietnam's Mekong Delta is a popular tourist spot known for its diverse bird species and beautiful flooded forests. Visitors can take boat rides to get close views of over 150 bird species, including the endangered red-headed cranes, and enjoy the serene natural environment during the dry season from December to May.
Dong Tam Snake Farm: located in Tien Giang Province, Vietnam, is one of the country's largest snake farms and a renowned research and breeding center. It plays a vital role in snake conservation, venom extraction for antivenom production, and public education on snakes, their ecological significance, and snakebite prevention and treatment.

Top 18 Activities to do in the Mekong Delta

Explore the Floating Markets: Visit iconic floating markets like Cai Rang or Cai Be, where local traders sell a variety of fruits, vegetables, and goods from their boats. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and interact with locals.
Take a Boat Tour: Embark on a boat tour along the intricate network of canals and tributaries in the Mekong Delta. Enjoy the scenic views, observe the local way of life, and visit traditional villages along the waterways.
Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda: Explore Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho, a beautiful Buddhist temple renowned for its architectural blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer styles. Admire the ornate decorations, serene gardens, and religious artifacts.
Sample Local Cuisine: Indulge in the flavors of Mekong Delta cuisine, known for its fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and unique dishes like banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake) and hu tieu (noodle soup). Don't miss the chance to try fresh coconut candies.
Discover Tra Su Bird Sanctuary: Explore the Tra Su Bird Sanctuary in An Giang Province, home to diverse bird species. Take a boat ride through the canals, surrounded by lush greenery and observe the avian wildlife.
Experience Rural Life: Immerse yourself in the rural lifestyle of the Mekong Delta by visiting traditional villages. Learn about coconut processing, rice noodle making, and other local crafts. Interact with friendly locals and gain insights into their daily routines.
Cycle through the Countryside: Rent a bicycle and pedal through the peaceful countryside of the Mekong Delta. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes, lush rice fields, and charming villages while experiencing the slow-paced rural life.
Visit Can Tho: Explore the bustling city of Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. Take a boat ride to the floating markets, stroll along the Ninh Kieu Quay, and sample local delicacies at the night market.
Discover Cham Culture: Visit the Oc Eo archaeological site in An Giang Province, which offers a glimpse into the ancient Cham civilization. Explore the ruins, artifacts, and learn about their fascinating history.
Relax on Phu Quoc Island: Conclude your Mekong Delta adventure with a trip to Phu Quoc Island, known for its stunning beaches and clear waters. Unwind, enjoy water activities, and savor fresh seafood on this tropical paradise.
Explore the Coconut Candy Factories: Visit the coconut candy factories in Ben Tre Province to see how this famous local treat is made. Learn about the process of turning coconuts into delicious candies and even try making some yourself.
Visit the Khmer Pagodas: Discover the rich Khmer culture by visiting the Khmer pagodas scattered throughout the Mekong Delta. These pagodas feature unique architecture, vibrant colors, and serene surroundings, offering a glimpse into the spiritual practices of the Khmer community.
Cruise the Mekong River: Take a leisurely cruise along the mighty Mekong River, enjoying the scenic views and observing the local life along the riverbanks. Several cruise options are available, ranging from day trips to multi-day excursions.
Experience Homestay: Stay with a local family in one of the Mekong Delta's villages to experience genuine Vietnamese hospitality and get an authentic glimpse into daily rural life. Participate in activities like fishing, farming, or cooking traditional dishes.
Visit the Cao Dai Temple: Witness the unique Cao Dai religion by visiting one of its colorful temples. Cao Dai is a syncretic religion that combines elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and other beliefs. Explore their stunning temples and attend a prayer ceremony.
Try Snake Wine: For the adventurous, try snake wine, a traditional Vietnamese alcoholic beverage made by infusing whole snakes or snake parts in rice wine. It is believed to have medicinal properties and is considered a delicacy in some regions.
Discover the Dong Thap Muoi Wetlands: Explore the Dong Thap Muoi Wetlands, also known as the "Plain of Reeds." Take a boat trip through the wetlands, home to diverse flora and fauna, including lotus flowers, water lilies, and a variety of bird species.
Visit the Can Tho Museum: Learn about the history, culture, and heritage of the Mekong Delta at the Can Tho Museum. Discover artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that provide insights into the region's past and its significance in Vietnam's development.

Vinh Tranh Pagoda in My Tho, the Mekong Delta, Vietnam.

Best Shopping

While the Mekong Delta region in Vietnam is primarily known for its natural beauty, agricultural activities, and cultural experiences, it may not be widely recognized as a shopping destination. However, there are still some places where you can find local products and unique souvenirs. Here are a few options:

Floating Markets: The floating markets in the Mekong Delta, such as Cai Rang or Cai Be, offer a unique shopping experience. You can find a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, local snacks, and handmade crafts sold directly from boats. It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant market atmosphere and interact with local traders.
Local Markets: Explore the local markets in towns and cities within the Mekong Delta, such as Can Tho or Ben Tre. These markets offer a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, spices, handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Vietnamese products. It's a chance to haggle, sample local delicacies, and find unique items.
Handicraft Villages: Visit traditional handicraft villages, like Vinh Long Pottery Village or Phuoc Kieu Bronze Casting Village, where you can witness artisans crafting pottery, ceramics, or bronze products. Some of these villages have small shops or stalls where you can purchase handmade goods directly from the artisans.
Local Workshops and Cooperatives: Look for local workshops and cooperatives that specialize in traditional crafts, such as weaving, woodworking, or silk production. These establishments often have shops or showrooms where you can buy high-quality, locally-made products while supporting local artisans.
Souvenir Shops and Tourist Centers: In popular tourist areas within the Mekong Delta, you can find souvenir shops and tourist centers that offer a range of souvenir items, handicrafts, and local products. These shops often have a curated selection of items that reflect the culture and heritage of the region.

It's important to keep in mind that the shopping scene in the Mekong Delta may not be as extensive or diverse as in larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City. However, by exploring local markets, interacting with artisans, and seeking out authentic products, you can still find unique souvenirs and take a piece of the Mekong Delta's charm back home with you.

Entertainment & Nightlife

The nightlife in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam tends to be more low-key and relaxed compared to larger cities in the country. While it may not offer the bustling nightlife scenes found in urban areas, there are still some options for evening entertainment and relaxation.

Riverfront Bars and Restaurants: Along the rivers and canals of towns like Can Tho and My Tho, you can find waterfront bars and restaurants that offer a pleasant atmosphere for a drink or meal in the evening. Enjoy a refreshing beverage while watching the river traffic or indulge in local cuisine while taking in the scenic views.
Night Markets: Some towns in the Mekong Delta have night markets that come alive in the evenings. These markets offer a range of local street food, snacks, and handicrafts. It's a great opportunity to sample regional delicacies and shop for souvenirs while experiencing the lively atmosphere.
Local Music and Cultural Performances: Occasionally, there are cultural performances and music shows held in certain venues, hotels, or restaurants in the Mekong Delta. These events showcase traditional music, dance, and other cultural performances, providing insights into the local arts and heritage.
Relaxation and Tranquility: One of the charms of the Mekong Delta is its peaceful ambiance, which lends itself to relaxation and unwinding. Take an evening stroll along the riverbanks or enjoy the tranquility of your accommodation, allowing you to recharge and appreciate the natural surroundings.

Local Cuisine

The Mekong Delta region of Vietnam is renowned for its unique and flavorful cuisine. Influenced by the fertile land, rivers, and abundant agricultural resources, the local cuisine showcases a variety of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and diverse culinary techniques. Here are some highlights of the local cuisine in the Mekong Delta:

Fresh Fruits: The Mekong Delta is known as the fruit basket of Vietnam, producing a wide array of tropical fruits. Enjoy juicy mangoes, succulent durian, sweet pineapples, exotic rambutans, and other seasonal fruits that are abundant in the region.
Rice Dishes: Rice is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, and the Mekong Delta is no exception. Try traditional dishes like Com Tam (broken rice) served with grilled pork, Com Dep (lotus leaf rice) wrapped in lotus leaves, or Xoi (sticky rice) with various toppings like mung bean, shredded coconut, or grilled pork.
Fresh Seafood: With its extensive river and coastal areas, the Mekong Delta offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Sample dishes like grilled fish, shrimp pancakes, steamed crabs, or stir-fried clams that highlight the flavors of the region.
Hu Tieu: Hu Tieu is a popular noodle soup dish in the Mekong Delta. It features thin and translucent rice noodles in a flavorful broth, topped with a variety of ingredients such as pork, shrimp, squid, and herbs. Hu Tieu Nam Vang, a version with a Cambodian influence, is particularly famous.
Banh Xeo: Banh Xeo is a savory Vietnamese pancake made with rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. It is filled with a combination of bean sprouts, pork, shrimp, and herbs. The pancake is wrapped in rice paper and dipped in a tangy fish sauce before being enjoyed.
Coconut-based Dishes: Coconuts are abundant in the Mekong Delta, and they feature prominently in the cuisine. Coconut is used in various dishes, including braised fish in coconut juice, coconut candy, coconut milk-based curries, and refreshing coconut water.
Snacks and Desserts: Indulge in local snacks and desserts like Banh Tet (sticky rice cake), Banh Pia (flaky pastry with sweet fillings), Banh Da Lon (pandan layer cake), or Che (sweet dessert soup) made with beans, fruits, and tapioca pearls.

