Mekong Delta Tour

Hello, fellow travelers! In the case of a person looking for some part of Vietnam that would be culturally and naturally so full of great views—one could take photos to publish for weeks upon weeks on Instagram—then this is what you should join. Being an Australian and enjoying solo voyages, I took my backpack, my wide-brimmed hat, and went on investigating this wonder. Spoiler alert, it was worth every dong—that is Vietnamese currency, mate, not what you are thinking!

What is the meaning of Mekong Delta?

"Rice Bowl of Vietnam" is perhaps a more lyrical rendition of what the Mekong Delta is, really: a fuzzy patchwork of rivers, luminous green paddies, and tranquil villages in southern Vietnam. Think Venice, save gondolas are sampans and pasta is banh xeo—two types of Vietnamese pancakes. That's a fair bit removed from cosmopolitan chaos in Ho Chi Minh City—Saigon to most—but is similarly well worth a visit while making one's way around the country.

How to Get There Without Losing Your Cool

From HCMC, it's just a few hours to the Mekong Delta. You've essentially got two good options:

DIY Adventure: If you're feeling all "Anthony Bourdain," you can always rent a motorbike or catch a local bus. The buses are super cheap, and you might score a free Vietnamese lesson from the locals lounging on board.

Guided Tours: They're super easy! Most tours come and grab you right from your hotel. Since I was traveling alone, I did a day tour to make things easier, and I did happen to meet some cool people in the process.

What is so special about these floating markets?

Those floating markets are crazy—just this mad, coloured flotilla of boats full of fruit, vegetables, and, well, everything. Cai Rang is the big one, and honestly, you do need to go at the crack of dawn. Like, the sun has not risen, so probably stay off the bia hoi, beer, the night before. Seriously, just to sit there and watch traders haggle, sipping on a fresh coconut, was totally one of my highlights.

Quick tip: Bring some cash in-country, Vietnamese dong. And seriously, don't be afraid to haggle—offers are expected, and it's actually pretty fun!

Must-Try Experiences in the Mekong Delta

Here are the top experiences that will make your friends back home super jealous:

Boat Rides Through Canals: Just picture this, smooth movement on the small canals, relaxation under the palm trees, sound of the water, and birds chirping. As laid-back as it gets, seriously.

Village Cycling: Many tours do this and it is a real ripper of a way to see the countryside; just watch out for chickens—they don't exactly follow road rules.

Try the Local Food: The Mekong culinary is out of this world! You've got to try the rice noodle soup, elephant ear fish, tropical fruits such as dragonfruit and rambutan. Being very adventurous, well, you may try a shot of wine made from snakes, but maybe not for breakfast.

Rice Factory Visit: Incredibly enough, it's pretty interesting to see rice processed into everything from noodles to paper. Plus, the locals love showing off their craft.

What to pack for the Mekong Delta?

Pack light, but here are some important things one should not forget:

Sunscreen & hat: The sun is no joke in Vietnam, and your pasty Aussie skin will thank you.

Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes love the Delta as much as you will.

Cash: There aren't really any ATMs along the rivers.

Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, legend.

Is It Worth an Overnight Stay?

If time permits, absolutely! Most tours have homestay packages with which you get to stay at a local family's place. That truly is a great way to soak in real Vietnamese hospitality, and you will have some really great home-cooked meals shoved down your throat. I swear, there's nothing to beat waking up to roosters crowing and having coffee with your host family.

People of the Mekong Delta

The people are super friendly around these parts: inquisitive, warm, and always ready for a chat, even if one does not speak a word of Vietnamese. Just flash those pearly whites, and well, it makes all the difference. Do not be surprised if they invite you over for a family meal or just offer weird fruit they have picked off a tree.

How Much Does a Mekong Delta Tour Cost?

Good news for budget travelers: it's cheap as chips. Day tours begin at about $20 AUD; overnighters will probably cost $50–$100 AUD. Food, boat trips, and park fees are generally covered in the tour price, so you're pretty much just out the cash for souvenirs and snacks.

My Funniest Mekong Moment

Now, the funny little story: I was just sitting around on a canal, and our boat hit this vendor selling live fish. Then, out of nowhere, this feisty fish just jumped right into the boat into my lap! Of course, everybody started to crack up; even the vendor joined in and joked that I owed her one fish dinner.

Closing Remarks

The Mekong Delta is just an absolute treat for your senses—and for your soul, too. Whether you are hanging out on the canals, snacking on fruits, or just soaking in those easygoing vibes, you will leave feeling good—maybe with a couple of mozzie bites, but that's okay; it was worth it. For me, an Aussie, the balance was just perfect: adventure, culture, and a few good laughs thrown into the mix.

Mate, what's holding you behind? Get ready and book your ticket to Vietnam. Wear your thongs and get set on an awesome Mekong Delta Tour. You will just love it, bro!

In case you are looking for a similar nature tours and would love to see some epic caves of Vietnam, do check out Jungle Boss Tours in Phong Nha!

FAQs About the Mekong Delta Tour

What is considered the coolest season, considering Mekong Delta?

Dry season: From November to April, but throughout the year.

How much time should I spend in the Mekong Delta?

A day tour is great for highlights, but 2–3 days will let you go deeper.

Am I supposed to book a tour in advance?

Not always! Most hotels in Ho Chi Minh City are able to arrange one for the following day.

Is it cool to travel alone?

Of course. People are friendly, and it's easy to get around.

So, what's the food like in the Mekong Delta?

Fresh, flavorful, and diverse. Don’t leave without trying their tropical fruits and seafood.

Can I do a low-budget tour of the Mekong Delta?

Tours and food are really cheap.