The Mekong Delta offers some of Vietnam’s most vivid and diverse experiences — from cruising along quiet rivers to exploring bustling floating markets and traditional villages. It’s a region that truly comes alive with water, wildlife, and local culture. We particularly love the “Essential Mekong Delta: Highlights Tour from Ho Chi Minh City” because it offers a perfect taste of scenic river life, cultural sights, and local flavors — all in a manageable day trip. Whether it’s the serene glide along the Tien River or the visit to the Vinh Trang Pagoda, this tour captures the essence without overwhelming you. Plus, the reviews speak volumes, praising the helpful guides and authentic experiences. Click here to see more details about this tour: https://happytovisit.com/essential-mekong-delta-highlights-tour-from-ho-chi-minh-city/.
If you’re looking for a richer, more personalized experience, the “Mekong Delta in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour” combines insider info, exclusive locations, and a deeper dive into local life that makes it stand out. For travelers wanting to stay longer, the “Mekong 2 Days 1 Night SMALL GROUP Stay at Family Tiny Homestay” offers a chance to really slow down, meet local families, and enjoy the Mekong’s peaceful side. For cruise passengers, options like the “Mekong Delta from Phu My Cruise Harbor” provide tailored shore excursions without the touristy stops.
Below, we explore each tour in detail, helping you find the best fit for your interests, schedule, and budget.
1. Essential Mekong Delta: Highlights Tour from Ho Chi Minh City
This popular day trip offers a quick yet immersive taste of the Mekong’s charms. You’ll leave Ho Chi Minh City behind for a peaceful visit to Vinh Trang Pagoda, a stunning 19th-century temple renowned for its intricate ceramic mosaics and tranquil grounds. The tour then moves onto a Tien River cruise, where you’ll see the mythical islands of Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise — perfect photo ops and a chance to observe daily river life. The experience is rounded out with local treats like fresh seasonal fruits, honey tea, and coconut candy, making it a delicious way to connect with regional flavors.
What makes this trip shine is its blend of cultural highlights and scenic cruising—an ideal introduction for first-timers or those pressed for time. The 9-hour itinerary is well-paced, and the reviews praise the friendly guide and well-organized schedule. At just $23.60 per person, it’s an excellent value for a rundown of the Mekong. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a balanced, no-fuss experience that covers the region’s highlights without overextending.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a reliable, engaging intro to the Mekong Delta on a budget.
2. Mekong Delta in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
For around $42, this full-day guided tour focuses on making the most of your visit while avoiding tourist traps. It begins with a visit to Vinh Trang Pagoda, Vietnam’s largest religious site in Tien Giang, featuring historic architecture and peaceful gardens. From there, you’ll venture into Ben Tre Province, crossing the Rach Mieu bridge to explore islands like Unicorn and Phoenix. The cruise includes stops at a coconut candy factory, a honey-making workshop, and traditional music performances, giving you a genuine taste of local life. You’ll also take a sampan ride through water coconut canals, which is often the highlight for visitors seeking a hands-on experience.
The tour emphasizes insider knowledge, new locations, and interaction with locals, making it ideal for travelers wanting an authentic, more personalized day. Reviewers mention the “helpful guide,” and the balance of culture, food, and scenery makes this a compelling choice. The 9 to 10-hour duration makes it a full but manageable day.
Bottom Line: Great for visitors who want a detailed, insightful, and lively day exploring Vietnam’s vibrant river life.
3. Mekong 2 Days 1 Night SMALL GROUP Stay at Family Tiny Homestay WITH BBQ DINNER
Spend a night in the Mekong Delta with this small-group tour, perfect for those wanting a deeper connection. Starting from Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll cruise along the Tiền River, visit villages, and learn about local traditions. The highlight is staying overnight at a family homestay, where you’ll enjoy a traditional BBQ dinner and experience the rhythms of rural life firsthand. The itinerary includes visiting orchards, watching sunsets over rice fields, and even participating in a cooking class where you’ll learn to make spring rolls and other Vietnamese dishes.
