Ben Tre is a fantastic base for exploring the Mekong Delta — especially if you’re after a mix of lush scenery, floating markets, and authentic rural life. With so many options, it’s easy to find a tour that suits your pace and interests. We particularly love tours that include Tra Su Forest or the Cai Rang floating market, because they offer immersive experiences away from crowded spots. Seeing the mangrove forests or tasting fresh pomelo at local farms adds real flavor to your trip. If you want a taste of real southern Vietnam, these tours deliver authentic moments you won’t forget.
For a well-rounded 3-day experience, you can choose between exploring truly unique habitats, floating down the Mekong River, or enjoying a luxury cruise. Each of these options offers different highlights, from visiting monasteries to tasting local honey and fruit. The list below compares the top tours to help you pick the right one for your travel style.
1. From Ho Chi Minh: Mekong Delta 3-day w Tra Su Forest
At number 1, this tour combines the Mekong Delta’s iconic floating markets with the tranquil Tra Su Mangrove Forest. For around $189, you’ll spend three days immersed in southern Vietnam’s most scenic spots. The tour includes a walk of about 500 meters to the boat station at the Tra Su Forest, where the lush greenery and birdlife make for a peaceful start. Visiting the Cái Răng floating market is a real highlight—it’s the quintessential image of southern Vietnam’s vibrant waterways.
What makes this tour stand out is its variety. You’ll visit the Trúc Lâm Zen Monastery, which offers a quiet retreat, and explore Mỹ Khánh Tourist Village, known for its local crafts and farms. Also, you get to see how pomelo and bee farms operate, giving you a hands-on look at rural life in the delta. While the reviews are modest—rated 3.3 out of 5—the experience offers good value and a genuine look at the Mekong’s rural economy.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a mix of nature, culture, and local farms in a manageable 3-day package. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy calm scenery and authentic interactions.
$189 per person
2. From Ho Chi Minh: Mekong, Cai Rang Floating and Ca Mau 3D2N
Number 2 on our list offers a 3-day, 2-night deep dive into the Mekong River’s most famous floating markets and the extreme south of Vietnam at Ca Mau. Priced at $181 per person, this tour is well-suited for those who want a more comprehensive experience, including visits to four islands—the Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, and Phoenix—at Mỹ Tho Province.
An especially memorable part is the dinner on a luxury 5-star cruise in Can Tho, which elevates the experience beyond the typical day-trip. You’ll also visit the Sea’s Lady Temple to wish for happiness—an unusual spiritual stop—and then explore Cai Rang floating market to see the lively trade on the water. The trip concludes in Ca Mau, Vietnam’s southernmost tip, where you get a glimpse of the coastal mangroves and wetland ecosystems.
Rated 4.4 out of 5, this tour combines culture, scenery, and culinary delights for travelers wanting a richer view of southern Vietnam. The itinerary is packed but well-paced, making it suitable for those comfortable with a busy schedule.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you’re after a luxury experience, a mix of markets, islands, and coastal ecosystems, and don’t mind a bit of travel. It’s best for those who want to maximize their time and see the diversity of the Mekong.
$181 per person
3. Ho Chi Minh: Mekong 3D2N- Cai Rang Floating Market, Ca Mau
Topping our list at number 3 is this highly rated, 5-star tour at $179 per person. It mirrors the previous tour in covering Cai Rang floating market and Ca Mau, but its reviews suggest it offers an experience that’s more polished and satisfying overall.
This tour explores four islands—the Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, and Phoenix—and includes the Sea’s Lady Temple visit. Like the others, it features the 5-star cruise dinner in Can Tho, making it a comfortable and slightly more luxurious option. The highlight is the chance to explore the last point of Vietnam at Ca Mau, which involves visiting mangrove forests and wetlands. The reviews emphasize the smooth organization, knowledgeable guides, and the well-curated itinerary.
If you value high ratings, seamless logistics, and a comprehensive look at both cultural and natural sights, this tour would suit you best. It balances affordable cost with quality and is recommended for travelers who want a hassle-free, memorable experience.
Bottom line: For those seeking a top-rated, well-organized tour with a focus on authentic floating markets and wetlands, this is an excellent pick.
$179 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Mekong Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, interests, and travel style. If you prefer a more authentic, less crowded experience, the Tra Su Forest tour offers tranquility and nature close to Ho Chi Minh. Want a luxurious experience with fine dining and more islands? The 2-night Cai Rang and Ca Mau tour hits that mark. For overall high quality and good reviews, the top-rated 3-day tour provides a reliable, comfortable option with a balance of sights.
It’s also worth considering the walking and boat riding intensity—some tours like the Tra Su Forest involve longer walks through nature, while others focus on floating markets and boat cruises. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season (November to April), to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Ben Tre’s three-day tours provide a rich variety of experiences that showcase the best of the Mekong Delta—from floating markets and lush islands to mangrove forests and local villages. Whether you want a budget-friendly adventure, a luxury cruise, or a well-reviewed comprehensive package, there’s an option for you. For first-timers, the Cai Rang floating market combined with Ca Mau offers the quintessential Mekong experience, while the Tra Su Forest tour suits those craving peaceful nature.
Remember to book early, especially if you’re traveling during peak season, to secure your spot on your preferred tour. With these choices, you’re set to enjoy the vibrant life and scenic beauty that make the Mekong Delta so special.