HCM City: Ben Tre Mekong Delta & My Tho Day Trip with Lunch

Exploring the Mekong Delta: A Full-Day Adventure from Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines scenic beauty, cultural insight, and local flavors all in one package, this tour from Ho Chi Minh City offers a lot. For about $20 per person, you’ll visit My Tho and Ben Tre, two key gateways into the Mekong Delta, with a well-rounded itinerary that covers everything from floating markets to traditional crafts. The tour lasts roughly from 7:30 am to around 6 pm, making it perfect for travelers eager to see the countryside without sacrificing a full day.

What we love most about this journey is the immersive boat trips—especially the hand-rowed boat ride through coconut groves, which really lets you feel the slow, rhythmic pulse of local life. Also, the authentic Vietnamese lunch under shady trees provides a genuine taste of local cuisine, not just a standard tourist buffet.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a busy, action-packed day. If you’re after a more relaxed pace or in-depth exploration, you might find the schedule a bit tight. But for those eager to cram in as much as possible and get a broad view of the Mekong’s charm, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive snapshot of the delta’s scenery and culture.

This tour would suit travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences, enjoy boat rides and scenic views, and want a budget-friendly option without sacrificing the highlights. If you’re curious about fishing cages, floating houses, and traditional music, this experience delivers on those counts in a lively, well-organized way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $20, it offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Diverse Activities: From boat cruises to visits to local farms and villages, the tour covers many facets of Mekong life.
• Authentic Experiences: You get to try coconut candy, honey tea, and Vietnamese food in a relaxed setting.
• Scenic Boat Rides: Multiple boat trips, including the charming hand-rowed boat through coconut groves, stand out.
• Cultural Insights: Visiting Vinh Trang Pagoda and watching traditional music performances add depth.
• Busy Schedule: Be prepared for a packed day, which might feel rushed for some travelers.

A Deep Dive into the Mekong Day Trip

When we think about the Mekong Delta, images of floating markets, lush greenery, and lively villages come to mind. This tour from Ho Chi Minh City delivers many of those sights in a single day, making it a popular choice for visitors with limited time. Let’s break down what you can expect and why each part matters.

Morning Pickup and Journey to My Tho

Starting early at 7:30 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or a central meeting point, then transferred via comfortable, air-conditioned limousine. The drive to My Tho is approximately a couple of hours, but it’s worth the time for the scenery—green rice paddies stretching as far as the eye can see and the gradual transition from city hustle to countryside calm. This is a chance to relax and get into the rhythm of the delta.

Visiting Vinh Trang Pagoda

One of the first stops in My Tho is the Vinh Trang Pagoda, the largest in the Mekong Delta. This temple’s architecture blends traditional Vietnamese, Chinese, and Cambodian influences, reflecting the diverse history of the region. We loved the way it provided a tranquil glimpse into local spirituality and the intricate, colorful decorations. It’s a good spot for photos and to gain a sense of the region’s religious life.

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The Mekong River and Floating House Scene

Next, a boat trip along the Mekong River reveals the floating houses, fish cages, and busy local activity. This is where the tour really emphasizes authentic river life—a view you won’t get from land alone. The scenic waterway gives you a sense of how essential the river is for transportation, livelihood, and culture.

Hand-Rowed Boat Through Coconut Groves

One of the highlight moments is the traditional hand-rowed boat ride through a creek lined with overhanging coconut trees. Here, the slow pace and delicate rhythm of the oars make you feel like you’re stepping back in time. We loved the quiet, almost meditative atmosphere—a stark contrast to the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City. According to a traveler review, “The best part was rowing through the coconut groves on a sampan boat,” capturing how this simple yet charming experience resonates with visitors.

Coconut Island and Local Crafts

Disembarking at a coconut island in Ben Tre, you’ll learn how coconut candy is made, watch the process, and sample fresh treats. This hands-on experience is a favorite for those interested in local crafts and food. The village exploration provides a glimpse into rural life, which can be quite different from the urban landscape.

Visiting Unicorn Island and Cultural Performances

A short motorboat ride brings you to Unicorn Island, where local performances—music and seasonal tropical fruit tastings—add a lively touch. Visiting a bee-keeping farm and enjoying honey tea gives you a taste of local agricultural practices, rounding out the cultural exploration.

Lunch Break and Village Walk

Around 12:30 pm, you’ll enjoy a Vietnamese set menu lunch under shady trees. The meal features traditional dishes, offering good value at this price point, and a chance to relax before more sightseeing. Afterward, you’re free to stroll or rent a bike for a quick spin around the village, adding a bit of flexibility to your day.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

After a full afternoon of sightseeing, you’ll head back around 3 pm, arriving in Ho Chi Minh City by 5:30 pm or 6 pm. It’s a long day, but packed with diverse sights and experiences that many travelers find worthwhile.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

Reviews highlight the busy schedule—”It was a very busy day,” one traveler admitted—but also praise the value and variety. The boat rides, especially the traditional hand-rowed sampan, are often singled out as the most memorable part. The cost-effective price of $20 includes transportation, entrance fees, meals, and activities, making it an accessible way to see the Mekong without the hassle of planning each detail.

The small group setting (if available) enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and flexibility. With English and Vietnamese guides available, you’ll likely get some interesting insights, although the reviews don’t specify individual guide names.

Transportation and Group Size

The use of air-conditioned vehicles ensures comfort during the drive, which, depending on traffic, might take around two hours. The tour’s small group setup tends to foster a more personal experience, but you’ll want to be prepared for a full schedule.

Suitability

This trip suits first-time visitors or those keen on a broad overview of the Mekong. It’s ideal if you enjoy boat rides, local crafts, and cultural performances, and don’t mind a day that’s a little on the busy side. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or deeper immersion, you might want to look for other options.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a cost-effective way to explore the Mekong Delta’s most iconic sights in a single day. The mix of boat rides, cultural visits, and local cuisine paints a lively picture of life along the river. Its value for money makes it especially attractive, but be prepared for a full, active schedule that covers a lot of ground.

Travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want a practical introduction to the Mekong should find this trip rewarding. The chance to see floating houses, taste tropical fruits, and learn about coconut crafts makes it a memorable outing, suitable for those eager to absorb as much as possible in a day.

If your goal is to experience a vibrant, lively slice of Mekong life—without the fuss of planning—you’ll likely find this tour to be a satisfying choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most ages, especially since it involves boat rides and walking around villages. However, very young children should be prepared for a busy schedule and some boat transfers.

How long is the boat ride on the Mekong River?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but the boat trip along the Mekong River includes visits to floating houses and fish cages, giving you a good sense of river life without being overly long.

Are meals included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes a set menu lunch featuring traditional Vietnamese dishes, served under the shade of trees. Snacks and drinks like honey tea and tropical fruits are also provided.

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, a hat, and perhaps a lightweight rain jacket if the weather looks uncertain. Don’t forget your camera and some cash for souvenirs or extra snacks.

Is the tour private or in a large group?
The tour offers a small group option, which tends to make the experience more intimate and flexible. Confirm with your booking if you prefer a private experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing some peace of mind if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Final Word

This full-day Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City, offered at a budget-friendly price, balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and authentic experiences. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a rundown without complicated planning or high costs. While it’s a busy day, the variety and intimacy of the activities make it a worthwhile adventure—especially for those eager to see the river’s floating houses, taste tropical fruits, and learn about local crafts.

For anyone seeking a fun, lively, and value-packed introduction to the Mekong Delta, this tour could be just what you need. It’s ideal if you’re happy with a full schedule and want to walk away with a genuine feel for life along Vietnam’s most iconic waterway.

You can check availability for your dates here: