From Ho Chi Minh: Mekong & Cai Rang Floating Market 2D1N

Exploring the Mekong Delta: A 2-Day Journey from Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re looking to see a different side of Vietnam—one that’s lush, water-bound, and full of life—this 2-day Mekong & Cai Rang Floating Market tour offers a glimpse into local traditions and vibrant river life. For about $91 per person, you’ll visit My Tho, Ben Tre, and Can Tho, experiencing bustling floating markets, traditional crafts, and scenic river tributaries. The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and includes accommodations, meals, and boat trips, making it a solid choice for travelers wanting a taste of the Mekong.

What we like most is how the itinerary combines diverse activities: from walking through local villages and honey farms to cruising along the river and floating markets, you get a well-rounded picture of life by the water. Plus, the inclusion of delicious local food and honey tea adds a flavorful touch to the experience. The hotel stay in the heart of Can Tho is also convenient, allowing you to explore the city’s night scene at your leisure.

However, one possible consideration is that the tour doesn’t always stick closely to the schedule or the description. Several reviews mention deviations—such as later visits to floating markets, missing stops like the grapefruit farm, or extra charges at some attractions. If you’re someone who prefers a tightly planned, predictable itinerary, this might be a point to note.

This tour could suit travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural sights, scenic boat rides, and authenticity, especially if you’re keen to see the Mekong in a lively, vibrant setting. That said, if you’re seeking a very specific or in-depth exploration of floating markets or rural farms, you might find some parts less satisfying.

Key Points

• Authentic River Experiences: Multiple boat trips provide insight into local life along the Mekong’s tributaries.
• Variety of Stops: From pagodas and honey farms to floating markets and craft villages, you see diverse aspects of Mekong culture.
• Local Flavors Included: Meals feature regional specialties, honey lemon tea, and fresh fruits, giving a taste of local produce.
• Flexible Schedule: Some reviews note deviations and later-than-planned visits, so expect a flexible itinerary.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Hotel Can Tho is centrally located and offers a comfortable resting spot after full days.
• Potential for Disappointment: Some travelers found that the floating market experience wasn’t as lively or early as expected and that some attractions were altered or omitted.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Starting in Ho Chi Minh City, the tour departs early, typically between 7:30-8:30 a.m., from a hotel near Ben Thanh Market. The ride southward offers a chance to relax after busy city life, and the first stop at the Mekong Rest Stop allows for a quick snack and restroom break. This is practical, but not particularly scenic.

Next, you visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a striking religious site built in the 19th century. Its architecture is an eclectic blend of European and Asian styles, which makes it a worthwhile photo stop. The pagoda’s serene atmosphere provides a peaceful contrast to the busy river ports ahead.

Arriving at My Tho, the journey shifts to a boat cruise along the Tien River. Here, you’ll see the four islets of Long, Lan, Qui, and Phung, which are dotted with floating fish farms. These floating fish farms are a fascinating aspect of local life, providing a glimpse into how residents raise fish directly on the water—something that adds a layer of authenticity to your trip.

Passing under the Rach Mieu Bridge, the boat heads to Thoi Son Island (Lan Island). Here, the pace slows—walking on village roads, visiting local homes and fruit gardens, and tasting honey lemon tea at a honey farm. This segment is a highlight for many, offering a chance to see rural life firsthand. You’ll also see coconut candy being made, which is both tasty and illustrative of local handicrafts.

The music performance of Don Ca Tai Tu Xu Dua, Vietnam’s traditional folk music, brings a cultural touch. Following that, you’ll take a rowing boat through narrow canals lined with coconut trees, revealing the peaceful, simple landscape of Mekong villages. At the coconut candy shop, you’ll learn how candies are crafted, an example of the type of local artisan work that keeps tradition alive.

Lunch at a local restaurant offers set menus featuring regional fare. The food quality is generally appreciated, with many reviewers mentioning enjoyable, flavorful meals. Afterward, activities such as fishing for crocodiles, visiting monkey bridges, or cycling are optional, adding a fun, leisurely vibe to the afternoon.

In the evening, you return to Can Tho for hotel check-in. Some travelers enjoy exploring the city at night, while others prefer resting after a long day. The hotel in the city center offers a convenient base for the following day.

Day Two: Floating Market & Local Villages

The second day kicks off with breakfast and a boat cruise on Can Tho River, heading to the Cai Rang Floating Market, one of the largest in the Mekong Delta. This lively market is a hive of activity—boats laden with fruits, vegetables, and local produce, with vendors calling out to attract customers. However, reviews suggest this experience isn’t quite as early or as bustling as some might expect. One traveler remarked, “We were not at the floating market at 5 a.m. but only at 7:30,” which might be too late to see the market at its liveliest.

After the market visit, the tour proceeds to My Khanh Tourist Village, where you can walk through fruit and flower gardens and explore a historic house over 100 years old. The lunch here is included, and it’s a relaxed way to enjoy regional foods in a scenic setting.

The afternoon includes a visit to the Coffee – Can Tho Purple House film studio, adding a modern cultural element to the tour. Then, you head back toward Ho Chi Minh City, concluding around 5:30 p.m.

What the Reviews Reveal

While many travelers appreciate the friendly guides and tasty food, some express disappointment with the quality or accuracy of the experience. Reviewers mention that the floating market was not as early or lively as expected, with one describing it as “not really existent anymore,” which is important to consider if seeing a bustling floating market is your main goal.

Others felt that certain stops, like the grapefruit farm or orchard walk, were missed or replaced with less appealing attractions. The deviation from the itinerary seems to be a common theme, possibly due to logistical constraints or tour operator decisions.

On the positive side, several reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and delicious regional food, noting that the boat rides and village visits offer genuine glimpses into local life. One traveler called their experience “incredible,” especially appreciating the personalized boat trips and friendly guide.

Transportation & Comfort

The tour uses air-conditioned buses for long drives, which makes the long haul from Ho Chi Minh City more comfortable. The boat rides are a highlight, providing a quiet, scenic way to see the Mekong’s waterways. The hotel in Can Tho provides a decent resting point—most reviews mention it as comfortable but nothing luxurious.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value for Money

At $91, this tour combines transportation, accommodations, meals, and activities, which offers decent value. However, the variations in experience—some travelers feeling it was a bit rushed or not as authentic as hoped—should be factored in. For those wanting a quick overview, this tour hits many key spots, but if you’re after a more genuine or in-depth experience, you might want to explore options with more specific focus or local guides.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 2-day Mekong & Cai Rang Floating Market tour suits travelers who want a broad overview of the Mekong Delta with manageable logistics. It’s ideal if you’re interested in seeing floating markets, rural villages, and local crafts but are flexible about the exact timing and stops. If you prefer a more authentic or early-morning market experience, you may find this tour somewhat limited.

Travelers who value delicious regional food, friendly guides, and scenic boat rides will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also a good pick for those staying in Ho Chi Minh City who want to see the Mekong without committing to a longer or more expensive trip.

That said, if your main goal is a deep dive into floating markets or rural farms, you might find some of the experiences less genuine or too commercialized. Read reviews carefully, especially about the timing of markets and specific attractions, to set proper expectations.

FAQ

Is there an option to stay overnight in the Mekong Delta?
No, this tour is a 2-day excursion with overnight accommodation in Can Tho included, but it doesn’t offer additional overnight stays in the delta itself.

How early do we visit the floating market?
Most travelers are taken to Cai Rang floating market around 7:30 a.m., which is later than the traditional early morning market experience. Some reviews noted this affects the liveliness of the market.

Are meals included on both days?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided on Day 1, with lunch on Day 2 at My Khanh Tourist Village. However, some reviews mention the meals are quite good, but the exact menu might vary.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While the tour includes scenic boat rides and village walks, the long drives and some activities may not suit very young children. Check with the operator for age restrictions.

What’s the quality of accommodation in Can Tho?
Most travelers find the hotel comfortable but basic, with no luxury amenities. It’s a practical base for exploring the delta.

Can I customize the itinerary or add extra visits?
The standard tour has a fixed schedule, but some deviations are possible depending on the guide or circumstances. Additional visits like farms or orchards are not guaranteed.

Final Word

This Ho Chi Minh to Mekong & Cai Rang Floating Market 2-Day Tour offers a practical, well-rounded introduction to Vietnam’s waterway life. You’ll enjoy scenic boat rides, local food, and village visits, all at a reasonable price. While it might not deliver the most authentic or early-market experience every time, it provides a good overview for curious travelers keen to see the Mekong’s vitality without a lengthy commitment. If you’re flexible and open to some minor deviations, this tour can be a delightful, insightful glimpse into the river life that defines southern Vietnam.

You can check availability for your dates here: