1. Mekong Classic Tour: Saigon – My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho
Day 1: From Saigon to My Tho, Ben Tre, and Can Tho
5:30 AM: We leave very early in the morning from Ho Chi Minh City. As the city recedes into the distance, the feeling of another adventure welling up will grow inside.
7:00 AM: A hearty breakfast will be served at the famous Mekong Rest Stop, where delicious local food is to be enjoyed within serene gardens. Energized and ready, we head to Vinh Trang Pagoda.
8:30 AM: Nestled amidst lush gardens, Vinh Trang Pagoda is a perfect representation of the art of Vietnamese, Khmer, and European architecture. I will walk you through its tranquil courtyards and let you in on some of the stories this historic site has been telling people for centuries on end.
9:30 AM: The real adventure will start now, at the My Tho boat dock! Board and begin the exciting cruise along the Tien River while the surroundings get breathtakingly beautiful. Pass through the islets of Long, Lan, Quy, and Phung and observe the way of life alongside the water as it has stayed for ages.
10:30 AM: Arrival at Thoi Son Islet, the center of Mekong life. Enjoy fresh tropical fruits taken right from the orchard; visit a beekeeping farm with a traditional way of raising honey bees; enjoy the southern one-stringed zither nhac tai tu performance in harmony.
11:30 AM: The time is taken for a ride on a rowing boat. It will be tranquil to think about navigating through narrow canals shaded with coconut palms. It’s as if going inside a picture postcard.
12:30 PM: Lunchtime is the highlight of the day! Savor the signature dish of the Mekong on the riverside restaurant crispy Elephant Ear Fish served with fresh herbs and rice paper rolls.
2:00 PM: With full stomachs, we will go further to Can Tho. The visual scenes of My Thuan and Can Tho bridges along the way will make your heart stand still.
5:00 PM: Arrival in Can Tho, the bustling heart of the Mekong Delta. Check-in at your hotel. A short rest will help reinvigorate you for the evening.
6:30 PM: At 6:30 PM, get ready to capture the streets of Ben Ninh Kieu, with its lively atmosphere as a beautiful riverside promenade with colors of lights blending well to create magic out of this lively and colorful market. Go for a stroll across this night market to try local food or sip coffee near the river.
Day 2: Floating Markets and Village Life
5:00 AM: For the Cai Rang Floating Market, which is one of the biggest and most colorful in the Delta, you have to get up early to see its magic. The bustle and trade of this market will turn through our boat. You will see the boats full of fruits, vegetables, and merchandise real show of local trade.
7:30 AM: Back to the hotel, where we had a quick breakfast and checked out to continue further.
9:00 AM: My Khanh Village will be the combination of culture and nature on today’s journey. You will get into the rhythm of traditional village life, such as watching the cooking demonstrations, learning to make banh xeo, and trying your hand at folk games.
10:30 AM: Visit lush fruit orchards and taste seasonal fruits such as rambutan, mango, and durian. This is a sensual delight with its sweet aroma and vibrant colors.
11:30 AM: Have lunch at a countryside restaurant and enjoy more of the local specialties. Some of the most famous delicacies of the area are chuot quay lu ( roasted rat) – and ca loc nuong trui.
1:30 PM: En route back to Ho Chi Minh City, stop at Cai Lay to try some real Mekong specialties, such as Nem Lai Vung and fresh tropical fruits.
5:30 PM: We will arrive in the city at 5:30 PM, which brings our Mekong tours from HCM (2 days) adventure to a close. What a whirlwind of unforgettable experiences this has been, I hope as much as I have enjoyed sharing them with you, you too have enjoyed every moment of them!
Inclusions:
- Transportation: Rides in modern air-conditioned buses and boats.
- Food: 3 meals on Day 1 and 2 meals on Day 2, that is, breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the first day, and breakfast and lunch on the second.
- Entrance fees: All tickets to Vinh Trang Pagoda, boat rides, and village activities.
- Tour guide: Professional English-speaking guide.
- Accommodation: The tour includes accommodation for one night in a Can Tho 3*** hotel.
Exclusions:
- Expenses of a personal nature: Snacks, beverages, or souvenirs.
- Travel insurance.
- Optional: Guides and driver tips.
Cai Rang Floating Market (Sours: www.canva)
2. Ecotourism Experience: Saigon – Lang Yen – Go Cong – Tân Phú Đông
Day 1: Adventure and Discovery at Lang Yen
6:30 AM: Beginning of the tour from the noisy streets of Ho Chi Minh City. This will also ensure that we are out before the crowds leave Ho Chi Minh City and take advantage of an early start with a good breakfast on the way.
8:30 AM: We will take a crossing of the Tân Long ferry and finally arrive at the most beautiful spot of the Mekong Delta: Lang Yen, an ecological zone. The Lang Yen zone will be for the nature lover or even those with a bit of adventure in their souls.
9:00 AM: Time for some adrenaline? Start with the zipline adventure, flying across lush green landscapes for an aerial view of this breathtaking region.
10:30 AM: Continue with a kayak and paddle through serene waterways lined with swaying palms. Feel the serenity of the Delta while exploring its natural beauty.
12:00 PM: We will have a regional specialties lunch at the riverside restaurant. Food to be included is fresh fish catches, tropical fruits, and other local delicacies.
2:00 PM: Be cultural; participate in dynamic, hands-on workshops about your location in crafting some of their well-known objects, and cooking techniques for famous regional foods.
4:30 PM: Afternoon Fun Time at 4:30 PM with more games and some team-building exercises in the eco-park, you could also try doing a Sasuke obstacle course-style activity or casually stroll around the area.
6:30 PM: By sunset, we will sit down to dinner and relax in the countryside atmosphere. The overnight accommodation in Lang Yen will be cozy amidst nature’s beauty.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Historical Exploration
6:00 AM: Welcome the morning with the sweet songs of birds. After a hearty breakfast, we will bicycle through picturesque villages.
7:30 AM: Bike to Don Tu Linh and Luy Phao Dai, the two most historic sites that have played an important role in the region. I’ll be sharing stories with you about the local resistance and the strategic importance of these sites.
9:30 AM: Continuing our ride, at 9:30 AM, we will be taken to the local bustling markets and charming homes to see the daily life of the Delta’s residents.
11:00 AM: A tour inland to Lang Hoang Gia, otherwise known as the Royal Mausoleum in Go Cong, beckons next. This architectural treasure is steeped in history, offering fascinating insights into the lives of Vietnam’s past rulers.
12:30 PM: Lunch today is a highlight of the day, featuring more local dishes, including famous specialties such as chuot quay lu ( roasted rat) and ca loc nuong trui (grilled snakehead fish).
2:00 PM: After having lunch, you will head back towards Ho Chi Minh City. A stop en route if time permits – pick up souvenirs and some local delicacies fruits and handicrafts.
5:30 PM: As we head back to the city, hope that Mekong tours from HCM (2 days) have left you with unforgettable memories of adventure, culture, and closeness to the nature of the Mekong.
Inclusions:
- Transportation: Rides in comfortable buses and ferries.
- Meals: 3 meals on Day 1, 2 meals on Day 2.
- Activities: Ziplining, kayaking, and workshop sessions are included, along with access to all the attractions.
- Accommodation: Overnight in Lang Yen Eco Resort.
- Tour Guide: A knowledgeable guide with expertise in ecotourism.
Exclusions:
- Personal shopping or additional activities are not included.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Travel insurance.
Royal Mausoleum (Sours: stock.adobe)
3. Cultural Discovery: Saigon – Tra Vinh – Soc Trang
Day 1: Dive into Khmer Heritage and Iconic Landmarks
05:30 AM: An early start to begin the day from Ho Chi Minh City, one of the busiest cities. A great opportunity to take an excellent local breakfast en route for starting your day properly. Along the way, I’ll enlighten you on many exciting historical facts and the unique characteristics of the Mekong Delta region.
10:00 AM: First, enchanting Ao Ba Om greets us. This picturesque pond is filled with lotus, surrounded by tall ancient trees, and steeped in Khmer folklore. Let me share with you the captivating legend of how this place came into being, plus point out the best photo spots for your Instagram moments!
11:30 AM: Continue with the Khmer culture in Chua Ang and then visit the Khmer Cultural Museum. Chua Ang is a traditionally set Khmer pagoda that signifies how intricate architecture intruded into the tranquility of spiritual places. Museums with ancient exhibits each piece speaks of the tradition and resilience of the Khmer people in their time.
12:30 PM: Have a big lunch at a local restaurant with specialties from the Mekong Delta. It is a great opportunity to taste real flavors, such as ca loc nuong trui (grilled snakehead fish), and tropical fruits right from the Delta.
2:30 PM: We head on to Soc Trang, a province that boasts a rich Khmer culture and its unique temples. We first stop at the iconic Chua Doi, also known as Bat Pagoda, where thousands of fruit bats take their abode in trees nearby. It’s an amazing combination of nature and spirituality that will make you wonder.
4:00 PM: Visit the Clay Pagoda – a pagoda famous for its beautiful sculptures, wholly made out of clay. Each corner of this temple speaks volumes about the great skill and devotion of Khmer artisans.
6:30 PM: Arrive at Soc Trang Hotel for check-in. Free time for the rest of the evening to relax or visit the busy night market, where you can try some local snacks and do some shopping for souvenirs.
Clay Pagoda (Sours: www.vietnamonline)
Day 2: Morning at the Floating Market and Return to Saigon
5:30 AM: Time to wake up! We begin our day with a visit to a floating market, one of the most dynamic activities in the Mekong Delta. You will see an iconic water-based trade of the Mekong Delta, where boats full of fresh fruits, flowers, and other products create a colorful scene that you will not forget. I’ll take you through this exciting experience, explaining the traditions and stories behind this unique way of life.
7:30 AM: Have a leisurely breakfast at a riverside café, after having soaked in the liveliness at the market. And then, this tranquil view of the Mekong added to hot coffee and some local delicacies is just something.
9:00 AM: We drive to Ho Chi Minh City to make some stops for a local specialty shop visit. Here, you get the chance to get some Nem Lai Vung, some tropical fruits, and every other thing for that matter to the people awaiting a present back home in Mekong Treasures.
12:30 PM – Lunch break, and a delicious one to again let us savor more of the Delta’s culinary delights; after which, back to the city.
3:30 PM: Transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City, end of awesome Mekong tours from HCM (2 days) It has been an honor for me as your guide to share these moments with you, and I hope this journey has filled your heart with joy and wonder.
Inclusions:
- Transportation: Modern air-conditioned bus.
- Meals: 3 meals on Day 1 and 2 meals on Day 2.
- Entrance tickets: Ao Ba Om, Chua Ang, Chua Doi, and Chua Dat Set.
- Tour Guide: Proficient in the Khmer culture.
- Accommodation: Overnight in Soc Trang.
Exclusions:
- Buying at local markets or additional snacks.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Optional tips for staff.
4. Heritage Adventure: Saigon – My Tho – Ben Tre – Tra Vinh
Day 1: Immersion in Craftsmanship and Khmer Heritage
7:00 AM: Pick up from the heart of Saigon and head to My Tho, the gateway to the Mekong Delta. En route, share some fascinating insights into the history of the delta and its importance in Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
9:30 AM: Arrive in Ben Tre, which is thought of as “The Land of Coconuts." We start a visit to the traditional craft villages for you to see various stages of how people use husks and bamboo to produce many sophisticated goods. Have you ever made a handcrafted souvenir by yourself? Now, try it. Hands-on, the perfect beginning into this Delta’s artisanal roots.
12:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious Stylish Mekong lunch with specialties of the land, such as crispy fried elephant ear fish (ca tai tuong chien xu) together with freshly ripe tropical fruits. Each taste is the heart of the delta in your mouth.
2:00 PM: Continue our adventure into the relatively hidden treasure of Tra Vinh from the Mekong region. Tranquil landscape with greenery in full display, a dream to embark on. Drive there and, after arriving, head out for a visit to the ancient Khmer Temple named Chua Ang, a tranquilizing site exuding a peaceful spiritual experience among carvings in colors, extremely captivating.
4:00 PM: Have a closer look at the Khmer Culture Museum and understand more about the Khmer people. From ancient artifacts to engaging stories, I’ll take you on a journey into the rich customs and heritage of the Khmer people.
6:30 PM: Arrive at your cozy accommodation in Tra Vinh. Take it easy for the day and relax in the quietness of this charming town.
Khmer Culture Museum (Sours: scootersaigontour)
Day 2: Blooming Beauty and Artistic Encounters
7:30 AM: We start off the day with a healthy breakfast, heading to the famous Vuon Hoa Giay or if you want it in English Bougainvillea Garden. This is a colorful, vibrant garden full of colors that photographers and nature lovers want. I’ll give tips on how to get the best shots amidst floral splendor.
9.30 AM: Pay a visit to local artisans whose work involves traditional crafts. From mat weaving to the making of conical hats, appreciation will truly be developed for the dedication and skill of these people. Feeling inspired? Try your hand at these crafts under their expert guidance.
11:30 AM: Farewell lunch with an array of deltaic specialties. Have fun sharing anecdotes and laughter while reminiscing about how time flew quickly.
1:30 PM: Start our drive to get back to Ho Chi Minh City. Stop en route at the local market to buy some souvenirs, regional specialties comprising coconut candy, and different types of dried fruits.
4:30 PM: Arrive in Saigon, end of our interesting Mekong tours from HCM (2 days). I hope this trip has raised your awareness about the Mekong Delta as well as left sweet memories for you.
Inclusions:
- Transportation: Bus and boat rides.
- Meals: 3 meals on Day 1 and 2 meals on Day 2.
- Entrance fees to handicraft villages, Vuon Hoa Giay, and museums of culture.
- Accommodation: Overnight in a Tra Vinh hotel.
- Tour Guide: Heritage-focused, professional guide.
Exclusions:
- Optional activities are not included in the itinerary.
- Travel insurance.
- Souvenirs or snacks.
5. Cross-Cultural Voyage: Saigon – Can Tho – Long Xuyen
Day 1: A Night to Remember in Can Tho
7:00 AM: The tour starts by leaving the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the heart of the Mekong Delta. En route, I’ll be telling stories about the rich history of the region and its importance as the agricultural center of Vietnam.
12:00 AM: Arrive in Can Tho and check in. Lunch in Mekong style consists of grilled fish, crispy spring rolls, and seasonal fruits that will serve your taste just to get a well-rounded afternoon.
2:30 PM: Begin our Can Tho with a visit to the picturesque riverside hub at Ben Ninh Kieu. Take soft steps along the promenade, where the traditional sampans and modern boats float gently on the water. Quite a good vantage point to take in the serenity of the Mekong River.
6:00 PM: As it gets darkened, the city’s night markets become more lively. I’ll take you through a maze of stalls bursting with multi-colored handicrafts, incredibly fragrant food, and ebullient performances. And enjoy local dishes such as crispy pancakes known as “banh xeo" and grilled river prawns.
9:00 PM: Enjoy a soothing coffee by the river with glasses of ca phe sua da – Vietnamese iced coffee – sipping along with the twinkling lights of Can Tho. Then it would be off to our room, retiring to sleep fit and fine for another exciting day.
Can Tho (Sours: www.canva)
Day 2: Floating Markets and Ethnic Treasures
05:00 AM: An early rise as we set out in the morning to catch the world’s famous Cai Rang Floating Market. Indeed, this is the generic thing on each of the Mekong Tours that you will have been informed of; now, find out why we take a position amid a flurry of traders exchanging flowers, fresh produce, and the best deals from one boat to the other. A scene that photographers dream about, screaming excitedly about getting the best deals and filled with laughter.
8:00 AM: We start with a hearty riverside breakfast and continue into Long Xuyen tranquil town offering the perfect combination of cultural finds and scenic beauty.
10:30 AM: Next would be the stop at the Ethnic villages of Cham nestled near Long Xuyen. Allow me to take your time to inform you about the Cham people, their somewhat interesting history, and contribution to the cultural mosaic of Vietnam, their traditional weaving, mosques, catching a glimpse up close of this daily life activity.
12:30 PM: Lunch with traditional Cham-inspired dishes prepared by the community. It is a wonderful way to enjoy the particular tastes of this minority group.
2:00 PM: Head back to Ho Chi Minh City, stopping en route at the local craft shops to pick something handmade for a souvenir and delicious snacks to bring home. Think of coconut candies and dried fruits.
5:30 PM: Arrive back in Saigon, marking the end of this amazing cross-cultural journey. I have hoped it’s been a whirl of sights, tastes, and tales but one that has stayed in your memory forever.
Inclusions:
- Transportation: by bus and motorboat services.
- Meals: 3 on Day 1 and 2 on Day 2.
- Entry tickets: Cai Rang Floating Market and Cham village tours.
- Tour guide: Expert in local ethnic culture.
- Accommodation: Overnight in a 3-star hotel in Can Tho.
Exclusions:
- Insurance for personal travel.
- Extra drinks and gratuities.
- Shopping and activities are not included in the tour.
Practical Travel Tips for Planning Your Mekong Adventure
What to Pack for Mekong tours from HCM (2 days)
Packing smart is one of the keys to enjoying your Mekong Tours. Here’s a list of what you will need to keep comfortable and ready for the journey:
- Lightweight Clothing: Expect generally tropical weather, perhaps warm and humid; lightweight cotton shirts and shorts are in order. Not to say a light jacket cannot come in handy in the early morning or during those cooler evenings.
- Comfortable Shoes: Since many activities will involve walking and/or stepping in and out of boats, strong sandals or sneakers are recommended.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Hydrating yourself is important throughout your exploration. A reusable water bottle is a very good option that’s both eco-friendly and practical.
- Cash in Small Denominations: There are a lot of local vendors in the Mekong Delta who do not accept cards, and neither will very small shops. Having some Vietnamese Dong at hand in smaller notes will simplify the transactions considerably.
- Sun Protection: Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the tropical sun.
- Bug Repellent: Mosquitoes may be active at night, especially, and hence this is one of your travel essentials you should not have forgotten.
- Camera or Smartphone: You will want to take in the fabulous floating markets, lush landscapes, and vivid cultural scenes that you can capture for later review.
Best Time to Visit for Mekong tours from HCM (2 days)
While it is possible to visit the Mekong Delta at any time of the year, each season has its beauty. For that reason, here’s how you can estimate the best time for your Mekong tours from HCM (2 days):
- Rainy Season (May to November): The Mekong is in full action. The surroundings wear a velvety green garb with heavy foliage and lively floating markets. Rainy months also mean succulent tropical fruits are at their freshest.
- Dry Season (December to April): It is cooler and the skies are clear, making it more accessible in the delta. If you want to explore the delta without pressure, this period is good to go.
- Festivals: Wherever possible, try to coincide your visit with traditional festivals, such as Tet Nguyen Dan, meaning Lunar New Year-or Khmer Chol Chnam Thmay, meaning New Year for the pulse of the culture to come alive before you in all hues.
Travel Logistics for Mekong tours from HCM (2 days)
With flawless logistics, you can devote more time to your well-deserved enjoyment on the Mekong Tours. A few tips go thus:
- Transportation: Most Mekong tours from HCM (2 days) are two-day affairs, comfortable in air-conditioned vans or buses. You will drive through the countryside and take in great views en route.
- Accommodations: Most tours are done with charming riverside hotels or homestays. Sometimes it is advisable to check in advance whether options exist to upgrade or enjoy special stays, like eco-lodges.
- Safety Tips: Always abide by whatever a guide tells you, such as in areas for boat rides. In specific cases, always wear your life jacket or have them on, as indicated, while very careful upon any slippery surfaces that may exist or uneven flooring.
- Local Customs: Respect the local customs and traditions. A smile will help you get along easily with the friendly locals.
- Food & Water: Enjoy the local cuisine; it is delicious, but remember, bottled or filtered water will save your stomach from any flare-ups.
Conclusion
Ready for a fantastic experience in the Mekong Delta? Our Mekong tours from HCM (2 days) provide unforgettable cultural insight into this place of breathtaking beauty with perfectly designed tour programs. Take a deep breath and get on an exciting trip to explore it now! Do not forget that the booking will take you right into the core heart of Delta-Vietnam! Feel free to share with us questions or experiences.