Guests rave about the authentic interactions with local families and the slow pace that lets you really soak in the scenery. The all-inclusive price of $99 makes this an excellent value for a fully immersive experience. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, cultural overnight, especially those interested in rural life and local cuisine.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers seeking a more authentic, multi-day experience in the Mekong.
4. Mekong Delta from Phu My Cruise Harbor
This private tour offers a seamless, personalized experience tailored for cruise passengers visiting Phu My. The 9 to 11-hour trip takes you directly from your cruise to explore key sites like Ben Tre and My Tho, with flexible timing to fit your schedule. The itinerary includes a boat ride on the Long Island, visiting a local family, enjoying seasonal fruits, and listening to traditional music — all with the comfort of a private guide and driver.
The advantage here is the customization: it avoids the crowds and touristy stops, focusing instead on genuine local interactions. Reviewers highlight the professionalism of the guides and the ease of transportation, making it ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free, luxurious day. While more expensive at $227 per person, it offers a tailored, high-quality experience.
Bottom Line: Best for cruise passengers seeking a private, flexible Mekong Delta tour with authentic experiences.
5. Southern Forest Tour – Explore Hau Giang Nature
This 5-hour tour offers a quieter, nature-focused side of the Mekong. Starting in Nga Bay Town, you’ll visit a local market showcasing typical Mekong life before cruising into the Khu Bảo Tồn Thiên Nhiên Lung Ngọc Hoàng, a lush mangrove forest. Here, you’ll see various wildlife, including storks and rare plants, from an observation deck or while exploring on a long-tail boat. It’s a peaceful escape that emphasizes environmental preservation and local ecology.
The tour is suited for nature lovers wanting to see the real Mekong’s natural habitat, with opportunities for photography and birdwatching. The $114.55 price reflects the focus on wildlife and eco-conservation rather than cultural sights. The reviews are positive, noting the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting an eco-focused day exploring the Mekong’s natural ecosystem.
6. Off The Beaten Track The Mekong By Bike, Boat & Kayak Day Trip
This active day trip is for those craving outdoor adventure. Starting in Saigon, you’ll cycle 7–10 km through rural villages, passing traditional nurseries and ancient trees like Gì Gưa, then paddle a kayak or boat through quiet canals. The tour guarantees no touristy workshops or shopping stops, focusing instead on genuine interaction with locals and participation in daily life.
The highlight is the combination of biking, boating, and kayaking — perfect for energetic travelers. With a price of $98.10, it offers excellent value for a full day of physical activity and culture. Reviewers emphasize the “warm hospitality” and unique, off-the-beaten-path feel. It’s best suited for active visitors comfortable with outdoor pursuits.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure travelers seeking a hands-on, physical experience of the Mekong’s countryside.
7. Private Luxury Tour Mekong Delta 1 Day
This luxury day trip combines personalized service with in-depth cultural visits. Starting from Ho Chi Minh City, it includes stops at Vinh Trang Pagoda and the Rach Mieu Bridge, plus a scenic cruise on the Tiền River. The small group (max 15) ensures a relaxed, tailored experience, with a delicious barbecue lunch included. The guide shares insights into southern Vietnam’s culture and the local way of life.
Guests appreciate the intimate atmosphere and the attention to detail, making it ideal for travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity. At $91.29, it’s a good value considering the personalized approach and curated itinerary. It’s best suited for couples, small groups, or anyone who wants a hassle-free, high-quality experience.
Bottom Line: A top pick for travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and cultural insights.
8. Can Tho Bike Tour in Mekong Delta
For those who love cycling, this 4-hour tour explores Can Tho’s quiet rural areas on two wheels. You’ll ride through small villages, visit a seed nursery, and see the “Gì Gưa” heritage tree. The route also passes local temples and fruit gardens, making it an authentic way to experience Mekong life at a relaxed pace.
The tour emphasizes interaction with locals and learning about traditional planting methods. The $64.20 price is reasonable for a focused, active exploration. Reviewers praise the “warm hospitality” and the chance to see the countryside beyond the typical tourist spots. Best suited for active travelers who want a moderate cycling challenge.
Bottom Line: Great for cycling enthusiasts wanting a genuine rural experience.
9. Culture and Wildlife Discovery Explore Chau Doc Tra Su Forest
This 10-hour tour offers a blend of cultural visits and wildlife spotting in Chau Doc and Tra Su Forest. You’ll visit Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, where a boat ride takes you deep into flooded cajuput forests teeming with birdlife. The tour also includes a visit to Ba Chua Xu Temple and breathtaking views from Sam Mountain, making it ideal for nature and culture lovers alike.
Rated highly for its diversity, the tour is perfect for those interested in ecosystems and local spirituality. The $148 price covers a full day of exploration and wildlife observation, with opportunities for photography and birdwatching. It’s a good fit for travelers interested in ecological and cultural highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day of wildlife and culture.
10. Private Mekong Delta Shore Excursion from Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My)
This private tour offers a personalized experience just for your group, starting from Phu My port. It includes a boat ride on the Tiền River, visits to local families, fruit orchards, and traditional music performances. Your guide tailors the day to your interests, making it suitable for couples, families, or small groups seeking flexibility.
At $415 per group, it’s on the pricier side but offers exclusive comfort and customization. Reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides, emphasizing the ease of transportation and the chance to see genuine local life. Ideal for cruise passengers wanting a private, relaxed day.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a fully customized, private Mekong experience.
11. Private Mekong Delta pickup from Phu My Port
Another private option tailored for cruise travelers, this 9–10 hour tour includes river cruises, visits to floating markets, and interactions with local families. It emphasizes authentic Mekong life, with activities like tasting seasonal fruits, listening to folk music, and navigating small canals in a canoe. Its flexible schedule lets you customize your day.
Rated highly for reliability and local insights, at $170 per person, this is a good choice for those wanting a relaxed, intimate day that also fits into tight cruise schedules.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise passengers wanting a personalized, authentic Mekong experience.
$170.00 per person
12. Private Transfer from My Tho to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport
Perfect for a hassle-free departure, this private transfer ensures you leave the Mekong Delta comfortably and on time for your flight. It’s a straightforward, reliable service ideal for small groups or families, with prices starting at $89.82.
Reviewers mention the “reliable and friendly” service, making it a stress-free way to end your trip. Suitable for travelers prioritizing convenience and smooth logistics over sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers needing a reliable ride to the airport without any fuss.
$89.82 per group (up to 3)
13. Mekong Delta from Cai Mep Thi Vai port of Phu My Cruise Harbor
Designed for large cruise ships like Celebrity or Holland America, this 9–10 hour private tour covers all the major sites at a comfortable pace. Starting from Cai Mep, you’ll visit Ben Tre and My Tho, enjoy boat rides, local foods, and cultural sites. The “None left behind” policy ensures no one is rushed or left out, making it perfect for big groups.
Rated slightly lower at 3.0/5 due to limited reviews, it still offers a comprehensive, well-organized experience for cruise travelers wanting to maximize port time.
Bottom Line: Ideal for large cruise groups seeking a full, personalized Mekong experience.
$198.88 per person
How to Choose the Right Mekong Delta Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you want a quick overview, the “Essential Mekong Delta” is a cost-effective choice. For a more immersive stay, the “Mekong 2 Days 1 Night” offers authentic homestays and cultural interactions. Active travelers should check out the “Off The Beaten Track” bike and kayak trip for a physical adventure, while those cruising should look at the private shore excursions for maximum flexibility.
Think about whether you prefer cultural highlights like Vinh Trang Pagoda, local markets, or traditional music, or if you want to focus on nature and wildlife with visits to Tra Su Forest or Hau Giang. Book early, especially for the popular tours, to ensure availability.
In summary, the Mekong Delta offers a range of experiences from quick highlights to in-depth overnight stays. For a balanced introduction, the “Essential Mekong Delta” provides a wonderful overview, while the “Mekong 2 Days 1 Night” suits those craving a deeper connection. For active travelers, cycling and kayaking tours add a fun, physical element. Cruise visitors should consider private shore excursions for a relaxed, personalized day. Whatever your style, booking early guarantees a smooth, memorable trip to this fascinating water-world.
Happy planning and safe travels through Vietnam’s incredible Mekong River region!