Come on a memorable journey of a lifetime with us, the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City! This is the perfect tour that will lead you into the colorful culture and natural beauty of Southeast Asia. This tour is for adventure seekers, a culture enthusiast, and cruisers alike. Starting from the vibrant city of Phnom Penh to end in the energy-filled Ho Chi Minh City, experience the live Cai Be Floating Market in the Mekong Delta, the quaint riverside villages, and the serenity of the Mekong landscapes. Follow us at Mekong Tours and get ready for an enriching and unforgettable adventure; join us in making memories for a lifetime!
Key Attractions of the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour
Exploring the Mekong River
Mekong River
The Mekong River is virtually the epitome of life in Southeast Asia, both cultural and economic. On the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour, get tantalizing views of how this great river can totally support millions of human lives with simple fishing boats and transform into busy trading vessels. Moving downstream, where the serene beauty of the river contrasts with the dynamic activities on its waters, provides a visualization of life beats within the Mekong Delta that will be etched in your memory.
This is a journey that should be taken by anyone who wishes to learn more about the Mekong River and its importance. The river is not just a passageway; it is life flowing that links people and fuels the local economy. On the tour of the Mekong Tours, you see for yourself how much this river means in the day-to-day life of those it sustains.
Cai Be Floating Market in the Mekong Delta
One of the highlights of any visit to the Mekong Delta, the Cai Be Floating Market is actually a ray buzzing with melodious sound. This is an important place for trade, where people come to buy goods straight from the boats, which then sell out for business. In hats, the colorful scene, dyed with tropical fruits, all types of vegetables, and handmade items, is the cornerstone of the local economy and culture.
Visitors to the Cai Be Floating Market will enjoy an immersive experience. One is given an immersion in tasting fresh produce, and engaging with vendors in the market, in other words—getting a look into the traditional way of life in the Mekong Delta. This is not just a market but a cultural experience, the very highlight of the entire Downstream Mekong Delta Tour.
Historical and Cultural Insights
The same is true of the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour; deep insight is provided into the rich history and culture of the region. Explore central landmarks with a big heritage about Cambodia royalties and ancient civilizations, like the Royal Palace, the National Museum in Phnom Penh, and many others. These will be landmarks that would probably set a very interesting background to your travel, actually making you relate from a historical level with Southeast Asia.
The unique culture in towns such as Tân Châu and Sa Đéc composes a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer cultures. These areas are melting pots for traditions and influences, allowing the visitor to be indulged with rich tapestries of experiences, from French colonial architecture to the small bustling markets characteristic of the multiple cultural heritages of the Mekong Delta.
Natural Beauty and Local Life
One of the most fantastic features of the tour can be seen in the natural beauty of the Mekong Delta in the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour. Moving along the river, visitors are surrounded by green landscapes and rice paddies on the quiet riverbanks. The beautiful scenery is further combined with the simplicity and resilience of rural life in preserving traditions within small villages along the Mekong.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho – Cai Be
07:00 AM – Departure from Ho Chi Minh City Good morning, explorers! Your thrilling Downstream Mekong Delta Tour starts out early in the morning. We will head out of this bustling city far from Ho Chi Minh’s streets to take a pretty 70km drive to My Tho, which is the main entry point into such an enchanting universe. During the drive, we shall pass through lush countryside landscapes with the hustle and bustle of the city easing away into the background of tranquil and serene countryside scenery.
09:00 AM – Arrival in My Tho and Boarding the Cruise Upon arrival in My Tho, you will board our luxurious cruise ship. A light breakfast will be served as you settle in, allowing you to relax and take in the peaceful river views. This is just the beginning of your unforgettable journey with Mekong Tours.
10:30 AM – Cruising Towards Cai Be Visit the ever-lively Cai Be Floating Market in the morning. Cruise leisurely through the Mekong’s waterways with the day boat, with its panoramic windows, comfortable seating, and open deck, invites us to take maximum benefit from uninterrupted views of river life.
12:00 PM – Exploring Cai Be Floating Market One of the most interesting stops in the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour will be the busy Cai Be Floating Market. The river here becomes bustlingly full of boats with fresh fruits, vegetables, and other products. This market is a feast for the senses: colors burst out, mixed with animated chatter and smells of fresh farm produce—all under a sunny tropical sky. You will witness the unique trading modes of the local sellers piloting their boats through the market and vending on the boats.
Cai Be Floating Market
01:30 PM – Lunch on Board Later, we shall retreat back to the cruise for an onboard, palatable lunch. You can relax further for lunch while enjoying the view and passing further down the Mekong. The cruise provides nice panoramic views of the riverbanks as the ship sails along.
03:00 PM – Afternoon Relaxation and Scenic Cruising Spend your afternoon lazing on the deck; we continue our cruise towards Sa Dec. This is a perfect time to relax and sink into maybe a good book or enjoy the movement of the ship in the waters of the Mekong Delta.
05:00 PM – Evening Arrival in Sa Dec You are to enter Sa Dec by sunset, an adorable little town with imposing French colonial buildings, and also known for its colorful flower markets. Settle into the experience through the view.
07:00 PM – Dinner on Board End the day beautifully with an onboard dinner in excellent company. Have a taste of different regional cuisines that are made from fresh foods and enjoyed in the dining room of the best restaurant. Feel free to walk around the boat after dinner, spend some time on its deck, or go to your cabin for a refreshing sleep.
09:00 PM – Overnight in Sa Dec Tonight, we’ll moor in Sa Dec, and you will fall asleep and wake up to wonderful serenity on the river. Sleep well; tomorrow invites you to meet new special experiences on the trip with Mekong Tours.
Day 2: Sa Dec – My An Hung – Tan Chau
07:00 AM – Breakfast on Board Start your day with the calmness of the Mekong River and a good breakfast. You can have breakfast in either the dining room or on your private balcony at your leisure when the boat magically turns on the engines upstream and down.
08:00 AM – Exploring Sa Dec Our first adventure into Sa Dec takes one through the cultural and historical melting pot. Disembark to reach out to the local market; it is quite a scene of spectacular flowers and fresh foodstuffs. Also, visit the house of Huynh Thuy Le, lover of Marguerite Duras, the famous French novelist, which is a beautiful example of a house built during the colonial times of France, presenting excellent views of the past.
10:00 AM – Visit to Binh Thạnh Island Then we’ll proceed to Binh Thạnh Island and proceed to see one of the traditional crafting skills of making things from water hyacinth. Here, local people transform this free-floating so-called “terrorist plant" into beautiful utensils and mats. Together this will be an opportunity to see exactly to which great extent level of skill and creation the artisans have kept in mind in passing it down the succession of generations.
12:00 PM – Lunch on Board Afternoon Following this morning’s adventures, we’ll return to the ship for lunch. Whilst you enjoy your meal, we’ll weigh anchor and set sail for My An Hung Village. This is one of the smallest and most picturesque villages that you will come across during your time in Vietnam.
01:30 PM – Visit to My An Hung Village Arriving in My An Hung Village, you will be greeted with lush gardens of vegetables and the famous monkey bridges that really hallmark a visit to the Mekong Delta. These slender, arched bridges might appear alarmingly narrow but actually afford much enjoyment and authenticity. Other inclusions during the visit to this village include honey tea and a selection of seasonal fruits that give you a real taste of the locals.
03:30 PM – Afternoon Relaxation and Cruising to Tan Chau After visiting My An Hung, we continued our journey to the town of Tan Chau, which is located close to the Vietnam-Cambodia frontier. Have the afternoon at your leisure on board, relax with a spa, take a nap in your cabin, or watch the riveting scenery just before arriving in Chau Doc.
05:30 PM – Sunset and Spa Time The sun would have just begun setting as we draw near Tan Chau; it casts a warm glow across the Mekong River. Take in this serene atmosphere with a drink in your hand from the deck a most uniquely relaxing way to enjoy the passing scenery. Alternatively, if you wish to cool off after an active day of exploration, indulge yourself with onboard spa treatments.
Sunset
07:00 PM – Dinner on Board We’ll anchor here in Tan Chau for the night, during which you can also savor another sumptuous dinner on board. You’ll feel that the dishes on tonight’s local specialties are appealingly delicious—just an excellent way to end today’s hustle and bustle.
09:00 PM – Overnight in Tan Chau Later, after dinner, spare some time to relax your body- feel it sway with the ship as it glides on the current of the river. Turn in for a good night’s rest, knowing more adventures await us come morning, as we cruise toward Phnom Penh.
Day 3: Tan Chau – Phnom Penh
07:00 AM – Breakfast on Board Begin the day savoring a nice breakfast as we lightly set off cruising to Phnom Penh; the boat sails through the daylight morning with the sunrise.
08:30 AM – Departure to Phnom Penh The ship sails away from Tan Chau and heads directly for Cambodia across the border. At this time, the scenery along the Mekong Delta is peaceful, with all green colors and a quiet moment for one’s relaxation and maybe reflection on one’s journey.
10:00 AM – Historical Lecture on Board Enhance your knowledge of the area with an enriching lecture on the history and culture of Cambodia. Learn about the powerful Khmer Empire, the rise of Phnom Penh, and modern Cambodian history as you continue toward the heart of Cambodia.
12:00 PM – Lunch on Board Lunch will be served during the continued sailing to Phnom Penh. Savor the flavors of Southeast Asia with a meal skillfully prepared by our onboard chefs.
02:00 PM – Arrival in Phnom Penh Arrival in Phnom Penh is in the early afternoon. Dubbed the “Pearl in Asia," Phnom Penh is a city where the word “contrast" develops to a new level. Upon arrival, we will have the opportunity to disembark for visits to some of the city’s most important highlights.
02:30 PM – City Tour: Royal Palace and National Museum We go to the Royal Place, a beautiful piece of Khmer architectural building where His Majesty, the king of Cambodia, resides. You are invited now to look at the grandeur of the Silver Pagoda, whose floor is paved with 5,000 silver tiles. We will then visit the National Museum, home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculptures and artifacts. This visit offers a deep dive into Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.
04:30 PM – Free Time to Explore Phnom Penh Following this tour, you will have your free time, during which you can enjoy Phnom Penh the way you want. Would you like to make a place for the Central Market, where it is possible to buy good souvenirs, or maybe just a walk in the neighborhood close to the river to breathe the vivacity of this city?
06:30 PM – Dinner on Board We return to the ship after this, and you relax during dinner as the distant lights of the city turn on one by one in the distance. A beautiful sight to be seen—Phnom Penh by night, teeming with life.
09:00 PM – Overnight in Phnom Penh Afterward, return to your rustic cabin after all the hustle and bustle, where a sound night of sleep lies ahead. We stay moored overnight in Phnom Penh so that you can sample the delights of this fascinating city at night, or simply ease back onboard.
Day 4: Phnom Penh – Ho Chi Minh City
07:00 AM – Breakfast on Board You can have your last breakfast on board with satisfaction as we establish navigation back to Ho Chi Minh City. Restfully seated unless you take this last chance to catch the sights and sensations of the Mekong before they recede within the boundaries of Cambodia.
08:00 AM – Departure to Ho Chi Minh City As we head back into Vietnam you have the best part of the morning to sit on deck musing on an incredible journey experienced over the past few days. The easy pulse of the river is the ideal background to one’s final moments on the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour.
10:00 AM – Scenic Cruising and Relaxation The cruising back to Ho Chi Minh City is done at a leisurely pace, so you have plenty of time to relax. You will be able to watch the going-by landscapes, have a good read, or just enjoy fellow travelers’ company on your way home.
12:00 PM – Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City and End of Tour By noontime, we will drive back to Ho Chi Minh City, where your tour ends. You’ll be dropped off at the same pick-up location in the beginning, bidding you farewell after this wonderful adventure. We hope to see you again on another Mekong Tours experience.
Phnom Penh
Tips and Useful Information for Joining the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour
This Downstream Mekong Delta Tour is going to be an adventure of discovery and cultural immersion. Here are some practical guidelines and information to help you have a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout this journey.
Best Time to Visit the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour
The best time for the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour is during the dry period: November to April. During these months, the weather is at its best, with very little chance of rain and less humidity, making exploration via cruise ship along the Mekong River most favorable. Cooler temperatures also make walking around local marketplaces and villages much more comfortable. This time of year overlaps with colorful, active local festivals, promising an enrichment of cultural experience.
What to Pack the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour
Pack smartly to be comfortable and well-prepared for your adventure with Mekong Tours. Here’s what you should bring:
Comfortable Clothing: Light, highly breathable fabric will be quite ideal for the warm, tropical climate. Think lengthy-sleeved T-shirts and trousers that will protect the skin from sunbathing during evenings and from insects.
Sunscreen and Hat: The sun may become very fierce on the water, so do not forget high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Insect Repellent: Even though generally the area of the Mekong Delta is quite safe, it will not do any harm to have some repellents with you to help keep away unwanted bites from mosquitoes.
Travel Documents: Your passport, visa (where required), or any other travel document should be available. It is advisable to carry a photocopy as well in case of loss.
Comfortable Shoes: You will walk a little, definitely at the local markets and around villages, so pack some good, comfortable shoes.
Health and Safety Tips the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour
Individual safety and health are of invaluable importance in the course of participating in the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour. Here are some safety tips:
Stay Hydrated: With the tropical climate, one can easily get dehydrated. Keep plenty of fluids throughout the day with bottled water, easily purchased onboard.
Sun Protection: Slather on some sunscreen, wear hats, and put on some light clothes. If possible, avoid peak sun hours.
Local Cuisine: Mekong Delta cuisine is great; however, if you have a sensitive stomach, you are best to stick with only the foods that are cooked and avoid street food. Always wash your hands before eating.
Cultural Etiquette the Downstream Mekong Delta Tour
Part of the experience with Mekong Tours involves interacting with locals and going to sites important to the culture. Here’s how you can show respect:
Dress Modestly: It shows respect if you are dressing modestly, basically while entering a temple or village in the countryside. This means covering your shoulders and knees out of respect for local practice.
Polite Interactions: A warm smile does much to break the ice. When one enters a crowded room or meets locals, a simple, non-arduous nod or slight bow is appreciated. One should refrain from public displays of affection, as they are considered unbecoming.
Ask Before Taking Photos: Always ask before clicking pictures of people. The majority of people, especially in rural areas, will not want to have their pictures taken.
Conclusion
The downstream Mekong Delta tour gives one an unforgettable experience, an extraordinary journey through the very heart of Southeast Asia—a melting pot of diverse and rich cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and real-life interactions. From lively moments at Cai Be Floating Market to the age-old charm found at Sa Dec Port, an adventure awaits you every day. Make sure that you do not lose the chance to visit the Mekong Delta with the Mekong Tours, a distinct and delightful experience. Don’t forget to regularly follow our IMPRESS TRAVEL for more interesting information about traveling Mekong to and to book Mekong Tours at the best prices. It’s bound to be breathtaking. Booking: IMPRESS TRAVEL (+84) 912 379 189 or info@impresstravel.com
Impress Travel’s Mekong Tours Team will pick you up at the hotel, then leaving Ho Chi Minh City at 8.00 AM
We need 2 hour driving to Cai Be, We emerge the beautiful scenery of the countryside in the Mekong river delta of Vietnam. Visit Cai Be floating market by Sampan that is the well-known floating market in Mekong delta ( Note: the market today is not as busy as in past times)
To enjoy the traditional music & performance show – Dai Ca Tai Tu that was recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of the world, we enjoy the Mekong’s fresh fruits while watching the show.
Ride a rowing boat via the water coconut canals.
Do a biking tour through the rural villages to Mr. Sau Ca Family’s orchard
Enjoy local lunch with Mr. Sau Ca family Relax before getting on a Sampan to Vinh Long the car/ van will pick you up to drive to Can Tho city ( One hour driving to Can Tho)
Arrival in Can Tho then checks in the hotel, free time to explore Can Tho city at night.
The tour guide will recommend you the best place for dinner in Can Tho city.
What is included: Transfer, tour guide, hotel in Can Tho, lunch, entrance fee(s), boat trip in Cai Be
Day 02
Cai Rang floating market – Khmer Pagoda – Lunch – Ho Chi Minh City (B,L)
Good morning Mekong Delta with quiet and fresh air,
Enjoy buffet breakfast at hotel and morning tea break before leaving by Sampan to visit Cai Rang Floating market.
Ride a bicycle through the countryside to Khmer Pagoda & local farms.
Have a lunch and tea break
Mekong Tours – Impress Travel Team will bring you back to Ho Chi Minh City (3.5-hour driving)
What is included: Transfer, tour guide, hotel breakfast, lunch, entrance fee(s), boat trip in Can Tho
What’s included in this trip:
Accommodation based on Twin/Double sharing room, ( notice: a single room is surcharged following single supplement policy/ all room night including daily hotel breakfast.
All the meals as mentioned in the detailed itinerary
Entrance Fee to visit attractive places are mentioned as itinerary
Private Car/Van/Bus with air-conditioned and good experienced driver.
Boat trip in My Tho, Cai Be
Experienced English speaking tour guides as specified ( French-speaking guide/ Chinese speaking guide are available on request )
Complimentary drink water and Tissue on Van/Bus/Van as mentioned on itinerary
What’s excluded in this trip:
International Ticket Fare with insurance surcharge and Fuel surcharge
Arport tax.
Visa Fees & Travels insurance
Porter Charges & Camera Fees.
Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) do not mentioned as in this itinerary
Tipping for Tour guides, Bus driver, Crew
Other personal expenses such as beverages, telephone calls, laundry services, Minibar, etc….
Other services are not specifically mentioned in the tour Itinerary and the above Inclusion
Hotels in Can Tho
Star
Hotel
Room Type
3-Star hotel in Can Tho
Hau Giang Hotel
Superior
4-Star hotel in Can Tho
Muong Thanh Hotel
Superior
5-Star hotel in Can Tho
Victoria Hotel
Superior
Ranana
You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Ebrahim
Tour of Vietnam
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
Solly Pochee
The tour was fantastic
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating! We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC. The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T". I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all. Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team. Sulaiman Pochee
Bernard Lim
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
Derek.Schooling
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress. Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide). Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
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