The Mekong Delta's cuisine is known for its freshness, vibrant flavors, and the creative use of local ingredients. Exploring the local markets, street food stalls, and family-run eateries is the best way to experience the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Accommodations

When visiting the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, there are several areas that offer convenient access to the main attractions and provide a range of accommodation options. Here are some of the popular areas to consider for your stay:

Can Tho: As the largest city in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho is a popular base for exploring the region. It offers a good selection of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts catering to different budgets. Can Tho is known for its vibrant floating markets, scenic riverfront, and proximity to attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market and Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary.
My Tho: Located closer to Ho Chi Minh City, My Tho is often the starting point for Mekong Delta tours. It offers a range of accommodations, including hotels and homestays. From My Tho, you can explore attractions like Vinh Trang Pagoda, Thoi Son Island, and take boat trips along the Mekong River.
Ben Tre: Known as the "Coconut Kingdom," Ben Tre is a charming area in the Mekong Delta famous for its coconut plantations. It offers a more relaxed and authentic experience. There are homestays, eco-lodges, and boutique hotels available for visitors. Ben Tre is a great base to explore the local lifestyle, visit coconut candy factories, and cruise the canals.
Chau Doc: Situated near the border with Cambodia, Chau Doc is a vibrant town with a mix of cultures, including Khmer and Cham communities. It offers a range of accommodations, including hotels and guesthouses. Chau Doc is known for its floating houses, Sam Mountain, and the opportunity to visit nearby Tra Su Bird Sanctuary.
Phu Quoc Island: Although not strictly part of the Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island is often included in Mekong Delta itineraries due to its proximity. It offers stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and a variety of accommodations. Phu Quoc Island provides a relaxing escape and the opportunity to explore its natural beauty and attractions.

Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for the Mekong Delta: Exploring Vietnam's Countryside

The Mekong Delta is well known for its vast rice fields, fruit orchards, and bustling floating markets. Let's explore!

Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City and Transfer to Can Tho

Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Arrange for a private transfer or take a bus to Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore Ninh Kieu Pier and enjoy the riverside view or relax in your hotel preparing for the next day.

Day 2: Can Tho – Cai Rang Floating Market and Binh Thuy Ancient House

Rise early and take a boat tour to Cai Rang Floating Market. It's a great opportunity to see how local life revolves around the river, with sellers and buyers bargaining for goods from their boats. Enjoy some local fruits and traditional dishes for breakfast.

In the afternoon, visit the Binh Thuy Ancient House, a fine example of late 19th-century Vietnamese architecture and a National Heritage site.

Day 3: Can Tho – Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery – Transfer to Chau Doc

In the morning, visit the Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery. It's an oasis of peace, with beautiful gardens and architecture.

In the afternoon, make your way to Chau Doc, another important city in the Mekong Delta. Once you arrive, you can explore the local markets or rest in your hotel.

Day 4: Chau Doc – Sam Mountain and Tra Su Cajuput Forest

In the morning, ascend Sam Mountain, a place of pilgrimage for many Vietnamese. The view from the top over the rice fields and nearby Cambodian border is impressive.

In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Tra Su Cajuput Forest. This lush, green mangrove forest is a haven for a variety of bird species. It's a wonderful place to immerse yourself in nature.

Day 5: Chau Doc – Floating Villages and Bird Sanctuary Visit

Start your day with an immersive visit to the floating villages around Chau Doc. These unique homes built on the river offer an exceptional glimpse into the local way of life.

After your visit to the floating villages, take a trip to the Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, which is about an hour's drive from Chau Doc. The sanctuary is home to thousands of storks and other birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy the sight of these birds in their natural habitat.

In the afternoon, visit a local crafts workshop. Here, you can learn about traditional Mekong Delta crafts, possibly try your hand at making some, and purchase unique souvenirs to remember your trip.

End the day with a relaxing stroll along the riverfront, perhaps enjoying a local street food feast for dinner at one of the many roadside stalls offering delicious and authentic Vietnamese food.