My Tho offers a fantastic base for exploring the Mekong Delta’s intricate waterways and vibrant rural life. Unlike other destinations, My Tho’s proximity to Ho Chi Minh City makes it easy to escape the hustle and enjoy a slow-paced journey through lush landscapes. Whether you’re after a luxury overnight experience or a budget-friendly day trip, this area caters to all. I personally love how the tours often include visits to floating markets and local villages, giving a real taste of daily life. The floating markets, in particular, are just mesmerizing — watching boats piled high with fresh produce glide by as locals barter in the dawn light has a charm few other experiences can match. Check out the From Ho Chi Minh: 2-Day Mekong Delta Tour: Cai Rang & Cai Be for a comprehensive look at one of the most complete options.
If you’re planning a quick two-day escape or want to see the diverse side of southern Vietnam, this list is a good place to start. We’ve picked three tours that offer a range of experiences — from cultural visits and floating markets to scenic canal cruises — so you’ll find something that matches your travel style.
1. From Ho Chi Minh: 2-Day Mekong Delta Tour: Cai Rang & Cai Be
At number one, this comprehensive 2-day Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City offers an immersive experience. Starting with a journey through the Vinh Trang Pagoda, the biggest in the region, you’ll get a glimpse of Buddhist architecture and local spirituality. The tour then takes you on a leisurely boat trip along the Mekong River, where you’ll see fish cages and floating houses, highlighting how people live directly on the water.
What makes this tour stand out is the overnight stay in Can Tho, giving you ample time to explore the Cai Rang floating market early in the morning — a bustling tableau of boats selling everything from fresh fruit to souvenirs. The guide takes you on a walk through local villages, including a stop at a family home for a snack, offering authentic insights into rural life. Rated 5/5 from three reviews, travelers praise its well-rounded itinerary and friendly guide.
The value here is excellent at $118 per person, especially given the depth of experience. It suits travelers who want a full, culturally rich experience with comfortable accommodations, and don’t mind spending a bit more for a comprehensive tour. The only potential downside is the price, but considering the inclusions, it’s justified.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those wanting an all-in-one Mekong Delta experience, especially if you value visiting Cai Rang early and staying overnight.
2. 2-Day Mekong Delta: My Tho, Ben Tre, Cai Rang Floating Market
Second on our list is the more budget-friendly 2-day Mekong Delta tour, priced at $82 per person. This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to My Tho and Ben Tre, highlighting their lush landscapes and local craftsmanship. You’ll cruise along the Tien River, visit workshops where they make coconut products and honey tea, and ride a sampan through coconut canals.
One of the appealing features is the overnight stay in Can Tho, with dinner included and cultural insights from your guide. In the early morning, you’ll experience the Cai Rang floating market, soaking in the vibrant scene before the crowds arrive. The tour emphasizes exploring local life and small villages via private guide, making it more personalized.
Rated 3.3/5 from four reviews, travelers find it a good value for the price and appreciate the chance to see authentic Mekong life without breaking the bank. The trip’s focus on seasonal fruits, local workshops, and canal rides makes it ideal for travelers seeking a more relaxed, less structured experience.
Bottom line: It’s a great choice if you’re on a budget but still want meaningful interactions with local culture and scenery in the Mekong Delta.
$82 per person
3. From Ho Chi Minh City: Mekong Delta 2D1N – Cai Rang Floating
Finally, this 2-day tour including Cai Rang floating market offers a balanced itinerary for those who want a comfortable overnight experience at around $95 per person. The tour begins with a visit to the Vinh Trang pagoda, a striking example of Mekong architecture, before moving on to explore the Cai Rang floating market — a true highlight.
A unique feature of this tour is the chance to see vermicelli noodle making, a local craft that provides insight into regional food production. You’ll also pass a “Monkey bridge”, a narrow suspension bridge traditionally built by local artisans, and take a boat trip to scenic tributaries of the Lower Mekong.
Rated without reviews, the lack of feedback makes it harder to gauge, but the inclusion of key sites and a relaxed pace makes it attractive. This option is suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with moderate price and a focus on cultural sights.
Bottom line: It’s ideal if you want a decent mix of sightseeing, local industries, and floating markets, with a bit more flexibility in schedule.
$95 per person
How to Choose Your Mekong Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interest in local crafts, and desired pace. The first tour focuses heavily on Cai Rang and includes an overnight stay, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive and immersive experience. The second offers a budget-friendly look at local life with fewer frills but still meaningful visits. The third provides a balance of key sites and comfort with a shorter, more relaxed itinerary.
If you’re interested in specifically visiting floating markets early in the morning, the second and third tours are good choices. For those wanting a more intimate, guided experience, the second tour’s private guides and local workshops might be the best fit.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season (November to April), when these tours tend to fill up quickly. It’s also helpful to clarify whether you prefer overnight accommodation or a day-tripper style experience.
Final Thoughts
The Mekong Delta offers a range of 2-day tours suited for different types of travelers. For those seeking a full, in-depth immersion with overnight comfort, the first tour is hard to beat. Budget travelers will appreciate the value-packed second option for authentic local encounters. If comfort and a balanced itinerary matter most, the third provides a solid middle ground.
Whatever your preference, these tours promise a fascinating glimpse into rural Vietnamese life, floating markets, and scenic waterways. Be sure to book early, and enjoy your journey through this vibrant region.